Morphobiological indicators of the development of the internal organs of crossbred young sheep from the experience of woolly sheep in industrial crossbreeding

The relevance of research aimed at optimizing breeding work with sheep is extremely high. This study focuses on studying the effect of industrial crossbreeding of meat-wooled sheep with thinfleeced Altai breed queens on the productivity of the offspring obtained. The Altai breed was not chosen by chance – it is characterized by good adaptation to the harsh climatic conditions of Siberia and resistance to diseases, which is an important factor for industrial breeding. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the genotype of woolly sheep on the morphological parameters and productivity of lambs of the first generation (F1). The research methodology included careful monitoring of animals throughout the entire growing period. Based on the control slaughter, parameters such as the development of internal organs (the absolute and relative weight of the liver, heart, spleen, and kidneys) were evaluated. All measurements were carried out using standard techniques that exclude subjective errors. The experimental results showed statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups. Crossbred lambs showed the largest increase in live weight compared to the control group. They were also characterized by a higher absolute weight of internal organs, which indicates a more intensive metabolism and a high potential for meat production. Interestingly, despite the greater absolute weight of the internal organs, the relative weight (as a percentage of body weight). The size of the crossbreeds was lower, which is typical for animals with well-developed muscles and a lower fat content. The expected benefit of this study is to develop recommendations for optimizing industrial sheep breeding programs in Russia. The data obtained make it possible to more efficiently select breeding sheep to produce highly productive offspring with improved meat characteristics. This, in turn, will increase the profitability of sheep farms, improve the quality of mutton, and provide consumers with better and more affordable products.