Morphometric characteristics of the Barb horse in Algeria and associated variation factors

The aim of this study was to contribute to the morphometric characterization of Algerian’s Barb, to update its dimensional variables, to explore its specific traits and diversity, and to assess certain variation factors. For this purpose, a total of 52 Barb horses registered in the Algerian Studbook aged 3 years and older were subjected to 24 body measurements. Statistical analyses were conducted using a general linear model to assess the variation in these variables according to age, sex, head profile, and coat color. In addition, a principal component analysis was performed. The results were categorized into height, length, girth, weight, and body indices. The mean withers height and croup height were 150.8 ± 3.38 cm and 150.7 ± 3.50 cm, respectively, with an average body length of 150.0 ± 4.73 cm. These nearly equal values resulted in a profile body index of 1.01 ± 0.02, indicating a square shaped conformation. The mean chest girth and Fore cannon girth were 177.8 ± 8.73 cm and 19.63 ± 0.95 cm, respectively, resulting in a dactyl-thoracic index of 1.18 ± 0.05, reflecting a skeletal robustness consistent with the estimated body mass of 441.61 ± 50.85 kg. Analysis of the measurement variation revealed some significant differences (p < 0.05), particularly for the sub-sternal gap, shoulder height, shoulder length, arm length, distance between the inner eye angles, and cannon bone girth (Fore cannon girth and Hind cannon girth). In conclusion, all measured parameters were in accordance with the breed standard. However, comparison similar studies reveals noticeable disparities, reflecting a wide range of morphological expressions within the population classified as Barb horses.