Morphometric Analysis and Sex Dimorphism of the Autochthonous Lipe Sheep

Lipe sheep is an autochthonous and endangered sheep endemic to a limited area in Serbia, representing an important element of national livestock biodiversity. As a locally adapted genetic resource, belonging to the Pramenka group of sheep, it holds ecological, cultural, and production-related value. However, population decline and exclusion from intensive breeding programs have made the population vulnerable to genetic erosion. This study evaluated sex dimorphism of the Lipe sheep through body measurements, craniometric, and pelvimetric morphometry. A total of 19 adults (10 ewes and 9 rams, aged 2.5 to 3.5 years) were analyzed. Results showed highly significant differences between sexes for body traits (p < 0.001), with rams consistently exhibiting greater values. Significant dimorphism was observed in cranial traits, with rams displaying more pronounced characteristics. Rams also had yellowish to dark, large, triangularly shaped, and spirally twisted horns, a key feature of sexual dimorphism. In contrast, no significant differences were found for pelvic traits, suggesting well-developed pelvis in ewes, ensuring easy lambing and uniform pelvic conformation. These findings indicate that the Lipe sheep exhibits stronger sex dimorphism in body and cranial morphology while maintaining functional uniformity in pelvic structure. The study contributes to a broader characterization of the Lipe sheep and provides a foundation for targeted conservation and breeding strategies. Preserving this sheep helps maintain agrobiodiversity and strengthens its role as a valuable genetic resource.