ANALYSIS OF BODY SIZE DIFFERENCES OF LOCAL HORSES IN XINJIANG AND EVALUATION OF MEAT INDEX

This study aims to clarify the body shape, appearance, and meat consumption of the four existing local horse breeds in Xinjiang, as well as the newly discovered horses in two regions. The analysis was conducted using linear body shape analysis, discriminant analysis, and other methods. The results indicate that Barkol horses are small in size (with a body height of 130.50 cm), making them suitable for tourism riding or mountain endurance riding. Kazakh horses in the Ili area are appropriate for riding, while Kazakh horses in the Altay area are better suited for endurance riding and product production (with an average HMPI of 2.65; they have a well-developed chest, although the rump requires strengthening). Taxkorgan local horses are also suitable for riding. Kirgiz horses excel in speed riding or endurance riding. Mountain-type Yanqi horses are ideal for mountain riding or product production, whereas plain-type Yanqi horses are suitable for riding. Additionally, Hotan local horses are appropriate for endurance riding or tourist riding. The interspecific differences in body shape characteristics among Xinjiang local horse breeds are pronounced. Discriminant analysis effectively distinguishes various local horse breeds based on their physical appearance.