EFFECTS OF SEX, AGE AND BODY CONDITION SCORE OF YANKASA SHEEP ON LEATHER CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

ABSTRAСТ The study was conducted to determine the effects of sex, age and body condition Ascore (BCS) of Yankasa sheep on the chemical properties of skin leather from 2 sexes (male and female), 3 age groups (12, 24 and 36 months) and 3 BCS (2-thin, 3-average and 4-fat). It was carried out in triplicate in a 2x3x3 factorial arrangement of Completely Randomized Design. The result indicated significant (p<0.05) differences in chemical parameters of leather measured attributable to sex, age and BCS. Yankasa rams had significantly (p<0.05) higher chromic oxide content and less fat and volatile matter contents compared to ewes. The result further revealed that 36 months old Yankasa sheep produced leather with significantly (p<0.05) higher fat, volatile matter and pH, compared to others. Leather from sheep with BCS of 4 (fat) had the highest fat content and leather from thin animal had the highest volatile matter and chromic oxide contents. The interaction effect showed that 36 months fat Yankasa rams recorded leather with the highest fats and volatile matter content. However, 36 months thin rams had the highest chromic oxide content. It was concluded that 36 months thin Yankasa rams had the highest quality leather and therefore recommended for good quality leather production.