Exploring Deccani sheep ecotypes of Maharashtra: Are these autonomous breeds?

Variation in morphometric traits indicated differences between the five ecotypes of Deccani sheep. Madgyal, Sangamneri and Kolhapuri sheep seem to be quite distinct groups whereas Lonand and Solapuri seem to be closer to each other. The body measures of Madgyal sheep were higher than the others followed by Sangamneri sheep. Adult body weight of Madgyal, Sangamneri, Solapuri, Kolhapuri and Lonand ewes were 38.1, 33.4, 30.4, 28.8 and 27.8 kg respectively. The undergoing holistic study using both genetic and morphometric approaches would reveal the underlying genetic structure of the ecotypes and establish their relationships.