Genetics of linear body measurements in sheep: Mini Review

Sheep rearing is one of the most important means of livelihood and food security for resource poor rural population, especially in developing countries. In order to design effective selection programs to increase the efficiency of sheep production, knowledge of genetic parameters for body dimensions is needed. Meat yield is a complex polygenic trait that is highly affected by non-genetic and genetic factors. Biometric characteristics or linear body measurements with simple genetic controls could be used as indirect criteria in many domestic animals for improvement of meat yield. The present paper appraises the genetic aspects of linear body measurements and their role in sheep production.