Review of Literature for Sheep and Goat RESEARCH and development in Egypt, Since the Forties: III. Local and Exotic Goat Breeds, Production Performance, and Breeding Programs

Abstract

Goats are the most efficient animals in converting poor feed resources into valuable food commodities, than other farm animals. It is emerged as a good source of food, income, and employment for rural societies, especially in less favoured environments. Distribution of goats in the country, under different production systems were presented. Four major local goat breeds are widely distributed in Egypt, i.e., Baladi in the Delta, Saidi in Upper Egypt, Barki in Western Desert and the Zaraibi (Egyptian Nubian) as potential dairy prolific breed, in northeast Delta. Minor local goat breeds are Wahati in the New Valley, Black Sinai in Sinai Peninsula, and Abou Ramada-Halaieb-Shalateen goats. Production performance (growth, reproduction and milk production) of the major local breeds reported in the literature are tabulated and discussed. Exotic breeds introduced to the country, i.e. Damascus, Alpine, Angora, Anglo Nubian, and Boer, along with their breeding and crossing programs with local goat breeds were reported. The authors recommended the promotion of the socioeconomic role of goats for the poor rural households and women; and taking an advantage of the goat adaptability to harsh conditioned, in the hot dry environment. Improving genetic potentials of Zaraibi goats for prolificacy and dairy characteristics, and crossing Damascus goats with Barki and Baladi goats are recommended for improvement of local goats.