Morphometric Characterization of the Lidia Cattle Breed.
Juan Manuel Lomillos1, Marta E Alonso2
1Department of Animal Production and Health, Veterinary Public Health and Food Science and Technology, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|July 17, 2020
Summary
Morphometric characterization of Lidia cattle using photogrammetry reveals significant sexual dimorphism and internal variability. This study provides the first morphological profile of this rare cattle breed, highlighting its unique traits.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Morphology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Morphometric studies on Lidia cattle are limited due to handling challenges.
- Photogrammetry offers a novel approach for characterizing this breed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first morphological characterization of the Lidia cattle breed.
- To analyze morphostructural harmony, sexual dimorphism, and internal variability within the breed.
Main Methods:
- Photogrammetry was employed to study 264 adult Lidia cattle (184 males, 80 females) from 21 herds.
- Twenty morphological measurements and five indexes were recorded for each individual.
Main Results:
- High positive correlations indicated morphostructural harmony.
- Significant sexual dimorphism and internal variations between genetic lines were observed.
- Lidia cattle are small, predominantly sub-concave in profile, with males showing muscular anterior development and high thoracic capacity.
Conclusions:
- This photogrammetric study successfully characterized Lidia cattle morphology.
- The breed exhibits notable sexual dimorphism and internal variability, crucial for conservation and breeding programs.
