Plasma biochemical parameters West African dwarf rams and their crosses with Permer

The West African dwarf (WAD) is the prevailing breed in the South Western part of Nigeria, whereas Permer (P) is a cross of Persian and Merino sheep. Since the mortality rate is unacceptably high in Permer-even under favourable conditions-several plasma variables were determined in 5 WAD and WAD X P rams twice on Mondays over 5 weeks with a view to health prophylactic measures. Differences between the breeds were found that did not, however, in any case agree with the values found by other authors and that suggested a connection with certain diseases. This should be investigated in investigations to come.