Abstract:
This study evaluated the
phenotypic diversity of 51 dromedary camels
(24 females and 27 males) from Northwestern
Nigeria, sampled from Katsina and Zamfara
States. Twelve morphometric traits were
measured, and qualitative characteristics
were recorded. Black and brown coat colours
were the most prevalent (47.05% each), while
white was rare (5.9%). Single coat colour
patterns (74.5%) and smooth hair types
(56.9%) predominated. Chi-square analysis
revealed significant differences (p < 0.01) in
coat colour and pattern distributions, whereas
hair type showed no significant variation.
Age significantly (p < 0.01) influenced most
morphometric traits except rump height and
ear length, with older camels (≥11 years)
exhibiting larger body dimensions. Sex did
not have a significant effect on any of the
measured traits. Camels with a black coat had
a significantly higher body weight (245.96 ±
14.80 kg), heart girth (180.73 ± 3.62 cm),
abdominal girth (158.52 ± 3.08 cm), and ear
length (19.09 ± 0.94 cm) compared with
camels with a brown or white coat. The 1–5-
year age group was the largest (43.1%),
aligning with breeders’ preference for
younger breeding stock. These findings
suggest that black coat colour may serve as an
indicator of superior body traits in camels.
This study provides valuable baseline data to
inform genetic resource conservation and to
guide selection strategies for sustainable
camel breeding and productivity
enhancement in Nigeria’s semi-arid regions.
