Coat colour variations and their influence on body traits in camels (Camelus dromedarius) of Northwestern Nigeria

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.