GENETIC AND DIURNAL VARIATIONS IN THE SERUM PROTEIN PROFILE OF YEARLING CAPRINE MALES

Abstract

12 GOATS comprising 4 of each of three breeds, namely West African Dwarf, Red Sokoto and crossbreds (West African Dwarf x Saanen), were bled alternately in the mornings and afternoons to evaluate their serum protein profile. The three breeds were similar in total serum proteins but not in protein profile. The crossbred goats had more albumin than the purebreds. Alpha and beta globulins occurred in equal proportions in the West African Dwarf and crossbred goats although the latter were extremely low in gamma globulins. The results imply a higher growth rate and susceptibility to infection of the crossbred goats and suggest the need for greater husbandry care by them.