Evaluation of Awassi x Malpura halfbred sheep in semi-arid region of Rajasthan

Considering the importance of heavy body weight and milk yield in economic mutton production, a pilot project on crossbreeding of Awassi rams with Malpura ewes was started in 1994. In the present study, performance of Awassi x Malpura (AxM) halfbreds during 5 years (1995 to 1999) was evaluated in terms of growth, wool production, milk yield and survivability. The overall least-squares means for birth, 3, 6, 9 and 12 month body weight were 3.42, 14.71, 22.12, 26.01 and 29.43 kg respectively. Adult annual greasy fleece yield (GFY) and first six monthly GFY were 1.022 and 0.794 kg respectively. Awassi x Malpura ewes produced 29% more average daily milk yield than its counterpart Malpura ewes. Awassi x Malpura halfbreds were superior to their contemporary native Malpura sheep with respect to growth, wool production and milk yield. This genotype needs to be further propagated and multiplied in view of its considerable production potential.