3-Title: STUDY ON MORPHOLOGICAL AND MORPHOMETRIC FEATURES OF MARATHA CAMP BUFFALOES IN SHIVAMOGGA DISTRICT OF KARNATAKA
Authors: Anantha Naik S, BH Rudresh, Chidanandaiah, Shambhulingappa BE, Shankarappa Bhajantri and Harisha M
Source: Ruminant Science (2025)-14(2):121-124.

Abstract

How to cite this manuscript: Anantha Naik S, Rudresh BH, Chidanandaiah, Shambhulingappa BE, Bhajantri Shankarappa and Harisha M (2025). Study on morphological and morphometric features of Maratha camp buffaloes in Shivamogga district of Karnataka. Ruminant Science 14(2):121-124.
Abstract
The present investigation was conducted to characterise the morphological and morphometric features of Maratha Camp buffaloes in Shivamogga District, Karnataka. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across 16 villages in three taluks, covering 303 animals (39 adult males, 106 adult females, 55 heifers and 103 calves). Morphological traits such as coat colour, horn shape, ear orientation, muzzle colour, hoof colour, tail switch, udder and teat characteristics were recorded through visual appraisal. Morphometric parameters including face length, face width, ear length, horn length, horn circumference, distance between horns, body length, chest girth, height at withers, height at hip, tail length and body weight were measured using standard procedures. Results revealed that 68 per cent of the population exhibited black coat colour, with short sword-shaped horns (83%) and predominantly horizontal ear orientation (81%). Morphometric analysis indicated a mean body length of 118.31±0.38 cm and chest girth of 170.78±0.36 cm in adult females. Comparative evaluation with other Indian buffalo breeds suggested that Maratha Camp buffaloes possess a compact body frame with a distinct phenotypic identity. The findings provide baseline data for breed recognition, conservation, and genetic improvement strategies.
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