Morphometric characterization of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus L.) in western Algeria

Abstract

In order to identify domestic rabbit populations in the departement of Tiaret, thirteen morphological descriptors were applied. This study was based only on the phenotypic variability, all breeds are were defined according to the international standards based on external appearance. quantitative traits were measured on 70 rabbits belonging to different agroecological localities (Steppic, Mountainous and Saharian). A comparison was carried out in order to identify differences and similarities between males and females. The baryometric characterization reveals a significant phenotypic diversity at the population studied. Multiple correspondence factor analysis (MCA) and ascending hierarchical classification (CAH) identified three distinguished classes. In general, the local rabbit has an average weight of 1.97 kg, an average body length of 28.8 cm and a chest measurement of 26.11 cm.