Effects of the 6/15 Robertsonian Translocation in Saanen Goats

Contents: The effects of a 6/15 Robertsonian translocation on growth and reproductive performance were investigated. One carrier Saanen buck was compared with 36 non-carrier Saanen sires. No significant effect was observed on daily growth, libido, or siminal characteristics. Fertility rate and prolificacy of the carrier and normal males were 58.3% and 1.53 +/- 0.79 (m +/- sd) vs 48.9% and 1.36 +/- 0.58 respectively (p > 0.05). Kidding rate and prolificacy of 30 normal and 32 heterozygous daughters of this carrier buck were 60% vs 59% (p > 0.05) and 1.47 +/- 0.57 vs 1.34 +/- 0.48 (p > 0.05) respectively. Normal does always demonstrated a higher prolificacy (p > 0.05) independent of breeding pratices and service rank.