Phenotypic characterization and multivariate analysis indicate distinctness of Ladakhi yak of Trans-Himalaya of Ladakh (India)

Abstract

The yak (Bos grunniens)—a unique domesticated bovine, having the adaptation to high altitude of Himalayan region in India— is mainly distributed in Ladakh, a Union Territory in North Trans-Himalayan and Arunachal Pradesh on North-Eastern region. The native Ladakhi yak, registered as an indigenous breed distributed in four subregions of Ladakh was characterized under the study. Physical traits of coat, face, head, horn, ear, and tail of these subpopulations suggested that these traits were highly similar across four sub-regions. Morphometric traits (13 traits) on 200 Ladakhi yaks were recorded and analysed population discrimination. Multi-discriminate analysis based on morphometric data revealed overlapping of all four yak sub-populations of the Ladakh region. Sexual dimorphism was significant for traits like height at withers and horn circumference in Ladakhi yaks. Multivariate analysis carried out on six morphometric traits revealed a clear discrimination of Ladakhi and Arunachali yak, another registered indigenous breed with 100% correct classification. Based on phenotypic characterization and multivariate analysis phenotypic characteristics along with morphometric traits indicated Ladakhi yak to be distinct from Arunachali yak breed of India.