Genetic variability and population structure of Djallonke sheep in Ngaoundere (Adamawa-Cameroon)

The aim of this study is to contribute to a better knowledge of the genetic diversity of the indigenous Djallonke sheep in Ngaoundere (Cameroon). A total of 126 adult sheep (38 males and 88 females) were selected during the period from January to December 2020. Body measurements were taken using a measuring tape, a graduated measuring stick and a graduated ruler. Principal component analysis of 18 quantitative traits of genetic variability showed that the cumulative variances of the first 15 traits provided 98.12% evidence of the genetic variability observed in the study population. The analysis of discriminating factors revealed two genetic types; finally, the phylogenetic tree revealed that genetic type I is close to genetic type II. The present study should be complemented by a molecular characterisation in order to set up strategies for the conservation of local genetic resources of Djallonke sheep in Ngaoundere in particular and the sudano-guinean zone of Cameroon in general, which is their cradle.