Application of path coefficient analysis in assessing the relationship between growth-related traits in indigenous Nigerian sheep (Ovis aries) of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract. Indigenous Nigerian sheep raised under extensive management were evaluated with the aim of assessing variability among body weight and body measurement traits thereby deducing components that best describe the relationship using path coefficient analysis. The parameters measured were body weight (BW), body length (BL), head length (HL), head width (HW), height at withers (HAW), chest depth (CD), chest girth (CG) and shin circumference (SC). Pair wise correlation between body weight and body measurements were positive and significant (r = 0.475 – 0.655 in males, 0.262 – 0.449 in females, and 0.336 – 0.509 in the combined population, P