Nahid Askari

Characterization of Genetic Structure Using Issr-pcr Markers: Cattle, Goat and Sheep Populations Nahid Askari

Kerman is one of the 30 provinces of Iran. It is in the south-east of Iran. It is Located on a high margin of Kavir-e Lut (Lut Desert) in the central south of Iran and so most of the province is largely steppe or sandy desert and it has hot summers and moderate climate. The climate in the province varies in different regions. Therefore in these vast climates there are some kinds of local animals and the preservation of local animals' diversity represents an essential factor for mankind needs of food. Three kinds of them are: Kermani sheep, Rayini Cashmere goat and Local cattle. Kermani sheep has adapted to a tropical region. This sheep is useful for both meat and wool, it has long legs and it has useful for long distance walking and its fleece are white with pigmented muzzle around eyes and legs. Rayini Cashmere goat is one of the most important Iranian native goat breeds that spread in the south-east of Iran where these animals are kept for both meat and cashmere production. As it produces high quality cashmere, these goats have a great economical value in global markets. The color is white and its down was clipped at the end of winter or early spring.