Morphological Assessment of Arab-Barb Horses in Algeria Based on Linear Measurements, Body Circumferences, and Morphometric Indices

The aim of this study was to define selected morphometric characteristics, namely linear measurements, body circumferences, and biometric indices, of Arab-Barb horses across different localities in Algeria. A total of twenty linear measurements were selected for morphometric analysis, and ten indices or body ratios were calculated from 49 Algerian Arab-Barb horses. The descriptive results indicated a relatively homogeneous population in northern Algeria based on the measured morphometric variables. Sex-related differences were observed mainly for neck length, neck circumference, and knee circumference (P < 0.05). Horses in the > 480 kg estimated body weight (BW) group showedgreater total length, humero-iliac length, chest circumference, withers height, rump height, cannon circumference, fetlock circumference, and several mass-related indices. Significant differences were observed in 14 linear measurements of Algerian horses between two studied regions (P < 0.05). Most correlations among morphological variables exceeded 0.6, suggesting strong interrelationships and morphological consistency. The dactyl thorax index was significantly lower in females than in males (P < 0.05), whereas thoracic development was higher in females in the unadjusted comparison. Overall, the findings indicate relative morphometric homogeneity in Arab-Barb horses from northern Algeria, while also highlighting variation associated with sex, estimated body weight, and geographic origin. In the future, molecular analysis of Algerian horses will be essential for the preservation and management of this invaluable genetic resource, which constitutes an integral part of the nation’s cultural and economic heritage.