Indigenous Goat Breed of Teressa Bringing High Yield and Financial Security to Nicobari Farmers with Minimal Effort
The Teressa goat, also known as Pookore, is an indigenous meat breed native to the Nicobar Islands and primarily reared by the Nicobari tribes. This medium to large sized breed, characterized by horns and erect ears, has adapted well to the local traditional grazing systems[1][2].
In terms of productivity, the Teressa goat is valued as a low-input, high-return breed. It plays a crucial role in local food security and livelihoods, providing meat that supports the island economy. Its adaptability to the environment makes it efficient under extensive, low-cost management systems[1][2].
Each kidding usually results in one to two kids, with an average litter size of 1.5. The birth weight of kids ranges between 1.2 and 1.4 kg. The kidding interval for Teressa goats is about 7 to 8 months, allowing for faster herd growth. Teressa goats have an early maturity, with females giving birth for the first time around 12 to 13 months of age[1][2].
The Teressa goat is more than just livestock; it is a symbol of cultural pride and sustainable farming for the Nicobari tribes. They have raised this breed for generations in harmony with nature, rearing them mostly under extensive systems, grazing freely during the day and returning home in the evening.
While milk production is not the focus, the breed can yield up to 180 kg of milk in a lactation under ideal conditions. The Teressa goat's primary purpose is meat production, and it is known for its quality meat which is tender, flavorful, and free from chemical additives.
The Teressa goat is a special breed found on Teressa Island and other parts of the Nicobar group. It does not require concentrated feed, making it economical to rear. Males weigh about 40 kg on average, while females weigh nearly 32 kg. Most females have lighter shades with white patches, and a distinctive white line from the eyes or eyebrows to the nose or mouth.
The Teressa goat has hair instead of wool, making it suitable for warm and humid climates like the Nicobar Islands. Its ability to survive and perform well in island conditions with minimal human intervention showcases its natural resilience.
While explicit details about the conservation status of the Teressa goat were not provided in the search results, the breed's importance to the Nicobari people and its classification as an indigenous breed imply intrinsic conservation value. Indigenous breeds like Teressa goats often face challenges from crossbreeding and habitat changes, thus often requiring focused conservation attention to maintain their unique genetic traits and role in sustainable local farming[1][2].
There is a potential for scaling up the rearing of Teressa goats due to growing demand for naturally reared, local meat. However, the increase in modern breeds and crossbreeding poses a risk to the pure Teressa goat, and there is a need for government and research institutions to document, conserve, and support farmers who continue to rear this indigenous treasure.
The Teressa goat is a part of the tribal heritage, offering nutrition, livelihood, and resilience in a resource-limited and low connectivity area. Its conservation is crucial to preserve this unique breed and the cultural practices associated with it.
[1] "Teressa Goat: A Conservation Priority for the Nicobar Islands." Conservation India. https://www.conservationindia.org/news/teressa-goat-a-conservation-priority-for-the-nicobar-islands
[2] "The Teressa Goat: A Traditional Breed of the Nicobar Islands." Indian Council of Agricultural Research. https://www.icar.org.in/writereaddata/files/The_Teressa_Goat_A_Traditional_Breed_of_the_Nicobar_Islands.pdf
The Teressa goat, not only a source of high-quality meat, but also a symbol of cultural pride for the Nicobari tribes, enhances their lifestyle with its sustainable farming practices in home-and-garden settings, as their goats graze freely and return home each evening. The Teressa goat, valued for its adaptability to the local environment and low-input, high-return nature, contributes significantly to the home-and-garden sector, providing fresh produce (meat) and promoting a self-sufficient, eco-friendly home-and-garden lifestyle.
