Abstract: The polymorphism of growth hormone (GH) gene was detected by PCR-RFLP method, and association analysis with performance trait of Jining goat were performed. The results showed that the endonuclease Hae Ⅲ polymorphism was found in GH gene in Jining goat population, and it was in non-Hardy-weinberg equilibrium using the χ² test. AA genotype had a significant effect on body heigh at 3 and 12 months old, birth weigh, weaning weight, carcass weight, meat hindquarters weight (P<0.05), and AA>AB>BB. In conclusion, the allele A was a benefical gene on the growth and debelopment in Jining goat population.

Key words: Jining goat; GH gene; performance trait