What is the approximate number of sheep species worldwide?

The approximate number of sheep species worldwide is often recognized as over 100. This figure includes the various domesticated breeds and wild species that have been classified in the Ovis genus. Generally, when discussing sheep, it’s important to consider that domesticated sheep, primarily Ovis aries, have given rise to a wide array of breeds bred for specific traits such as wool production, meat quality, and adaptability to different environments.

In total, these classifications and the diversity of breeds contribute to the understanding of sheep species. Wild sheep, such as those in the Ovis genus, further increase this number. Therefore, recognizing that there are over 100 species provides a clearer picture of the diversity within the sheep family, making this the most accurate estimate among the given choices.