The objectives of the current study were to: i) Evaluate the effect of environmental factors on
productive and reproductive traits of Egyptian buffaloes, ii) Estimate heritability, and
correlation among these traits. Data of 1563 dairy records collected from 341 Egyptian
buffaloes that were serviced naturally by 71 sires and raised at Mahallet Mousa station in
Kafr El-Sheikh governorate, these collected data were analyzed statistically. Records covered
the period from 2001 to 2020. The fourth parity recorded the highest calf birth weight (37.41
kg), and maximum lactation length (197.51 day), and yield (1.69 ton). Buffalo cows that
calved in winter produce more milk and have a greater number of days in milk than other
seasons. Calf birth weight showed significant effect on total milk yield with higher birth
weight recorded for higher yield. A high heritability estimate (0.64) was reported for lactation
length, while moderate heritability estimates were recorded for dam calving weight, calf birth
weight and total milk yield (0.26, 0.20 and 0.15, respectively). While low heritability
estimates (0.08) were recorded for CI. It seems that, season, parity, body weight at birth, and
dam calving weight could be used as predictors for the improvement of productive and
reproductive traits in Egyptian buffalo breeding programs. The results of our study supported
the need, not only for genetic selection programs, but also enhancing the managemental
practices of rearing farm for improving productive and reproductive traits of Egyptian
buffaloes. |
