Heat stress parameters in Azawak cattle (Bos indicus): four seasons of data collection

Abstract

Zebu cattle are widely adaptable to tropical and sub-tropical environments (Turner, 1984), which influence productive and reproductive traits of dairy cows. However, objective measurements of characteristics that directly affect adaptability are limited. Some metabolic and haematological parameters have been suggested as indicators of heat stress and can be used for describing the adaptability to hot environments (Gutierrez-De La R. et al.; 1971; Hammond et al., 1996 and 1998). The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effect of Temperature Humidity Index (THI).......

Keywords

• heat stress parameters, Azawak cattle (Bos indicus), temperature humidity index