The Effects of Gas Changes in the Shelter in the Summer Period on the Milk yield and Dry Material Consumption of Anatolian Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Abstract

In this study, the effects of in-shelter gas concentration on milk yield and total dry matter intake (TDMI) of buffaloes during the spring and summer periods were investigated. The research was carried out in a shelter with 20 main Anatolian buffaloes between March and July. Values for temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, and CH4, NH3, and CO2 gases were recorded in the shelter. Data records were collected continuously for 24 hours for 4 days. Milk yield and DMI of buffaloes were also determined. As it was observed, higher air velocity in the house reduces the methane gas levels (P<0.01). The regression equation between milk yield and relative humidity was Y= 6.011-0.03RH and showed a negative and low degree correlation. It was illustrated that TDMI varied between 11.00 ± 0.12-13.20 ± 0.06 kg during the summer. The difference observed between months in terms of feed intake was found to be statistically significant (P<0.05). Although the milk yield of water buffalo was low in March, it increased in April and May. However, there was a decrease in DMI (0.50 kg/day) and milk yield (264 mL/day) for an increase of + 1 °C in air temperature. The recorded values for CO2 concentration in the buffalo shelter during the summer period varied between 620-1120 ppm. Considering the obtained results, NH3 and CO2 gas levels in the shelter were below the higher limits and can be considered as not dangerous for animal and human health. It was determined that regression equation between feed intake and temperature was Y= 9.901 + 0.089T**, regression coefficient was R2= 0.19 and correlation coefficient was r= 0.44 (P<0.001).

Keywords

• buffalo
• bubalus bubalis
• gas changes
• summer period
• milk yield
• feed intake