Estimation of Genetic Superiority and Reproductive Performance of Dairy Cows at different rearing locations

Abstract

The objective of this study was to estimate the genetic superiority using the estimated breeding value (EBV) and most probable producing ability (MPPA), and to elucidate the reproductive performance of dairy cows at different rearing locations. This study used data from dairy cows in two locations, namely at the breeding dairy center (Group I) for 100 heads and the smallholder farm (group II) for 40 head cows. The survey method was used in this study. The parameters observed were total milk production, days open (DO), service per conception (S/C), and calving interval (CI). The data were analyzed descriptively and using a t-test. The results showed that cows in group I had more superior genetic potential. Productivity in groups I and II for the total milk production were 5.017,52±1.096,84 and 3.922,52±1.296,55 kg/head/lactation, respectively;DO was 141,45±64,30 and 281,68±92,42 days, respectively S/C were1,47±0,61 and 1,70±0,69 times, respectively; and CI was421,59±63,47 and 565,23±95,33 days, respectively. In conclusion, differences in management systems in breeding dairy centers and smallholder farms give different productivity. The results can be used for management improvement and increasing productivity strategies. Livestock selection can be done by estimating the genetic superiority using the estimated breeding value and most probable producing ability.

Keywords

• dairy cows
• breeding value
• milk production
• reproductive performance