Influence of Heat Stress on Milk Production in Fraternal Twins

Abstract

The aim of this study was the evaluation of heat stress in milk production in dairy cows (daily milk yield; milk production in 1st lactation). The comparison was performed between fraternal twins (full sisters), produced on the same farm and same parity. One of the twins produced in a hot period whereas her sister produced in a cooler period. Also, there can be differences in milk production between fraternal twins. Therefore, a second group of fraternal twins was also created that produced without heat stress. Databases of fraternal twins were analysed using PROC GLM analysis of Statistica® with selected effects. In conclusion, a negative effect of heat stress on milk production was found. There was an obvious tendency (in some cases insignificant) for worse milk production during heat stress in both the daily milk yield during hot days and in 1st lactation started in the hot season. Fat content (in %) was also lower in the hot period but differences were insignificant. On the other hand, there was found very low differences in milk production (and milk components) between fraternal twins produced in season without heat stress.

Keywords

• heat stress
• milk production