Phenotypic characterization of national Brazilian buffalo breeds and Baio type

Abstract

The objective of this study was to verify the influence of environmental and genetic factors on buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) of the Carabao, Jaffarabadi, Mediterranean, and Murrah breeds and of the Baio type, utilizing the GLM procedure of SAS (Statistical Analysis System). The mean birth weight was 32.79 kg (from 32.22 to 34.71 kg), mature female weight was 514.31 kg, first calving interval was 501.30 days (from 483 to 564 days), service period was 191.30 days (from 86 to 190 days), age at first calving was 1,088.03 days (from 1,040 to 1,156 days) and calving interval was 380.32 days (from 373 to 392 days). Sire group significantly affected all traits studied, except mature female weight. Calf sex affected both birth weight and age at first calving. Calving order affected birth weight, service period and calving interval while year of calving significantly affected most traits studied. The productive characteristics studied on the buffalo populations raised on the Brazilian Amazon show that this species is well adapted to those harsh conditions and that it can be considered as an alternative for breeders.