Informatics Publishing Limited

Kilekoung Jean-Pierre Mingoas ¹, Julius Awah-Ndukum ², Houinga Dakyang ³, Pagnah Andre Zoli ³

Affiliations
1 Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine and Sciences, University of Ngaoundere, PO Box 454, Ngaoundere, CM
2 Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Sciences, University of Ngaoundere, PO Box 454, Ngaoundere, CM
3 Department of Biotechnology of Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Sciences, University of Ngaoundere, PO Box 454, Ngaoundere, CM

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of udder morphological characteristics on milk yield in zebu cows of Cameroon.
Materials and Methods: The diameter and height of the udder, length and diameter of the teat, and the milk yield were measured in 29 Djafun (Red Mbororo) and 19 Aku (White Fulani) cows in Lougguere zootechnical station in the North region of Cameroon.
Results: Overall, strong positive correlation (r_p=0.60) between the diameter (240.21±28.58 mm) and height (131.12±23.64 mm) of udders (p<0.001) and between length (39.51±6.44 mm) and diameter (19.85±3.08 mm) of teats (r_p=0.78) were found in the zebu cows. Udder morphologic characteristics varied significantly (p<0.005) according to breed, lactation stage and parity, and height at whiters. There was significant (p<0.001) correlations between udder diameter (r_p=0.541) and height (r_p=0.549) with milk yield.
Conclusion: This study ascertained udder morphological characteristics values in local zebu cows, and showed that udder size is strong and positively correlated to milk yield. The findings are useful in genetic improvement programs of zebu cows.

Keywords

Cameroon, Lactation Stage, Milk Yield, Teat Diameter, Parity, Zebu Cow.

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