Research Article | 11 Aug 2017

Effects of body conformation and udder morphology on milk yield of zebu cows in North region of Cameroon

Kilekoung Jean-Pierre Mingoas1, Julius Awah-Ndukum2, Houinga Dakyang3, and Pagnah Andre Zoli3Show more
VETERINARY WORLD | pg no. 901-905 | Vol. 10, Issue 8 | DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.901-905
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Abstract

          
Background and 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 (rp=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 (rp=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 (rp=0.541) and height (rp=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.
          
Keywords: Cameroon, lactation stage, milk yield, teat diameter, parity, zebu cow.