Department of Animal Science
Date of this Version
1986
Abstract
A review of performance of the swamp buffalo concerning reproductive traits, growth and carcass, milk production, and work capacities was presented. The potential for breeding improvement of certain traits was discussed. Breeding objectives and goals to suit the need of Asian smallfarmers were emphasized. Breeding of swamp buffalo for draft and for multi-purpose was discussed. Genetic selection and crossbreeding of the swamp buffalo were reviewed. It was proposed that genetic selection for weight and gain should improve meat production as well as draft ability of the swamp buffalo, while crossbreeding should be limited to experimental scale until crossbred buffaloes have been well tested for farmers' acceptance under prevailing smallfarm conditions. The aspect of germplasm conservation was also emphasized.
Comments
Published in 3rd World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, edited by Gordon E. Dickerson and Rodger K. Johnson, 4 vols. (Lincoln: University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, 1986). Copyright © 1986 Board of Regents University of Nebraska.