Assessment of Temperate Breeds for Milk Yield, Net Energy Efficiency and Dairy Merit in the Tropical Climate of Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the milk yield, net energy efficiency and dairy merit of multi-genotypes cattle in low humid condition of Adamawa State. Lactation and milk component records of one thousand and two (1002) multi genotype cattle (Holstein, 200; Jersey, 202; Brown Swiss, 300 and Simmental, 300) was extracted from the database of Sebore farm, Adamawa State. The data were processed to estimate the milk indices. All descriptive statistical analyses (Mean, coefficient of variation and standard error of mean) were done using R commander (2016) Software. Significant differences in means were separated using in Duncan Multiple Range Test. Data measured were milk yield, net energy efficiency and dairy merit. There were significant differences among the genotypes for milk yield, dairy merit and net energy efficiency. Holstein cows was significantly (p<0.05) higher in average milk yield, net energy efficiency and dairy merit as compared to Jersey, Brown Swiss and Simmental. Simmental had significantly (p<0.05) the least average milk yield, net energy efficiency and dairy merit. It is concluded that Holstein cows have an optimal performance (1788.2 kg, fat corrected milk yield, 50.5% net energy efficiency and 61.2% dairy merit) for milk production as compared to other multi genotype cattle. The outstanding performance of Holstein cows for dairy merit make them suitable candidate for genetic improvement of our local cattle genetic resources.