The effect of genetic upgrading of Kenana (Sudan Zebu cattle) with European Friesian of calf performance, milk yield and milk composition

Abstract

Two experiments were undertaken with Friesian x Kenana crosses to study the effect of 50 and 75 % upgraded indigenous cattle on calf performance, milk yield and milk composition. In experiment I, the dry matter intake, liveweight gain and food conversion ratio of preweaned and postweaned calves were studied. There was no significant difference in dry matter intake between both genotype groups. Liveweight was significantly higher for 75 % than for 50 % Friesian crosses during the preweaning period while it was significantly higher for 50 % than for 75 % crosses during the postweaning period. Food conversion ratio was higher for 50 % than for 75 % crosses during the preweaning period while it was higher for 75 % than for 50 % crosses during the postweaning period. In experiment II, 50 % crossbreed cows produced significantly more milk than 75 % crosses but their milk composition was lower in fat and protein concentration. Generally, the results indicate a better performance of the 50 % upgraded genotype. Future upgrading plans should be carefully monitored.