Reproductive Efficiency of Introduced Gaddi Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in Kalikot, Nepal

Abstract

Gaddi buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), indigenous to far-western hills with morphologically larger body and docile temperament is compared to Murrah, distinguished by white patch on forehead and switch. A study was carried out at Raskot Municipality of Kalikot district, Nepal to evaluate the effect of non-genetic factors on reproductive traits of introduced Gaddi on September, 2017 to May 2018. A total of 103 Gaddi buffaloes were purposively selected and survey was conducted using semi-structured questionnaire and farmer’s record by a transect walk. The collected data were analyzed using the statistical tool “R”. Least square mean comparison was made by using DMRT. The least square means for age at first service, age at first calving, post-partum estrus and calving interval were 1454.80±75.67, 1811.42±65.56, 382.94±26.49 and 680.52±32.65 days respectively. Spot variation seen on introduced Gaddi was non-significant to all the reproductive traits. Buffalo calving in summer season had longer post-partum estrus with lengthy calving interval, whereas buffalo calving in winter had shorter post-partum estrus with short calving interval. There was no variation in reproductive traits for parity. Besides well management of transhumance system of rearing and availability of pure breeding buffaloes, season of calving can also be taken into consideration for efficient reproductive performance of introduced Gaddi buffalo in mid-western high hills of Nepal which will further assist in conservation and improvement of Gaddi buffalo.

Keywords: Gaddi, Kalikot, post-partum estrus, season of calving, spot variation

Cite this Article

Sandip Kumar Adhikari, Surya Prasad Sharma. Reproductive Efficiency of Introduced Gaddi Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in Kalikot, Nepal. Research & Reviews: Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology. 2018; 7(3): 3–10p