Genetic and phenotypic parameters of milk yield and milk composition in two Indian goat breeds

Abstract

338 Jamunapari and 264 Barbari goats were reared under semi-intensive feeding management from 1985 to 1987. Kidding of goats was restricted to March–April and October–November every year. During the suckling period of 90 days, milk production was estimated at 7-day intervals and milk constituents, fat, protein, lactose, solids-not-fat (SNF) and total solids (TS) were estimated at 15-day intervals from the day of kidding. Jamunapari goats produced more milk than Barbari goats at all stages of lactation. Peak yield was attained in the second 2-week period in Barbari and the third 2-week period in Jamunapari goats. Breed, year and season of kidding, parity and stage of lactation significantly affected milk constituents. Fat and protein contents increased and lactose and average daily milk yield decreased with advancing stage of lactation. Fat and protein contents were negatively and lactose content positively correlated with milk yield. Heritability estimates of milk yield and constituents in the two breeds ranged from medium to high (0.22 for SNF to 0.48 for TS).