Buffalo Breeds Research Articles

Inference of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Selection Signatures in Xiangxi White Buffalo of China Through Whole-Genome Resequencing

(1) Background: Buffaloes are crucial livestock species for food and service in tropical and subtropical regions. Buffalo genetics, particularly in indigenous Chinese breeds such as the Xiangxi white buffalo (XWB), remains an intriguing area of study due to its unique traits and regional significance. (2) Methods: This investigation utilized the whole-genome sequences of twenty XWBs (newly sequenced), along with eighty published whole-genome sequences of other buffalo breeds (including Guizhou white buffalo, river buffalo, and Chinese buffalo in the Yangtze River). Using whole-genome sequencing analysis technology, the population structure, genomic diversity, and selection signatures of XWB were determined. (3) Results: This study revealed that the XWB, being phylogenetically positioned in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, exhibited substantial genomic diversity. Employing four selection sweep detection methods (CLR, iHS, π-ratio, and FST), several genes were positively identified for adaptive traits in the XWB, including coat color phenotypes (ASIP, KIT), the nervous system (GRIK2), reproduction (KCNIP4), growth and development (IFNAR1, BMP6, HDAC9, MGAT4C, and SLC30A9), the body (LINGO2, LYN, and FLI1), immunity (IRAK3 and MZB1), and lactation (TP63, LPIN1, SAE1). (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, this study enhances our understanding of the genetic distinctiveness and adaptive traits of XWB, highlighting selection signatures crucial for future breeding and conservation and ensuring sustainable use of this vital livestock resource.

Particle size distribution of total mixed rations fed to Italian Mediterranean buffaloes measured by the PSPS: impact on milk quality and digestibility

Buffalo breeding in Italy is becoming increasingly economically attractive, with milk production in the Lazio region growing by 15% since 2004. However, the optimal physical characteristics of total mixed rations (TMR) have not been thoroughly investigated. This lack of research suggests the need for greater attention to the physical characteristics of diet, which, combined with its chemical properties, may negatively impact milk yield (MY) and milk quality (MQ), as seen in dairy cows. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of diet composition, with a particular focus on the physical component, on MY and MQ, and apparent digestibility (AD) of dairy buffaloes. The study was conducted on 10 dairy buffalo farms in Amaseno valley (Italy). Monthly samples of TMR, faeces, and bulk milk were collected over a 12-month period, alongside interviews with farmers to gather information on MY and diet composition. The results revealed a high variability in the physical-chemical composition of diets across farms, attributable to differences in feeding management practices. Both chemical and physical component were found to be associated with MY, MQ and AD changes. A ration poor in roughage and rich in concentrate negatively affected MQ showing lower milk fat, and higher somatic cells count and milk urea, while a greater presence of coarse particles and high fibre were associated with lower MY. Nevertheless, coarse particles and aNDF were positively associated with milk clotting parameters and aNDF digestibility. Our study emphasised the high importance of fibre for improving MQ of dairy buffaloes.

Study on the Carcass Traits, Meat Quality, and Nutritional Attributes of Six Kinds of Jiangxi Local Breeds Cattle

The purpose of this study is to explore the carcass traits, meat quality, and nutritional attributes of local yellow cattle (Guangfeng, Ji’an, and Jinjiang) and buffalo (Poyanghu, Xiajiang, and Xinfeng mountain) in Jiangxi Province, and compare the differences among different breeds. The results showed that the dressing percentage, net meat percentage, and meat–bone ratio of Jinjiang cattle were highest, and that Jinjiang cattle had the best meat production performance. Regarding meat quality, the pH24h value of all breeds was at normal level, and no dark-cutting beef was produced. Poyanghu buffalo and Xinfeng mountain buffalo had higher redness (a*) values, and Guangfeng cattle had the best water retention and tenderness. The intermuscular fat of yellow cattle breeds was higher than that of buffalo breeds; Poyanghu buffalo had the highest crude protein content. The composition of amino acids and fatty acids was different among breeds, and the composition of Jiangxi breeds was healthy. The muscle fibers of buffalo breeds are generally smaller and denser than those of yellow cattle breeds. The MyHC-Ⅰ, MyHC-Ⅱa, and MyHC-Ⅱx were the main types of muscle fibers of Jiangxi local breeds, and the proportion varied with different breeds. This work elucidated the carcass characteristics, meat quality, and nutritional attributes of Jiangxi breed cattle to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the development of beef cattle industry.

Some Yield and Growth Traits of Anatolian Buffaloes and the Effects of First Calving Age and Calving Interval on These Traits

Numerous in-depth studies have described the fertility traits, growth performance and milk yield traits of dairy animals, which are considered indicators of welfare, but there are limited studies examining these traits within the framework of cause-effect relationships, especially in buffaloes. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in some milk, growth and fertility traits of Anatolian buffaloes over the years in some dairy farms where the Buffalo Breeding Project in Public Conditions was implemented in Samsun province and, to investigate the effects of first calving age (FCA) and calving interval (CI) on milk and growth traits. The study was conducted in 27 buffalo farms (3295 buffalo cows and 3317 buffalo calves) located in Bafra district, the region with the highest buffalo population in Samsun province, Türkiye. The data was taken from records previously kept within the scope of the relevant project. The data such as growth characteristics [birth weight (BW), 6th and 12th-mo live weight (LW) values of calves born between 2013-2020] and lactation traits of cows [lactation milk yield (LMY) and lactation duration (LD)] and FCA and CI values were analyzed by analysis of variance. The effect of years on LMY of buffalo cows was found to be significant, and significant positive changes were determined from year to year. In addition, the BW, 6th-mo, and 12th-mo LW values of calves also varied from year to year. As the FCA value of buffaloes increased, the BW, 6th-mo, and 12th-mo LW values of calves and LMY of cows increased. Similarly, CI values affected the BW values of calves (P<0.01), and LMY and LD values increased in parallel with the increase in CI values. Consequently, determining the lactation and growth traits of buffaloes could benefit developing herd management practices that would optimize these performance indicators.

Comparative study of Tris Turmeric, Tris Turmeric Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Tris Turmeric Ethylene glycol extenders on the cryosurvivability, sperm resistance, in- vivo fertility and antioxidant status in buffalo bull semen

The freeze-thaw process leads to structural and functional damage due to excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The addition of exogenous antioxidants to sperm diluents is of great importance to overcome oxidative damage during freezing. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of three diluents Tris Turmeric, Tris Turmeric Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Tris Turmeric Ethylene glycol on the cold survival ability of buffalo sperm. Semen was collected from five local adult male buffalo breeds. A base diluent of Tris-citric acid-fructose (TCF) was prepared, adding 20% whole egg yolk (TCFY). The Tris extender without turmeric, without DMSO, and without EG was kept as a control. Other extenders are Tris containing turmeric TT (100 ml/5 ml Tris), Tris containing turmeric dimethyl sulfoxide TTD (100 ml/5 ml Tris + 1.5% DMSO) and Tris containing turmeric and ethylene glycol TTE EG (100 ml/5 ml Tris + 1.5% EG). Semen samples were added and a pure sperm concentration of 60 × 106/ml was achieved. Frozen buffalo sperm after thawing showed significant improvements in all research parameters of the three breeding samples compared to the control. Tris Turmeric Ethylene was the type that best improved sperm survival under frozen conditions, followed by Tris Turmeric and Tris Turmeric Dimethyl Sulfoxide compared to the control. A significant decrease in sperm motility after thawing was evident as usage time increased in all expanders. There was a significant increase in total antioxidant content (TAC) and insignificant change in malondialdehyde (MDA) of the diluent used compared to the control. Conception rate (CR) was higher in Tris Turmeric Ethylene glycol (65.2%), followed by Tris Turmeric (60.3%) and Tris Turmeric Dimethyl Sulfoxide (55.9%) compared to the control (36, 7%). It can be concluded that Tris Turmeric Ethylene Glycol is considered the best agent for improving cold survival and sperm fertility, followed by Tris Turmeric and Tris Turmeric Dimethyl Sulfoxide.

Socio-Economic Status of Buffalo Farmers and Management Practices of Buffaloes at Shahjadpur Milk Pocket Area in Bangladesh

Buffalo is the most neglected species of large ruminant, despite contributing to safe and sustainable milk and meat production in Bangladesh. A survey was conducted at five unions of Shahjadpur upazilla under Sirajganj district which is called the milk pocket area in Bangladesh. The objective of the survey was to find out the socio-economic condition of buffalo farmers in these areas. Prior to conducting the survey work from February to June 2024, a questionnaire was designed and pre-tested. SPSS software was used to statistically analyse the collected data. The results revealed that the majority (84%) of buffalo farmers were male and mostly (72%) practised by middle-aged (30-45 years). The education level of farmers had no schooling (12%), primary (50%), secondary (22%), higher secondary (16%) and graduation (0%), respectively. In the survey area, a majority (76%) of the farmers reared young male (1.5 to 2 years) buffalo for fattening. Additionally, 72% of farmers raised buffaloes with intensive systems and the remaining 28% with semi-intensive. The involvement of respondents in farming, business and others were 84, 8% and 8% respectively. Most (60%) of the farmers dewormed their buffalo regularly but only 28% practised regular vaccination. The main factors limiting buffalo production in the study locations were the high price of concentrate feed (88%), lack of pond for wallowing (70%), lack of improved dairy buffalo breeds (60%), lack of green fodder (30%), unavailability of bank loan (18%) and training facility (24%). The net income from fattening one buffalo per half yearly was BDT 26713. It indicates that rearing buffaloes for fattening purposes in the selected areas was profitable.

PERSPECTIVE: Semen additives for improving frozen-thawed buffalo and cattle semen ‐ a review

This comprehensive review delves into the evolving landscape of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) in bovine species, particularly focusing on the pivotal roles of semen additives in the cryopreservation of buffalo and cattle semen. In developing nations, where ARTs are still emerging, these techniques significantly influence bovine reproductive strategies. In contrast, developed regions have embraced them as primary approaches for dairy buffalo and cattle breeding. Semen cryopreservation, while offering advantages like extended storage and genetic propagation, also presents challenges. These include diminished sperm quality due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, alterations in sperm structure, and temperature fluctuations. Further, the effect of cryopreservation differs between cattle and buffaloes, with the latter exhibiting poorer semen viability and fertility due to inherent lipid composition susceptibilities. The generation and implications of ROS, especially hydrogen peroxide, contribute significantly to sperm DNA damage and functional impairments. To counteract these challenges, research has intensified on semen additives, aiming to bolster semen quality and protect against oxidative stress-induced damage. As the field advances, the review emphasizes the need for optimized cryopreservation techniques and tailored antioxidant strategies to harness the full potential of ARTs in bovine breeding programs.

Genome-wide comparative analyses highlight selection signatures underlying saline adaptation in Chilika buffalo.

Chilika, a native buffalo breed of the Eastern coast of India, is mainly distributed around the Chilika brackish water lake connected with the Bay of Bengal Sea. This breed possesses a unique ability to delve deep into the salty water of the lake and stay there to feed on local vegetation of saline nature. Adaptation to salinity is a genetic phenomenon; however, the genetic basis underlying salinity tolerance is still limited in animals, specifically in livestock. The present study explores the genetic evolution that unveils the Chilika buffalo's adaptation to the harsh saline habitat, including both water and food systems. For this study, whole genome resequencing data on 18 Chilika buffalo and for comparison 10 Murrah buffalo of normal habitat were generated. For identification of selection sweeps, intrapopulation and interpopulation statistics were used. A total of 709, 309, 468, and 354 genes were detected to possess selection sweeps in Chilika buffalo using the nucleotide diversity (θπ), Tajima's D, nucleotide diversity ratio (θπ-ratio), and FST methods, respectively. Further analysis revealed a total of 23 genes including EXOC6B, VPS8, LYPD1, VPS35, CAMKMT, NCKAP5, COMMD1, myosin light chain kinase 3 (MYLK3), and B3GNT2 were found to be common by all the methods. Furthermore, functional annotation study of identified genes provided pathways such as MAPK signaling, renin secretion, endocytosis, oxytocin signaling pathway, etc. Gene network analysis enlists that hub genes provide insights into their interactions with each other. In conclusion, this study has highlighted the genetic basis underlying the local adaptive function of Chilika buffalo under saline environment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Indian Chilika buffaloes are being maintained on extensive grazing system and have a unique ability to convert local salty vegetation into valuable human food. However, adaptability to saline habitat of Chilika buffalo has not been explored to date. Here, we identified genes and biological pathways involved, such as MAPK signaling, renin secretion, endocytosis, and oxytocin signaling pathway, underlying adaptability of Chilika buffalo to saline environment. This investigation shed light on the mechanisms underlying the buffalo's resilience in its native surroundings.

A Review of the Nutritional Aspects and Composition of the Meat, Liver and Fat of Buffaloes in the Amazon.

Thus, this review aims to deepen the understanding of buffalo farming in the Amazon, presenting the quality and nutritional value of buffalo meat and liver. This information serves as a subsidy to improve practices related to the breeding system, nutrition, health and sustainability associated with aquatic buffaloes. For this, a review of the databases was carried out using the descriptors "nutritional value of buffalo meat", "nutritional value of buffalo liver" and "buffalo breeding in the Amazon". Thus, the consumption of foods derived from aquatic buffaloes has important nutritional value for human consumption. In view of this, it is possible to conclude that the nutrition of these animals is influenced by the biodiversity of the Amazon, giving unique characteristics to its products, also highlighting the importance of carrying out research that aims to value the potential use of this species and strengthen the economy of the region.

Genome-wide copy number variant analysis reveals candidate genes associated with milk production traits in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Buffaloes are vital contributors to the global dairy industry. Understanding the genetic basis of milk production traits in buffalo populations is essential for breeding programs and improving productivity. In this study, we conducted whole-genome resequencing on 387 buffalo genomes from 29 diverse Asian breeds, including 132 river buffaloes, 129 swamp buffaloes, and 126 crossbred buffaloes. We identified 36,548 copy number variants (CNV) spanning 133.29 Mb of the buffalo genome, resulting in 2,100 CNV regions (CNVR), with 1,993 shared CNVR being found within the studied buffalo types. Analyzing CNVR highlighted distinct genetic differentiation between river and swamp buffalo subspecies, verified by evolutionary tree and principal component analyses. Admixture analysis grouped buffaloes into river and swamp categories, with crossbred buffaloes displaying mixed ancestry. To identify candidate genes associated with milk production traits, we employed 3 approaches. First, we used Vst-based population differentiation, revealing 11 genes within CNVR that exhibited significant divergence between different buffalo breeds, including genes linked to milk production traits. Second, expression quantitative loci analysis revealed differentially expressed CNVR-derived genes (DECG) associated with milk production traits. Notably, known milk production-related genes were among these DECG, validating their relevance. Last, a GWAS identified 3 CNVR significantly linked to peak milk yield. Our study provides comprehensive genomic insights into buffalo populations and identifies candidate genes associated with milk production traits. These findings facilitate genetic breeding programs aimed at increasing milk yield and improving quality in this economically important livestock species.

A Systematic Review on Buffalo Breeds, Lactation Performance, and Buffalo Milk Production Characteristics in Sri Lanka

Purpose: The current study aimed to systematically review the publications originating from Sri Lanka on buffalo milk to identify potential dairy buffalo breeds and their lactation performances, milk composition, physicochemical properties, and products originating from buffalo milk.Research Method: Articles published over the last 6 decades were found through Scopus and Google Scholar databases using keywords. Original Research articles which are relevant and published in English were only selected. The six-step selection process in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Approach (PRISMA) was adopted.Findings: The majority of the publications focused on product development aspects rather than buffalo milk production aspects. Pure breeds of the locals, Murrah, Surti, and Nili-Ravi, and their crossbreeds are frequently cited in the literature. The daily average milk yields of Murrah, Local, Surti, and Nili-Ravi pure breeds were 4.7±2.3, 3.1±1.3, 3.0±1.19, and 1.2 L, respectively. Daily milk yields of the crossbreeds ranged from 1.1 – 5.0 L. Average lactation lengths were largely dependent on the breed in which Murrah recorded the highest (341±100 days). The average lactation length of the local breed was exceptionally shorter (156±27 days) than that of the exotic breeds (>235 days). The calving interval of the Murrah and Local buffaloes was the same (636 d). Pure breeds of Surti and Nili-Ravi recorded calving intervals of 489 and 411 d, respectively. Whereas, it ranged from 417-477 d among crossbreeds. Studies focused on milk compositions and physicochemical properties were extremely rare. Curd and cheese were the most focused products originating from buffalo milk.Value: This study summarises the buffalo milk production aspects in Sri Lanka and identifies research gaps in the area. Current literature reflects a satisfactory level of information relevant to the buffaloes reared in the Dry-Zone. This study recommends more research in milk composition analysis and lactation performance of the breeds and buffalo production in the Low-Country Wet Zone and Up-Country regions.

Effects of Acetaminophen and Vitamin C Combination on Clinical Vital Signs and Behavioral Traits of Heat-Stressed Dairy Buffalo

Background: Heat stress (HS) presents significant challenges to water buffalo breeding, particularly in harsh environments like southern Iraq. HS adversely impacts physiological and behavioral aspects in dairy buffaloes, leading to economic losses in productivity and welfare. Interventions such as acetaminophen and vitamin C supplementation have been suggested to alleviate HS impacts due to their anti-stress and anti-inflammatory characteristics.Methods: This study was conducted in Al-Chibayish Marshes southern Iraq and aimed to evaluate the effects of acetaminophen and vitamin C combination (AVC) on heat-stressed dairy buffalo. Sixteen lactating buffaloes were divided into four treatments. One treatment received regular water (control), while other treatments were given water mixed with AVC at a dose of 500g/1000 liters for 3, 5, and 7 consecutive days per week, respectively, over 30 days. Environmental (temperature, humidity, and THI) and physiological data (body temperature, respiration rate, and pulse rate) were recorded daily, while feed and water consumption were recorded weekly.Results: Buffaloes experienced significant HS, with temperatures reaching up to 53.2°C and corresponding THI values ranging from 88.05 to 99.31. AVC administration for 5 consecutive days led to increased feed intake by 1.15 kg daily per treatment and decreased water consumption by 16.43 liters daily per treatment compared to the control. Additionally, rectal temperature, respiration rate, and heart rate showed progressive improvement during the second and third weeks, with the most notable improvement observed in the fourth week of the study. These improvements in vital signs and behavioral traits indicate the ability of AVC to improve thermoregulation and reduce heat stress impact.Conclusion: The investigation highlights the potential of AVC supplementation showing a promise in alleviating HS effects on dairy buffaloes by positively influencing physiological and behavioral parameters. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize supplementation strategies for enhancing buffalo welfare and productivity under heat stress.Keywords: Acetaminophen; Vitamin C; Physiological; Behavioral; Heat stress; Buffalo

Effects of MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 on FGF10-enhanced buffalo oocyte maturation in vitro

Fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) plays critical roles in oocyte maturation and embryonic development; however, the specific pathway by which FGF10 promotes in vitro maturation of buffalo oocytes remains elusive. The present study was aimed at investigating the mechanism underlying effects of the FGF10-mediated extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) pathway on oocyte maturation and embryonic development in vitro. MEK1/2 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) inhibitor U0126, alone or in combination with FGF10, was added to the maturation culture medium during maturation of the cumulus oocyte complex. Morphological observations, orcein staining, apoptosis detection, and quantitative real-time PCR were performed to evaluate oocyte maturation, embryonic development, and gene expression. U0126 affected oocyte maturation and embryonic development in vitro by substantially reducing the nuclear maturation of oocytes and expansion of the cumulus while increasing the apoptosis of cumulus cells. However, it did not have a considerable effect on glucose metabolism. These findings suggest that blocking the MEK/ERK pathway is detrimental to the maturation and embryonic development potential of buffalo oocytes. Overall, FGF10 may regulate the nuclear maturation of oocytes and cumulus cell expansion and apoptosis but not glucose metabolism through the MEK/ERK pathway. Our findings indicate that FGF10 regulates resumption of meiosis and expansion and survival of cumulus cells via MEK/ERK signaling during in vitro maturation of buffalo cumulus oocyte complexes. Elucidation of the mechanism of action of FGF10 and insights into oocyte maturation should advance buffalo breeding. Further studies should examine whether enhancement of MEK/ERK signaling improves embryonic development in buffalo.

Constraints and recommendation for countrywide extension of artificial insemination in buffalo, goat and sheep

Background: The workshop aimed to identify the constraints and way forward to extend the artificial insemination in buffalo, sheep and goat countrywide. Methods: A day long workshop was organized jointly by the Coastal Vet Society Bangladesh (CVS-BD) and Grameen Jano Unnayan Sangstha (GJUS) at Bangladesh Development Society conference hall in Barishal district of Bangladesh. A total of 100 stakeholders in different aspect were joined in this workshop. Results: On the workshop, the constraints were lack of buffalo, sheep and goat breeding policy, recording systems, knowledge about the high-yielding breed, scarcity of quality feed, fodder and pasture land, lack of technical skills in reproduction and production personal, no or limited facilities to breed improvement technologies, lack of breeding infrastructure, non-availability of proven sire, no coordination among farmers, researchers, public and private organization, universities as well as other beneficiaries. The recommendations to overcome those constraints were to build up and strengthening the breeding policies and infrastructure, continuous up-gradation of native breed by high yielding breeds or varieties, adopted with assisted reproductive technologies, frequently advertise the beneficial aspects of buffalo milk and meat, development of manpower by technical training, national and international collaboration should be strengthened, private investment should be encouraged and alternative feed supply is needed to warrant. Conclusion: It is concluded that an initiative through public and private partnership or collaboration is needed to extent the artificial insemination program in buffalo, sheep and goat countrywide.

A preliminary study on milk composition of three buffalo breeds located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Buffaloes have great potential to be developed as one of the main dairy animals in Sri Lanka because of their higher adaptability to local conditions compared to European dairy cattle breeds. Processing dairy products such as curd, cheese, and yoghurt from buffalo milk has several advantages due to its greater quantities of total solids, solid-nonfat, and protein. However, milk composition and coagulation properties largely depend on the breed. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the milk composition of three major buffalo breeds in Sri Lanka. The milk of the Lanka buffalo contained 18.1% total solids, 10.7% solid non-fat (SNF), 7.5% fat, 4.9% protein, 4.9% lactose, and 0.9% minerals. The milk of the Murrah crossbreed contained 15.4% total solids, 10.1% SNF, 5.3% fat, 4.2% protein, 5.1% lactose, and 1.1% minerals. The milk of the Nili-Ravi crossbreed contained 16.6% total solids, 10.2% SNF, 6.4% fat, 4.1% protein, 4.9% lactose, and 1.1% minerals. The results indicate that milk composition varies among the breeds in which the milk of the Lanka buffalo has significantly higher amounts of total solids, SNF, and fat. Protein, lactose, and mineral contents do not vary signiticantly.

Pathogen group-specific risk factors for intramammary infection in water buffalo.

A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of intramammary infection (IMI) associated bacteria and to identify risk factors for pathogen group-specific IMI in water buffalo in Bangladesh. A California Mastitis Test (CMT) and bacteriological cultures were performed on 1,374 quarter milk samples collected from 763 water buffalo from 244 buffalo farms in nine districts in Bangladesh. Quarter, buffalo, and farm-related data were obtained through questionnaires and visual observations. A total of 618 quarter samples were found to be culture positive. Non-aureus staphylococci were the predominant IMI-associated bacterial species, and Staphylococcus (S.) chromogenes, S. hyicus, and S. epidermidis were the most common bacteria found. The proportion of non-aureus staphylococci or Mammaliicoccus sciuri (NASM), S. aureus, and other bacterial species identified in the buffalo quarter samples varied between buffalo farms. Therefore, different management practices, buffalo breeding factors, and nutrition were considered and further analyzed when estimating the IMI odds ratio (OR). The odds of IMI by any pathogen (OR: 1.8) or by NASM (OR: 2.2) was high in buffalo herds with poor milking hygiene. Poor cleanliness of the hind quarters had a high odds of IMI caused by any pathogen (OR: 2.0) or NASM (OR: 1.9). Twice daily milking (OR: 3.1) and farms with buffalo purchased from another herd (OR: 2.0) were associated with IMI by any pathogen. Asymmetrical udders were associated with IMI-caused by any bacteria (OR: 1.7). A poor body condition score showed higher odds of IMI by any pathogen (OR: 1.4) or by NASM (OR: 1.7). This study shows that the prevalence of IMI in water buffalo was high and varied between farms. In accordance with the literature, our data highlight that IMI can be partly controlled through better farm management, primarily by improving hygiene, milking management, breeding, and nutrition.

Türkiye’nin İstanbul ve Kocaeli İllerinde Manda Yetiştiriciliği İşletmelerinin Sosyo-Ekonomik Yapıları

Bu çalışma, Türkiye’nin İstanbul ve Kocaeli illerindeki manda yetiştiriciliği işletmelerinin sosyo-ekonomik yapılarını incelemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırma verileri toplam 126 işletmeden yüz yüze anket yoluyla elde edilmiştir. Örnek-lem büyüklüğü, Basit Rasgele Örneklem Seçimi Metod’una göre belirlenmiştir. İşletmeler sahip oldukları hayvan varlığı-na göre 5-20 baş (küçük), 21-50 baş (orta) ve ≥51 baş (büyük) işletmeler şeklinde gruplandırılmıştır. İşletmelerin 2021 yılına ait verileri tanımlayıcı istatistikler şeklinde sunulmuştur. Elde edilen bulgularda, işletme sahiplerinin büyük oranda (%90.5) erkek olduğu ve %61.9’unun ilkokul düzeyinde eğitim aldığı belirlenmiştir. Üreticilerin yarıdan fazlasının (%51.6) manda yetiştiriciliğine ek olarak başka faaliyetlerden de gelir elde ettiği ve %42.9’unun aylık gelirinin ≤10000 TL (≤1124.85 USD) olduğu saptanmıştır. Üreticilerin kredi kullanma oranı %43.7 olarak belirlenmiştir. Üreticilerin çok dü-şük oranının (%14.3) manda yetiştiriciliğiyle ilgili mesleki eğitim aldığı görülmüştür. Üreticilerin ortalama yaşının ve deneyim süresinin sırasıyla 52.48±12.63 ve 32.88±16.37 yıl olduğu saptanmıştır. Manda yetiştiriciliğinden sağlanan gelirin yıllık gelir içerisindeki payının %72.58 ve işletme büyüklüğünün ortalama 55.47±100.11 dekar olduğu tespit edil-miştir. İşletmelerde ortalama olarak sağılan manda sayısı 25.93±33.37 baş, süt üretimi 4.91±0.67 lt/gün, laktasyon süresi 230.16±29.09 gün ve süt verimi 1159.97±155.16 lt/laktasyon olarak belirlenmiştir. Sonuç olarak, üreticilerin man-dacılık gelirlerinin, kooperatife üyelik oranlarının düşük ve eğitim durumlarının yetersiz olduğu belirlenmiştir. Üreticilerin daha fazla eğitim almaları ve örgütlenme oranlarını artırmaları üretimin sürdürülebilirliği açısından büyük katkı sağlaya-caktır.

Türkiye, Sivas İli Manda Yetiştiricilerinin Memnuniyet Düzeyleri Üzerine Bir Araştırma

Buffaloes can adapt to different regional and climatic conditions, yield high quality milk and meat products and are suitable for organic animal husbandry, which provides significant advantages in livestock raising. In this study, a total of 122 buffalo breeders living in the center of Sivas province, Şarkışla and Suşehri districts were examined in terms of age, gender, educational level and satisfaction with breeding buffaloes, reasons for breeding, problems encountered in breeding and expectations using a survey. The participants were mostly middle-aged individuals (89.3%). It was found that 67.2% of them graduated from primary school while 12.3% graduated from high school. It was revealed that the participants were breeding buffaloes in order to meet the daily needs of their homes (29%), were pleased with breeding them (91.8%) and had such positive views that they advised their children to breed buffaloes (62.7%). 64 % of the participants stated that they were satisfied with buffalo breeding for quality of dairy products and the high prices of these products. The buffalo breeders reported their breeding problems as high costs of fodder (35%), low meat price (25%) and the lack of market (10%) while they predicted that the buffalo breeding may become more profitable (95.6%) with the help of solutions to be made by the authorities. In order to achieve this aim, the breeders declared their demands to increase prices of their products sold in the market (34.4%), and loan limits for purchasing fodder and husbandry (33.7%). A significant relationship was found between the participants’ gender and the views that their work could be made profitable (p

Buffalo bbu-miR-493-5p Promotes Myoblast Proliferation and Differentiation.

In recent years, the meat and dairy value of buffaloes has become a major concern in buffalo breeding, and the improvement of buffalo beef quality is key to protecting buffalo germplasm resources and solving the problem of beef supply. MiRNAs play a significant role in regulating muscle development. However, the precise mechanism by which they regulate the development of buffalo skeletal muscles remains largely unexplored. In this study, we examined miRNA expression profiles in buffalo myoblasts during the proliferation and differentiation stages. A total of 177 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified, out of which 88 were up-regulated and 89 down-regulated. We focused on a novel miRNA, named bbu-miR-493-5p, that was significantly differentially expressed during the proliferation and differentiation of buffalo myoblasts and highly expressed in muscle tissues. The RNA-FISH results showed that bbu-miR-493-5p was primarily located in the cytoplasm to encourage buffalo myoblasts' proliferation and differentiation. In conclusion, our study lays the groundwork for future research into the regulatory role of miRNAs in the growth of buffalo muscle.

Teat morphology across five buffalo breeds: a multi-country collaborative study.

The buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is a species of worldwide importance, raised to produce milk, meat, and hides, and often used as a working animal in rural contexts with low access to hi-tech solutions. In the present study, 100 lactating buffaloes (50 primiparous and 50 pluriparous) of five popular breeds were recruited to characterize and compare teat morphology. In particular, the focus was put on the Nili Ravi, Mediterranean, Egyptian, Bulgarian Murrah, and Azeri buffaloes raised in Pakistan, Italy, Egypt, Bulgaria, and Iran, respectively. In all countries, a longitudinal cross-section ultrasound was obtained before the milking to measure teat parameters at individual level: overall, teat canal length (TCL) averaged 24.13mm, teat diameter (TD) 30.46mm, cisternal diameter (CD) 17.80mm, and teat wall (TW) 7.12mm. The most variable trait across breeds was TCL which was positively correlated with CD and TD and negatively with TW, regardless of the teat position (front/rear or left/right). A strong negative correlation was found between TW and CD (- 0.43). The analysis of variance revealed that the fixed effect of breed significantly affected all the traits except TD. In fact, Bulgarian Murrah, Azeri, and Egyptian buffaloes presented the greatest estimate of TCL, whereas NR the smallest (14.70mm). The TW was maximum in Nili Ravi, Egyptian, and Mediterranean buffaloes, with estimates equal to 8.19, 7.59, and 8.74mm, respectively. Nili Ravi also showed the greatest TL (82.39mm). In terms of CD, the lowest least square mean was that of Mediterranean buffaloes (12.14mm). Primiparous and pluriparous buffaloes differed in terms of TD, TW, and TL, with older animals presenting the highest least square mean. In terms of position, instead, significant differences were observed for TD, CD, and TL when comparing front and rear teats, as left and right teats did not differ. Teat anatomy includes a set of heritable morphological features and is therefore breed-dependent. Differences presented in this study could be attributed to the divergent breeding objective and selective pressure across the five breeds; e.g., in some cases such as Mediterranean buffalo, selection for decades was oriented to improve milk production and milkability and achieve optimal conformation for mechanical milking. A better understanding of the mammary gland anatomical descriptors can be informative of the history of a breed and could provide useful insights to guide possible selection.