Local Cattle Breeds Research Articles

Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) and Animal Owners' Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) Towards the Disease in Selected Districts of East Wollega Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia.

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is one of the most important diseases affecting production and productivity. Cross-sectional study was aimed at to determine the seroprevalence of IBR and associated risk factors, and animal owners' knowledge, attitude and practice towards the disease from April 2021 to June 2022. Accordingly, a total of 384 serum samples were collected from both crossbreed (70) and local breed (314) cattle from purposively selected districts of East Wollega zone of Western Ethiopia. Competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for testing glycoprotein antibodies (anti-gB) for bovine herpes virus-1 (BoHV-1) virus in collected serum, and the obtained data were analysed by multiple logistic regressions by using R software 3.62 version. However, questionnaire data were analysed for descriptive statistics by SPSS version 20.0 (IBM. Corp, 2011). The total prevalence of IBR in the study area was found to be 70.54% at herd and 80.47% at individual cattle level. The significant association (p ) was found for breed, age, body condition and herd size but not for district and sex as risk factors. The BoHV-1 virus seropositivity in adult animals increased significantly, with an odds ratio of 1.65 (95% CI 0.705-3.85) compared to young. Local breed cattle were 2.055 times more likely to test positive for IBR with an odds ratio of 0.77 (95% CI 0.23-2.22) compared to crossbreed cattle. The chances of cattle in medium herds testing positive for the BoHV-1 virus with an odds ratio of (1.78 95% CI 1.303-7.50) are greater than the chances of cattle in smaller herds testing positive. The survey results showed that 70% of animal owners identified IBR as a major challenge in animal production, whereas 35% mentioned long calving intervals. However, 92% of the participants were not informed about the level of knowledge and attitude regarding particular diseases such as IBR. This study showed that there is a high prevalence of IBR in cattle in the study area, and that owners have low awareness of the disease. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an immediate control system and conduct additional research on molecular detection to evaluate its effects on reproductive performance.

Genomic Insights and Conservation Priorities for Kongshan Cattle: A Whole-Genome Resequencing Approach.

Kongshan Cattle, indigenous to Sichuan Province and recognized as China's 56th local cattle breed in 2024, exhibit unique adaptations including superior resistance to harsh conditions. Despite a declining population due to the influx of foreign breeds, there is a significant focus on preserving their genetic diversity through advanced genomic techniques. This study utilized whole-genome resequencing, a cost-effective and information-rich method, to perform a comprehensive genetic assessment of the Kongshan Cattle. High-quality resequencing data yielded an average of 17.5 billion clean bases per sample, with high proportions of Q20 and Q30 bases and a balanced GC content. SNP analysis revealed an average of 14 million SNPs per sample, with a notable transition-to-transversion ratio and a significant portion of heterozygosity. Further analysis of genomic and coding regions identified substantial insertions and deletions, particularly in coding sequences affecting gene functionality. A detailed examination of these genetic variations highlighted genes, including NEIL2 and PNKP, which are integral to stress resistance pathways, indicating potential adaptive advantages. This study not only underscores the genetic diversity of Kongshan Cattle but also contributes to broader efforts in germplasm conservation.

Impacts of Breed, Production System and Feeding Type on Nutritional, Organoleptic Characteristics and Oxidative Status on Beef Cattle in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of breed, production system, and feeding type on meat quality, evaluating organoleptic and physicochemical traits and antioxidant status across selected local cattle breeds. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on sirloin and blood samples taken in slaughterhouses from the hot carcass of male cattle, divided according to breed, production system and type of feed. The nutritional, organoleptic characteristics and oxidative status was assessed. Findings: The results revealed that meat from Goudali breed raised in a sedentary system exhibited significantly lower tenderness (p<.) and higher lipid (p<.) and protein (p<.) contents. Additionally, the meat displayed notably lower pH (p=.), reduced cortisol (p<.), and lower catalase (p<.), TAC (p<.), and FRAP (p=.) activities. Consumers preferred the meat of the White Fulani breed due to its color (p<.). In transhumant system, the meat was richer in dry matter (p=.), lipids (p<.), and fibres (p=.), while the sedentary system resulted in more tender (p=.) and red-dark colored meat (p<.), which consumers favored. Meat from cows under commercial feed were preferred by consumers (p<.) compared to grass-fed cows, exhibiting significantly higher lipid (p<.) and protein (p<.) levels as well as intense color (p=.). However, meat from grass-fed cows had significantly higher fibre content (p<.), tenderness (p<.), better taste (p=.), juiciness (p=.), and higher catalase (p=.) and TAC (p<.) activities. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings underscore the importance of considering breed, production system, and feeding type when conserving, selecting, or improving beef breeds for both meat quantity and quality.

Comparative analysis of production performance, carcase traits, and meat quality in yearling beef of Limousine, Sardo-Bruna, and their crosses

The aim of this study was to compare animal performance and meat quality of a local cattle breed of Sardinia Island with specialised meat purebred or obtained by crossbreeding. For this purpose, 10 Sardo-Bruna (SB; 5 males, 5 females), 10 Limousine (L; 5 males, 5 females) and 10 Limousine × Sardo-Bruna crossbreed (L × SB; 5 males, 5 females) were compared simultaneously from 12 to 20 ± 1 (mean ± SEM) months old. During the trial, body weight (BW) was recorded once a month for estimating the average daily gain (ADG). At slaughter, carcase measurements, pH and colour traits were recorded from the left side of the carcase. Proximate composition, fatty acid (FA) profile, cooking and drip losses were evaluated using the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle. The SB group showed a lower cold carcase yield compared to L and L × SB genetic types. Males had a higher ADG, slaughter weight, hot and cold carcase weights, hot and cold carcase yields, and cooking losses than females. Females group showed a higher intramuscular fat content and rib fat thickness compared to males. No relevant differences among genetic types and between sexes were observed for meat and fat colours and pH. Concerning the FA profile, SB genetic type evidenced a higher oleic acid content and a better nutritional index than other genetic types while males had a higher PUFA content than females. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that the Limousine breed can be effectively used to enhance carcase yield of local breed without effects on meat quality.

Short communication: Do veterinary diagnoses coming from electronic recording system of veterinary treatments have the potential to be used for breeding in small populations? The case of the dual-purpose Alpine Grey cattle breed

In cattle breeding, emphasis has historically been placed on productive traits, so-called primary traits, while health and fitness traits have been overlooked due to their low heritability and partly negative genetic correlations with productivity. In addition, the recording of phenotypes caused problems due to a lack of high-quality information and / or high costs of recording. This oversight has additionally led to increased incidences of fertility issues and health problems in cattle populations, resulting in economic losses and consumer concerns regarding animal welfare and food safety. This study investigates the potential use of veterinary diagnoses, collected via the Italian electronic recording system of veterinary treatments, for breeding decisions in the local dual-purpose Alpine Grey cattle breed for which the consideration of functional traits in breeding has also become imperative over the last years. The dataset comprised 97 821 records spanning from 2021 to 2023, representing 8 273 individuals and 18 110 lactations of the Alpine Grey breed. Each record documented the administration of treatments for mammary, respiratory, and urogenital pathologies. After data editing and model development, heritability estimates were obtained for each pathology using univariate linear animal models and gibbs sampling algorithms. Results indicate that mammary pathologies affected the highest number of cows (11%), followed by respiratory (4%) and urogenital (5%) pathologies. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.01 to 0.04 across all traits, confirming generally low heritability values. Respiratory pathologies exhibited the highest heritability (0.04; sd 0.04), followed by mammary (0.03; sd 0.01) and urogenital (0.01; sd 0.01) pathologies. This study, although preliminary, provides valuable insights into the health status of local dual-purpose Alpine Grey cattle and highlights the potential of considering veterinary diagnoses for improving animal health and welfare in dairy cattle breeding. However, the low heritability of these traits, which is consistent with literature data, clearly shows the current limitations of using them for breeding. Further, the diagnostic key of the Italian electronic recording system of veterinary treatments should be specified for the use of health data for breeding purposes, as it is formulated in too general manner in its current form. Nevertheless, their significance for animal welfare and economic sustainability underlines the need for their consideration in dairy cattle breeding. Therefore, further research with larger sample sizes and consideration of additional indicators, such as somatic cell counts, is recommended to enhance the accuracy of genetic evaluations and improve breeding strategies for sustainable cattle production.

Strategies, challenges, and outcomes of heat stress resilience in sub-Saharan African community-based cattle feedlots: a systematic review.

In sub-Saharan Africa, cattle feedlots face a significant challenge in dealing with heat stress. However, there is a lack of inclusive strategies for resilience in these situations. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the strategies, challenges, and outcomes related to heat stress resilience in community-based cattle feedlots in sub-Saharan Africa. The PRISMA approach, which is a method for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, was used to identify, screen, and analyze 30 peer-reviewed articles published over the last 20 years from Google Scholar and Scopus. The review found that key strategies to mitigate heat stress include providing shade through natural and artificial means, ensuring constant access to cool, clean water using water spraying systems and cooling ponds, and implementing nutritional adjustments such as high-energy feeds and electrolyte supplements. Additionally, genetic selection for heat-tolerant breeds and management practices like adjusting feeding times and improving ventilation were found to be effective in dealing with heat stress. In particular, local germplasm and genetic traits of cattle in sub-Saharan Africa play a crucial role in heat stress resilience. Indigenous breeds, which have adapted to the region's harsh climate over centuries, exhibit traits such as higher heat tolerance, better water-use efficiency, and improved feed conversion rates under heat stress conditions. This genetic resilience can be enhanced through targeted breeding programs aimed at amplifying these beneficial traits. Implementing these strategies resulted in improved cattle health and productivity, as evidenced by enhanced weight gain, better reproductive performance, and lower mortality rates. The socio-economic benefits of these strategies included reduced economic losses and increased farmer incomes, which in turn contributed to improved community health and nutrition. However, the review also identified significant challenges, including financial constraints, limited access to knowledge and training, and cultural resistance. To address these barriers, the review recommends increased investment in affordable cooling technologies, farmer education, and community-based initiatives. Additionally, leveraging the genetic strengths of local cattle breeds should be prioritized to maximize the effectiveness of heat stress resilience strategies.

СТРУКТУРЫ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ ПАХОТНЫХ ЗЕМЕЛЬ В ЛЕСОСТЕПНОЙ ЗОНЕ БАШКИРСКОГО ЗАУРАЛЬЯ СО ВТОРОЙ ПОЛОВИНЫ 20 ВЕКА

We analyzed modern use of arable lands of 1985 in forest-steppe zone of Post-Ural of the Republic of Bashkortostan. Climate is temperate continental. An average annual temperature is 1.6℃ and an average annual precipitation of 427.9 mm. The hottest month is July with an average temperature of 17.5 and the coldest month is January with an average temperature of -14.8℃. Modern agricultural lands usually are used as a hay (43%). Use can be caused with local cattle breeding as traditional horse breeding. Overgrowth captures by 25% of Pinus silvestris. Scot’s pine is growing better on dry lands because it captures more area of overgrowth.

Genetic improvement approaches of indigenous cattle breeds for adaptation, conservation and sustainable utilization to changing climate in Ethiopia

This paper attempts to review the cattle genetic improvement approaches for sustainable utilization, adaptation, and conservation in the face of changing climatic conditions. Livestock production is affected by climate change, which poses a greater threat to populations that rely on them for their overall food security. Climate change negatively affects cattle production directly through its impact on animal physiology, behavior, and health and indirectly through its effect on feed and water availability, quality and quantity of pasture, forage crops, and rangeland due to increased temperature droughts. Improvement of cattle genetic resources that are efficient and well adapted to extreme temperatures, low-quality diets, and disease challenges is critical to effectively cope with climate change. Designing suitable breeding strategies will facilitate improving the performance of cattle breeds and enhance their tolerance to the dynamics of climate change. Replacement of local cattle breeds with exotic ones and unplanned crossbreeding with them without enough consideration of environmental conditions are among the major factors contributing to the loss of locally adapted breeds that possess certain adaptive traits. Maintenance of indigenous cattle’s genetic diversity, which underpins resistance to environmental stresses is a viable strategy to mitigate the possible effects of future climatic challenges. In contrast to the traditional selection, genomic selection increases the accuracy of selection with the largest genetic gain, for the low heritability traits such as adaptability and longevity. In conclusion, any breeding strategies should be relevant in terms of breed suitability, performance, and adaptability in the given production environment to sustain cattle production.

Calf mortality in Turkish dairy farms: Economic impact, regional disparities, and farm-level drivers

This study investigates the economic burden of calf mortality in Turkish dairy farms and its impact on the national economy. We gathered research data by directly surveying dairy farms in seven provinces, each representing a distinct region of Turkiye. By conducting these surveys, we captured data on various aspects of calf mortality, including losses among non-pregnant cows aged two and older, pregnant cows, and those experiencing complications during birth, as well as losses within the 0–6 month age bracket. These figures were then amalgamated to establish the overall calf loss rate. Using a fractional probit model, we examined the empirical relationship between total calf loss rates and the socio-demographic characteristics of farm operators and their establishments. Our findings revealed that approximately 82 % of farms experienced some degree of calf loss, with the calf loss rate among dairy cattle farming accounting for nearly 20 %. Notably, regional disparities emerged as a key observation, alongside the identification of certain socio-demographic farm characteristics that proved statistically significant. Specifically, factors such as the prevalence of local cattle breeds, the proportion of crossbred bulls, as well as the numbers of heifers and calves, stood out as influential. Further scrutiny, fortified by ANOVA tests and relationships between the number of cows and total calf loss rate, underscored pronounced geographical disparities in post-estimation calf loss rates. Meanwhile, correlation heatmaps illuminated noteworthy relationships between specific cattle traits and the extent of calf losses. These findings not only underscore the severity of the issue but also highlight the urgency of preventive measures. In light of these insights, we offer pertinent policy recommendations to stakeholders and policymakers aimed at mitigating this considerable economic burden effectively.

Classification accuracy of machine learning algorithms for Chinese local cattle breeds using genomic markers.

Accurate breed classification is required for the conservation and utilization of farm animal genetic resources. Traditional classification methods mainly rely on phenotypic characterization. However, it is difficult to distinguish between the highly similar breeds due to the challenges in qualifying the phenotypic character. Machine learning algorithms show unique advantages in breed classification using genomic information. To evaluate the classification methods for Chinese cattle breeds, this study utilized genomic SNP data from 213 individuals across seven Chinese local breeds and compared the classification accuracies of three feature selection methods (FST value sorting and screening, mRMR, and Relief-F) and three machine learning algorithms (Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and Naive Bayes). Results showed that: 1) using the FST method to screen more than 1500 SNPs, or using the mRMR algorithm to screen more than 1000 SNPs, the SVM classification algorithm can achieve more than 99.47% classification accuracy; 2) the most effective algorithm was SVM, followed by NB, while the best SNP selection method was FST and mRMR, followed by Relief-F; 3) species misclassification often occurs between breeds with high similarity. This study demonstrates that machine learning classification models combined with genomic data are effective methods for the classification of local cattle breeds, providing a technical basis for the rapid and accurate classification of cattle breeds in China.

Carcass composition and sensory and chemical attributes of beef from local cattle breeds in North-West Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Carcass composition and sensory and chemical attributes of beef from local cattle breeds in North-West Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Relationship between body condition of dairy cows in the peripartum period and selected metabolic parameters in consideration of different breeds

The results of this study describe the relationship between the body condition of dairy cows and selected metabolic parameters during the peri- and post-partum period with special consideration of 3 local dairy cow breed in Upper Bavaria and the Allgau. Three local dairy cattle breeds (Swiss Brown (BV), Simmental (FL), Holstein Friesian (HF)) were examined on 68 farms in southern Germany for 7 consecutive weeks. In dry cows as well as lactating cows (5.-65. day in milk), following blood parameters were investigated: beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, glutamate dehydrogenase, total protein, albumin, creatine kinase. In addition, body condition (body condition score [BCS] and back fat thickness [BFT]) were recorded. Exploratory and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Concerning the difference in condition before and after calving, the FL showed the smallest difference in RFD. For FL and BV a trend towards higher BFT values could be seen in first lactating cows. For FL and HF, the NEFA values of the later lactating cows were below those of the first lactating cows. The higher lactating cows of BV and FL had higher BHB values. The correlation between BFT and BCS showed the highest R2 (0.53) in the HF cows. BV and FL were below at 0.42 and 0.37. BCS and BFT could not be predicted by the variables NEFA, BHB and liver enzymes. BHB levels of all 3 breeds increased at weeks 2-4 post-partum. The NEFA values for all 3 breeds increased primarily in the 1st-3rd week p.p. in parallel to when the BFT p.p. decreased. NEFA values were highest when body condition declined and therefore when fat mobilization peaked. In BV and HF, there was a constant increase in GLDH when the p.p. BCS difference was there. Body condition assessment (BCS at herd and animals` level, BFT at animal level) is an important tool for animal health monitoring. Due to the recognizable breed specificity, the dairy herds can be dealt with more explicitly. The aim is to optimally influence the energy balance of the cow during early lactation in order maintain the health of the animal and its organ systems.

Polymorphism of Cyt-b Gene in Several Indonesian Cattle Using PCR-RFLP Method

The cytochrome b (Cyt-b) gene is one of the genes that is located in the mitochondrial DNA. Variations in the Cyt-b gene can be used to compare different animal species to investigate the origin of certain animal species. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of Indonesian local cattle breeds, including Bali cattle as an Indonesian native cattle breed and Banteng as the wild type of Bali cattle, using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). A total of 336 individual DNA samples from Indonesian cattle breeds were analyzed in this study. The RFLP method using three restriction enzymes, i.e., HinfI, HaeIII, or XbaI, was used to identify the variation of the Cyt-b gene. The Cyt-b gene was polymorphic based on the PCR-RFLP method. There were six alleles of the Cyt-b gene found in this study, i.e., A and B allele (HinfI), C and D allele (HaeIII), X and Y allele (XbaI). All alleles can be found in Pasundan, Madura, and PO cattle. Pesisir cattle have the highest allele frequency D. The UPGMA results showed three clusters of Indonesian native cattle in this study. Cluster 1 consists of Pasundan, Banteng, and Bali cattle. Cluster 2 consists of Madura, PO, and SO cattle. Pesisir was separated from other cattle in cluster 3. The X allele could become an indicator to distinguish Banteng and Bali cattle.

Analysis of the Current Opportunities for Valorization and Conservation of the Main Autochthonous Cattle Breeds in the Conditions of the Carpathian Mountain Areas

The Carpathian areas are defined by a specific natural area, outlined by mountain geographical and climatic conditions that allowed the development of traditional agriculture, dominated by native cattle breeds, adapted to restrictive factors specific to mountain areas, which limited the expansion of perfected, highly productive and sensitive breeds. The purpose of this review consists of synthesizing and revising the current literature regarding the origin and evolution of cattle breeding of Pinzgau de Transilvania, Brună type Schwyz and Bălțată Românească breeds in various mountain areas of Romania, in association with their morpho-productive characteristics and development of traditional dairy products. The results found in the literature revealed the current level of support and implementation of strategies for the conservation of significant cattle herds from the main native breeds. The essential characteristics for the perpetuation of cattle breeds adapted to the Carpathian Mountain conditions are also presented, as well as the criteria of their promotion by breeders in the mountain areas. In the current context of the expansion of commercial farms, domestic cattle breeds, mainly Pinzgau herds, are insufficiently supported. Thus, we consider that any effort to preserve and support local cattle breeds is fully justified.

Typology analysis of cattle farms in Northeast Algeria: Potential for sustainable development

CONTEXTCurrently, local cattle breeds are facing numerous challenges, and their disappearance could have social, economic, and environmental consequences. OBJECTIVEThis study was conducted in the northeast of Algeria to understand the characteristics, constraints of production systems and examine the specific strategies implemented in farms to ensure their viability. METHODA total of 175 smallholder farmers who practice Algerian local cattle breeding were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Typology construction was carried out through factor analysis of mixed data, followed by sequential agglomerative hierarchical and K-means clustering, to define distinct farmer types with common characteristics. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONResults highlight three farm types. The first group, representing 54.9% (96/175Farms) of the farms studied, is characterized by low-resource breeders who raise small herds of local breeds in association with small ruminants. Type 2 (25.7%) (45/175) consists of crossbred, diversified, supported breeding with better technical performance. The intensification strategies adopted by breeders of this type have relegated local cattle to the background. The third type (19.4%) (34/175) includes cattle pastoral farms, with the predominance of the local cattle breed characterized by limited productivity. SIGNIFICANCEThis study highlights farm diversity, the necessity of government support, and specific policies to ensure the sustainability of local cattle breeding, with particular emphasis on pastoral breeding, which has the largest number of local cattle breeds.

Risk factors contributing to tick-acaricide control failure in communal areas of the Oliver Tambo district eastern cape province, South Africa

Application of chemical acaricides in the control of ticks has led to the problem of tick-acaricide control failure. To obtain an understanding of the possible risk factors involved in this tick-acaricide control failure, this study investigated tick control practices on communal farms in the north-eastern part of the Eastern Cape Province (ECP) of South Africa. A semi-structured questionnaire designed to document specific farm attributes and acaricide usage practices was administered at 94 communal farms from the Oliver Tambo District municipality of the ECP. Data collected indicated that the main acaricide chemicals used at plunge dips of inland and coastal areas were synthetic pyrethroid formulations. Most (75%) farmers claimed not to have noticed a significant reduction in numbers of actively feeding and growing ticks on cattle after several acaricide treatments. Based on the farmers’ perceptions, leading factors that could have led to tick-acaricide control failure included: weak strength of the dip solution (76%); poor structural state of dip tanks (42%); and irregular tick control (21%). The rearing of crossbreeds of local and exotic cattle breeds, perceived weak strength of the dip solution and high frequency of acaricide treatment, were statistically associated with proportions of farms reporting tick-acaricide control failure. Furthermore, approximately 50% of farms reported at least four tick control malpractices, which could have resulted in the emergence and spread of tick-acaricide control failure. Other sub-optimal tick control practices encountered included incorrect acaricide rotation, and failure to treat all cattle in a herd. This data will inform and guide the development of management strategies for tick-acaricide control failure and resistance in communal farming areas.

Anatomical, Radiological, and Corrosion Casting of the Liver, Gallbladder, and Biliary Duct System of Local Breed Cattle (Bos ttaurus)

Local breed cattle's liver, reddish-brown, occupies the right hypochondriac region with 35.2 ± 3.24 cm long and 5.5 ± 0.5 kg weight. Connected by left and right triangular ligaments; and falciform ligaments with the diaphragm, and hepatorenal ligament with the right kidney. While the coronary ligament encompassing the caudal vena cava divides into dorsal and ventral branches, enclosing the nuda region. The round ligament connects the umbilical fissure to the umbilicus. The lesser omentum on the liver's visceral surface connects the stomach and duodenum through hepatogastric and hepatoduodenal ligaments, respectively. The liver has, parietal and visceral surfaces; right, left, ventral, and dorsal borders; and left, right, caudate, and quadrate liver lobes that are not clearly separated, except for the caudate. The gallbladder has a dark green color and pear-shaped morphology, measures 16 ± 1.5 cm, and is located in a shallow cystic fossa. Consisting of the neck, forms an inverted funnel shape, body, and fundus. The diameters were 2 ± 0.3, 6 ± 1.2, and 4 ± 1.3 cm, respectively. The biliary tract consists of extrahepatic and intrahepatic ducts. The extrahepatic ducts have a left duct of 3 ± 0.5 cm and a right duct of 2 ± 0.25 cm. Converging to form a common hepatic duct 8 ± 0.5 cm. The cystic duct is 3± 0. cm, joins with the common hepatic duct ventrally. The intrahepatic ducts consisted of primary, secondary, tertiary, interlobular, intralobular, and intercalated ducts. The left hepatic duct received 9 ± 1 of dorsal primary ducts and 8 ± 2 ventral primary ducts. The right hepatic duct receives 4 ± 1 dorsal ducts and 2 ± 1 ventral ducts.

Investigation of cosmopolitan and local Italian beef cattle breeds uncover common patterns of heterozygosity

The analysis of livestock heterozygosity is less common compared to the study of homozygous patterns. Heterozygous-Rich Regions (HRRs) may harbor significant loci for functional traits such as immune response, survival rate, and fertility. For this reason, this study was conducted to investigate and characterize the heterozygosity patterns of four beef cattle breeds, which included two cosmopolitan breeds (Limousine and Charolaise) and two local breeds (Sarda and Sardo Bruna). Our analysis identified regions with a high degree of heterozygosity using a consecutive runs approach, the Tajima D test, nucleotide diversity estimation, and Hardy Weinberg equilibrium test. These regions exhibited recurrent heterozygosity peaks and were consistently found on specific chromosomes across all breeds, specifically autosomes 15, 16, 20, and 23. The cosmopolitan and Sardo Bruna breeds also displayed peaks on autosomes 2 and 21, respectively. Thirty-five top runs shared by more than 25% of the populations were identified. These genomic fragments encompassed 18 genes, two of which are directly linked to male fertility, while four are associated with lactation. Two other genes play roles in survival and immune response. Our study also detected a region related to growth and carcass traits in Limousine breed. Our analysis of heterozygosity-rich regions revealed particular segments of the cattle genome linked to various functional traits. It appears that balancing selection is occurring in specific regions within the four examined breeds, and unexpectedly, they are common across cosmopolitan and local breeds. The genes identified hold potential for applications in breeding programs and conservation studies to investigate the phenotypes associated with these heterozygous genotypes. In addition, Tajima D test, Nucleotide diversity, and Hardy Weinberg equilibrium test confirmed the presence of heterozygous fragments found with Heterozygous-Rich Regions analysis.

Unraveling genomic diversity and positive selection signatures of Qaidam cattle through whole-genome re-sequencing.

Qaidam cattle are a typical Chinese native breed inhabiting northwest China. They bear the characteristics of high cold and roughage tolerance, low-oxygen adaptability and good meat quality. To analyze the genetic diversity of Qaidam cattle, 60 samples were sequenced using whole-genome resequencing technology, along with 192 published sets of whole-genome sequencing data of Indian indicine cattle, Chinese indicine cattle, North Chinese cattle breeds, East Asian taurine cattle, Eurasian taurine cattle and European taurine cattle as controls. It was found that Qaidam cattle have rich genetic diversity in Bos taurus, but the degree of inbreeding is also high, which needs further protection. The phylogenetic analysis, principal component analysis and ancestral component analysis showed that Qaidam cattle mainly originated from East Asian taurine cattle. Qaidam cattle had a closer genetic relationship with the North Chinese cattle breeds and the least differentiation from Mongolian cattle. Annotating the selection signals obtained by composite likelihood ratio, nucleotide diversity analysis, integrated haplotype score, genetic differentiation index, genetic diversity ratio and cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity methods, several genes associated with immunity, reproduction, meat, milk, growth and adaptation showed strong selection signals. In general, this study provides genetic evidence for understanding the germplasm characteristics of Qaidam cattle. At the same time, it lays a foundation for the scientific and reasonable protection and utilization of genetic resources of Chinese local cattle breeds, which has great theoretical and practical significance.

Geographic distribution of a missense mutation in the KRT38 gene in Chinese indigenous cattle breeds

Context China has a vast area across many temperature zones and a variety of cattle breeds. These cattle resources are ideal models to research their adaptability to the environment. The KRT38 gene is an acidic protein, and its coding product can be used as a component of hair production. Aims The objective of this study was to investigate the diversity of the KRT38 gene in Chinese local cattle and the association of different genotypes with mean temperature, relative humidity and temperature humidity index. Methods A missense mutation g.41650738 A > G in the KRT38 gene was screened from the database of bovine genomic variation (BGVD) and was genotyped in a total of 246 samples from 15 local cattle breeds in China by polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing. Finally, the correlation between the locus and the three climatic factors was analysed. Key results We successfully obtained the frequency of this single-nucelotide polymorphism in three groups of cattle in northern, central and southern China. The frequency of allele A gradually declined from north to south, whereas the frequency of allele G showed the opposite trend with a clear geographic distribution. Conclusions Our results indicate that KRT38 variation in Chinese indigenous cattle might be linked to heat tolerance. Implications Our analysis may assist in determining the importance of the variation as a genetic signal for heat tolerance in cattle reproduction and genetics.