Reproductive performance of Holstein Friesian cows which differ
genetically for liveweight
D. Laborde, C.W. Holmes, J.G. Garcia-Muniz and J. Wichtel
Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey
University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1998,
58: 73-75
The reproductive performance of two genetic lines of
Holstein-Friesian cows bred for heavy (H) or light (L) mature live
weight (LW) was evaluated from 1992 to 1997. The interval calving to
ovulation was shorter (P<0.05) for H cows (28 ± 3.2 days) than for L
cows (L: 31 ± 2.5 days), but the difference between the lines in the
interval calving-first heat was not significant (H: 50 days; L: 43
days). However, in the cows older than 2 years old, the H cows had a
lower conception rate at first service than the L cows (H: 58% vs. L:
70%) which extended the conception and calving pattern of the H cows.
The possible reasons for those differences in the reproductive
performance are discussed as topics for further research.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
dairy cows; live weight; Holstein-Friesian; reproductive performance;
conception rate.
Last Updated 12-09-1998
