Phenotype measurements of Bali cattle combined with interviews of farmers from multiple locations in Indonesia as a resourse for development of breeding programs

• Bali cattle is an important breed for Indonesian farmers. However, the breed is threatened by isolation of populations and cross breeding with exotic breeds. Here we aim to increase the knowledge of Bali cattle phenotypic diversity and management. Based on this information we suggest breeding strategies suitable for small scale farmers that can help to maintain diversity and also lead to improved animal health and welfare. Animals from Bali, Sumatra, Lombok and Kalimantan were phenotyped for; body length, whiters height, chest girth, body weight, pelvic height, pelvic width and horn length. Furthermore, stature, coat color, fur and horns were described. In total 94 animals >2 years of age were phenotyped. The gathered phenotype data will be critical for selection of individuals for future genomic studies aimed at identification of genetic factors controlling these important growth traits. A total of 68 farmers from the different locations were interviewed focusing on management and breeding. The interviews revealed a willingness to learn more about breeding and how to breed for certain traits such as size and appearance. ANOVA analysis of the phenotypic measurements showed significant differences between females on Sumatra compared to those on Lombok and Kalimantan. Females on Sumatra were significantly lighter (p<0.0001) compared to females on Lombok and Kalimantan. Females on Sumatra also had significantly (p<0.01) narrower pelvic width and shorter horns (p<0.001) compared to females from Nusa Tengarra Barat (NTB). For males management could explain many of the observed differences, since some males were measured at a feedlot and others at farms. Abnormal colored, white spotted, animals were sighted and comparisons were made with the standard colored cattle. These spotted cattle were smaller in all phenotypic measurements and significantly lighter in body weight (p<0.0001) compared to standard cattle and regardless of origin. The phenotypic recordings may provide a realistic estimate of the status of the Bali cattle population as a whole, on the locations investigated. The results from interviews and phenotyping can be used when developing breeding programs for Bali cattle.

Ämnesord

LANTBRUKSVETENSKAPER  -- Bioteknologi med applikationer på växter och djur -- Genetik och förädling inom lantbruksvetenskap (hsv//swe)

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES  -- Agricultural Biotechnology -- Genetics and Breeding in Agricultural Sciences (hsv//eng)

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