Comparative assessment of morphofunctional properties of the udder of the first-calf cows the caucasian brown breed of various genotypes

Abstract

Relevance. The caucasian brown breed of cattle is the most common in Armenia. It has been bred in the republic for more than a century and, due to its low milk productivity and the form of the udder undesirable for machine milking, needs further improvement. Consequently, the study of the morphofunctional features of the udder of caucasian brown cows of various genotypes in the conditions of Armenia is necessary and relevant for science and practice.
Methods. The object of the study is the first-calf cows of the Caucasian brown breed of various genotypes. For the experiment, 4 groups of first-calf cows of various genotypes were formed, 20 heads each: the control group — purebred caucasian brown cows first-heifers; 1st experimental — half-blood crossbreeds (1/2 caucasian brown x 1/2 holstein); 2nd experimental — two-breed crossbreeds (3/4 caucasian brown x 1/4 holstein); 3rd experimental — three-breed crossbreeds (5/8 caucasian brown x 1/8 jersey x 1/4 holstein). In the second and third months of lactation, the udders of experimental groups of animals were examined and studied by visual assessment, taking measurements and calculation methods.
Results. A comparative study of the morphological features and functional properties of the udder of firstcalf cows of various genotypes has shown that the crossing of Caucasian brown cattle with producing bulls of Holstein and Jersey breeds has a positive effect on the level of milk productivity, the shape of the udder of cows and the rate of milk production, which is of great importance in industrial milk production technology.