Genetic and Biological Aspects of Zebu Adaptability

Abstract

The utility and documentation of traits and characteristics of Zebu, Bos indicus, cattle in beef production in the United States are discussed with reference to adaptation. Zebu cattle are uniquely suited to hot climates due to coat, hide, skin and hematological attributes. Form, growth and physiological aspects are unique genetic attributes which are different from those of Bos taurus cattle. Compared with Bos taurus cattle, Zebu cattle are lower in reproduction, later maturing, slower growing and lower in beef quality. Zebu cattle are valuable in crossbreeding, with adaptive aspects transmitted and large amounts of heterosis in growth, maternal effects and reproductive traits.

A review of female cattle reproduction with special reference to a comparison between buffaloes, cows and zebu

“…This reduction may reflect the often poor nutritional status of the zebu as has been shown for the ewe (Everitt, 1968) and in turn may be responsible for the poor calf survival rates in this species (Turner, 1980 (Batra & Pandy, 1983a) or cow (Kindahl et al, 1976) is pregnant. As well as altering prostaglandin release, the embryo stimulates a luteotrophic effect possibly by its own steroid-synthesizing ability and/or by producing a protein which maintains luteal progesterone synthesis (Hansel, 1981).…”

“…This species is better adapted to hot climates than the cow due mainly to skin attributes and disease resistance, and has excellent longevity with little dystocia (Turner, 1980). Therefore, in spite of the slow growth and low reproductive efficiency, crossbreeds of the two species are extremely valuable.…”

Testicular Histomorphometric Evaluation of Zebu Bull Breeds

“…Zebu animals are better adapted to the tropical climate and are more resistance to thermal stress and endo-and ectoparasites. They are also productive even on a diet of low quality forage (Turner 1980;Hansen 2004). It is estimated that around 80% of the herd of bovine in Brazil is comprised of animals of the zebu breeds and crossbred zebu, showing its great adaptability to environmental conditions and importance in the Brazilian economy (ABCZ 2013).…”

Erratum to: Genetics of heifer performance in 'wet' and 'dry' seasons and their relationships with steer performance in two tropical beef genotypes

“…Also, B. indicus are widely thought to have a greater ability to utilise, partition or acquire feed on low quality or restricted diets, and a lesser ability on high energy or ad libitum diets (Moore et al 1975;Frisch and Vercoe 1980;Turner 1980;Ferrell et al 2005;Forbes 2005). Vercoe (1977, 1980) suggested the B. indicus advantage in poorer environments may derive from a lower fasting heat production per unit of bodyweight.…”