Udder Morphometry and Its Relationship with Intramammary Infections and Somatic Cell Count in Serrana Goats

Abstract

The external morphological traits of the mammary gland, and their relationships with somatic cell count (SCC) and the presence of intramammary infection (IMI), were studied in 30 Serrana goats, Transmontano ecotype. Globular-shaped udders were the most predominant, with slightly separated and symmetrical halves, presenting some degree of suspension. Funnel-shaped teats were the most prevalent shape with an opening of 120° to 160° degrees. Significant differences were observed between healthy group and the coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS)-infected group for udder cleft, teat perimeter and distance between teats parameters; and between healthy group and CNS or Staphylococcus aureus groups for degree of separation, teat shape and udder shape (p < 0.05). The udder shape, symmetry, degree of suspension and degree of separation parameters showed to be different depending on SCC (p < 0.05). The udder perimeter and udder depth traits showed differences between the lowest and the middle SCC group. We concluded that bifurcated pendular udders, with vertical loose teats and located close to each other, are more likely to have IMI, and have the highest SCC. The inclusion in breeding programs of certain mammary conformation traits would not only help to improve milk production, but would also decrease the susceptibility to IMI of the herd.

Determination of factors affecting milk yield, composition and udder morphometry of Hair and cross-bred dairy goats in a semi-intensive system

“…Margatho et al . (2020) also reported that udder characteristics significantly affect the number of SCC and microorganisms, and bifurcated pendular udders, where teats are vertically loose and very close to each other, are more prone to intramammary infections. Therefore, it can be predicted that a flat udder shape and then the defined halving shape will be more suitable for pasture, milking and milk quality.…”

“…In general, it was seen that the positive relationship between udder characteristics and lactation yield were significant. These results agree with several other studies in both goat and sheep breeds (Mavrogenis et al ., 1988; Emediato et al ., 2008; Margatho et al ., 2020). Margatho et al .…”

“…It can be seen that crossbreeding between exotic breeds and native breeds not only increases milk production but also improves udder traits. Therefore, when evaluating phenotypic parameters in sustainable goat breeding, it is necessary to consider not only the breed standards and specified factors (Margatho et al ., 2020), but also the production systems.…”

Review on goat mastitis and associated bacterial zoonoses in raw milk from Mastitis infected dairy goat

“…Bacteria are also transported passively by liners. However, the intra mammary infections (IMI) prevalence's do not seem to be signi cantly different between dairy (hand or machine milked) and meat ocks [59]. Transmission is also possible by "milk-robber" lambs (buccal carriage) and may be important for staphylococci, Pasteurellaceae, parapoxvirus (contagious ecthyma) [60].…”

The Portuguese Serrana goat breed: a review

“…2. According to Margatho et al (2020), Serrana goats can have a pear-shaped or pendular cylindrical udder, but the most prominent shape is globular as described by ANCRAS (2020). The udder perimeter is 31.3 ± 9.1 cm, the udder cleft 21.6 ± 8.0 cm and the udder depth 6.4 ± 4.0 cm.…”