1.
A Clinico Pathological Examination And Treatment Of Experimentally Induced Salmonella Infection In Goats
by Baig Muhammad Kakar | Dr. Khalid Pervaiz | Dr. Khushi | Dr. Mohammad Sarwar Khan | Faculty of Veterinary Sciences.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 1997Dissertation note: Salmonellosis is common problem for goat population of the country which is therefore, a constant threat for the farming community of the country during the summer season. The present study was undertaken to study the course of disease with relevance uo environmental factors and the efficacy of various antirnlcroblal drugs available in the market. Salmonellosis was clinically manifested by acute enteritis, dysentery, abdominal cramps, where as temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate were raised upto 2- 3.4°F, 16-23 times/minute and 10-16 times/minute respectively.
Predominant postmortem lesions were dehydration, petechiation of the intestinal mucosa occasionally with the accumulation of reddish fluid in t1e intestinal lumen, thickening of the urinary bladder and Pale carcase along with decreased serum sodium concentration in such animals.
Among the various antimicrobial drugs used invitro, Gentamycin and chloraphenicol were highly sensitive where as Oxytectracycline, trimethoprim apicillin and kananycin were quite sensitive. Results of in vivo traits for oxytetracycline, tribrissen, gentamycin were 0.00%, 80%, 80% and 100% respectively, whereas 100% mortality was recorded in untreated control group of animals.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 0494,T] (1).
2.
Incidence, Chemotherapy And Haematology Of Strongylosis In Horses Of District Layyah
by Kashif Mahboob | Dr. Jawaria Ali Khan | Dr. A. D. Khan Khosa | Prof. Dr, Khalid | Faculty of Veterinary Sciences.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2007Dissertation note: The present project was designed to find out the infection rate of strongylosis, to test the anthelmintic efficacy of Endoectiven, Vermox, Neem (Melia Azadarch linn) and Oxfendazole, to study the effect of strongyloids on blood parameters in horses of district Layyah.
Horses were examined for the presence of strongylosis coprologically, till 50 horses naturally infected with strongyle spp. become available. Fifty horses were found positive for strongylosis out of eighty seven horses, so the infection rate of strongylosis was 57.47%. Fifty positive animals were randomly divided into five groups A, B, C, D and E each comprising of 10 animals. Another group F comprising of healthy horses was made. Each animal of group A was treated with Endoectiven (8 mg/kg body weight.), group B was treated with Vermox (10 mg/kg body weight), group C was treated with Neem (375 mg/kg body weight), group D was treated with Systamex (10mg/kg body weight) while group E was kept as positive control (untreated) and group F was kept as negative control (uninfected untreated). The efficacy of anthelmintics was calculated on the basis of reduction of eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces on day 7 and 14 post treatment. Efficacy of Endoectiven (Closantel) was 0 % and 0 % on day 7 and 14 respectively. Efficacy of Vermox (Mebendazole) was 91.93% and 95.16% on day 7and 14 respectively. Efficacy of Neem (Melia Azadarch linn) was 6.89% and 8.62% on day 7 and 14 respectively. Efficacy of Systamex was 96.82% and 98.4 1% on day 7 and 14 respectively. It was concluded from the above results that Oxfendazole was found most effective than Mebendazole, Neem (Melia Azadarch linn) and Closantel, while Mebendazole showed better results than Neem (Melia Azadarch linn) and Closantel. Neem (Melia Azadarch linn) showed better results than Closantel.
Haematological parameters showed significant reduction in total erythrocyte count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb) level and packed cell volume (PCV).
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 0961,T] (1).
3.
The Study Of Hematological Parameters Of Indian Rock Python (Python Molorus Molorus) In Punjab, Pakistan
by Rehan ul Haq | Dr. Khalid Mahmood Anjum | Dr. Aneela | Dr. Arshad Javid.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2012Dissertation note: The background of the hematological studies of reptiles has assumed greater significance due to an increased trend of keeping them as pets and to identify any pathological condition in them in wild for their conservation. The objectives of study is to identify the hematological parameters of Indian Rock Python (Python molorus molorus) in Punjab, Pakistan. This is the only species of python found in Pakistan and a Near Threatened species according to IUCN Red Data Book. There is no data available on the blood chemistry of this species in Pakistan . These values will act as reference values for future studies in Pakistan.
The hypothesis of the present study is that the hematology of Indian Rock Python could vary from that of Burmese Python and thier is a relatively high difference in the values of heterophyls,Basophils Eosinophils and monocytes so hypothesis proved.
The parameters like red blood cells count, total leukocyte and thrombocyte counts, packed cell volume, hemoglobin evaluation and differential leukocyte count were studied by collecting the 3 ml blood from the caudal vein of pythons by 23 Gauge syringe and we compare the results with published record of Burmese Python other than this captive and wild pythons hematology is also compared. Mostly standard procedures for counting these values were be followed. Results showed that the Packed cell volume for all the five samples is 3.9 ± 4 SD, Hemoglobin is 7.18 ± 0.61 SD and the Red blood cells count mean is1.23 × 106 /µl with SD of 0.32. White Blood cell count is15.46 × 103 /µl with SD of 1.97,Heterophils6.66 × 103 /µl with SD of 4.16,Lymphocytes4.98 × 103 /µl with 2.47 SD,Monocytes0.22 × 103/µl with standard deviation of 0.13,Azurophils(× 103 /µl) are 0.904+0.55, Eosinophils(× 103 /µl)0.836+0.61, Basophils(× 103 /µl)1.38+ 1.77
This present study will provide important information about hematological parameters of Indian Rock Pythons that could be a ready reference for the wildlife veterinarians, conservationists and biologists in future for the conservation and treatment of this near threatened species.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1426,T] (1).
4.
Prevalence Of Trichomonas Foetus In Large Ruminants Of District Hafiizabad
by Amjad Atta Bhatti | Dr. Khalid Saeed | Dr | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2012Dissertation note: Trichomonas foetus (T. foetus) is a protozoan parasite of reproductive tract of large ruminants and causes abortion. This organism is found in males and females associated with varied pathology and clinical symptom. Disease has venereal transmission and male remain infected throughout the life. Pakistan is a developing country and artificial insemination facility is not available to all farmers and some are reluctant to avail it.
This study was designed to check the prevalence of T. foetus in large animals in district Hafizabad. One hundred and fifty preputial and vaginal samples were collected from cattle and buffaloes 75 each. These samples were from 100 females and 50 males. Vaginal mucus from females was thoroughly examined for T. foetus in direct smear and in smear stained by Giemsa stain. Male samples were subjected to examination by direct smear, centrifugation and stained smear performed from sediments for detection of T. foetus. Overall prevalence of T. foetus was 12.0% (18/150) in sampled animals and species wise T. foetus infection was 8% (6/75) for cattle and 16% (12/75) for buffalos. Sex related prevalence of T. foetus in cows is 6% (3/50) and in buffaloes was 14% (7/50). Infection was more common in buffalo bulls 20% (5/25) as compared with cow bulls 12% (3/25).
There was no difference in diagnosis of T. foetus in females by direct smear or by examination of stained smears. Whereas stained smears prepared from sediments of preputial washings were more sensitive in diagnosing of T. foetus infection as compared with direct smear method. Study also indicated that infection was exclusively seen in animals that were involved in natural breeding.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1438,T] (1).
5.
Genetic Evaluation Of Teddy Goats In Pakistan
by Zulfiqar Hussan Kuthu | Prof. Dr. Khalid Javed | Prof. Dr. Masroor Ellahi Baber.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2012Dissertation note: Data available on 20455 kidding and performance records of 5545 Teddy goats and progeny of 406 sires maintained as separate flocks at three different locations i,e (I) Livestock Experiment Station Rakh Ghulaman, District Bakkhar (1983-2008) (II) Livestock Experiment Station, Rakh Khariewala District Layyah (1971-2008) and (III) Livestock Experiment Station Chak Katora, District Bahawalpur (1975-2008) Punjab, Pakistan were analyzed for documenting both genetic and environmental sources which influence growth and reproductive traits. Breeding values of sires and does were estimated and genetic and phenotypic trends for various performance traits were drawn. The data was analyzed using the GLM procedure (General Linear Models) of the Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS, 2004) to study the influence of environmental sources of variation on various growth and reproductive traits. The genetic parameter estimation was done using REML procedure fitting an Individual Animal Model. Estimates of breeding values for various performance traits were also calculated by using BLUP. For these purposes WOMBAT software was used.
The Least squares means for Age at first service, Age at first kidding, Weight at first service, weight at first kidding, services per conception, service period, kidding interval, birth weight, weaning weight, weight at six months, weight at nine months, yearling weight, pre-weaning daily gain, post-weaning daily gain at six months, post-weaning daily gain at nine months and post-weaning daily gain at twelve months the least squares means were 245.65±0.73 days, 14.07±0.01 kg, 394.14±0.76 days, 18.06±0 kg, 1.24±0.004, 153.58±0.73 days, 327.53±1.12 days, 1.66±0.03 kg, 9.59±0.01 kg, 11.70±0.02 kg, 16.69±0.02 kg, 21.03±0.03 kg, 70.21±0.16 grams, 31.39±0.08 grams, 45.25±0.03 grams and 45.95±0.02 grams, respectively. The percentage of single births was 43 percent, while multiple births were 57 percent. The sex ratio was 51:49 males and females.
Year, sex, flock, and type of birth were main sources of variation on all the growth traits. The influence of season of birth was significant on yearling weight; however its effect on weight at six and nine months was non-significant. A significant influence of (p<0.01) birth and weaning weight was noticed on weight at 6, 9, 12 months and on post-weaning daily gain at 6,9 and 12 months. A significant effect (p<0.01) of year, birth weight and weight at service were observed on age of does at first service, while the seasonal and flock effect on the trait was non-significant. The influential environmental sources of variation on weight of does at first service were year, season and age at first service(p<0.01). A significant effect (p<0.01) of year, season, type, age and weight at service on age and weight at first kidding was noticed. The influence of year of service, flock, age and weight at service on services per conception was significant (p<0.01); however, effect of season of service on the trait was non-significant. A highly significant effect (p<0.01) of year and season of service, services per conception and weight at service were observed on service period. A significant effect (p<0.01) of year and season on kidding interval was noticed. The effect of flock was non-significant on the trait, however, age and weight at kidding had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the service period and kidding interval.
The heritability estimates for birth weight, weaning weight, weight at six, nine and twelve (yearling) months, pre-weaning daily gain, post-weaning daily gain at six, post-weaning daily gain at nine, post-weaning daily gain at nine, post-weaning daily gain at twelve months, age at first service, weight at first service, age at first kidding, weight at first kidding, services per conception, service period and kidding interval were 0.28±0.23, 0.23±0.32, 0.19±0.42, 0.09±0.01 and 0.12±0.01, 0.21±0.32, 0.17±0.42, 0.12±0.02, 0.15±0.01, 0.19±0.22, 0.21±0.01, 0.19±0.04, 0.20±0.04, 0.07±0.01, 0.06±0.05 and 0.05±0.03, respectively. The repeatability estimates for birth weight, weaning weight, services per conception, service period and kidding interval were 0.53±0.02, 0.38±0.01, 0.02±0.05, 0.01±0.04 and 0.05±0.03, respectively.
The estimates of genetic, Phenotypic and environmental correlations between birth weight and other growth traits were; weaning weight 0.61, 0.20 and 0.19, with weight at six months 0.39, 0.24 and 0.23, with weight at nine months 0.25, 0.38 and 0.36, with yearling weight 0.29, -0.01 and -0.02 and with pre-weaning daily gain 0.55, 0.31 and 0.29, respectively, while corresponding values for correlations between weaning weight and other growth traits were; with weight at six months 0.29, 0.19 and 0.17, with weight at nine months 0.23, 0.27 and 0.25, with yearling weight 0.45, 0.29 and 0.27 and with pre-weaning daily gain 0.97, 0.68 and 0.65, respectively, while the corresponding values for these correlations between weight at six months and other growth traits were; with weight at nine months 0.71, 0.27 and 0.25 with yearling weight 0.64, 0.21 and 0.19 and with pre-weaning daily gain were 0.31, 0.33, 0.31, respectively. The values for these correlations between weight at nine months and other traits were; with yearling weight 0.79, 0.23 and 0.21, with pre-weaning daily gain 0.25, 0.39 and 0.37, with post-weaning daily gain at six months 0.72, 0.81 and 0.79, respectively, while the estimates of these three correlations between yearling weight and other traits were; with pre-weaning daily gain 0.47, 0.41 and 0.42 and with post-weaning daily gain at six months 0.65, 0.10 and 0.08, while the corresponding values between pre-weaning daily gain and other traits were; with post-weaning gain at six months were 0.34, 0.15 and 0.13, with post-weaning gain at nine months 0.22, 0.13 and 0.12 and with post-weaning daily gain at twelve months were 0.54, 0.17 and 0.14, respectively.
The estimates of genetic, Phenotypic and environmental correlations between age at first serviceand other traits were; with weight at first service 0.22, 0.79 and 0.76, with age at first kidding 0.76, 0.97 and 0.91 and with weight at first kidding 0.34, 0.14 and 0.11, respectively, while the corresponding values for these correlations between weight at first service and other traits were; with age at first kidding 0.39, 0.81 and 0.80, with weight at first kidding 0.35, 0.22 and 0.21 and with weight at first kidding 0.82, 0.18 and 0.16, respectively.
Analysis of pedigree records for coefficient of inbreeding revealed that number of animals being 4465 (42.61 percent) with an average inbreeding of 2.43 percent and the highest level being 46.48 percent. The number of non-inbred animals was 6014 (57.39%). Out of the total of 406 sires used 23 were found inbred having an average inbreeding coefficient of 3.125 percent. Most frequent value for this category of animals was zero. The highest number of animals 1531 (14.61 percent) had an inbreeding percentage between 0.1 to 3.125, while only 104 animals (0.99 percent) were found with inbreeding of more than 25 percent. Most of the growth traits were statistically better in non-inbreds as compared to inbreds except yearling weight and post-weaning weight gain at twelve months, in which the means of both the traits were similar in both the groups. Among reproductive traits, age at first serviceand kidding, services per conception, service period and kidding interval were also statistically better in non-inbreds as compared to inbreds, while weight at first service and kidding interval were similar in both the groups.
The ranges for estimated breeding values for different traits were, birth weight (-0.18 to 0.08 kg), weaning weight (-0.61 to 0.40 kg), weight at six months (-0.27 to 0.11 kg), weight at nine months, (-0.07 to 0.09 kg), yearling weight (-0.12 to 0.18 kg), pre-weaning daily gain (-0.30 to 1.20 grams), post-weaning daily gain at 6 months (-0.74 to 1.27 grams), post-weaning daily gain at 9 months (-0.32 to 0.57 grams), post-weaning daily gain at 12 months (-1.08 to 1.57 grams), age at first service(-43.23 to 58.06 days), weight at first service (-0.55 to 1.07 kg), age at first kidding (-53.31 to 48.34 days), weight at first kidding (-1.19 to 3.50 kg), services per conception (-0.18 to 0.16), service period (-7.07 to 9.80 days) and kidding interval (-13.23 to 20.89 days), respectively. The genetic trend in both birth weight and weaning weight showed an increasing trend during the period of study, while the genetic trend in weight at six, nine and twelve (yearling) months had no significant trend and fluctuated in the vicinity of zero.
It is envisaged from the present study that over the 34 years period selection remained ineffective to bring the desired changes and it will remain so if random use of breeding animals is practiced. The possible use of ineffective selection could be unavailability of efficient techniques for the evaluation of animals and incorrect performance recording etc. It is therefore, necessary to correct all these discrepancies by taking corrective measures as discussed above. The following corrective measures may be a first step towards a goal oriented breeding policy.
1. The animals kept mainly for producing meat, the single most important factor is reproductive rate, which contributes to the efficiency of production (Shelton 1978). The most striking feature of sheep and goat enterprise is the ability to breed, off-season. Teddy goat is a non-seasonal breeder as kidding was observed throughout year with 36%, 19%, 25% and 20% kiddings recorded during spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively, therefore a controlled breeding programme being practiced at times (as was observed during the present study at all the three stations) should not be advocated in any form at all and the desirable trait of non-seasonality should be the main pillar of a meat goat enterprise.
2. Although a higher percentage of abortions (70%) was observed in summer months but the percentage of dead births and mortality was almost equally distributed throughout the year, which indicates that better management of the flock during extremes of weather will results in less abortions and reduced mortality.
3. The high percentage of multiple births (57%) as against single births (43%) in teddy goats found in present study has backing of several studies, which showed that although there was slow growth rate in multiple births, yet they performed better by producing more total weight of kid weaned. Therefore prolificacy becomes a very important reproductive criteria and therefore emphasis should be selection of those animals with higher percentage of multiple births.
4. Environmental effects on productive and reproductive traits were significant; therefore through better management there are ample chances of improvement in these traits.
5. Low to medium heritability was recorded in all the growth traits, which offers scope for genetic selection.
6. Selection of animals to be the parents of future flock must be based on EBVs of growth traits.
7. Reproductive performance in present study was more than satisfactory. Early maturity which has been the main characteristic of Teddy breed was better as compared to many other breeds of the tropics (Beetal, Kamori, Jamunapari and Sirohi). Teddy goats were efficient than other breeds of the region when the means of the other reproductive traits like services per conception, service period and kidding interval were taken into consideration, however, room for improvement is still there.
8. Inbreeding in present study showed some increasing trend during the last five years and the percentage of animals kept on increasing during the last decade, therefore to control inbreeding a breeding plan with introduction of new blood from time to time is of utmost importance.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1582,T] (1).
6.
Characterization Of Linear Type Traits In Nili Rivei Buffaloes Of Pakistan
by Riaz Hussain Mirza | Prof. Dr. Khalid Javed | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Abdullah.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: The present study on conformation recording of Nili Ravi buffaloes was planned because there was lack of studies on this aspect of Nili Ravi buffaloes. The main objective of the study was to document and characterize linear type traits in Nili Ravi buffaloes so that the buffaloes with proper body characteristics could be identified for selection and breeding programs. Nili Ravi buffalo herds maintained at Livestock Experiment Station Bhunikey, Pattoki, distt. Kasur, Livestock Experiment Station, Chack Katora distt. Bahawalpur, Livestock Experiment Station Haroonabad distt. Bahawalnagar, Livestock Experiment Station Khushab, distt. Khushab, Livestock Experiment Station Rakh Ghulaman distt. Bhakhar and some private breeders were utilized in this study.
The guidelines for conformational recording of dairy cattle provided by the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR) were followed in this study. A total of 437 milking buffaloes were scored for linear type traits on a scale of 1-9. First scoring was performed within 15 to 90 days of calving and then each after about 90 days interval.
Genetic parameters viz. heritabilities, phenotypic and genetic correlations were estimated using Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) evaluation techniques. Influencing factors such as age of the buffalo at scoring, stage of lactation, parity, herd and season of scoring were included in the model. Individual Animal Model was fitted under Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) Procedure. Data were analysed using the mixed model procedure of the Statistical Analysis Systems. Genetic parameters were estimated fitting an Individual Animal Model using the ASREML set of computer programs.
A total of 1180 records on different linear type traits and body measurements were generated over a scoring period of 2 years. Most of the average values for linear type traits were seen to fall under the intermediate category of 4-6. The means±SD for different linear type traits were found as 5.07±1.35, 5.23±2.35, 5.41±1.45, 5.76±0.98, 6.73±1.53, 4.91±1.85, 4.99±0.88, 4.99±0.90, 5.39±2.13, 4.78±1.1, 5.36±1.56, 4.91±1.84, 5.76±1.67, 3.58±0.88, 5.66±2.24, 6.42±0.88, 4.88±0.69, 4.92±1.08, 4.87±0.84, 5.34±1.79, 4.76±1.78, 5.97±0.94, 5.04±2.488, 5.15±1.65 and 6.44±1.03 for stature, chest width, body depth, angularity, rump angle, rump width, rear legs set, rear legs rear view, foot angle , fore udder attachment, rear udder height, central ligament, udder depth, front teat placement, teat length, rear teat placement, locomotion, body condition score, top line, bone structure, rear udder width, udder balance, teat thickness, thurl width, and temperament, respectively.
A highly significant effect of herd was observed on all of the linear type traits (P< 0.0001). Effect of stage of lactation was found to be highly significant for udder conformation related traits. Parity was observed as a highly significant source of variation for some of the body traits including stature, body depth, body condition score and bone structure. However most of the udder related traits were affected by this factor. A non significant effect of parity was observed on chest width, angularity, rump angle, rump width, central ligament, locomotion, top line, udder balance, thurl width and temperament. A highly significant effect of season of scoring was observed on chest width, angularity, rump angle, rear legs set, rear legs rear view, locomotion and thurl width among body traits. However, stature, body depth, body condition score, top line, bone structure and temperament were not affected by season of scoring. Udder conformation traits including fore udder attachment, rear udder height, central ligament, rear udder width, and udder balance were affected by the season of scoring, however rest of the udder traits including udder depth, front teat placement, teat length, rear teat placement and teat thickness were not significantly different in different seasons.
Significant linear effect of age of the buffalo at scoring was seen on most of the linear type traits. including stature, body depth, rear legs set, rear legs rear view, foot angle, fore udder attachment, rear udder height, central ligament, udder depth, teat length, body condition score, bone structure, rear udder width, teat thickness and thurl width. However, chest width, angularity, rump angle, rump width, front teat placement, rear teat placement, locomotion, top line, udder balance and temperament were not affected by linear effect of age. Quadratic effect of age was found as significant on most of the linear type traits except chest width, angularity, rump width, front teat placement, rear teat placement, locomotion, udder balance and temperament.
Univariate heritability estimates of linear type traits were observed as for stature, 0.36±0.092; chest width, 0.10±0.081; body depth, 0.32±0.081; angularity, 0.06±0.071; rump angle, 0.15±0.071; rump width, 0.38±0.092; rear legs set, 0.02±0.07; rear legs rear view, 0.08±0.07; foot angle, 0.09±0.07; fore udder attachment, 0.21±0.07; rear udder height, 0.09±0.07; central ligament, 0.09±0.09; udder depth, 0.10±0.091; front teat placement, 0.11±0.091; teat length, 0.08±0.091; rear teat placement, 0.11±0.081; locomotion, 0.06±0.06; body condition score, 0.14±0.091; top line, 0.03±0.05; bone structure, 0.09±0.09; rear udder width, 0.15±0.09;
udder balance, 0.16±0.07; teat thickness, 0.22±0.091; thurl width, 0.31±0.09 and temperament, 0.14±0.07, respectively.
Some important positive phenotypic correlations of linear type traits with 305 days milk yield were observed as 0.18±0.04 for body depth, 0.15±0.04 for rump angle, 0.13±0.04 for rump width, 0.30±0.04 for rear udder height, 0.43±0.03 for central ligament, 0.16±0.03 for rear teat placement and 0.19±0.04 for rear udder width. Rest of the phenotypic correlations were very low. Considerable negative phenotypic correlations included -0.16±035 for body condition score, -0.15±0.04 for top line, -0.16±0.03 for front teat placement, -0.14±0.04 for udder depth and -0.26±0.04 for fore udder attachment.
Most of the linear type traits showed positive but low genetic correlation with 305 days milk yield including 0.140±0.0001 with stature, 0.210±0.0001 with body depth, 0.11±0.0001 with rump angle, 0.19±0.0002 with rump width, 0.14±0.0001 with rear udder height, 0.20±0.000001 with central ligament, 0.14±0.0000001 with rear teat placement, 0.13±0.0001 with rear udder width, 0.14±0.0000001 with udder balance, 0.09±0.0001 with thurl width and 0.12±0.0000001 with temperament.
Phenotypic and genetic correlations of most the linear type traits with score day milk yield were generally higher than with 305 days milk yield. Phenotypic correlations with score day milk yield were observed as 0.09±0.03 for stature, -0.21±0.03 for chest width, -0.05±0.04 for body depth, -0.17±0.03 for angularity, -0.12±0.03 for rump angle, -0.16±0.05 for rump width, -0.32±0.03 for rear legs set, -0.16±0.04 for rear legs rear view, -0.22±0.03 for foot angle, -0.34±0.03 for fore udder attachment, -0.16±0.04 for rear udder height, -0.16±0.04 for central ligament, -0.25±0.03 for udder depth, 0.06±0.04 for front teat placement, 0.008±0.03 for teat length, -0.19±0.04 for rear teat placement, -0.15±0.04 for locomotion, -0.22±0.03 for body condition score, -0.35±0.03 for top line, -0.08±0.04 for bone structure, -0.17±0.05 for rear udder width, -0.18±0.04 for udder balance, -0.20±0.03 for teat thickness, -0.11±0.04 for thurl width and -0.11±0.05 for temperament, respectively.
Genetic correlations with score day milk yield were observed as 0.57±0.05 for stature, 0.09±0.02 for chest width, 0.31±0.04 for body depth, 0.06±0.02 for angularity, 0.15±0.03 for rump angle, 0.30±0.05 for rump width, 0.04±0.02 for rear legs set, 0.06±0.01 for rear legs rear view, 0.06±0.02 for foot angle, 0.10±0.02 for fore udder attachment, 0.18±0.03 for rear udder height, 0.12±0.02 for central ligament, 0.18±0.02 for udder depth, 0.60±0.06 for front teat placement, 0.23±0.03 for teat length, 0.07±0.01 for rear teat placement, 0.021±0.02 for locomotion, 0.12±0.02 for body condition score, 0.08±0.02 for top line, 0.08±0.03 for bone structure, 0.19±0.04 for rear udder width, 0.19±0.03 for udder balance, 0.095±0.02 for teat thickness, 0.12±0.02 for thurl width and 0.27±0.05 for temperament, respectively.
Among body measurements, head related measurements included head length, horn diameter at base, length and width of ear and poll width and their average values were found as 54.13±3.48, 18.65±2.06, 29.5±2.12 and 18.66±1.22, and 30.95±2.35 cm, respectively. Average values for neck length and neck circumference were observed as 53.32±4.56 and 95.77±8.58 cm, respectively.
The height and length of body was measured at different body points and average values were found as 139.56±6.29 cm for horizontal body length, 154.01±7.61 cm for diagonal body length, 135.77±4.4 cm for height at sacrum, 132.04±4.57 cm for height at withers, 130.77±4.61 cm for height at 6th rib position, 126.34±4.51 cm for height at last rib position, 128.89±4.83 cm for height at hook bone and 118.81±4.45 cm for height at pin bone.
The average values for heart girth, paunch girth, sprung at 6th rib position and sprung at last rib position were resulted as 194.46±10.31, 238.52±13.96, 45.15±4.48 and 68.72±5.2 cm, respectively. Mean estimates for top wedge area, front wedge area and side wedge area were obtained as 3152.79±309.53, 1030.17±136.34 and 3105.07±345.26 cm2, respectively. The length of tail and its diameter at base was measured and its value averaged 103.51±12.55 and 22.41±2.005 cm, respectively. Average values of skin thickness at neck, ribs, belly and tail region were found as 4.16±1.16, 5.85±1.36, 7.34±1.49 and 1.71±0.55 mm, respectively. Mean values for some other traits included 43.52±2.582 cm for rump length, 3.12±0.56 cm for heel depth and 523.13±81.63 kg for body weight. It was observed that herd was a significant source of variation for all body measurement traits. Age of the buffalo at classification was a significant source of variation for all of the body measurements except horn diameter at base, poll width, tail length, skin thickness at tail and height at hook bone.
Most of the body measurements have been found to be lowly to moderately heritable in the current study. Heritability estimates for various body measurements were observed as 0.16±0.09 for horn diameter at base, 0.38±0.04 for ear length, 0.06±0.09 for ear width, 0.25±0.091 for head length, 0.14±0.09 for poll width, 0.03±0.06 for neck circumference, 0.05±0.07 for neck length, 0.05±0.09 for body length, 0.05±0.09 for diagonal body length, 0.41±0.09 for tail length, 0.28±0.091 for tail diameter at base, 0.04±0.09 for skin thickness at neck, 0.02±0.09 for skin thickness at ribs, 0.10±0.09 for skin thickness at belly, 0.07±0.08 for skin thickness at tail, 0.11±0.09 for height at sacrum, 0.28±0.09 for height at withers, 0.22±0.092 for height at 6th rib position, 0.25±0.092 for height at last rib position, 0.18±0.091 for height at hook bone, 0.07±0.08 for height at pin bone, 0.04±0.06 for sprung at 6th rib position, 0.07±0.06 for sprung at last rib position, 0.13±0.09 for heart girth, 0.05±0.09 for paunch girth, 0.11±0.09 for top wedge area, 0.05±0.06 for front wedge area, 0.16±0.07 for side wedge area, 0.13±0.08 for rump length, 0.02±0.06 for heel depth and 0.33±0.07 for body weight.
Phenotypic correlations of 305 days milk yield with various body measurements were in low range. Positive phenotypic correlations ranged from 0.02±0.04 for sprung at 6th rib position to 0.17±0.05 for ear length. Some of the important body measurements have positive phenotypic correlation with 305 days milk yield as 0.15±0.04 for head length, 0.04±0.04 for diagonal body length, 0.04±0.02 for height at withers, 0.11±0.03 for height at sacrum, 0.11±0.04 for sprung at last rib position, 0.04±0.04 for heart girth, 0.08±0.03 for rump length and 0.07±0.03 for body weight. Negative phenotypic correlations with 305 days milk yield ranged from -0.03±0.03 for side wedge area to -0.25±0.03 for horn diameter at base. Some important negative phenotypic correlations included -0.25±0.03 for horn diameter at base, -0.04±0.04 for neck circumference, -0.12±0.03 for skin thickness at neck and -0.08±0.03 for front wedge area.
Positive phenotypic correlation with score day milk yield included 0.09±0.05 for body weight, 0.07±0.002 for rump length, 0.09±0.003 for sprung at last rib position, 0.09±0.005 for height at hook bone, 0.08±0.02 for height at sacrum. Rest of all the traits were low in correlation with milk yield. Negative phenotypic correlation with score day milk yield included horn diameter at base as -0.15±0.02 and heel depth as -0.13±0.04. Rest of all negative phenotypic correlations were very low.
Positive genetic correlations of 305 days milk yield varied from 0.02±0.002 for ear width to 0.23±0.02 for side wedge area. Some important body measurements have positive genetic correlation values as 0.121±0.000001 for head length, 0.162±0.000001 for diagonal body length, 0.080±0.000001 for height at withers, 0.15±0.000001 for height at sacrum, 0.15±0.000001 for sprung at last rib position, 0.14±0.0005 for heart girth and 0.16±0.007 for body weight. Negative genetic correlation for this trait was observed only for skin thickness at neck region as -0.16±0001.
About 40 traits regarding udder and teat measurements before and after milking were analysed. Average values for udder length, width, height, depth and circumference before milking were found as 52.65±6.87, 53.52±6.19, 54.34±4.99, 18.76±3.87, and 77.05±11.69 cm, respectively while the corresponding values for the same traits after milking were found as 47.08±6.57, 48.15±5.79, 55.39±5.15, 18.11±4.11 and 67.04±8.11 cm, respectively. Teat impression distances between front teats, rear teats, fore and rear teats from right side and fore and rear teats from left side were found as 12.46±3.01, 7.01±1.91, 8.08±1.8 and 7.71±1.75 cm, respectively. Pre stimulation and after milking teat characteristics were found as 12.93±3.12 and 11.71±2.83 cm for distance between front teats; 7.48±1.93 and 6.61±1.58 cm for distance between hind teats; 8.34±1.91 and 7.54±1.60 cm for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 8.004±1.95 and 7.17±1.60 cm for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; 10.19±2.17 and 9.057±1.50 for diameter of fore right teat; 10.92±2.45 and 9.611±1.66 cm for diameter of rear right teat; 10.33±2.11 and 9.33±1.45 cm for diameter of fore left teat; 11.25±2.54 and 9.937±1.76 cm for diameter of rear left teat; 10.71±2.63 and 11.2±2.39 cm, for teat length of fore right teat; 13.05±3.27 and 13.13±3.03 for teat length of rear right teat; 11.09±2.71 and 11.88±2.61 cm for teat length fore left teat and 13.75±3.04 and 14.47±2.99 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
All of the udder conformation traits before and after milking were highly significantly different in different herds (P<0.0001). Stage of lactation was found to be highly significant source of variation (P<0.0001) for before milking udder length, before milking udder height, average before milking udder circumference, after milking udder length, after milking average udder circumference, teat impression distance between fore, between rear and between fore and rear teats on both sides. However, before milking average udder width, before milking udder depth, after milking average udder width, after milking udder height and after milking udder depth were not affected by this factor.
All of the above mentioned traits were significantly affected by parity except after milking udder depth and teat impression distance between fore teats and between rear teats.
Season of scoring significantly affected before milking udder length (P<0.01), before milking average udder width (P<0.05), before milking average udder circumference (P<0.01), after milking average udder width (P<0.01), after milking average udder circumference (P<0.0001), teat impression distance between fore and hind teats of left side (P<0.05). Rest of all the traits were not significantly different in different seasons.
Most of the udder traits were significantly affected by linear and quadratic effect of age of the buffalo at classification. Herd was a significant source of variation for all teat related traits recorded at pre stimulation before milking time. Stage of lactation significantly affected pre stimulation distance between front teats, pre stimulation distance between hind teats, pre stimulation distance between fore and hind teats on right and left side, pre stimulation diameter of fore right teat, pre stimulation teat length of fore right teat, pre stimulation teat length of rear right teat, pre stimulation teat length of fore left and rear left teat. However, pre stimulation diameter of rear right teat, pre stimulation diameter of fore left teat and pre stimulation diameter of rear left teat were not affected by this factor. All of these parameters were affected by parity except pre stimulation distance between hind teats and pre stimulation teat length of fore left teat. Similarly all of these traits were affected by season of scoring except pre stimulation distance between fore, between hind, between right and between left teats.
All of teat characteristics after milking were significantly affected by herd. Stage of lactation significantly affected after milking distance between fore and hind teats of right side (P<0.05), after milking teat length of fore right and rear right teat (P<0.01), after milking teat length of fore left teat (P<0.05) and rear left teat (P<0.0001). Rest of all traits after milking were not affected by stage of lactation. Most of the teat parameters after milking were significantly affected by parity except after milking distance between front and between rear teats, after milking teat length of rear right teat and after milking teat length of fore left teat. Distances among teats after milking and after milking diameter of rear left teat were not significantly affected by season. Rest of all traits were significantly affected by this factor.
Heritability estimates for before milking udder length, average udder width, udder height, udder depth and average udder circumference were found as 0.08±0.07, 0.22±0.08, 0.22±0.09, 0.05±0.06 and 0.21±0.07, respectively. The corresponding values after milking for these traits were observed as 0.14±0.07, 0.20±0.08, 0.09±0.08, 0.02±0.08 and 0.09±0.07, respectively.
Heritability estimates for before milking and after milking teat characteristics were found as 0.11±0.09 and 0.15±0.09 for distance between front teats; 0.03±0.06 and 0.03±0.07 for distance between hind teats; 0.32±0.09 and 0.06±0.07 for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 0.16±0.08 and 00.09±0.07 for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; 0.21±0.08 and 0.11±0.08 for diameter of fore right teat; 0.05±0.05 and 0.02±0.05 for diameter of rear right teat; 0.19±0.08 and 0.25±0.09 for diameter of fore left teat; 0.07±0.06 and 0.03±0.07 for diameter of rear left teat; 0.12±0.06 and 0.08±0.06 for teat length of fore right teat; 0.02±0.05 and 0.11±0.07 for teat length of rear right teat; 0.29±0.09 and 0.29±0.092 for teat length of fore left teat and 0.14±0.08 and 0.08±0.07 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
Phenotypic correlations of before and after milking udder length, average udder width, udder height, udder depth and average udder circumference with 305 days milk yield were found as 0.29±0.04 and 0.18±0.04; 0.30±0.04 and 0.33±0.04; -0.26±0.03 and -0.20±0.03; 0.07±0.04 and 0.06±0.05 and 0.18±0.04 and 0.14±0.04, respectively. Corresponding values in the same order for genetic correlations were observed as 0.17±0.0002 and 0.21±0.0003; 0.33±0.0002 and 0.19±0.0003; -0.29±0003 and -0.34±0003; 0.10±0.0001 and 0.07±0.0001 and 0.28±0.0004 and 0.23±0.0003, respectively.
Phenotypic correlations of before and after milking udder length, average udder width, udder height, udder depth and average udder circumference with score day milk yield were found as 0.29±0.03 and -0.18±0.02; -0.32±0.02 and 0.17±0.01, -0.38±0.001 and -0.20±0.002, 0.28±0.01 and -0.04±0.04 and 0.21±0.04 and -0.15±0.04, respectively.
Phenotypic correlations for pre stimulation and after milking teat characteristics with 305 days milk yield were found as 0.19±0.03 and 0.07±0.03 for distance between front teats; 0.20±0.04 and 0.20±0.04 for distance between hind teats; 0.21±0.03 and 0.21±0.03 for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 0.18±0.03 and 0.18±0.03 for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; 0.07±0.03 and 0.27±0.04 for diameter of fore right teat; -0.04±0.03 and 0.14±0.04 for diameter of rear right teat; -0.03±0.04 and 0.20±0.04 for diameter of fore left teat; -0.02±0.04 and 0.20±0.03 for diameter of rear left teat; 0.24±0.03 and 0.28±0.03, for teat length of fore right teat; -0.13±0.03 and -0.009±0.04 for teat length of rear right teat; 0.01±0.02 and 0.12±0.03 for teat length fore left teat and 0.06±0.03 and 0.22±0.03 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
Genetic correlations for pre stimulation and after milking teat characteristics with 305 days milk yield were found as 0.22±0.0002 and 0.12±0.0003 for distance between front teats; 0.26±0.0001 and 0.13±0.0001 for distance between hind teats; 0.11±0.0001 and 0.09±0.0001 for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 0.10±0.0001 and 0.07±0.0001 for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; 0.11±0.0001 and 0.11±0.0001 for diameter of fore right teat; 0.09±0.0002 and 0.16±0.0001 for diameter of rear right teat; 0.001±0.000001 and 0.001±0.0001 for diameter of fore left teat; 0.001±0.000001 and 0.001±0.0001 for diameter of rear left teat; 0.080±0.00001 and 0.11±0.0001 for teat length of fore right teat; 0.07±0.000001 and 0.001±0.0002 for teat length of rear right teat; 0.003±0.000001 and 0.003±0.0003 for teat length fore left teat and 0.003±0.000001 and 0.002±0.0002 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
Phenotypic correlations for pre stimulation and after milking teat characteristics with score day milk yield were found as -0.37±0.02 and -0.48±0.03 for distance between front teats; 0.04±0.04 and 0.06±0.04 for distance between hind teats; 0.04±0.04 and 0.03±0.04 for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 0.03±0.039 and 0.08±0.04 for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; -0.33±0.03 and -0.16±0.04 for diameter of fore right teat; -0.46±0.03 and -0.26±0.04 for diameter of rear right teat; -0.41±0.03 and -0.24±0.04 for diameter of fore left teat; -0.30±0.03 and -0.28±0.04 for diameter of rear left teat; -0.43±0.03 and -0.49±0.03 for teat length of fore right teat; -0.36±0.02 and -0.47±0.02 for teat length of rear right teat; -0.41±0.034 and -0.43±0.03 for teat length fore left teat and -0.28±0.021 and -0.53±0.02 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
Genetic correlations for before and after milking teat characteristics with score day milk yield were found as 0.13±0.016 and 0.15±0.02 for distance between front teats; 0.30±0.04 and 0.40±0.05 for distance between hind teats; 0.19±0.05 and 0.38±0.05 for distance between fore and hind teats of right side; 0.32±0.06 and 0.44±0.06 for distance between fore and hind teats of left side; 0.22±0.03 and 0.27±0.04 for diameter of fore right teat; 0.16±0.02 and 0.23±0.03 for diameter of rear right teat; 0.15±0.02 and 0.22±0.03 for diameter of fore left teat; 0.11±0.02 and 0.24±0.03 for diameter of rear left teat; 0.19±0.02 and 0.17±0.02 for teat length of fore right teat; 0.075±0.01 and 0.07±0.01 for teat length of rear right teat; 0.27±0.029 and 0.27±0.03 for teat length of fore left teat and 0.10±0.01 and 0.08±0.01 for teat length of rear left teat, respectively.
Least squares means for various performance traits were found as 7.02±2.46 for score day milk yield, 1801.61±624.59 for lactation milk yield, 2074.1±360.85 for 305 days milk yield, 2149.09±680.59 for best milk yield, 272±69 for lactation length, 408.553±203.63 for preceeding dry period, 1762.05±305.97 for age at first calving, 477.68±64.53 for weight at first calving, 110±33 for age at scoring in months, 523.133±81.63 for weight at scoring in Kg.
Most of the phenotypic studies on Nili Ravi breed are limited to recording only few body measurements. In order to explore the physical features of this breed, linear scoring system needs to be adopted which is based on measurement of certain specific parts of body as per international standards according to the ICAR guidelines. However, some of the linear scores developed for dairy cattle breeds do not fit for this breed and harmonization of certain trait definitions is needed even for the linear score system for this breed. The following points are important regarding linear scoring system for Nili Ravi buffaloes:
" In case of rump angle, the score ranging as 1-3 which refers to higher pin bone than hook bone is not present in Nili Ravi buffaloes. The score for central ligament ranging as 1-3 which refers to convex floor of udder has not been observed in this breed. The position of front teat placement as inside of quarter scoring as 7-9 has not been observed in Nili Ravi buffaloes. The position of rear teat placement as outside of quarter scoring as 1-3 has not been observed in Nili Ravi buffaloes. The score for top line ranging as 8-9 which represents a back bent upwards has not been observed in this breed. The score of 1 and 2 which represents a rear udder deeper than the fore udder has also not been observed in the present study. A higher temperament score indicates that buffaloes tend to be excited especially at the time of milking and handling. This behaviour of buffaloes needs to be improved through selection and breeding.
" A highly significant effect of herd was observed on all of the linear type traits. Effect of stage of lactation was found to be highly significant for udder conformation related traits including fore udder attachment, rear udder height, central ligament, udder depth, teat length and rear udder width. Most of the udder related traits were affected by parity such as fore udder attachment, rear udder height, udder depth, teat length, rear udder width and teat thickness. significant effect of parity was observed on chest width, angularity, rump angle, rump width, top line, thurl width, and temperament.
" Initiation of conformation recording in public and private sector and use of selective and planned breeding will be helpful for the improvement in milk yield and to bring uniformity in body features of Nili Ravi buffaloes.
" Scoring in first parity should be adopted as in later parities adjustment for age and parity will be needed.
" Differences among herds for most of the traits suggest that performance can be improved by exploiting genetic potential through selection and breeding. Heritability estimates for most of the linear type traits were found as higher than the reported values available in literature. The reasons might be due to species differences and relatively small data set as well as incomplete pedigree records. Even then the results might be considered for inclusion of some of the linear type traits in selection programs. Keeping in view that this is a preliminary study on genetic aspects of linear type traits in Nili Ravi buffaloes, further studies and research with larger data set is needed to explore linear type traits and to validate the findings of the current study.
" A positive genetic correlation of stature with milk yield suggest that taller and heavier buffaloes produced more milk and selection for taller buffaloes may result in improved milk yield but the efficiency of milk yield must be studied before making indirect selection for milk yield through stature. Negative phenotypic correlation of chest width with score day milk yield suggested that buffaloes with wider chest are relatively less efficient in milk production. Further studies are needed with larger data set to verify the results. A considerable positive genetic correlation between body depth and milk yield suggest that body depth may be considered for indirect selection of higher milk yield in Nili Ravi buffaloes. Considerable genetic correlation with milk yield suggest that rump width is important in this breed of buffaloes and can be used for indirect selection for improved milk yield. A considerable negative phenotypic correlation of fore udder attachment with milk yield is important however negligible genetic correlation suggest that fore udder attachment is independent of milk producing genes and separate selection for each trait should be considered keeping in view heritability of the trait in Nili Ravi buffaloes. A positive genetic correlation of rear udder height with milk yield suggested that selection for this trait might be helpful for improved milk yield in Nili Ravi buffaloes. Genetic correlation of teat length with score day milk yield is considerable in the current study but very low with 305 days milk yield. The findings of current study suggested that rear teat placemen has a considerable genetic correlation with milk yield and can be used for indirect selection for better milk yield. The results of current study are not in agreement with most of the reports in the literature regarding correlation of BCS with milk yield. Further research is needed to verify positive genetic correlation of BCS with milk yield before using BCS as selection criterion for milk yield in Nili Ravi buffaloes. Due to negative phenotypic correlation of body condition score with milk yield, an optimal score of below average ranging from 4 to 5 may be recommended. A positive genetic correlation of rear udder width with milk yield suggested that some of the same genes are controlling milk yield and rear udder width and indirect selection for improved milk yield is possible through selection for rear udder width in Nili Ravi buffaloes. This genetic correlation with milk yield is considerable but further studies are needed before the udder balance could be included for selection program in Nili Ravi buffaloes.
" Current study indicated that teat thickness is not genetically important with negligible correlation with milk yield in Nili Ravi buffaloes but negative phenotypic correlation is considerable and buffaloes with thinner teats are suitable for more milk production. A low but positive genetic correlation of thurl width with milk yield provides a scope for further studies to explore this trait in Nili Ravi buffaloes. Further studies are needed with relatively larger data set to explore temperament and verify its relationship with milk yield in this breed of buffaloes. Generally, the least squares means for most of the body measurements were found in the normal range and were in agreement with most of the reports in literature.
" Comparatively higher body weight was observed than the reports available for Nili Ravi buffaloes. One of the reason for this might be relatively better supply of feed and fodder during the course of study and also the records pertaining to 3rd and latter parities were more in number than the records on younger buffaloes. The top and side wedge area are almost similar with less variation showing that Nili Ravi buffaloes are relatively more wedge shaped.
" Most of the body measurements were affected by the herd and age factors but the effect of parity, stage of lactation and season of scoring was variable for different traits and showed not very clear trend. Body weight was affected by all the factors studied in the current investigation. Most of the body measurements have been found to be moderately to highly heritable in the current study. Overall range of heritability estimates for body measurements was found as 0.08±0.09 to 0.92±0.00.
" Skin thickness has been found under the genetic control and can be improved through selection and breeding keeping in view its importance and demand in the leather industry and also its correlation with milk yield.
" Diagonal body length in the current study has shown a low but positive genetic correlation with milk yield and this trait might be considered in the selection program for Nili Ravi buffaloes. The negative genetic correlation of skin thickness in the neck region with 305 days milk yield is important and advocates the thinking of farmers about the negative correlation of skin thickness with milk yield. Genetic correlation of heart girth with milk yield although not very high but seems to be important and can be considered for indirect selection for milk yield through heart girth measurement. A reasonable genetic correlation of body weight with milk yield suggested that this trait should be considered in the selection program for improved milk yield in Nili Ravi buffaloes.
" Udder colour has not been found important. Buffaloes with pendulous udders have produced more milk. The possible reason for this more milk is that such buffaloes were recorded in latter parities and age of those buffaloes was high and the size of their udder was large. The frequency of buffaloes with such type of udder is only 8%. Buffaloes with such type of pendulous udders are more prone to udder and teat injuries and mastitis and their life time production is less. Thick and lengthy teats have been observed in this breed and the reason might be due to hand milking and direct suckling of cows by the calves.
" Most of the udder traits were significantly affected by herd, parity, stage of lactation and age of the buffaloes at classification. Most of the udder measurements have been found highly heritable and this provides a good scope for improvement of these traits through selection and breeding. A general decrease in the distance between fore, rear and fore and rear teats on both sides was observed after milking. This indicated that the distance measured after milking was a good indicator of actual distance between teats of this breed irrespective of stage of lactation. Udder length, width, udder circumference and height either recorded before milking or after milking have been found genetically correlated with milk yield and they should be considered for selection decisions in Nili Ravi buffaloes. A reasonable positive genetic correlation of distance between fore and between rear teats suggested that this distance is important for milk yield and should be considered for selection in Nili Ravi buffaloes. The results of present study suggest that teat diameter is not genetically much important for milk yield and the reason of thick teats is due to hand milking and direct suckling by the calves.
" Teat distance between front teat, between rear teat, diameter of fore right and rear right teat and teat length of fore right teat have shown low but not negligible genetic correlations with milk yield and should be given some importance in making selection decisions in Nili Ravi buffaloes.
" Brown colour buffaloes have not been observed in this study because such animals at Govt. livestock farms are culled at an early age, however farmers think that such type of buffaloes are better milk yielder and they like and demand such animals, development and conservation of these animals is advocated at experimental level to study their potential.
" Further research is needed to evaluate visual image analysis system as a tool for quick and more accurate conformation recording.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1708,T] (1).
7.
Temporal Analysis Of Crude Spectacled Cobra Venom On Various Haematiological And Serolocical
by Zainab Riaz | Dr. Muhammad Quaid Zaman | Dr. Khalid Abdul Majeed | Dr. Zia Ullah | Faculty of Biosciences.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: The snake venom has both neurotoxic and haemotoxic effects. The Pakistani spectacled black cobra venom is considered to be mainly neurotoxin and there is a need to evaluate its haemotoxic effects. This study aimed to determine the acute bio-physiological effects of LD50 dose of crude venom of cobraat different time intervals after I/M envenomation in mice.
The crude venom was obtained from the black cobra, Naja Naja karachensis found in the region of Mian Chanuu, Punjab and the venom was lyophilized. Twenty adult male mice, approximately 20g weight, were housed in cages for one week at the animal shed of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. Blood was drawn by cardiac puncture after general anesthesia at time 0 from the five overnight-nonfed mice injected i/m with normal saline. Remaining mice (15 in number) were injected i/m with LD50 dose (1.2mg/kg) of cobra venom. Blood samples were collected from five animals at each time intervals of 1, 1.5 and 2 hours of envenomation. The hematological and biochemical parameters studied were complete blood count, estimation of plasma glucose, plasma total protein, plasma albumin, alanine aminotranferase and urea by commercially available enzymatic kits.
There was a significant increase in red blood cells count and its indices (haemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration) and platelets at 1, 1.5 and 2 hours after envenomation in albino mice compared to 0 hr.A significant decrease in the count of white blood cells was observedafter 1 hour of injection compared to 0 hr, however it was increased significantly after
2 hours of envenomation compared to 0 hour. The lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes percentageswere not changed after envenomation in mice.Plasma glucose showed a significant decrease at 1 hour of I/M injection compared to 0 hr that increased in subsequent time intervals compared to 0 hr in albino mice. The concentration of urea was significantly increased at 1, 1.5 and 2hours of envenomation in comparison with the concentration at 0 hour. The concentration of plasma total proteins showed a significant increase at 2hours of time interval as compared to 0, 1 and 1.5hours after envenomation in mice. The plasma albumin concentration at 1.5 and 2hours of time interval showed a significant increase as compared to that at 0 and 1 hour. The concentration of ALT also increased at any time interval.
Therefore it is concluded that the crude spectacled cobra venom is both neurotoxin and hemotoxic in nature.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1775,T] (1).
8.
Effect Of Age And Gender On Hematological And Biochemical Parameters Of Beetal Goat And Lohi Sheep
by Sidra Shafique | Dr. Imtiaz Rabbani | Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz Yousaf | Prof. Dr. Khalid.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Small ruminants are one of the domestic animals of the inhabitants of Pakistan. In semi-arid and arid areas goat and sheep provides the main means of survival and security. So the proper health management of animals is must require for their survival. Hematlogical and biochemical tests are widely used for the diagnosis of serious animal diseases which can lead to economics losses in animals like reduced fur, wool and milk production. A large number of factors such as sex, age, gender, breed, illness, stress, seasonal variation and nutrition can affect the pattern of these clinical values. Our hypothesis was to evaluate the effect of age and gender on hematological and biochemical indices of Beetal goat and Lohi sheep in Ravi campus Pattoki UVAS.
One hundred and twenty blood samples (60 Goats and 60 sheep) were taken and divided on the basis of their age and gender (0-3 months, 9-12months and 18-20 months). Complete blood counts were performed by hematology analyzer (Abacus junior vet. Serial # 130076, Diatron GmbH wein, Austria) at W.T.O, UVAS. The biochemical parameter included albumin, globulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, urea AST and ALT were determined by commercially available kits (Biogene® and Crescent®). The arithmetic means (± SE) of hematological and biochemical parameters in different groups were calculated. The arithmetic means (± SE) of hematological and biochemical parameters in different groups were calculated. The collected data were subjected to two way analysis of variance through statistical package SPSS version 13 to evaluate mean differences in hematological and blood biochemical parameters of different age groups. Difference among the means of groups with p<0.05 was considered as significant through LSD test (Steel et al.1997).
In this study age and gender had a remarkable influence on the pattern of hematological and biochemical values of both sheep and goat. The RBCs, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, WBCs and lymphocytes counts found significantly (p<0.05) higher in animal of age 18 to 20 months as compared to other groups in both species, While MCHC, monocytes and granulocytes found non-significantly (p>0.05) different. Male showed statistically (p<0.05) higher RBCs, Hb, PCV and MCV values as compared to female. The glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, urea, AST, ALT, Total protein, albumin and globulin were found significantly (p<0.05) different by the aging of animal. Gender had no significant (p>0.05) influences on biochemical parameters of both sheep and goat.
Conclusion
Based on these findings age and gender had significant influence on hematological and biochemical parameters. In general veterinary practices, body weights are usually considered for therapeutic and nutritional strategies. Often too young animals are treated with more caution. In conclusion it can be mentioned that not only body weight but also age of the animals should be considered for devising therapeutic and nutritional strategy in livestock.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1814,T] (1).
9.
Molecular Diagnosis Of Anaplasmosis In Buffaloes
by Muhammad Salman (2008-VA-135) | Prof. Dr. Khalid Saeed | Dr. Muhammad Imran Rashid | Dr. Wasim Shehzad.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Bovine Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne haemo-rickettsail disease, caused by Anaplasma species transmitted mechanically by flies, biologically by ticks and blood contaminant fomites. It is an economically important tick-borne disease of buffalo in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. In current study, we developed and optimized PCR first for detecting Anaplasma at genus level in buffaloes. One hundred (100) blood samples were collected from buffaloes around the Lahore region. The stained thin blood films were examined microscopically and 37% blood samples were found positive for intra-erythrocytic bodies which were then selected for DNA extraction. The DNA was extracted using commercially available kit for eventual use in optimization of PCR for diagnosis of bovine Anaplasmosis. The primers were designed targeting 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasma. For the detection, the PCR product was run in 2% agarose gel stained with ethidium bromide and thirty seven samples showed the amplification band at 179bp. The selected samples were sent for ABI sequencing to Singapore for the accurate detection of the Anaplasma species. The sequencing results were blasted with database of Genbank and we observed homology with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. We found 37% prevalence of Anaplasmosis in buffaloes through PCR. However more studies are required to confirm the species of Anaplasma infecting buffaloes (Bobalus bobalis) by designing species specific primers. Furthermore, additional studies are needed to establish the epidemiology of Anaplasmosis by using molecular tools in different geographical areas of the country for their better control.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2389-T] (1).
10.
Morphological Structure Of Thalli Sheep Through Principal Component Analysis Of Body Measurements Muhammad
by Muhammad Arslan Akbar (2014-VA-07) | Prof. Dr. Khalid Javed | Dr. Afzal Ali | Dr. Nisar Ahmad.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: Mutton is also very extensively used food and sources of mutton are only sheep and goat.
Sheep have a great genetic potential to fulfill the increasing demand of mutton in our country.
Body conformation and features are very important traits in milch, meat and wool animals. In
developing countries, record keeping is at initial level and the records about pedigree and progeny
of individuals are insufficient and do not provide the estimation about genetic parameters.
Therefore, phenotypic information are necessary for the explanation of relationship among linear
type traits and selection is based on these traits. Principal component analysis technique has been
used to identify the body size, body shape, head size and over all body conformation in Zulu Sheep.
Animal conformation and genetic parameters can be measured by using the technique of
phenotypic characterization.
Data on morphometric traits of Thalli sheep were collected from “Small Ruminant
Research and Development Centre, Rakh Khairewala, District Layyah, Punjab, Pakistan” and
Livestock Experiment Station, Rakh Ghulaman, District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. Different
phenotypic parameters and twenty one (21) morphometric traits were measured on animals of
Thalli sheep. The traits measured were birth weight, body weight, heart girth, body length, withers
height, head length, head width, ear length, ear width, neck length, neck width, barrel depth, sacral
pelvic width, rump length, rump width, tail length, testes length, testes width, scrotal diameter, teat
length and teat diameter. Different phenotypic characters was recorded as body color, body shape,
eye color, head color, fore head color, face color, face structure, chin color, ear color, ear nature,
appendages color, nostril structure, muzzle structure, neck structure, tail color and tail switch.
Summary
174
Weighing balance (digital) was used for determination of body weight and a flexible
measuring tape (tailor tape) was used to record the different body measurements. To avoid
variations among individuals, measurements were taken by the same person. Animals of different
age groups were reared at these research stations. Animals were divided into different groups (A,
B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I) according to their age as 0-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-18, 19-21, 22-
24 and above 24 months. Each group was further divided into two sub-groups of males and females
animals. Normality of data were checked against all animals (overall group and separate groups)
and all animals were fallen in ±3SD but two outliers had been removed. Data on morphometric
traits were analyzed statistically for mean, range, coefficient of variation and standard error.
Pearson’s coefficient of correlation among different biometric traits was estimated and data were
generated for principal component analysis (PCA) from the correlation matrix. Regression
equations were developed for the estimation of body weight.
Descriptive statistics (mean, range, standard deviation and coefficient of variation) of body
measurements of overall female were showed coefficient of variations of overall female animals
of Thalli sheep for mostly variables were ranged from 10-20% and coefficient of variations of birth
weight and body weight were 22.38% and 25.75% respectively. Coefficient of variations of male
animals of Thalli sheep for linear body measurements were ranged 08-25% and tail length had
high coefficient of variations as 26.89%. Male animals of all age groups are heavier than females.
Correlation coefficients of morphometric traits of overall females and males of Thalli sheep
were highly positive and significant (P≤0.01) among withers height, body length, heart girth, head
length, head width, ear length, neck length, neck width, rump length, rump width, barrel depth,
sacral pelvic width and body weight. Withers height, heart girth and body length were observed to
be significantly correlated with each other as well as with live body weight of all age groups.
Summary
175
For overall female animals, two principal components were extracted with eigenvalues
9.005 and 1.558 and 56.279% and 9.740% variances for PC1 and PC2 respectively and their
cumulative variance was 66.020%. For overall male animals, three principal components were
extracted with eigenvalues greater than 1 and PC1 showed high variance 57.516% and PC2 and
PC3 had variances as 12.184% and 7.022% respectively and their cumulative was components
76.721%. In all age groups which has been studied, withers height, body length and heart girth
have high values in commonalities as well as in component matrix. PC1, PC2 and PC3 showed
maximum variations in almost all age group studied.
Regression equations developed to estimate of live weight of all age groups were indicated
that almost all equations had variables withers height, body length and heart girth.
Conclusion:
From findings of present study, it was concluded that body measurements (Withers height,
body length and heart girth) had high correlations with each other and with body weight in almost
all age groups. Principal component analysis of morphometric traits was showed that most of
variation explained by PC1 and in some groups, PC2 and PC3 had also more effects.
Commonalities were higher which showed that all the variables were important but PC1 had high
values for withers height, body length and heart girth and maximum variance. This indicated that
morphometric traits are very important for selection of genetically elite animals. Morphometric
traits can be used to estimate the body weight in the field conditions, where weighing balance is
not usually available. However, further research is needed to investigate the relationship among
different morphometric traits in other breeds of goats, sheep and other livestock breeds like cattle,
buffalo, camel and horse of the country. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2471-T] (1).
11.
Occurrence And Economic Losses From Theileriosis On Commercial Dairy Farm Of Holstein Friesian
by Muhammad Rashid (2014-VA-503) | Dr. Muhammad Imran Rashid | Prof. Dr. Khalid Saeed | Dr. Liaquat Ahmad.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: Background: Theileriosis is a tick-borne disease and it is transmitted by the bite of ticks.
Previous work on disease problems in the study area suggested that Ticks and Tick-Borne
Diseases (TTBDs) are the major constraints to cattle production. They cause economic losses to
farmers in terms of cattle mortality, loss of body weight, loss of milk production and costs of
control of TTBDs by use of acaricides. Theileria is one of the major threat to cattle as it causes
anemia, weight loss, decrease production, mortality, treatment cost and cost for the control of
theileria. The proper data for losses atributed to theileriosis is still not available in Pakistan. For
this purpose a study was carried out in a commercial exotic dairy farm to evaluate losses
associated with theileriosis
Methodology: The study was done during the period of theileriosis to calculate its economic
effect on animal health and production. A total of 150 animals were selected randomly using
random number sample formula. The animal tag numbers were compared with random number
table, comparing animals were slecteded for study. Thin blood smear was performed for
diagnosis haemoparasite, further PCR was performed on those animals that were found +ve for
intraerythrocytic bodies. Faecal examination, California mastitis test, teat abnormality and
parturition history were recorded for the screening of these factors that decrease milk production.
After final grouping, milk production was recorded to identify the effect of theileriosis on
production. As theileriosis cause anemia due to destruction of RBC’s. body condition scoring
was also performed. Physical examination (lymph node and body temperature) of animals were
also performed to evaluate the clinical and subclinical theileriosis.
Results: For the evaluation of theileriosis, microscopy was performed on all the animals’ blood
samples. Haemoparasites were found in 28.67%. These were further processed by PCR for the
CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY
Summary
55
detection of theileriosis. Theileria was found in 27.90%. Screening of clinical and subclinical
mastitis by Califirnia Mastitis Test and microscopy for gastrointestinal parasite were performed.
On faecal examination, there found nematode, cestode and balantidium in 51.72%, 60.92% and
42.53%% respectively. After deworming with Valbazine and curafluke, nematode, cestode
(monzia), balantidium and coccidiosis were found in 0%, 39.13, 43.48% and 4.35% respectively.
Before grouping clinical and subclinical mastitis were found in 5.38% and 24.62% respectively.
After grouping clinical and subclinical mastitis were evaluated by California mastitis test with
two weeks interval. At 7th week clinical and subclinical mastitis were 3.85% and 7.69% due to
improved management. The decrease in milk production for clinical and subclinical theileriosis
was 87 lit./animal and 42.77 lit./animal. Costs for control, treatment and mortality were 0.12%,
0.20% and 13.09% respectively from overall farm expenditure. The prevalence of haemoparasite
was 28.67%, while the prevalence of theileriosis was 8%. The new cases of theileriosis were
recorded and incidence of theileriosis was found to be 2.25%. Overall losses due to theileriosis
was 13.70%.
Outcomes: We can conclude from our finding that theileriosis has drastic affect on the
profitability of the farms. Then losses can be attributed to decreased milk production and
mortality. Medications and control measure for theileriosis have added effect on the losses at
exotic animal breed dairy farms.
Perspectives: Cost analysis studies need to be done on different dairy farms of cattle of different
breeds at different ecological/climatic zones of Pakistan so that investors would know the risks
of establishing dairy farms. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2515-T] (1).
12.
Effects Of Dietary Supplementation Of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Powder On Redox Status, Hepatic And Kidney Function In Rats Exposed To Heat Stress
by Noor Muhammad Khan (2015-VA-07) | Dr. Khalid Abdul Majeed | Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz Yousaf | Dr. Hafsa Zaneb.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2017Dissertation note: here are a number of stressors which adversely affects the normal homeostasis of the body. One of them is heat stress which has marked damaging effect on the normal physiology of an individual. Moringa oleifera is a versatile plant from Moringaceae family. Moringa oleifera is a best food plant but it also has a large potential as a medicinal plant. Due to rich source of flavonoids, Beta- carotenes, vitamin A & D, Moringa oleifera is known as a best natural anti-oxidant. The leaves of Moringa oleifera also possess hepato-protective and renal protective activities due to its rich anti-oxidant potential.
Hypothesis:It was hypothesized that Moringa oleifera leaf powder supplementation will ameliorate the redox status, hepatic and kidney function in rats exposed to heat stress.
Methodology: Adult male wistar rats (n= 24) were procured and housed in stainless steel cages in the experimental animal shed of department of Physiology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-Pakistan. After acclimatization, rats were divided in to four groups (One control and 3 MOLP treated groups). Rats were exposed to high environmental temperature (37±1°C ) for one hour daily(12.00 PM-1.00 PM) throughout the experimental period of 21 days for the induction of heat stress(Sinha. 2007). Anti-stress properties of Moringa oleifera leaf powderwere examined by measuring biochemical parameters, i.e. redox by estimating serum malondialdehyde through assay used by(Ohkawa et al. 1979) and catalase by the same spectrophotometric protocol in accordance with the study (Hadwan et al. 2016). Analysis of liver function enzymes (Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase and Alkaline phosphatase), kidney function (Blood urea nitrogen, uric acid and serum creatinine), serum
Summary
38
glucose and lactate dehydrogenasewere carried out by using commercially available kits provided by Human Diagnostics, Germany.
Results:The present study revealed that Moringa oleifera leaf powder supplementation during heat stress has a significant effect (P<0.05) on serum redox status. Serum malondialdehyde and catalase were significantly reduced by Moringa oleifera leaf powder supplementation. On the other hand, Moringa oleifera leaf powder demonstrated a non-significant effect (P>0.05) on hepatic and kidney function. Serum Glucose was also not altered by powdered leaf supplementation of Moringa oleifera.
Statistical analysis: The data was analyzed by using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS software. The group differences were compared by the Tukey’s Test. Differences were considered significant at P<0.05.
Conclusion: From this study, it was concluded that Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) has a potent antioxidant potential without any marked ameliorative or deteriorative effect on hepatic and kidney functioning in heat stressed rats. Further studies are required to explore the potential of other portions of this plant in heat stress. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2783-T] (1).
