UN SDG
Livestock Studies
2003, Vol 43, Num, 2 (Pages: 015-022)
A Study on Adaptation Index for Brown Swiss and Holstein Female Calves Raised in Harsh Climatic Conditions
2 Atatürk Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Zootekni Anabilim Dalı, Erzurum - The study was carried out in the research farm of Ataturk University and for each traits 183 records of 57 heads of Holstein Friesian and Brown Swiss calves at 6-12 months of ages were used. Rectal temperature and respiration rates of the animals were measured and their AI (Adaptation Index) values were calculated during in one year, periodically. During the research, temperature and relative humidty levels of the barns were recorded and THI (Temperature-Humidity Index) values were determined.
The significant differences were determined between breeds for AI (P<0.001). The level of adaptation was determined to be better for Brown-Swiss than Holstein-Friesian for present conditions. Both breeds had difficulties in term of AI in July-August, especially at midday times (AI=1.412 and 1.448). Where as correlations between AI and THI, calculated both morning and midday were positive and high (0.937 and 0.969), the correlations between AI and relative humidity were found to be negative and high (-0.776 and -0.890).
Keywords : Temperature Humidity Index, Adaptation Index, Holstein Friesian, Brown Swiss