Factors affecting composition of milk of buffaloes

Abstract

Factors affecting milk composition of Murrah buffaloes were studied on 682 samples during the lactation of300 or less days. Overall values of fat, solids-not-fat (SNF), total solids (TS), protein. casein and lactose percentages averaged 7.65±0.05, 9.36±0.02. 17.01±0.05, 3.81±0.02, 3.02+-0.01 and 4.83±0.01 respectively. All traits of milk composition differed significantly among months oflactation. The fat, SNF, TS, protein and casein of milk decreased to lowest percentage of 7. 12±0.10. 9.22±0.03, 16.33±0.12, 3.65±0.04 and 2.89±0.03, respectively, during the fourth month and increased at subsequent months of lactation. However, lactose percentage increased to peak of 4.90±0.03 during fourth month and decreased slowly thereafter during the lactation. The fat and TS percentage were significantly higher in the first parity. Season of calving did not affect the milk composition of Murrah buffalo; however, year of calving was significant for all the traits.