Linear functional type traits for reproductive efficiency in Hariana cows

Abstract

Hariana cows were scored for 13 linear type traits to identify the indicators for reproductive performance of the cows. the reproductive efficiency was measured in terms of inter-calving period from first to fourth calving. The type scores were standardized for stage of lactation, age at first calving and scoring. The mean scores of linear type traits varied from 72.2 ± 0.77 to 81.38 ± 0.54 points.The estimates of heritability for most of the type traits were medium to high and indicated the existence oflarge additive genetic variability for these traits in this breed. The phenotypic correlations of linear type traits with reproductivce efficiency ranged between 0.02 ± 0.08 and 0.20 ± 0.09. All the 13 linear lype traits accounted for 14.03% of the variability in reproductive efficiency of Hariana cows. Step-wise regression analysis revealed that 56,38% of the variablity accounted by all linear type traits in reproductive efficiency could be predicted by a sub-set of 4 traits which included dairy character, pelvic angle. rear udder height and teat placement. It was concluded that in the absence of records, the reproductive performance of Hariana cows be judged at an early age with the help of some linear type traits.