Typology assessment of dairy cattle production in the major productive region of Tunisia.

Abstract

The study aimed to identify dairy systems related to purebred cattle in Tunisia and their effects on milk production and quality. A survey of 102 breeders across 17 governorates focused on feeding practices and milk parameters. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed three farm groups: Group I (51% of farms) relies on rainfed systems with limited forage; Group II (26%) employs mixed irrigation with moderate forage; and Group III (23%) uses irrigation, featuring larger farms and diverse diets. Significant differences were observed among groups in terms of farm size, cow numbers, and diet composition (P<0.0001).

Results showed that Group III produced the highest daily milk yield (21.59 kg), while Group I had the lowest (16.45 kg). Fat content exceeded the national average in all groups, with Group III showing the highest at 38.2 g/L. Protein levels also surpassed average values, particularly in Group III (30 g/L). Group II had the highest urea content (44.81 mg/dL), indicating dietary imbalances. Overall, the analysis distinguished dairy farms by agricultural systems, with irrigated farms demonstrating superior milk production and quality for purebred cattle.