Optimizing reproductive efficiency to improve productivity in buffaloes

Abstract

Optimizing reproductive efficiency involves managing reproductive traits to achieve the goal of getting calves at regular intervals as decided by the management, and increased milk yield. In fact, losses from impaired reproductive efficiency or reproductive failures constitute the greatest cause of losses in productivity of calves and milk yield in buffaloes. Certain reproduction targets, interference levels, and management practices and protocols, useful to buffalo farmers for optimizing reproductive efficiency are discussed here briefly to improve productivity under Indian agrarian conditions. Also, importance of regular and accurate recording of reproductive events is emphasized to utilize the production potential of the buffalo farming system.