Comparative performance of Holstein-Friesian, Dutch-Friesian and Friesian × Africander heifers in the coastal belt of Mozambique

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe performance of groups of Holstein-Friesian, Dutch-Friesian and Friesian × Africander heifers in the coastal belt of Mozambique was compared over a 3-year period. The three groups of heifers were kept together under a reasonable level of management and feeding, and measurements were made of age at first calving, milk yield, days i n production, milkability, udder wearability, mastitis incidence, calving difficulties, reproductive efficiency, disease incidence, parasitic resistance and mortality.The highest milk production was obtained with the Holstein-Friesians followed by the Dutch-Friesians. Last came the Friesian × Africander which also showed older age at first calving, poorer milkability, fewer days in production and more udder wear. No significant differences were found in calving difficulties, disease incidence, parasitic resistance, mastitis incidence and mortality. The fertility level was relatively low in all groups.The results corroborate reports made by several workers that acclimatized European breeds can produce milk efficiently in the not-too-harsh areas of the tropics and sub-tropics if they are properly managed and fed. The main problem seems to be the relatively low fertility rates that are common in these areas regardless of breed.