The rate of cutaneous evaporation in some tropical and temperate breeds of cattle in Nigeria

Abstract

SUMMARYThe rate of cutaneous evaporation was highest in the White Fulani (Bos indicus) followed by the N'Dama and German Friesian (Bos taunts). The lowest rate of evaporation was recorded in the Muturu (Bos taurus brachyceros). In all breeds, the rate at 15.00 hr was significantly higher than at 18.00 hr.For the sites sampled, evaporation rate was highest on the hump and mid-side, followed by the neck and lateral thigh and lowest on the dewlap and navel flap.The possible correlation of these results with the size and distribution of the sweat glands on various sites of different cattle breeds is discussed.