Effect of Calf Gender on Milk Composition, Reproductive Hormones and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Female Dromedary Camel

Abstract

Arabian dromedary camels received little interest compared to other domestic animals. Literature data about factors affecting camel's milk composition and serum biochemical profile are limited and not sufficient. In the present study a total of 60 milk samples (Three milk samples were collected from each animal for three consecutive days) and 20 blood samples were collected individually from 20 clinically healthy female dromedary camels at first month of lactation to study the effect of calf gender on milk composition, some hormonal and serum biochemical profile. Animals were grouped into two groups, A and B. Group A contained 10 females dromedary camels that gave birth to male calves and Group B contained 10 females dromedary camels that gave birth to female calves. All samples were analyzed, and the result revealed that calf gender has non-significant effect (P>0.05) on milk composition, serum progesterone, cortisol, calcium and magnesium levels. While significant effect but not sharp (P=0.02) were observed on serum phosphorus levels and high significant effect were recorded on serum estrogen level (P<0.0001).Since such study are rare inEgypt, the data presented, could be used as a reference guide for the effect of calf gender on milk composition, reproductive hormones and serum biochemical parameters of female dromedary camel during early lactation.