VolRC RAS scientific journal (online edition)
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Journal section "Breeding, selection and genetics of farm animals"

Assessment of Breeding Value and Reproductive Efficiency of Cattle in the Volga Region Population

Lushnikov V.P., Preobrazhenskaya T.S., Strilchuk A.A., Tatyanina E.O.

Volume 9, Issue 3, 2026

Lushnikov V.P., Preobrazhenskaya T.S., Strilchuk A.A., Tatyanina E.O. (2026). Assessment of breeding value and reproductive efficiency of cattle in the Volga region population. Agricultural and Livestock Technology, 9(3). DOI: 10.15838/alt.2026.9.3.7 URL: http://azt-journal.ru/article/30678?_lang=en

DOI: 10.15838/alt.2026.9.3.7

Abstract   |   Authors   |   References
This article presents monitoring data on the breeding value, milk productivity, and reproductive performance of the Simmental cattle raised in a breeding farm on the right bank of the Saratov Region. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2024 and is based on zootechnical records of the dairy herd and replacement heifers. Productivity was recorded through monthly control milkings; milk chemical composition was analyzed in an accredited laboratory; and herd population and reproduction events were recorded using an automated herd management system. Statistical processing was performed using conventional methods. The results of annual scoring (bonitation) indicate a high genetic level of the herd: the proportion of animals classified as “Elite Record” and “Elite” averaged 87.0–100.0%. Average 305 day milk yield ranged from 2,461 to 6,159 kg. The mass fraction of fat in milk ranged from 4.15% to 4.33%, and protein from 3.02% to 3.34%. In 2024, not only did milk protein content increase (by 0.32 percentage points compared to 2019), but reproductive indicators also improved. The service period decreased from 156 to 117 days, with a conception (insemination) index of 1.0 for cows and heifers. The yield of live calves remained at 81–84 heads per 100 cows, partly due to the stabilization of the dry period within the range of 59–69 days. The indicators for 2022 highlight the need to optimize feeding practices and continue systematic breeding work with qualified personnel. The findings should be taken into account when developing combined (dual purpose) cattle farming in farms with similar agro ecological conditions

Keywords

Cattle breeding, Simmental breed, lactation performance, milk composition, reproductive efficiency, herd classification, genetic potential, combined (dual purpose) animal husbandry

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