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Impaired reproduction in Japanese Black cattle under cold environmental conditions
1Laboratory of Animal Feeding and Management, Department of Animal Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori, Japan.
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|February 21, 2017
Summary
Environmental heat stress negatively impacts cattle reproduction. This study found that cold temperatures, not heat, significantly reduced conception rates in Japanese Black cattle due to a carryover effect from the preceding cold season.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Environmental Physiology
Background:
- Environmental factors, particularly the temperature-humidity index (THI), are recognized to influence cattle reproductive efficiency.
- Understanding these impacts is crucial for optimizing breeding programs and herd management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between THI and reproductive performance in Japanese Black cattle.
- To determine the timing of THI's effect on conception rates.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of first-service conception rates (CRFA) from 178,492 artificially inseminated cows over three years in Japan.
- Statistical correlation analysis between THI and CRFA, considering different time lags before artificial insemination (AI).
Main Results:
- A significant negative correlation was observed between THI in the month of AI and the calving to first AI interval.
- CRFA exhibited a cyclical pattern with a time lag relative to THI.
- Stronger correlations between CRFA and THI were found 2-3 months prior to AI, indicating a delayed impact of environmental conditions.
Conclusions:
- Decreased THI (colder conditions) is associated with reduced reproductive performance in Japanese Black cattle.
- The negative impact of cold environments on conception rates is primarily due to carryover effects from the preceding cold season, not conditions during the time of insemination.
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