Video-based detection of estrus and heat stress related behavior in dairy buffalo (Bubalus bubalis L.)

Garcia, H.P.T.

Video-based detection of estrus and heat stress related behavior in dairy buffalo (Bubalus bubalis L.)

2016

Garcia, H.P.T.

Early detection of estrus is necessary in conducting successful artificial insemination in dairy buffaloes to avoid economic losses to the breeders as well as the dairy industry. The study evaluated the heat stress and estrus related behavior of the dairy buffalo. Heat stress was determined using Temperature-Humidity Index values. Estrus synchronization was done to six buffaloes where tree had been subjected to mist-cooling at an hourly interval to reduce heat stress conditions. A closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera was installed in each pen to monitor the behavior of each animal. Estrus period was determined using the Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay from the serum samples collected from each buffalo. THI values were still above the threshold for heat stress (THI=75) despite the presence of a misting fan. However, the average THI values in the pen without mist cooling significantly higher than the THI values in the pen with mist cooling (p0.05). Estrus of the buffaloes subjected to mist cooling is significantly lower by an average of 2.63 deg C (p0.05). Estrus of the buffaloes subjected to mist cooling occurred three days after the prostaglandin injections, while the estrus of the buffaloes not subjected to mist cooling occurred six days after. The distance traveled is significantly higher in buffaloes without mist cooling during the non-estrus period (p0.05) as were the average duration of movement of buffaloes without mist cooling is significantly higher than those with mist cooling by 1.23 hours (p0.05). Cooler environment by misting enhances three days earlier behavioral estrus, with 2.6 deg C lower skin temperature, 50% higher distance traveled and 40 min longer drinking duration of dairy buffaloes. The study shows that heat stress lessens the intensity of estrus manifestation. Therefore, the signs of estrus are less visible.

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