Indicators for reproductive performance monitoring in dairy cattle
2019
P.R. Marini
The evaluation of a dairy herd performance requires having measurable quantitative indicators that relate productive, economic, social and environmental aspects that define its sustainability. This article intends to put in value data records jointly with the construction, analysis and use of indicators that facilitate the evaluation of the dairy systems in their reproductive aspect. To optimize the reproductive efficiency of a dairy herd it is necessary to perform a postpartum gynecological examination with treatment of possible alterations,an efficient heat detection and synchronization and an early service. The most important fertility indicators are: pregnancy rate at first service, number of services per conception, the calving-to-conception interval and conception rate. The goal is to achieve a calving interval of 12 months. Regardless of the type of system, it is essential to register the base information. In summary, the importance of considering a systemic view (involving different factors) of the reproductive issue is highlighted, with the help of a low input technology such as the case of data recording, followed by construction, analysis and use of indicators that facilitate the reproductive evaluation of dairy systems. Finally, it is necessary that the indicators used be useful as tools to reach the ideal objectives according to each productive system in particular.
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