Age-related changes in body weight, Body Conformation and Scrotal Circumference and Prepubertal Sexual behavior of Kundhi Buffalo Bull Calves

Abstract

A study was planned to evaluate the production profile of Marecha camel maintained in desert ecosystem of Thal area, Reproductive efficiency is the most important factor in livestock production. Buffalo bulls of excellent genetic make-up possessing high fertility can significantly improve reproductive and productive efficiency in buffaloes. In this situation, an effort is needed to identify areas of male buffalo reproduction that are of applied importance. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between age, body weight, scrotal circumference, body conformation and pre pubertal sexual behavior in Kundhi buffalo bull calves. A positive coefficient correlation (r = 0.90 to 0.95) at P>0.001 were found between age and other traits (body weight, S.C., height at withers, body length and heart girth).Sexual interest and mounting was observed at the mean age of 19.1 ± 0.72 and 21.1 ± 0.89 months respectively. First ejaculation with >10% sperm motility and onset of puberty in bulls was observed at the mean age of 24.2 ± 0.52 and 25.0 ± 0.57 months respectively, when the mean body weight and scrotal circumference reached 381 ± 27.60 kg and 23.17 ± 0.87 cm respectively.It was concluded that body weight, S.C. and body measurements increased linearly with age of the bulls. Generally, bulls gained about 15 kg body weight per month and that bulls grew faster from 12 to 20 months of age.