Zootechnical indexes of dairy cattle in Acre

Abstract

In the dairy farm, the zootechnical performance indicators obtained are fundamental for the decision of the milk producer and have a direct influence on production and profit. The work aimed to evaluate the zootechnical indexes of dairy cattle in the state of Acre. Data collection was carried out on 240 rural properties in the municipalities of Rio Branco, Plácido de Castro, Acrelândia and Porto Acre. The collection was performed out by means of a zootechnical control carried out on the properties during the research period. The dairy cattle herd in the state of Acre has an average of 69 animals, distributed in dry cows (mean = 15), lactating cows (mean = 26), heifers (mean = 7), calves (males + females = 19) and bulls (mean = 3). Most animals (52%) are crossbred (Bos taurus x Bos indicus) and have no defined racial pattern. Were found breed animals Girolando (24%), Dairy Gir (13%), Dutch (6%), Swiss Brown (3%) and Dairy Guzerá (1%). The age at first delivery was on average 36 months. The birth rate averaged 75%. Mortality rate of 2.5%. The birth interval was on average 18 months. It is concluded that dairy cattle in the state of Acre have a low genetic pattern for dairy fitness and the percentage of lactating cows is low. The age at first calving and the interval between deliveries are above what is appropriate for crossbred herds on pasture. The birth and mortality rates are within those recommended for dairy cattle.