Role of Non-Genetic Factors on Milk Yield and Milk Compositions of Indigenous River Buffalo in Bangladesh

Milk price is generally determined by its fat and protein content. However, these are often not emphasized in the buffalo genetic improvement programs. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects of non-genetic factors (regions, lactation orders, seasons of calving, calf sex, and stages of lactation) on buffalo milk yield and composition. The research was conducted in five upazilas (Madarganj, Ishwardi, Lalmonirhat, Ramgati, and Bauphal) of Bangladesh. The 300-day total lactation milk yield (TLMY) was estimated following ICAR guidelines, and milk composition was analyzed using a Lactoscan Milk analyzer. About 1153 test-day milk yield records were collected on 113 buffalo cows. The average TLMY was 816.39±18.1kg (664.01±24.03kg to 1027.07±22.25kg). The average fat, protein, lactose, and SNF (Solids-Not-Fat) contents were 8.22±0.05%, 3.68±0.02%, 5.13±0.02%, and 9.69±0.03%, respectively. TLMY was affected (P<0.001) by region, lactation order (P<0.001), calf sex (P<0.05), and calving season (P<0.01). Simultaneously, daily milk yield also differed (P<0.001) by stage of lactation. Accordingly, fat, protein, lactose, and SNF content differed (P<0.05 to P<0.001) by regions, lactation orders, calf sex, seasons of calving, and stages of lactation. The highest milk fat was found in the 3rd lactation (8.56±0.08%) and the highest milk protein in the 4th lactation (3.87±0.03%). Buffalo cows with male calves had more LMY, protein, and SNF. In addition, milk fat was negatively correlated with region, lactation order, calving season, and calf sex, while positively correlated with lactation stage (P < 0.001). Protein and lactose were positively correlated with region, lactation order, and calving season but negatively correlated with calf sex and lactation stage. The study highlighted that various non-genetic factors influenced milk yield and composition in buffalo cows.