Characterization of the First Native Chotanagpuri Buffalo Population of Jharkhand, India

Chotanagpuri buffalo is a lesser-known buffalo population of India and represents the first native buffalo population identified from Jharkhand. The present study was undertaken to document the morphometric, phenotypic, reproductive, and production characteristics of this buffalo population under its native tract. A field-based survey was conducted in the southern Chotanagpur region covering Ranchi, Gumla, Khunti, Simdega, and adjoining districts of Jharkhand. Detailed observations on physical and morphological traits were recorded along with comprehensive morphometric measurements, including body dimensions, horn, ear, tail, and facial measurements, as well as body weight. Reproductive and production parameters such as age at first calving, calving interval, milk yield traits, lactation length, dry period, and lactation yield were also evaluated. Chotanagpuri buffaloes were found to be medium sized with a compact body, predominantly black coat colour, greyish black hooves, and black eyelids and muzzle. Ears were horizontally oriented, and horns were medium to large, curved backward and forward without twisting. Tail switch colour showed variation, being black, brown, or white. The overall mean values for body length, height at withers, chest girth, paunch girth, and body weight were 128 cm, 131 cm, 182 cm, 197 cm, and 393.34 kg, respectively. The least square means for age at first calving and calving interval were 49.48 months and 440.78 days, while average daily milk yield, peak milk yield, lactation length, dry period, and lactation yield were 3.66 litres, 4.69 litres, 191.56 days, 241.08 days, and 844.91 litres, respectively. The study establishes Chotanagpuri buffalo as a distinct and unique buffalo population, highlighting the need for its conservation and genetic improvement.