Factors affecting the calving interval in Thai swamp buffaloes under smallholder farming systems
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Abstract
Calving interval (CI) is a critical indicator of reproductive efficiency in livestock systems, directly influencing the long-term productivity and sustainability of buffalo farming. In Thailand, swamp buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis carabanensis) remain an integral part of smallholder agriculture, particularly in the northeastern region. However, prolonged calving intervals remain a significant barrier to improved reproductive performance and economic returns. Despite its importance, limited empirical research has been conducted on the variability and contributing factors of CI under field conditions in smallholder systems. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of herd and year-season (YS) effects on CI in Thai swamp buffaloes managed under extensive smallholder systems. A total of 861 CI records from 343 buffalo cows, which were collected between 2009 and 2023 from 47 herds across seven northeastern provinces, were analyzed using a fixed linear model via SAS GLM procedures. The model incorporated herd and YS as fixed effects to estimate least squares means and standard errors. The average CI was 586.65±187.37 days, which ranged from 464.72 to 855.85 days across herds, with considerable variation across YS classes (412.53 to 1,107.24 days), suggesting the influence of environmental and seasonal factors. A negative regression slope (b = -5.25; R² = 0.1801) suggested a modest improvement in CI over the study period. Significant herd effects reflect variability in management practices, breeding strategies, and resource access. These findings emphasize the importance of effective farm management and seasonal planning to shorten CI and improve reproductive performance. Integration of genetic and nutritional interventions is recommended to enhance sustainable productivity in smallholder buffalo systems.
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References
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