HGEN Comparison of performance traits between indigenous Ankole cattle and their crossbreds in Rwanda

Last changed: 01 February 2018

In general, cattle breeds imported from the Western world (exotic breeds) produce more milk but have problems to adapt to the environment in Rwanda. Therefore, a cross between indigenous Ankole and exotic breeds might combine the best of these breeds. But if you get too much exotic genes or if you cross indiscriminately, the original breed might disappear. The project will study the optimal level of crossbreeding.

The project aims are to study the average levels and variability in performance traits and adaptive traits of indigenous cattle and their crossbreeds in Rwanda, using animal performance and pedigree records. This involves the analysis of data generated on production and reproduction of different cattle genotypes at different Research Stations in Rwanda.

Specific objectives include:

  • To compare average performance and variability in performance between Ankole cattle and their crossbreds.
  • To investigate levels of performance of Ankole cattle and their crossbreeds in various production environments of the country
  • To study the influence of environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, on production in Ankole cattle and crossbred.

Facts:

The project is funded by: Sida

Duration of the project: 2015-2018

Project Leader: Erling Strandberg

Other contributors: Maximillian Manzi (PhD student), Lotta Rydhmer (HGEN), Martin Ntawubizi, Callixte Karege (UR)

Related pages:

Manzi, M., Rydhmer, L., Ntawubizi, M., Karege, C. and Strandberg, E. 2018. Growth traits of crossbreds of Ankole with Brown Swiss, Holstein Friesian, Jersey and Sahiwal cattle in Rwanda. Tropical Animal Health and Production (accepted)