Abstract

RIERA-NIEVES, Mario et al. Morphological traits of the teats and their relationship with milk yield and milking efficiency carora in cows breed. Rev. Cient. (Maracaibo) [online]. 2008, vol.18, n.6, pp.734-738. ISSN 0798-2259.

The relationship between morphological traits of teats with milk yield (PDL), milk flow rate (VFL), and milking time (TOR) were studied in 285 Carora cows, in three farms of the Torres Municipality of the Lara State, Venezuela. PDL groups were divided into three groups, according to 305 days PDL, group I PDL minor a 3000 kg, group II between 3001 y 4000 kg y and group III PDL more of 4001 kg. The TOR was measured in minutes and the VFL, was recorded in kg/min. Data were analyzed with a linear model and ANAVAR was used to determine the significance level for actual and 305 days PDL, according to teat shape. The obtained statistical values were studied in relation to teat shape and. The phenotypic correlations between VFL y TOR with different teats measurements and milking properties were determined through the statistical program Statistical Service Solutions Product (SPSS). Teat shape significantly affected 305 days PDL (P < 0.05) but did not affect actual PDL. Mean of TOR was not affected by lactation number, milk yield group, lactation stage and teat shape. The level of milk yield and lactation stage impacted on the VFL (P< 0.01-0.001). The correlation between VFL and 305 days and PDL actual was significant, high and positive (P< 0.001). Diameter and length were negatively correlated with VFL. PDL increase in cows with funnel teat shape and decreased in cows with bottle teat shape. Therefore, cows with funnel teat shape should be recommended in crossbreeding programs order to increase 305 days PDL.

Keywords : Teat shape; milk flow rate; milking time; milk production.