Adaptation of high-yielding breeding cattle from the regions of the Russian Federation to the conditions of the Far North (Yakutia)

The article is devoted to the adaptation of imported cattle in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The aim of the research is to assess the adaptation of breeding dairy cattle imported to the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) to the extreme climatic conditions of the region. In the period from 2013 to 2022, 3856 heads of high-yielding breeding cattle were imported: Red Steppe breed,

Black Pied breed, Red and White breed and Holstein. The research was based on the annual farm reports and the results of blood molecular genetic diagnostics by the laboratory of Sahaagroplem. Molecular genetic screening for CD18 (BLAD), FANCI (BS) and SLC35A3 (CVM) abnormalities included testing of 463 cattle by PCR-RFLP method. EXCELL BIOTECH reagent kit (Excel Biotech Corp., Yakutsk) was used for genomic DNA extraction. The research revealed the frequency of recessive mutations and showed that the adaptation of imported cattle is complicated by harsh climatic conditions, prolonged stabling, lack of outdoor exercise and unbalanced feeding. All of these factors lead to the underutilization of their genetic potential, recurrent diseases, low calf yield and reduced milk productivity. Comparative analysis of milk yields showed that the average productivity of cows in Yakutia ranged from 2,717 to 3,754 kg of milk per lactation. These results are significantly lower than the indicators of the central zone of Russia. The highest frequency of mutant genotypes of the CD18 gene (BLAD) was observed in the Black Pied breed (2.0%), while the highest frequency of the FANCI gene (BS) was observed in the Kholmogorsky breed (9.52%). At the same time, SLC35A3 gene carriers (CVM) were not found among the tested animals. The results of the research prove the necessity of pre-laboratory diagnostics of breeding cattle. For full disclosure of genetic potential and successful adaptation of cattle to the harsh conditions of Yakutia, cattle breeding farms are recommended to carefully select breeds, take into account their adaptive potential, and provide adequate housing and feeding conditions. Laboratory diagnostics should be continued to further control genetic defects and prevent diseases.

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