engleski

Does the drought affects on the reproductive characteristics of goats in organic breeding?

Aim of research was to determine whether drought affects on reproduction of goats in organic production. The research was conducted on organic family farm that has long engaged in organic farming goats in Slavonia (locality Valpovo). The research included 22 goats Alpine breed during the two test years (2009 and 2010). Goats were about 4 years old, and in the third and fourth gravidity. Goats grazed on the organic pasture, and upon returning to the barn they consumed meadow hay (ad libitum) and 200 g of corn. Goats were reared according to Regulation of organic farming and mentioned feeds were produced in their own farm according to organic standards. Analyzing the weather conditions, it is evident that in year 2009 in the studied locality may be considered as a dry in comparison with year 2010 as rainy. During pasture season average monthly temperatures in year 2009 were higher by 2.00C, while average precipitations were lower for 437.0 mm in comparison with year 2010. Goats were mated during the both years in August, when with them stayed buck in the pasture and goats were kidding in February. During the dry year (2009) was determined significantly longer interval between kidding (372:358 days), smaller number of kids per goat (1.41:1.64) and liveborn kids (1.27:1.59), less litters with twins (11:13) in comparison with year 2010. Goat kids birth weight were also significantly less during the dry year in comparison with rainy year (3.67:3.86 kg). The reasons for these changes can be found in the dry period of the year that is reflected on the depletion of plant communities in the pasture and consequently lower intake of essential nutrients, as well as poor preparation of the goats for mating, and subsequent development of the fetus.

goat ; reproductive characteristics ; drought ; organic breeding

nije evidentirano