Reproductive performance of female swamp buffalo in West Sumatra

Abstract

The swamp buffalo population in West Sumatra Province decline continuously due to the low female reproductive performance. This research was conducted to identify female buffalo reproductive performance, which could be used as baseline data to enhance its population growth. A survey research method was conducted in two subdistricts, namely Lubuk Basung and Matur, located at different altitudes. Data were collected by interviewing farmers and observing their farms. The parameters observed were age at first mating, age at first calving, calving interval, service per conception, and buffalo farming practices. Significant differences in reproductive performances of female buffalo were observed. Age at first mating 39.04 ± 9.91 and 33.67 ± 5.3 mo., age at first calving 51.61 ± 9.95 and 45.71 ± 5.58 mo., calving interval 27.26 ± 8.84 and 24.17 ± 7.06 mo., and services per conception 1.82 ± 0.82 and 1.55 ± 0.78 were represented buffalo in Lubuk Basung and Matur, respectively. The buffalo reproductive performances in both locations were not optimal; however, Matur's buffalo reproductive performances were better than those in Lubuk Basung due to its better farming practices and more comfort climatic conditions. Therefore, improving farming practice is essential to enhance buffalo's reproductive performance and population growth.