Indigenous Livestock Breed Conservation

Indigenous Livestock Breed Conservation

Indigenous Livestock Breed Conservation (Achai Cattle and Aza Khel Buffaloes)

The need for conservation of species and genetic resources has not only an ethical basis in itself, but is also associated with many benefits for the present and the generations to come. According to FAO, all breeds should be conserved nationally, so that genetic variation is maintained to allow flexibility to meet future requirements for production and other unidentified needs. An old breed of cattle locally called “Achai” exists in the area since history. Azikheli buffalo was reported as distinct breed from other three buffalo breeds (Nili-Ravi, Kundi) of Pakistan based upon genetic analysis. Achai and Gibrali cattle are very closely related and are distinct from other cattle breeds of Pakistan.

Survey reports indicate that Achai cattle are fairly small-sized and light weight (150 to 180 kg for female and 175 to 200 kg for males) suitable for grazing on hills. The reported milk yield varies 685 kg / 272 days to 3 to 4 litres per day. Weight of calf at birth is 13 to 15 kg and weight gain is slow. Achai cattle probably have three subtypes; red dun (Jandool area), reddish brown (Paich valley of Afghanistan) and Gabrali of black coat (upper Kohistan and Swat). The most characteristic features of Achai cattle are its ability to survive and produce under extreme hot and cold conditions, suitability for grazing on steep hills and handling stress of long haulage or travel. Compared to many other breeds, it is also reported to be tick resistant.

As these breeds are least studied in Pakistan, the project aims to establish productive and reproductive parameters of these breeds. This will help in identifying peculiar characteristics of these breeds and long term conservation and utilization of these important livestock genetic resources of the country.