Exploiting and developing the genetic resources of Thanh Chuong buffaloes in the Northeast and North Central regions of Vietnam.

The task of exploiting and developing the genetic resources of Thanh Chuong buffaloes has opened up a systematic scientific approach to this valuable native livestock breed. From evaluating biological and genetic characteristics to building a system of breeding, selection, and reproduction processes, research results show great potential to improve the quality of the buffalo herd, increase economic efficiency, and contribute to the conservation of the endemic genetic resources of the area.

The project "Exploiting and developing the genetic resources of Thanh Chuong buffaloes in the Northeast and North Central regions," undertaken by Dr. Nguyen Van Dai and his colleagues at the Center for Research and Development of Mountain Livestock, focuses on perfecting the scientific and practical foundations for the conservation and development of indigenous buffalo genetic resources.

The mission aims to assess the biological characteristics and production capacity of Thanh Chuong buffaloes, establish basic standards for breeding herds, develop selection and breeding procedures for buffaloes for reproduction and commercial purposes, and form stable production and commercial herds.

The results showed that the project successfully established a production herd of 100 female pigs with characteristic appearance, standard birth weight, adult weight exceeding 430 kg, and first calving age under 46 months. This herd produced offspring with higher weight, contributing to the supply of good breeding stock for the locality and serving the conservation of genetic resources. A commercial herd model of 200 pigs was established, achieving an average weight gain of 600.1g/day during the 13-24 month period, demonstrating clear economic benefits for farmers.

The mission opened up a systematic scientific approach to the preservation of valuable native livestock breeds.

The project also applies advanced reproductive technologies such as synchronized estrus induction and artificial insemination, helping to improve reproductive productivity and the quality of the buffalo herd. Thanh Chuong buffalo semen is produced with good quality, with a germplasm yield of 81.8%. Three selected breeding bulls weighing over 720 kg meet the requirements for frozen semen production.

The main scientific products completed include reports evaluating biological characteristics and genetic levels, basic standards for production herds, breeding selection procedures, and procedures for breeding and commercial buffalo farming.

According to the report, the Thanh Chuong buffalo herd has superior productivity compared to the general herd, shortening the time to return to estrus, increasing birth weight, and increasing the number of calves born from the base herd. These commercial farming models achieve high weight gain and bring significant profits to farmers, while also reducing farming risks through the application of advanced techniques.

From a social perspective, the mission contributes to selecting high-quality breeding stock, promoting sustainable livestock development in rural areas, creating jobs, and increasing income for the people. The technical procedures and buffalo breeding systems developed help improve productivity, ensure social welfare, and contribute to the conservation of the valuable Thanh Chuong buffalo genetic resources.

Center for Science and Technology Communication

Source: https://mst.gov.vn/khai-thac-va-phat-trien-nguon-gen-trau-thanh-chuong-tai-vung-dong-bac-va-bac-trung-bo-197251211171039301.htm