M. Tariq

Milk Production, Quality and Composition of Traditionally Managed Camels: Non-genetic Factors and Their Physiological Effects on Production and ... Pastoral Management Conditions of Pakistan M. Tariq

Present manuscript reports about the factors affecting milk production & composition & also points out the management factors affecting udder health in traditionally managed camels. Season of the year, parity & stage of lactation affected significantly(p<0.05)daily milk yield. It was higher during winter season (6.20±0.20kg) as compared to summer season (4.40±0.20kg) & in 3rd parity the highest daily milk yield was 12.04±0.48kg whereas camels in 5th & 6th parities produced significantly lower milk volumes as 3.86±0.74, 4.44±0.80 & 4.24±0.91kg, respectively. It was the highest in 1st month of lactation (6.27±0.34kg), thereby remained constant from 2nd to 10th month of lactation (5.12±0.40-5.14±0.40kg) & was the lowest in 11th and 12th months of lactation (4.67±0.20kg). Regarding milk composition, season had no effect (p>0.05) on milk acidity, parity significantly affecting (p<0.05) fat% & lactation stage having no effect (p>0.05) on %age protein, fat, lactose, acidity and SNF. This study indicated that camels are reliable source of milk in hostile regions & proper mastitis control program & provision of adequate feed & water during extreme weather would result in better production.