The Journal of Buffalo Science is a peer-reviewed veterinary journal covering all aspects of veterinary sciences relating to buffaloes. The journal publishes high quality original articles, review articles, case reports and short communications as well as other scientific and educational articles. The journal facilitates the distribution and implementation of new ideas and techniques relating to clinical veterinary practice, with the ultimate aim of promoting the best practices. The journal is an essential reading for veterinarians primarily engaged in Buffalo related veterinary sciences.
Policy for Journals/Articles with Open Access Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post links to their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work
Differences in Physiological Characteristics and Heat Shock Protein Expression in Taiwan Swamp Buffaloes During Winter and Summer Seasons
Background: This study examined the respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and expression levels of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), as revealed by ELISA, in Taiwan swamp buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis, swamp-type) during the winter (February) and summer (August) seasons of 2022 in Taiwan. Methods: Data were collected from Taiwan swamp buffaloes during the winter and summer seasons. Respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and protein expression levels were measured and analyzed. Results: The results revealed age-related differences in response to changes in environmental temperature. In winter, buffaloes aged <1 year exhibited significantly higher respiratory rates, rectal temperatures, and heat tolerance coefficients than female buffaloes aged 14 to 20 years (P < 0.05). In the summer season, buffaloes aged <1 year had significantly higher rectal temperatures (P < 0.05) and higher expression levels of HSP70 (from ELISA) than female buffaloes aged 6 to 9 years and 14 to 20 years (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest that the age of Taiwan swamp buffaloes affects their physiological responses to heat stress, with younger buffaloes exhibiting greater physiological reactions to heat stress than older buffaloes.
Pregnancy and Embryonic Loss Among Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols in Post-partum Dairy Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
The aims of the study were to determine the pregnancies and embryonic losses following Timed Artificial Insemination (TAI) protocols and to generate strategic breeding management for buffaloes. In Study 1, buffaloes in natural estrus were inseminated, serving as Control (T1). In T2, buffaloes were subjected to the Controlled Internal Drug Release-Synch-human Chorionic Gonadotropin (CIDR-Synch-hCG) protocol. In T3, animals were subjected to Prostaglandin protocol, and T4 is similar to T3 except that hCG was supplemented on the Day of AI. In Study 2, buffaloes were subjected to the CIDR-Synch-hCG protocol, and the sizes of pre-ovulatory follicles were measured as the basis for the conduct of TAI. In Study 3, animals were similarly subjected to the CIDR-Synch-hCG protocol at different seasons. Results in Study 1 indicate that the CIDR-Synch-hCG protocol achieved pregnancy rates on Days 30 and 60 post-AI and embryonic loss, which are not significantly different (P<0.05) from those of natural estrus (T1), and that the Prostaglandin protocol supplemented with hCG (T4) resulted in significantly higher pregnancies and lower embryonic loss compared with Prostaglandin alone (T3) group. In Study 2, inseminating buffaloes with ≥12.0 mm pre-ovulatory follicle size (T3) yielded the highest pregnancies (P<0.05) at Days 30 and 60 with the lowest (P<0.05) embryonic loss among follicle size groups. In Study 3, TAI performed during January-March and October-December indicated significantly higher pregnancies (P<0.05) with lower embryonic loss (P<0.05) compared with the April-June and July-September seasons. In sum, the present study demonstrated the efficiencies of Timed AI protocols, which provided opportunities for their strategic use in breeding programs to achieve greater productivity and profitability from buffalo farming.
In Vitro Production and Transfer of Buffalo Embryos (Bubalus bubalis) in Argentina
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate different hormonal stimulation protocols over follicular development, oocyte quality, embryo production, and embryo transfer outcome. Methods and Materials: This study was performed in Argentina. Fifty-three non-pregnant females with proven fertility and good body condition were selected to produce embryos in vitro. Three ovarian stimulation protocols were tested: On Day 0, animals received a progesterone intravaginal device plus Estradiol Benzoate. On Day 4: TRT1 did not receive any treatment, TRT2 FSH (Folltropin-V®), TRT3 recombinant eCG (FoliRec®) TRT 4 serum eCG (Ecegon®), on day 7 oocyte retrieval was performed using ultrasonography. Embryos were produced, vitrified, and transferred to synchronized recipients using standard protocols. The number and quality of oocytes, number and size of follicles, embryo production, pregnancy rates, and Antimullerian hormone (AMH) levels were determined. Quantitative variables were compared, and an α level of 5% was considered significant. Results: The total number of oocytes, follicles, and zygotes did not differ across the treatments. Better oocytes were obtained in TRT2 and TRT4 (p<0.05). Embryo production was highest in TRT2 (1.5 embryos/buffalo/OPU), and cleavage was higher in TRT3 (p<0.05). Forty-two embryos were transferred, and 12 live births were obtained. All were males. Conclusions: The stimulation protocols used before OPU don’t improve the number of ovarian follicles; some treatments produce higher-quality oocytes and embryo production. AMH dosage can help in selecting animals to increase the efficiency of IVEP. Reasonable results were obtained from the transfer of vitrified embryos, and the subsequent birth of live animals demonstrates the viability of this technique.
Reticular Outflow, Rumen Dynamics, and Ingestive Behavior in Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) Fed Diets with Different Sources of Energy
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two energy sources, associated or not (crude glycerin and castor oil) in buffaloes' diets on intake, digestibility, rumen kinetics, feeding behavior, nitrogen balance, microbial protein synthesis, rumen fermentation, and blood metabolites. Four ruminally-cannulated Murrah buffaloes [526 ± 29 kg of initial BW] were randomly assigned according to a 4 x 4 Latin square design in which the animals were randomly allocated to each treatment: CONT = control with soybean meal associated with ground corn; GLY = crude glycerin, dietary inclusion of 90 g/kg; CAO = castor oil, dietary inclusion of 50 g/kg; GLYCAO = crude glycerin associated with castor oil, dietary inclusions of 50 g/kg GLY and 50 g/kg CAO. A higher ruminal renewal rate of DM and NDF and DM passage rate was observed for animals fed CON and GLY than the other diets (P < 0.05), the same fact was observed for rumination efficiency grams DM/hour (P < 0.001). Among the feed sources, crude glycerin can partially replace ground corn in the buffalo’s diet without compromising intake, nutrient metabolism, and rumen dynamics.
Maria Leonor Garcia Melo Lopes de Araújo
Sensory Acceptability of Buffalo Meat and Beef in Young Consumers
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensory acceptability of buffalo meat compared to beef, as well as to evaluate the perception of buffalo meat. Methods: The study was conducted with young meat consumers, who responded to a questionnaire with four sections: 1) sociodemographic aspects, 2) consumer preferences, 3) hedonic acceptability, and 4) perception of buffalo meat consumption. Three 2.5 cm thick steaks (Longissimus thoracis et lumborum) were compared: 1) select beef (slight marbling); 2) select buffalo meat (slight marbling); 3) prime beef (abundant marbling). The samples were evaluated by 76 young meat consumers (non-trained panelists). A seven-point hedonic scale was used to assess appearance, odor, flavor, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptability. Results: The results indicated that prime beef presented a better appearance (P=0.0042) and tenderness (P<0.0001) compared to select buffalo and select beef, respectively. Similarly, a higher score was observed in juiciness for prime beef (5.52±0.19 points), but a better score for buffalo meat compared to beef select was identified (4.52±0.18 points vs. 3.86±0.19 points, respectively; P<0.001). Most of the panelists indicated that prior to the study, they had not consumed buffalo meat (89.00%/n=68). However, they noted that buffalo meat was like select beef (71.00%/n=54). The panelist highlighted various reasons why buffalo meat is not commonly consumed, such as there is no information on the buffalo meat (93.42%/n=71), limited availability of buffalo meat products (60.52%/n =46), and unavailability at supermarkets (73.69%/n=56). Conclusions: Buffalo meat can be a good option for young consumers. However, more information about buffalo meat characteristics (chemical, nutritional, sensory properties, and technological quality) and improved marketing channels that ensure the availability of buffalo products are important.
Novel Insights into Lectin Binding Patterns in the Nasopharyngeal Tonsil of Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Background: The present study investigates the specificity of lectin binding in the nasopharyngeal tonsil of six healthy adult buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), a species not extensively studied regarding its immune system. Lectins, proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates, are used to identify and characterize different cell types that may have roles in immune responses. This study explores how lectins bind to various cells within the nasopharyngeal tonsil, shedding light on cellular differentiation, interactions, and the potential functional roles of these cells in mucosal immunity. Methods: A total of 21 biotinylated lectins, grouped into five categories based on their carbohydrate specificity (N-acetylglucosamine, N-acetylgalactosamine, galactose, glucose/ mannose, and fucose), were used to probe the nasopharyngeal tonsil tissue. Lectin histochemistry was applied to identify the binding patterns of these lectins to different cell types within the tissue, including epithelial cells, lymphoid cells, and specialized structures such as M-cells and P-cells. The study also involved the detection of vimentin filaments to explore potential immune responses within the tissue. Results: Lectin histochemistry revealed a dynamic epithelial composition of the nasopharyngeal tonsil, consisting of pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium and lymphoepithelium, with distinct adaptations in the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE). The FAE exhibited M-cells, which are believed to play a role in antigen processing. Additionally, a new class of cells, termed P-cells, was identified based on their lectin-binding patterns, which share similarities with M-cells but are distinct in their function. Lectins targeting N-acetylglucosamine exhibited varying affinities for M- and P-cells, while lectins recognizing N-acetylgalactosamine selectively bound to cilia and goblet cells. Lectins targeting galactose produced complex staining patterns in mucous glands and lymphoid tissues. Specific binding was also observed in lymphoid cells with lectins recognizing glucose/mannose and fucose groups. Vimentin filaments in lymphocytes and specialized epithelial cells suggest an involvement in immune response mechanisms. Conclusion: This study provides new insights into structural organisation landscape of the buffalo nasopharyngeal tonsil, highlighting the role of lectin-binding patterns in identifying specialized cells and tissues. The M-cells and discovery of P-cells and the detailed lectin-binding profiles may contribute to understanding the cellular dynamics of mucosal immunity. Additionally, the structural details uncovered in this study may serve as a valuable reference for comparative research on mucosal immunity across different species, advancing our understanding of antigen recognition and immune responses at mucosal surfaces.
Buffalo Disease Diagnosis Using Machine Learning: A Symptom-Based Text Classification Approach
Background: Buffaloes play a crucial role in the agricultural economy, especially in regions dependent on dairy and draught animals. However, research specifically targeting disease detection in buffaloes remains limited despite their susceptibility to several infectious diseases. Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for managing disease outbreaks and ensuring herd health. This study uses machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models to emphasize buffalo-specific disease classification. Five commonly occurring diseases, anthrax, blackleg, foot and mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, and pneumonia, were investigated using symptom-based textual descriptions, focusing on enhancing diagnostic accuracy for buffaloes. Methods: Textual symptom data were collected and pre-processed using Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) to convert unstructured text into numerical feature representations. The study explored three different classification algorithms: Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and XGBoost. Each model was trained and evaluated on species-specific subsets, with particular attention given to buffalo disease data. Performance was measured using classification accuracy and disease-wise detection effectiveness to assess the suitability of each model for buffalo diagnostics. Results: MLP consistently outperformed the other models in classifying diseases in buffaloes, particularly for anthrax and blackleg, which exhibit distinct symptoms. CNN demonstrated robust handling of complex symptom patterns, while XGBoost provided stable and generalized results. However, the classification accuracy declined for diseases with overlapping clinical features, such as pneumonia and lumpy skin disease. These patterns highlight the challenges in differentiating symptomatically similar diseases and indicate the need for enhanced symptom representation in future research. Conclusion: Based on textual symptom data, the study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of using ML and DL models for automated disease classification in buffaloes. MLP, in particular, shows promise for integrating into intelligent decision-support tools to improve diagnostic accuracy and response time in Buffalo Healthcare. The findings contribute to species-specific veterinary informatics and support the development of targeted surveillance systems for managing buffalo health more effectively.
Buffalo diseases, Machine learning, Deep learning, Disease classification.
Buffalo Identification in Mixed-Species Environments: A Comparative Deep Learning Approach Using ResNet50 and EfficientNetB3
Abstract:Background: Buffaloes are integral to agricultural economies, particularly in regions that depend on them for milk production, labor, and income. However, their accurate visual identification in mixed-species environments, especially when co-existing with animals like elephants and rhinos, remains a technological challenge. Methods: This study explores deep learning-based image classification for species-specific buffalo detection using two convolutional neural network architectures: ResNet50 and EfficientNetB3. A balanced image dataset comprising four classes (buffalo, elephant, rhino, zebra) was curated, with training (80%) and validation (20%) splits. The models were fine-tuned using transfer learning, with custom dense layers added atop frozen base layers. EfficientNetB3 used higher-resolution inputs (300x300) and extensive augmentation, while ResNet50 operated on 300x300 images. Performance was evaluated using confusion matrices and key metrics, including validation accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, primarily focusing on buffalo classification. Results:ResNet50 achieved a validation accuracy of 47%, and EfficientNetB3 achieved 42%. However, ResNet50 misclassified buffaloes heavily, resulting in a buffalo recall of only 0.07 and an F1-score of 0.11. In contrast, EfficientNetB3 correctly classified 72 out of 200 buffalo images, achieving a buffalo recall of 0.36 and an F1-score of 0.32. These numerical results highlight EfficientNetB3’s superior ability to identify buffaloes accurately in complex visual contexts. Conclusion: EfficientNetB3 is more effective than ResNet50 for buffalo-focused image recognition tasks, offering higher sensitivity and precision in buffalo classification. This study supports the development of AI-powered species-specific monitoring tools, aiding in health tracking, ecological studies, and smart agricultural systems.
Buffalo classification, Deep learning, EfficientNetB3, ResNet50.
Effect of Dominant Follicle Size and GnRH Administration at Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination on Pregnancy Rates in Female Buffaloes on Marajó Island, Brazil
This study aimed to verify the effect of GnRH at the time of artificial insemination and Dominant follicle (DF) diameter on the Pregnancy rate (PR). 384 multiparous upgraded Murrah breed buffalo within 30 to 60 days postpartum with a body condition score of 3.4±0.6 were used. The synchronization protocol consisted of a day 0 (D0) intravaginal device of 1g of P4, application of 2.0mg of BE, and administration of 10 ml of injectable mineral supplementation at 4 pm. On D9, at 4 pm, the device was removed, and injected 0.265 mg of PGF2α and 300 IU of eCG Intramuscular (IM). On day 11, females were categorized based on the size of their dominant follicles. Females with ≥ 13 mm DF were divided into two groups: group 1 received GnRH, while group 2 did not. Similarly, females with < 13 mm DF were split into Group 3, which received GnRH, and Group 4, which did not. At 4 pm, 0.1 mg of GnRH was administered IM according to their groups. On D12, 16 hours after the injection of GnRH (at 8 am), Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) was performed. The pregnancy was diagnosed after 30 days of FTAI by ultrasound. The overall PR was 53.9% (207/384). No significant difference was observed between the groups and follicular size. More pregnancies were observed when the follicle size was around 13mm. It was concluded the administration of GnRH could enhance the efficiency of FTAI in buffaloes.
Milk Quality and Prolactin Hormone Levels of Murrah Buffalo Fed with Local Forage and Urea Molasses Block at Kapau Village Agam Regency West Sumatra
Feeding is one of the main factors in the success of a Murrah buffalo farming business. Good quality feed will increase Murrah buffalo's productivity, including the quality of milk produced. Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) milk has the advantage of 6-8% fat and 3-8% protein compared to 3-4% fat and protein content in cow's (Bos taurus) milk. This study aims to improve milk quality and prolactin hormone levels in Murrah buffaloes by providing local forage-based feed and urea molasses block. This research is an experimental study with a Latin Square Design (LSD), using four female Murrah buffaloes as the research sample with the following feeding: P1 = basal feed (10% of body weight); P2 = 30% sweet potato leaves + 30% cassava leaves + 40% P1 + urea molasses block; P3 = 40% sweet potato leaves + 40% cassava leaves + 20% P1 + urea molasses block; P4 = 50% sweet potato leaves + 50% cassava leaves + urea molasses block. The parameters measured in this study were protein, amino acids, fat, milk fatty acids, and Murrah buffalo Prolactin Hormone levels. The results obtained in the study in order are as follows: protein (2.37-3.83%); amino acids (2.54-8.45%w/w); fat (5.86-9.22%); prolactin (1.61-1.99ng/ml). The results showed that feeding 50% sweet potato leaves, 50% cassava leaves, and urea molasses block can improve milk quality and prolactin hormone levels in Murrah buffaloes.
Evaluation of Glyceraldehyde 3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (GADPH) and Luteinizing Hormone Receptor (LHR) Gene Polymorphisms in Buffaloes and Cows
The present work evaluates whether buffalo and cattle have different sequences of luteinizing hormone receptor (LHr) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GADPDH) genes. DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of 38 animals (17 buffaloes and 21 cows) and the ovarian granulosa cells of 13 cows. Primers used for amplification were reported in the literature. The PCR products obtained were analyzed via electrophoresis on 1.5% agarose gels and sequenced via the Sanger technique. The electropherograms were analyzed via DNA Baser software, and the sequences were aligned via MEGA5 software. The quality of the electropherograms was evaluated via UGENE software.The edited contigs corresponding to the GAPDH gene were 100 nucleotides long, whereas those of the LHR gene reached 151 nucleotides. The most relevant changes were observed in the following positions: valine for isoleucine at position 65; asparagine for cysteine at position 67; alanine for glycine at position 70; threonine for proline at position 72; glycine for arginine at position 88; and alanine for aspartic acid at position 89. In the analyzed region, a variation was identified at position 446, where buffaloes preferentially present threonine, whereas in cows, alanine or valine.It is reported for the first time that there are differences in the LHr and GAPDH genes between buffaloes and cattle. The bioinformatic analysis of these sequences may explain whether the changes may affect the function of the genes and whether these may be responsible for the differences observed in the reproduction of the species analyzed.
glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase
Immunolocalization of Phospholipase C Zeta 1 in Water Buffalo Sperm and Its Role in Oocyte Activation
The present study aimed to investigate the expression and localization of Phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCZ1) in water buffalo sperm and determine its localization pattern following the induction of early fertilization events. Initially, water buffalo semen under uncapacitated conditions underwent western blot analysis to detect and localize the PLCZ1 protein via immunofluorescence, utilizing antibodies specific to buffalo PLCZ1. In a parallel experiment, a subset of sperm underwent in-vitro capacitation in a medium containing bicarbonate, followed by treatment with a calcium ionophore to induce the acrosome reaction, providing evidence of capacitation. The findings revealed the detection of PLCZ1 as an immunoreactive band at approximately 77 kDa in buffalo sperm. Furthermore, immunolocalization of PLCZ1 in uncapacitated buffalo sperm showed predominant expression in the acrosome and post-acrosomal regions, with minimal reactivity in the tail region. Conversely, capacitated buffalo sperm exhibited a shift in PLCZ1 localization, with a prominent presence at the acrosomal cap region of the sperm head and reduced reactivity in the tail region. This translocation of PLCZ1 in capacitated sperm suggests early physiological activities, particularly in inducing calcium oscillation to initiate oocyte activation during fertilization. Moreover, the successful detection of PLCZ1 in buffalo sperm in the present study highlights its potential as a biological marker for screening bull fertility and genetic improvement in water buffaloes.
Quality Characteristics of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Milk Candy as Affected by Different Ratios of Sucrose and Glucose Syrup as Humectant
Background: This research evaluates the effect of the different proportions of sucrose and glucose syrup (100:0, 85:15, 70:30, and 55:45) on the overall quality of buffalo milk candy. The objective was to identify the optimal ratio that enhances both its microbial stability and sensory appeal. Methods: Buffalo milk candy was kept at room temperature, and samples were drawn for microbial testing, moisture, water activity (Aw), and sensory analysis. Results: A visible mold growth was observed in 100:0 (Day 30), 85:15 (Day 40), and 70:30 (Day 52), and therefore, other analyses were discontinued. Moisture content and Aw of all the treatments were significantly different throughout the storage period. However, with the increase in glucose syrup, Aw decreases consistently with time, thus enhancing the product's safety and stability. On the other hand, sensory evaluation did not show significant differences across all parameters in all treatments during the storage period. Conclusion: In conclusion, the addition of a higher proportion of glucose syrup, specifically 55:45, improved both the shelf-life and maintained the sensory quality of buffalo milk candy.
Spontaneous Fermentation of Regional Fruit Beverages using Buffalo Yogurt Whey
Yogurt whey is a by-product of the filtration process in Greek-style buffalo yogurt. It contains beneficial compounds such as proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and lactic acid bacteria; yet, it is often discarded, contributing to environmental contamination due to its high biological oxygen demand. This study aimed to valorize this by-product by developing fermented beverages formulated by combining yogurt whey with regional citrus and tropical fruits. Eighteen formulations were prepared using whey, fruit pulp or juice (grapefruit and passion fruit), sugar, and filtered water, followed by spontaneous fermentation for 48 hours at ambient temperature (25 ± 2 °C). Physicochemical parameters (pH, °Brix, and Density) were measured before and after the filtration process. Two formulations, grapefruit (citrus group) and passion fruit (tropical group), were selected for sensory evaluation by 30 untrained panelists, who used a 9-point hedonic scale to assess aroma, flavor, and color. Physicochemical results showed minor changes in pH and significant increases in °Brix and Density in samples after filtration, particularly in beverages made with tropical fruits. Sensory analysis revealed high overall acceptability; passion fruit beverages received significantly higher overall and flavor scores from female participants than from males (p = 0.043). The results demonstrate the feasibility of transforming buffalo yogurt whey into a regionally inspired fermented functional beverage with favorable sensory acceptance and commercial potential. This approach presents an innovative strategy for reducing waste in the dairy industry. It supports sustainable food systems through the valorization of underutilized by-products and local fruits, which aligns with the principles of the circular economy.
Efficacies of PGF2α, Ovsynch, and CIDR Protocols on Synchronization of Estrus in Buffaloes: A Comparative Study
The present study aimed to compare the efficacies of PGF2α, GnRH, and CIDR on estrus synchronization of native buffaloes in Bangladesh. A total of 93 buffaloes of second to fifth parity were treated either with PGF2α, Ovsynch, or CIDR protocol. In the PGF2α experiment, buffaloes were treated with either 500 μg (n=20) or 875 μg (n=20) of cloprostenol, and artificial inseminations (AI) were done at 72 hrs after PGF2α injection. In the Ovsynch protocol, buffaloes were treated with 200 μg (n=11) or 350 µg (n=16) of GnRH at day 0, followed by 875 µg of PGF2α at day 7, and again 200 μg or 350 µg of GnRH at day 9, and AI was performed at 16 hrs after the second GnRH administration. In the CIDR protocol, a CIDR implant was placed intravaginally for 12 days with either 500 μg (n=13) or 875 μg (n=13) of cloprostenol at 24 hrs before the removal of the CIDR, and AI was performed at 72 hrs after the removal of the CIDR. The results showed that estrus response and conception rates did not differ significantly between PGF2α and GnRH protocols. Higher doses of PGF2α and GnRH did not result in any significant increase in estrus response in buffaloes. CIDR induced estrus in all buffaloes in both doses of PGF2α. Estrus rate was significantly higher (P=0.035) in buffaloes of the CIDR protocol than in the PGF2α and Ovsynch groups. Conception rates of buffaloes did not differ significantly (P=0.823) among the protocols. The calving rates were higher (P=0.278) in buffaloes synchronized with CIDR than in PGF2α and Ovsynch groups. The costs of materials per buffalo synchronized, conceived, and calved were higher in the CIDR protocol and lower in the PGF2α than in other protocols. However, considering all the expenses and calving rates, costs per buffalo calves were cheaper in the CIDR group with a higher dose of PGF2α. In conclusion, CIDR can be applied to increase the reproductive efficiency of buffaloes.
Innovative Use of Endogenous Enzymes to Enhance Silage Chemical Quality of Corn Straw for Buffalo (Bubalusbubalis) Feed in Samosir Island
On Samosir Island, there is an annual shortage of buffalo feed during the dry season. However, this feed shortage has caused farmers to scramble to find substitute feed. Still, it has also caused stress in the buffalo, which has led to the emergence of Haemorrhagic septicemia (HS), as Samosir is an endemic area (HS). Beginning in 2024, corn cultivation began to be widely practiced on the island of Samosir, which generates a significant amount of waste such as corn straw. This research focuses on preparing feed for buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) using fermented corn straw, with the fermentation process utilizing endogenous enzymes derived from rumen fermentation (EERF). It was obtained from fermented 100- day buffalo rumen, where the buffalo rumen comes from buffalo that consume corn straw. This study used a completely randomized design, a 3×3factorial with three replications. Factor I was various doses of EERF(2%, 4%,6%),and Factor II was different fermentation times(5d,10d, 15d).Parameters that were observed in this study were chemical quality: Dry Matter (DM), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Crude Protein (CP), and pH. Previously, isolation on EERF was carried out to identify the dominant fiber-degrading colonies, as they produce enzymes. Analysis of the potential of corn straw for buffalo feed was conducted by calculating corn straw production from the corn harvest area on Samosir Island. The result of this study is that corn straw fermentation using endogenous enzymes improves the chemical quality of silage, such as DM increasing from 38.59 to 46.17, NDF from 46.23 to 40.48, ADF from 30.53 to 24.21, CP from 9.25 to 9.86, and pH from 5.15 to 4.76. Through this improvement in nutritional quality, the dietary needs of buffaloes are met. This corn straw is sufficient for 9,565,101 buffaloes. Since corn cultivation has become intensive, there is a tendency of HS cases to decrease, with only 6 instances of HS in 2024 and 13 cases up to June 2025, while in 2023 there were 202 cases.
Biochemical Investigation of Serum Iron Level in Water Buffaloes in Three Regions of Babylon, Iraq
Buffalo is a multipurpose ruminant that can adjust to a variety of environmental conditions. The quality of soil and forages determines iron (Fe) availability to ruminants. The objectives of this study were to examine how serum Fe levels and related physiological and biochemical indices in water buffaloes affected by regional differences in Fe levels of soil and forages from three regions (South, Middle, and North) of the Babylon Province, Iraq. A total of 180 water buffaloes of various ages and sexes were randomly selected from three regions (South, Middle, and North) of Babylon Province, Iraq. All buffaloes were clinically examined. Then, fecal samples for parasitology examination and blood samples were collected for use in hematology and biochemical analysis.Soil and forage samples were collected and analyzed for Fe levels using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Data were statistically evaluated by using SPSS. Our study revealed a significant regional variation in soil Fe levels, highest in the South, moderate in the Middle, and lowest in the North. Forage Fe content varied by type and region, with decreased Fe levels in barley grasses in the North region, while other regions showed Fe levels within the normal range. The Fe levels in alfalfa grass in the North region declined, while Fe levels in the South and Middle regions were within normal range. The Fe level in fresh rice straw decreased in the South, Middle, and North regions. Markedly, 96.11% of buffaloes had serum Fe levels below the normal range. The body temperature was within normal range, while respiratory and pulse rates were increased. (92.22%), (0%), and (2.22%) of buffaloes had ferritin, transferrin, and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) below normal levels, respectively; and (6.11%), (3.33%), and (0%) of buffaloes had normal levels, respectively; and (1.66%), (96.66%), and (97.77%) of buffaloes had higher than normal levels, respectively. (98.88%), (95.55%), and (98.88%) of buffaloes had red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) below normal levels, respectively; (1.12%), (4.44%), and (1.12%) of buffaloes had normal levels, respectively; and (0%) of buffaloes had greater than normal levels. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Babylon province, Iraq, to identify how the serum Fe levels of buffaloes are affected by the regional differences in levels of Fe in soil and three different types of forages.