SERUM-PROTEIN, IMMUNOGLOBULIN AND HEMOLYTIC COMPLEMENT LEVELS IN THE SERA OF BUFFALO NEONATES

Buffalo calves were born hypogammaglobulinaemic, but their total serum protein, gammaglobulins, IgG and IgM concentrations increased rapidly after colostrum feeding. The peak values were recorded between 24 and 72 hr after colostrum feeding. Values were higher for female buffalo calves than those for male calves, but the difference remained insignificant. The serum haemolytic complement activity in both sexes decreased up to 24 hr after colostrum feeding, followed by a gradual rise. The activity was significantly higher in female calves at 2 and 4 weeks of age.