Estimates of genetic parameters for economic traits in Ongole cattle

The population and production performance of Ongole animals has declined in recent past and the purity of breed is being degraded (Nath 1985). Ongole cattle are efficiently used in their native place for both work and milk production. They are usually docile and the bullocks are very powerful, suitable for heavy work. The cows are fair milkers and the growth of male calves is significantly dependent on the dam's milk yield. The knowledge of genetic factors on the lactation traits are important information, which may enable animal breeder to practice selection and culling. Therefore, the aim of present study was to estimate the genetic and phenotypic parameters for total lactation milk yield, lactation length, peak yield, dry period, service period and calving interval traits, which would help in selection for genetic improvement of the breed.