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Phenotypic association between energy balance indicators and reproductive performance in primiparous Holstein cows
Author(s) -
Valergakis G. E.,
Oikonomou G.,
Arsenos G.,
Banos G.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
veterinary record
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.261
H-Index - 99
eISSN - 2042-7670
pISSN - 0042-4900
DOI - 10.1136/vr.c6259
Subject(s) - metritis , ice calving , lactation , zoology , artificial insemination , insemination , reproduction , biology , energy balance , pregnancy , medicine , ecology , genetics
Energy balance was assessed during the first 13 weeks postpartum in 497 primiparous Holstein cows and the relationship with reproductive performance was investigated. A significant association was observed between body condition score (BCS) and a number of reproductive traits, including conception at first artificial insemination (AI), number of inseminations per conception, calving to conception and calving intervals, percentage pregnant by the end of a 305‐day lactation and incidence of metritis. The BCS from calving to week 9 (before the first AI) appeared to adequately predict future reproductive performance as it was correlated with calving interval, conception at first AI, metritis and percentage pregnant by the end of a 305‐day lactation. Plasma β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations were correlated with the latter trait only, whereas non‐esterified fatty acid concentrations were not associated with reproductive performance.