Non-genetic factors affecting calving interval and weaning weight in a buffalo herd located in flooded savannas,Cojedes state, Venezuela

The objective of the research work was to characterize a buffalo herd in flooded conditions in Cojedes state, Venezuela, being evaluated the calving distribution (CD), calving interval (CI) and weaning weight (WW). Birth and productive records from Hato La Soledad were used to determine monthly frequencies of calving (n=2106), calving interval (n=936) and weaning weight (n=1683). The statistical analysis included year (CY) and calving season (CS), sex of calf (SC), age of cow (AC) and interactions for CI, including additionally age to weaning for WW. Results showed significant differences (P≤0.05) in CD between years associated with year-on-year changes in climatic factors and progressive stabilization of the herd. CI averaged 473.9±3.0 days ( X – ± S.E.), with a significant effect of calving month (P≤0.05). CI in the herd showed an elevated percentage (75.6%) of buffalo cows with CI lower than 400 days. The effect of age at calving was not significant doubt to the fact that the herd was young. WW averaged 130.4±1.9 kg with age to weaning of 238.7±3.2 days, with significant effect of year and calving month, and age to weaning, with a daily gain of 128 g. The results showed the productive and reproductive potential of the buffalo in tropical conditions.