Chromosome Distribution And Growth Characteristics Of Crossbred Water Buffaloes

Abstract

Water buffaloes in Asia have been traditionally classified into the swamp and the river types . Crossbreeding of these two types has been practised in many Southeast Asian countries to reap the advantages of heterosis and to optimize average genetic merit and adaptability to t he harsh tropical environment . Since both types of water buffalo have different chromosome numbers ( swamp = 48 , river = 50) a study was undertaken to determine the segregation pat terns of mitotic chromosomes through various directions of cross breeding . The weight gain was also estimated in the crossbreds so as to select the best crossbred carrying a particular proportion of swamp and river blood for future breed improvement . This study also provides some information on the reproductive status of the Flin relation to gamete and embryo selection.