Association of Breed of Sheep or Goats with Somatic Cell Counts and Total Bacterial Counts of Bulk-Tank Milk

Abstract

The objective was to describe potential associations of somatic cell counts (SCC) and total bacterial counts (TBC) in bulk-tank milk from sheep and goat farms with breeds of these animals in Greece. In total, 325 dairy sheep flocks and 119 dairy goat herds were visited for the collection of milk; the breed of animals in farms was evaluated for a potential association with SCC or TBC. The most frequently seen sheep breeds were the Lacaune (95 flocks) and the Chios (44 flocks). The most frequently seen goat breeds were the indigenous Greek (Capra prisca) (50 herds) and the Murciano-Granadina (13 herds). In a multivariable analysis, the breed and the application of machine-milking in sheep flocks, and the breed and the management system in goat herds emerged as significant factors for increased SCC (>0.75 × 106 cells mL−1) in bulk-tank milk. Further, the month of lactation at sampling in sheep flocks emerged a significant factor for increased TBC (>1500 × 103 cfu mL−1) in bulk-tank milk.

Variations in Casein Genes Are Associated with Milk Protein and Fat Contents in Sarda Goats (Capra hircus), with an Important Role of CSN1S2 for Milk Yield

“…The association of CSN1S2 gene variants with milk fat and total solid concentration has been revealed in Chinese goats (Yue 2013 [ 46 ]), with daily milk yield and milk coagulation parameters in Sarda goats [ 47 ] and milk protein and casein contents in sheep [ 41 ]; no association between CSN2 and CSN1S2 genes and milk protein or dry matter contents were found in Murciano Granadina goats [ 48 ]. The CSN1S2 gene was associated with Somatic Cell Score (SCS) in the present study, another critical parameter, considered an indirect indicator of milk hygienic quality, important in the physiology of lactation in goats [ 49 , 50 ].…”

Relationship between Vaccine Application and Climate Factors in Sheep and Goat Farms in Greece

“…: 4.3%), whilst contrasting findings were seen among goat herds (Murciano-Granadina, Saanen, etc. : 22.6% of all herds; Skopelos: 2.5%; and indigenous Capra prisca: 25.6%) [24]. In general, indigenous breeds of sheep and goats are considered to be less susceptible to disease threats than many mainstream, high-production breeds [25,26], and relevant findings have also been reported regarding Greek breeds [27,28].…”

Variations in Composition, Antioxidant Profile, and Physical Traits of Goat Milk within the Semi-Intensive Production System in Mountainous Areas during the Post-Weaning to End-of-Lactation Period

“…Lower levels (p < 0.05) of total viable counts (TVCs) were observed towards the end of lactation in relation to the post-weaning season. According to Lianou et al [39], total viable count (TVC) can serve as an indicator of bacterial populations originating from multiple sources, including the udder skin as well as from the surfaces of milk-handling and storage equipment such as teat cups, milking parlor pipelines, and milk tanks. Additionally, it can also arise from the hands of milkers themselves, particularly in flocks or herds where hand-milking methods are employed.…”