Reproductive Performance of Beef Cows in Peatlands of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

The reproductive performance of beef cows is highly contingent on the calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and copper (Cu). The aim of this study was to evaluate the availability of Ca, P and Cu in peat soil, forage, blood serum and their impact on reproductive performance of beef cows. This study was carried out at peatlands of Pulang Pisau district, Central Kalimantan Province through observation method supported by laboratory analysis. Reproductive performance data were obtained through direct interviews and recording cards. Soil and forage samples were taken from the main forage source locations. A total of 138 blood samples were taken through the jugular vein from Bali cows and their crossbred cows with different physiological status. Soil and blood serum samples were analyzed in laboratory using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) method, while forage samples were analyzed according to the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) method. The results showed that the availability of Ca and Cu both in peat soil and forage was very low, while that of P was quite high. The crossbred cows showed significantly higher concentration of Ca, P and Cu in blood serum if compared to Bali cows. However, the blood serum analysis of minerals suggested that there were Ca and Cu deficiency the beef cows raised in peatlands. In general, Ca and Cu deficiency in breeding cows raised in peatlands of Central Kalimatan Province had negative impact on reproductive performances including delayed age at puberty and first calving, delayed postpartum estrus and longer calving interval.