Heat tolerance and productivity of local and imported Holstein-Friesian cows in Indonesia

This research measured the adaptation of Holstein-Friesian cows to a topical area, Indonesia. Two groups of milking and non-pregnant Holstein-Friesian cows, one imported from New Zealand (S1) and the other born locally (S2) after artificial insemination (AI) using semen imported from New Zealand, were used in this experiment. Observations were made at three different altitudes, L1 (below 250 m), L2(250-500 m) and L3 (over 500 m) above sea level. Adaptation was indicated by measuring rectal temperature, respiration rate at 10.00 hr at 15.00 hr and daily milk production. Results showed no difference (P>0.05) between imported (SI) and locally born (S2) Holstein-Friesian cows in their rectal temperature, respiratory rates and milk production. However there was a significant difference (P<0.01) in those parameters between altitudes. The cows at L3 showed a higher productivity than those at L1 and L2. The results demonstrate that different altitudes, in this case related to different temperatures, are an important factor in determining the adaptation of Holstein-Friesian cows. At low altitudes, alternatives such as manipulating environmental conditions and crossbreeding with tropical breeds of cattle will be necessary to ensure adaptation.