African cattle have many traits that allow them to withstand harsh climatic conditions and diseases hence making them an ideal investment for farmers, according to a new study. Researchers deployed advanced tools to retrace 1,000 years of African pastoralist cattle breeding, identifying traits to help cattle survive blistering heat, drought and advancing diseases. They studied the arrival of Asian cattle breeds in East Africa carrying genetic traits that would make cattle production possible in diverse and demanding African environments. The study shows Zebu offered traits that would allow cattle to survive in hot, dry climates typical in the Horn of Africa. Jimmy Smith, the ILRI director general said it is important to understand that livestock breeding has long played a vital role in sustaining the health and wealth of African communities.

Source: Standard Digital September 29, 2020 21:01 UTC