THE EXISTENCEAND PERFORMANCE OF JAVANESE CATTLE

Abstract

Nowadays, there are a lot of cattle breeds are existing in Indonesia as a result of
the crossbreeding policy; however those breeds were not identified on their genotypes. It might have a negative effect on the development of indigenous breed, such Javanese cattle. The aim of this study was to explore the existence of Javanese cattle in order to understand its’ future potency and sustainability. Eighteen Javanese cattle were measured of their exterior performance and body vital statistic, and were compared with those of 24 Ongole Crossbred, one of local cattle in Indonesia that has adapted since long time ago. A total 58 Javanese and Ongole Crossbred cattle owner farmers have been interviewed. Exterior performance and vital statistic of Javanese cattle are significantly different from those of Ongole Crossbred. Forty percent of observed Javanese cattle are light red, 33,4 % are reddish-brown and 16,6 % are reddish-black in colour. While, 100 % of observed Ongole Crossbred are white in colour. Most of Javanese cattle have no hump, however, most of Ongole Crossbred have. The dewlap of Javanese cattle is smaller, compared to that of Ongole Crossbred. The grade of Javanese cattle varies from very small, small and medium, while the grade of Ongole Crossbred varies from small, medium and large. In general, the reproduction performance of Javanese cattle is higher than that of Ongole Crossbred. The main reasons for keeping Javanese cattle are less capital needed and its’ high reproduction performance; while the main reasons for keeping Ongole Crossbred cattle are less capital and feed needed.