Pratiques d’élevage extensif et performances de bovins de race locale et croisés des races laitières exotiques à Beni, RD Congo

In order to analyze the relationship between farming practices and animal performance of mixed breed cows, in Beni area, North Kivu Province, DR Congo, a study was conducted from July 2003 to November 2006, on 8676 cattle stemming from 65 farms composed of 4945 cows from local breed and animals crossed with exogenous breeds considered ameliorative. Demographic observations, milk production measurements, investigations and follow-up relating to reproductive parameters have been performed. Data were analyzed by the chi-squared test and by generalized linear models, according to genotype, forage quality and characteristics of the supplement. Results showed, to some extent, an involvement of the farmers in their speculation, but a low turnover rate of the herds. The breeding practices influenced milk production, age at first calving and calving interval. In crossed type , milk production was more than twice that observed in local breed. The complementation as forage and concentrate increased milk production mildly but significantly, when compared to the situation without complement. First calving age and calving interval were highly influenced by genotype, and calving interval also by the complementation and the improved forage. These results highlight the effects of livestock management on milk and reproductive performance of cows actually raised in the region