Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the influence of season (summer, autumn and winter) and breed on monthly milk production of dromedary camels reared under semi-intensive system. Eighteen multiparous female lactating camels in their early lactation were used. Milk production data (n=2184 milk yield samples) were collected from daily milk production records of 3 local breeds (Arabi, Kenani and Deali). The results revealed that female camels exposed to marked seasonal changes in the ambient temperature (Ta degrees C), relative humidity (RH %) and rainfall (mm). The higher rainfall recorded during autumn season was accompanied by an average of milk production of 3.2 +/- 1 litre/day in comparison to summer and winter values 3.0 +/- 1.8 and 2.6 +/- 1.2 litre/day, respectively. Season had a significant (p<0.05) effect on milk production; a significantly (p<0.05) higher mean value of milk production was recorded during autumn compared to winter value. Camel breed also had a significant (p<0.05) effect on milk production; a significantly (p<0.05) higher mean value of milk production was recorded by Arabi breed (3.3 +/- 1.6 litre/day) compared to Kenani and Deali breeds 2.9 +/- 1.1 and 2.6 +/- 1.1 litre/day, respectively. Season had a significant (p <= 0.05) effect on monthly milk production; significantly (p<0.05) higher mean values of milk production was observed during September and October compared to other months.
The present study confirms that both season and camel breed have significant impact on monthly milk production. Natural browsing, concentrate supplementation and water supply during summer could improve and maintain milk production in camels, regardless of environmental changes. Arabi breed can be considered as main breed for milk production in camel reared semi-intensive farms in Sudan. The effect of interaction of breed and season on milk production should be considered in the management programme of camel production system.