This monograph gives an account of current information on factors affecting reproduction in female zebu cattle. It includes a summary of basic reproductive anatomy and endocrinology, followed by in-depth reviews of the effects of nutrition, genetics, herd management and disease on overall reproductive performance in this type of cattle. In the tropical areas of the world, zebu (Bos indicus) cattle are much more numerous and important than the European breeds of the Bos taurus species. Zebu cattle are well adapted to the tropical conditions of high temperature and humidity, parasites and low quality forage, but their reproduction and fertility are usually rather low. They are characterised by late puberty in the female and long calving intervals. However, there are zebu herds in some tropical regions that have very acceptable levels of reproduction. We may raise the question, if adequate reproductive levels (80 to 85% pregnancy) can be achieved with zebu breeds in some tropical areas, why cannot the principles involved in achieving these levels also be applied in other areas to provide needed protein for the human population? The information in this volume should be helpful to teachers, researchers, livestock extension workers, cattle producers, agricultural leaders, political leaders and planners in their efforts to improve the reproduction rate in zebu cattle in many areas.
Alvin C Warnick
Professor and Animal Science Physiologist
Department of Animal Science
University of Florida Gainesville
Florida 32611 USA
