Effectiveness of introductory crossing of Kostroma cattle with brown swiss bulls

The article presents the results of a comprehensive study on the impact of the degree of «Swissbreeding» (upgrading) on the realization of the life potential of Kostroma cows at the breeding plant. A retrospective analysis of lifetime performance indicators of 432 cows from the «Karavaevo» breeding plant (Kostroma region) was conducted. Animals were stratified into four groups based on the percentage of Brown Swiss blood: low (≤50 %), medium (51—75 %), high (76—88 %), and very high (>88 %). Statistical data processing was performed in the R environment using Spearman’s rank correlation analysis, Kruskal-Wallis test, and linear regression modeling. A statistically significant negative correlation was established between the share of improving breed blood and life span (rs=-0,25; p<0,001), as well as total lifetime milk yield (rs=-0,15; p<0,01). It was revealed that animals with low blood percentage (≤50 %) possess the best economic and biological characteristics, with a median lifetime yield of 32232 kg, which is significantly higher than in other groups. High-grade crosses implement a «sprinter» productivity model, demonstrating a high Milk per Day of Life index (MDL≈13,66 kg), but are characterized by early culling. The constructed regression model proved that 80 % of the variation in lifetime productivity is driven by the time factor, with each additional day of life increasing the total yield by 16,6 kg. A decrease in butterfat content from 4,17 % in low-blood cows to 4,05 % in high-blood animals was also noted. The strategy of upgrading crossing (top-crossing) under the conditions of this herd is recognized as inefficient. To maximize gross milk production and preserve the adaptive qualities of the Kostroma breed, it is recommended to maintain the share of Brown Swiss blood at a level of no more than 50—75 %.

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