Expert advice on indigenous cattle breeds and cross breeding

Georgette Pyoos, a cattle breeding and genetics researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, shares valuable insights on the benefits of using indigenous cattle breeds in South Africa's farming conditions. Learn more about incorporating these breeds into breeding programs and using crossbreeding to produce the best traits. According to Pyoos, Indigenous breeds are known for their hardiness, disease resistance, and ability to survive in local environmental conditions. By incorporating them into breeding programs, farmers can produce cattle that are better adapted to the local climate and disease challenges. Crossbreeding programs that combine indigenous breeds with imported breeds have shown promising results in terms of production and disease resistance. By crossing indigenous breeds with imported breeds that are known for their meat quality and growth rates, farmers can produce animals that have the best traits of both breeds. Pyoos, also highlights ongoing research conducted by the ARC into cattle breeding and genetics to support the growth and success of the industry.