Effect of space availability on productive and reproductive performances in buffalo cows

The effects of space availability on productive and reproductive performances have been evaluated in buffalo cows. The trial was carried out on 124 lactating buffaloes (69±84 days in milk) equally divided in two experimental groups (group 1 and group 2) with different space availability (15 vs 20m2/ head). Daily milk production was recorded in each group and a sample of milk was monthly analysed for fat and protein contents. Furthermore, fertility and intercalving and start trial-conception (number of days from the beginning of the trial until conception) intervals were also evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA with repeated measures for productive parameters and by Student’s t Test for intercalving and start trial-conception intervals. Buffaloes in Group 2 showed higher (P