Over 800 breeds of cattle are recognized worldwide, some of which adapted to the local climate, others which were bred by humans for specialized uses.
Breeds fall into two main types, regarded as either two closely related species, or two subspecies of one species. Bos indicus (or Bos taurus indicus) cattle, also called zebu, are adapted to hot climates. Bos taurus (or Bos taurus taurus) are the typical cattle of Europe, north-eastern Asia, and parts of Africa â€" they are referred to in this list as "taurine" cattle, and many are adapted to cooler climates. Taurus/indicus hybrids are widely bred in many warmer regions, combining characteristics of both the ancestral types (such as the Sanga cattle of Africa).
In some parts of the world further species of cattle are found (both as wild and domesticated animals), and some of these are related so closely to taurine and indicus cattle that interspecies hybrids have been bred. Examples include the Dwarf Lulu cattle of the mountains of Nepal with yak blood, the Beefalo of North America with bison genes, the Selembu breed of India and Bhutan with gayal genes. The Madura breed of Indonesia may have banteng in its parentage. In addition to these fertile hybrids, there are infertile crossings such as the male Dzo of Nepal, a cattle-yak crossing which is bred for agricultural work - like the mule they have to be continually bred from the parent species.
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See also
- List of dairy cattle breeds
- Beef cattle breeds
- Lists of domestic animal breeds
Notes
References
- Breeds of Cattle â€" Oklahoma State University
- Breeds of Cattle â€" Cattle.com
- Breeds of Cattle â€" Cow World
- Cattle Breeds â€" Embryoplus.com
- Breeds of Cattle â€" Official 2nd Edition
- Cattle Breeds of the World
- Portuguese Cattle Breeds
- EuReCa - Towards self-sustainable EUropean, REgional CAttle breeds
External links
- Native Cow Varieties of India