EVALUATION OF HEAT TOLERANCE OF INDEGENOUS POTE GOATS IN MADURA ISLAND Tri Eko Susilorini*, Rini Dwi Wahyuni, Puguh Surjowardojo and Kuswati
Faculty of Animal Science, Universtas Brawijaya, Malang
*triekos[at]ub.ac.id
Abstract
Temperature and humidity significantly influence productivity and animal welfare. Goat, despite their generally heat-resistant nature, can be challenged by heat stress. The Benezera Coefficient of Adaptation (BCA) is a tool used to assess livestock^s adaptive capabilities. This study evaluated the adaptive ability of Pote goats raised on smallholder farms in Bangkalan, Madura Island. Two hundred Pote goats of various ages were observed under a grazing management system. Environmental temperature and humidity were recorded twice daily (07:00 and 15:00 local time), along with rectal temperature and respiration rate. Results indicated temperatures in Bangkalan ranged from 25-33 degree Celcius with humidity levels between 50-70%. Goats under 1 year old exhibited an average rectal temperature of 39.07 degree Celcius and a respiration rate of 28.34 breaths/minute. For goats over 1 year old, these values were 38.01 degree Celcius and 29.32 breaths/minute, respectively. The BCA values for goats under 1 year old were 2.17, and for those over 1 year old, they were 2.20. These results suggest that Pote goats in Bangkalan, regardless of age, demonstrate strong adaptive abilities (BCA values close to 2).
