Haryana: NDRI decodes Bhadawari buffalo genome to improve breeding

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) has announced a major scientific breakthrough by deciphering the genome of the Bhadawari buffalo which produces milk with almost double the fat percentage of other buffalo breeds.

Scientists from the central institute’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) said that for the first time, a linear reference whole genome assembly ‘De-novo’ has been created, which will help them in genome-based selection and breeding of buffaloes.

Bhadawari buffalo is one of the unique breeds having very high milk fat percentage, up to 13%, compared to other buffalo breeds available in India. It is known for its ability to feed on poor quality local fodder and survive in harsh climatic conditions, scientists said.

In contrast, other buffalo breeds have a fat percentage of around 7-8% and the lactation period is climate sensitive. Similarly, cow’s milk also has a low fat percentage of almost 3-4%.

Speaking on the development, Dr Dheer Singh, Director and Vice-Chancellor, ICAR-NDRI, Karnal, said that this valuable genetic material can be identified through copper coloured skin.

“NDRI has achieved another milestone in enhancing the genetic potential of buffalo and the deciphered buffalo genome is the result of the institute’s consistent yet meticulous efforts. This genome decipherment has important implications for future research and will help us better understand and conserve our buffalo breeds,” he added.

The director said that the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) will benefit from this development as it can be used in their field buffalo breeding programmes and Bhadawari buffaloes with high genetic merit can be selected based on the entire genome information.

Dr Vikas Vohra, Principal Scientist, DAHD, said this effort will help them in genome-based selection and breeding of buffaloes.

“The mitochondrial genome results predicted that Indian, Egyptian, Chinese and Iraqi buffaloes diverged into different Asian buffalo groups about 0.72 million years ago from today,” he added.

The institute said it will soon make this newly developed Bhadawari genome assembly publicly available through the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) genome repository, which can help other animal scientists across the world.