Evaluation of teat morphology of goats using digital technique
Keywords:
milk-type goat, teat conformation, digital image processing, type classificationAbstract
In type classification of milk-type goats, large emphasis has to be taken into teat morphology, since many publications and practical experiences confirm the strong relationship between teat- and milk production traits.
Authors’ aim was to find out if evaluation of digital images by picture processing program Terület 7.0 is a suitable method for assessment of teat shapes in type classification, and to elaborate a selection index for teat shape of Hungarian Native Goat breed.
Pictures of teats were taken by digital camera, and teat parameters were measured by software Terület 7.0. When evaluating the measurements, no significant differences were noted between left and right teats. However, to get exact results, authors advise to calculate with the mean value of the two teats. For evaluation of machine milking ability, a Teat Index was established, similarly to other body measurement indices. Based on their results in the index, teats were divided into 3 groups.
Authors concluded that analysis of digital images is a suitable method for evaluation of teat parameters of goats. The method is easy to carry out, and gives a chance for objective classification.
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Copyright (c) 2005 Anka Judit, Póti Péter, Pajor Ferenc, Láczó Edina

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