Species and breed differences in the thermal reaction mechanism

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Abstract
A total of fifty buffaloes, thirty-five Shorthorn and Shorthorn grades and twenty-nine Egyptian (Baladi) cows of different ages were used to study the thermal reaction mechanism by exposing the animals to direct solar radiation followed by shade. The thickness of the skin was also measured in all animals as it is one of the main factors in heat regulation. The results were as follows:1. There were species and breed differences in the thermal reactions. Buffaloes were more hyperthermic when exposed to direct solar radiation than either Shorthorn or Egyptian cattle. The Shorthorns were more affected by ambient heat than Egyptian cattle.2. The skin thickness of the buffalo was double that of the cattle. In all animals the thickness of the skin increased with age.3. It is suggested that the adaptability of farm animals to tropical and subtropical zones is better assessed under shade and under normal husbandry conditions than by exposing them to direct sunlight.