Annals of the University of Craiova - Agriculture, Montanology, Cadastre Series
Abstract
Grey Steppe breed from Romania belongs to the group of Podolia cattle breeds in Europe. These cattle originate from the wild ancestor Bos taurus primigenius, which disappeared in the XVI th century. There are five ecotypes belonging to Grey Steppe breed adapted to the natural conditions of life (Moldavian ecotype, Bucşan ecotype, Transylvanian ecotype, Ialomiţean ecotype and Dobrogean ecotype). This breed has had a major decline in the last two centuries, from 2.607.594 heads in 1860 years to less than 500 heads at present.This decrease of the herd of cattle Grey Steppe breed was caused by the agricultural policy of the country with an orientation towards intensive agriculture, where they developed specialized breeds for milk and meat. This breed also participated in cross breeding of absorption for forming new breeds. Considering milk production, dairy cows made an average production of 2300 kg milk per normal lactation expressed in mature equivalent, with 4.36% fat and 3.52% protein. There are also cows of this breed which can give 4000-4500 kg milk per normal lactation growth in very good conditions.Regarding meat production from Grey Steppe breed the daily growth increments were 600-800 gr. with a 53-55% killing out percentage at slaughter.This breed can be grown in conditions of extensive or ecologic agriculture, because it has not special needs for feeding and sheltering conditions and disease resistance is high