Comparisons of Hematological and Biochemical Profiles in Brahman and Yunling Cattle

SIMPLE SUMMARY: In order to evaluate the health condition and differences between Brahman cattle and Yunling cattle, 28 adult Brahman and 65 adult Yunling cattle were analyzed from the same farm with standard grazing management. We detected 55 hematological and biochemical parameters using an automatic biochemical analyzer. The results showed that 27 hematological and biochemical parameters of Brahman cattle were lower than those of Yunling cattle, whereas the other indices detected were higher. Based on the hematological and biochemical parameters investigated, the Yunling cattle may have a better physical condition than Brahman cattle, such as having a greater metabolism and better liver function. Thus, these data suggest that, as a hybrid breed that is half Brahman, Yunling cattle are superior in their abilities of adaptability, stress resistance and tolerance to crude feed. Therefore, our study reveals the underlying molecular basis of Yunling cattle’s better performance at adapting to local environments, and maintaining beef production and reproduction traits. ABSTRACT: Brahman cattle are tolerant to parasite challenges and heat stress. Yunling cattle are three-way hybrids that are half Brahman cattle, a fourth Murray Grey cattle and a fourth Yunnan Yellow cattle, with good beef performance. The hematological and biochemical parameters can reflect the physiology and metabolic conditions of cattle, and there are valuable indicators of production performance and adaptability that can be found by studying the cattle. To assess the health status and differences, we compared 55 hematological and biochemical parameters of 28 Brahman cattle and 65 Yunling cattle using an automatic biochemical analyzer. Our results showed that 27 hematological and biochemical indices of Brahman cattle were lower than those of Yunling cattle, whereas the other parameters were higher. There are 20 indices with significant differences that were detected between Brahman and Yunling cattle (with p ≤ 0.01 or 0.01 ≤ p ≤ 0.05, respectively), and no significant differences were found for other indices (p > 0.05). Based on these results, Yunling cattle may have a better physical condition than Brahman cattle, may be better at adapting to local environments, and can maintain a good production and reproduction performance. As a new breed that is half Brahman, the abilities of Yunling cattle, including adaptability, stress resistance and tolerance to crude feed, were better than Brahman cattle under the same management conditions.