MELHORAMENTO GENÉTICO PARA PRODUÇÃO DE LEITE

Abstract

Genetic improvement of dairy zebu cattle plays a fundamental role in the development of dairy farming in tropical regions, contributing to the formation of more productive, fertile, long lived herds adapted to environmental conditions. In this context, the present work aimed to analyze, through a literature review, the main tools and strategies applied to the genetic improvement of these herds, with emphasis on phenotypic and genomic selection, evaluation of functional characteristics, lactation curve, heritability, and planned crosses. The methodology adopted was based on the consultation and analysis of scientific articles, books, technical documents, and specialized publications on the subject, prioritizing studies related to milk production in zebu cattle. The results showed that the integration of productive, morphological, and genetic information increases the accuracy in identifying superior animals, favoring consistent gains in production, reproductive efficiency, health, hardiness, and adaptation to the tropical environment. Furthermore, it was found that strategic crossbreeding between zebu and taurine cattle, especially with Girolando, enhances heterosis and genetic complementarity effects, promoting more efficient and sustainable systems. It is concluded that the integrated use of these strategies is an indispensable tool for strengthening tropical dairy farming, making production systems more competitive and economically viable.