New study aims to uncover causes of calf mortality in Icelandic cattle population
A new study focusing on the genetic material of calves aims to shed light on the high rates of calf mortality within the Icelandic cattle population. Results are expected by next winter.
Calf mortality is more prevalent in Iceland than in most neighboring countries, with approximately 15 percent of calves born dead, compared to around 5 percent in adjacent nations. The exact causes of this issue remain unidentified.
Experts, including Guðmundur Jóhannesson from the Agricultural Advisory Center, have explored various potential factors over the years, but no single explanation has emerged. He suggests that multiple contributing elements are likely at play. “We have examined correlations with feeding and blood serum measurements, among other factors, but have not found a definitive cause. It is certainly a combination of many influences,” he noted.
As a part of the ongoing research, farmers have been asked to contribute by providing samples from stillborn calves that are the offspring of specific breeding bulls. Some samples were collected during the winter, but researchers require significantly more to conduct a thorough analysis. For each sample, a small piece of tissue will be collected from the calf’s ear, placed in a labeled bag indicating its gestational age and the mother’s identification number, and then stored in a freezer until it is transported to the Agricultural University for study.
Guðmundur expresses hope that the genetic research will eventually enable farmers to reduce calf mortality rates, although the study is still in its early stages and results are not imminent. Final findings may be available next winter.