The world of cattle breeding witnessed history when Viatina-19, a cow of Indian origin, was sold for an astonishing Rs 40 crore at an auction in Minas Gerais, Brazil. This record-breaking sale has cemented her place in the Guinness World Records as the most expensive cattle ever sold.
Viatina-19, a 53-month-old cow of the Nelore breed, weighs around 1,101 kg, nearly twice the average weight of other cows of the same breed. Her remarkable physique, genetic superiority, and breeding potential have made her a prized possession in the cattle industry.
Viatina-19: A Symbol of Excellence in Cattle Breeding
Viatina-19 is not just a record-breaking cow; she is a benchmark of perfection in cattle breeding. With her stunning white coat, well-defined musculature, and loose skin, she represents the ideal characteristics sought after in the Nelore breed. Her prominent hump, a defining feature of Zebu cattle, adds to her distinct appearance.
One of the reasons behind her extraordinary value is her genetic lineage. The Nelore breed, also known as the Ongole breed, is known for its ability to adapt to harsh tropical climates, its resistance to diseases, and its superior meat quality.
Viatina-19’s lineage ensures that her embryos are in high demand globally for breeding programs aimed at enhancing cattle quality. Experts consider her the closest to perfection ever attained in cattle breeding.
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Apart from breaking records, Viatina-19 has also achieved fame in cattle beauty contests. She was crowned Miss South America in the “Champion of the World” competition held in Fort Worth, Texas.
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This competition, akin to a Miss Universe pageant for cattle, pits the best bulls and cows from different countries against one another. Her exceptional muscle structure, smooth skin, and superior breeding potential helped her secure the title.
The Legacy of Indian-Origin Nelore Cattle in Brazil
The Nelore breed has deep historical roots in India. Reports suggest that it originated from the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh and was first introduced to Brazil in the 1800s.
The breed’s name, Nelore, comes from a former ruling family in India that specialized in cattle breeding. However, this breed itself has been in existence for over 2,000 years, dating back to the Aryan era.
Brazil has become the largest breeder of Nelore cattle in the world, surpassing even India in terms of population and production. Today, at least 80% of the cattle in Brazil belong to the Zebu category, a subspecies originally from India.
These cattle are primarily raised for meat, which has contributed to Brazil becoming one of the largest beef exporters globally. Nelore cows, like Viatina-19, play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and genetic strength of Brazil’s cattle stock.
The adaptability of Nelore cattle to tropical conditions, their resistance to common diseases, and their efficient meat production make them a preferred choice for cattle ranchers in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Venezuela, Central America, Mexico, and the United States. Despite being of Indian origin, the breed has flourished in South America, particularly in Brazil, where it has become a pillar of the beef industry.
The Economic and Genetic Impact of Viatina-19
The record-breaking sale of Viatina-19 is not just about setting a new benchmark; it represents the growing value of superior genetics in cattle breeding.
Cattle breeders worldwide are constantly looking for ways to enhance the genetic potential of their herds, and Viatina-19 offers the perfect opportunity for this. Her embryos, expected to produce calves with similar genetic superiority, are already in high demand across the globe.
With Brazil having over 230 million cows, the Nelore breed dominates the industry. The US Department of Agriculture recognizes Brazil as one of the top beef producers, thanks in large part to the genetic quality of its Nelore stock. Viatina-19’s record-breaking price highlights the importance of selective breeding and genetic advancements in the industry.
Veterinarian Lorrany Martins, who assessed Viatina-19, emphasized that she is the most complete cow ever seen. “She has all the characteristics that cattle breeders are looking for,” Martins stated. This statement further underscores the fact that the world of cattle breeding is evolving, and genetic excellence is now a top priority.
Viatina-19’s story also sheds light on the booming livestock industry, where record-breaking sales and competitions play a significant role in shaping the future of cattle genetics. The increasing demand for high-quality cattle with superior meat yield and disease resistance means that investments in premium breeding cows like Viatina-19 will continue to rise.
The sale of Viatina-19 at Rs 40 crore has not only set a new world record but has also reaffirmed the importance of Indian-origin cattle in shaping the global beef industry.
Her exceptional genetic makeup, stunning appearance, and award-winning status make her one of the most sought-after cows in the world. As cattle breeding continues to advance, the legacy of the Nelore breed remains strong, with Viatina-19 standing as a testament to its unmatched value.