Question

For Mehsana buffalo bull station, what should be the optimum floor space requirement (covered and open area, respectively) per bull?

• A. \(10\text{ m}^2\) and \(100\text{ m}^2\)
• B. \(12\text{ m}^2\) and \(120\text{ m}^2\)
• C. \(15\text{ m}^2\) and \(150\text{ m}^2\)
• D. \(20\text{ m}^2\) and \(200\text{ m}^2\)

Hint:

In Indian animal housing standards, the ratio of covered to open space for adult ruminants is typically kept at \(1:10\). Keeping this ratio in mind helps eliminate incorrect options.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Semen collection centers require specialized housing for breeding bulls to maintain their physical health, fitness, and semen quality.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) guidelines, breeding bulls must be kept in individual pens.
Each pen should include:
- A covered shelter to protect the bull from extreme weather.
- An attached open paddock for exercise and exposure to sunlight.
The recommended dimensions for an individual adult bull pen are:
- Covered Area: \(12\text{ m}^2\) (usually a \(3\text{ m} \times 4\text{ m}\) layout).
- Open Area: \(120\text{ m}^2\), which maintains a standard \(1:10\) ratio of covered to open space.
These dimensions provide plenty of space for a large Mehsana buffalo bull to move freely, which helps prevent joint stiffness and maintains good health.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The optimum floor space is \(12\text{ m}^2\) covered and \(120\text{ m}^2\) open area.