A Systematic Review on Buffalo Breeds, Lactation Performance, and Buffalo Milk Production Characteristics in Sri Lanka

Purpose: The current study aimed to systematically review the publications originating from Sri Lanka on buffalo milk to identify potential dairy buffalo breeds and their lactation performances, milk composition, physicochemical properties, and products originating from buffalo milk. Research Method: Articles published over the last 6 decades were found through Scopus and Google Scholar databases using keywords. Original Research articles which are relevant and published in English were only selected. The six-step selection process in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Approach (PRISMA) was adopted. Findings: The majority of the publications focused on product development aspects rather than buffalo milk production aspects. Pure breeds of the locals, Murrah, Surti, and Nili-Ravi, and their crossbreeds are frequently cited in the literature. The daily average milk yields of Murrah, Local, Surti, and Nili-Ravi pure breeds were 4.7 +/- 2.3, 3.1 +/- 1.3, 3.0 +/- 1.19, and 1.2 L, respectively. Daily milk yields of the crossbreeds ranged from 1.1 - 5.0 L. Average lactation lengths were largely dependent on the breed in which Murrah recorded the highest (341 +/- 100 days). The average lactation length of the local breed was exceptionally shorter (156 +/- 27 days) than that of the exotic breeds (> 235 days). The calving interval of the Murrah and Local buffaloes was the same (636 d). Pure breeds of Surti and Nili-Ravi recorded calving intervals of 489 and 411 d, respectively. Whereas, it ranged from 417-477 d among crossbreeds. Studies focused on milk compositions and physicochemical properties were extremely rare. Curd and cheese were the most focused products originating from buffalo milk. Value: This study summarises the buffalo milk production aspects in Sri Lanka and identifies research gaps in the area. Current literature reflects a satisfactory level of information relevant to the buffaloes reared in the Dry-Zone. This study recommends more research in milk composition analysis and lactation performance of the breeds and buffalo production in the Low-Country Wet Zone and Up-Country regions.