Girolando, a raça leiteira dos trópicos

Abstract

The Girolando breed has played a central role in Brazilian dairy farming, being especially adapted to the tropical climate and diversified management conditions in the country. Created from the cross between Gir and Holstein breeds, this breed combines the rusticity and adaptability of the Gir with the high productivity of the Holstein, resulting in animals with significant production capacity and resistance to heat and parasites, fundamental aspects for tropical regions. In addition, Girolando has good milk quality, with adequate fat and protein contents, which makes it attractive to the dairy market. The implementation of genetic improvement programs, such as the Girolando Genetic Improvement Program (PMGG), has contributed to the advancement of the breed, boosting productivity and efficiency in the sector. The growing demand for Girolando genetics, both in Brazil and in other countries with a tropical climate, reinforces the promising commercial prospects for this breed, consolidating it as one of the most relevant for milk production in tropical and subtropical environments. This study sought to highlight the main aspects of the Girolando breed, its particularities, opportunities and limitations, offering a reasoned understanding of its importance and contribution to national dairy farming.