Hyderabad: This cow of Indian origin is the most expensive cow in the world
Hyderabad: According to reports, a cow of the Nellore breed recently sold for $4.8 million (around Rs 40 crore) at an auction in Minas Gerais, Brazil, setting a world record in cattle breeding. The cow, named Viatina-19, is now the world’s most expensive cow, making it to the Guinness Book of World Records. The cow weighs around 1,101 kg, which is double the average of any other cow of the same breed. The 19-year-old female cow has also won the title of ‘Miss South America’ at the Champions of the World for her rare genetic lineage, exceptional muscle structure and ability to tolerate heat.
In Brazil, this cow breed is recognised by its hump and hanging hair, and about 80 per cent of the cattle population in the country belongs to this breed. The cotton-white skin makes Viatina-19 visually appealing. The cow’s unique qualities have made it highly sought after. Viatina’s embryos are in great demand for global breeding programmes. The Nellore breed originally belongs to the Ongole region of Andhra Pradesh and is known for its resilience and heat tolerance (the loose skin keeps the heat away and the huge hump stores fat). Moreover, their disease resistance, quick adaptability, strong genes and immunity make them stand out among other cattle breeds. It is said that this breed was first brought to Brazil in the early 1800s. According to the US Department of Agriculture, there are about 230 million Nellore breed cows in Brazil today.
