Scientists of the Institute of Genetic Resources Engaged in Protecting the Gatacko Cattle

The Institute of Genetic Resources of the University of Banja Luka is working on protecting and saving the Gatacko cattle from extinction through a project of genotyping this breed.

,,Through continuous field inventory and work in the genotyping laboratory, we have obtained a number of species that are potentially pure Gatacko cattle, and these species will be kept under special supervision, especially in regard to further reproduction,” the science associate at the Institute of Genetic Resources and the responsible person in this project, Asst. Prof. Jelena Nikitović, PhD, said.

She says that the activities on the protection of Gatacko cattle and saving it from extinction are being undertaken in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management and the Municipality of Gacko.

This project combines practice and science, and includes associates from other institutions, with the aim of protecting the Gatacko cattle, which, together with other indigenous cattle breeds, is a treasure of the Republic of Srpska and as such deserves special attention in terms of conservation.

,,Indigenous cattle breeds, varieties and local populations are heritage whose value is visible on the economic, social, natural and cultural level, they are living monuments that need special attention in terms of their preservation and for promotion and sustainable use. All this is the goal and mission of the Institute of Genetic Resources of the University of Banja Luka, which is implementing the Gatacko cattle genotyping project,” said Asst. Prof. Jelena Nikitović, PhD.

As for the Gatacko cattle, it is necessary to emphasize that its origin dates back to the Austro-Hungarian period. In that period, the domestic busa cattle was crossed with Austrian cattle breeds and the result was the Gatacko cattle, which has survived in this area up to date. In addition to Gacko, these cattle can also be found in Bileća, Nevesinje, Ljubinje, and in one part of Kalinovik. They are hardy, of grey colour and long-lived, with life expectancy on average between 15 and 17 years. On an annual level, one Gacko cattle produces an average of 3,600 to 4,500 litres of milk per head.