An Indian-origin cow named Viatina-19 has made history by setting the Guinness World Record for the most expensive cattle ever sold. At an auction in Minas Gerais, Brazil, the cow was sold for a whopping Rs 40 crore. Viatina-19, a member of the Nelore breed, weighs an impressive 1,101 kg, which is twice the average weight of cows of the same breed, marking her as a standout specimen in the world of livestock.
At 53 months old, Viatina-19’s physical appearance is a sight to behold. She boasts a sleek, cotton-like white fur coat, distinctive loose skin, and a noticeable hump on her shoulders. These traits contribute to her unique appearance and set her apart from other cattle. Beyond her striking physical features, Viatina-19’s extraordinary genetic composition has made her highly sought-after in the breeding industry, making her one of the most valuable cows in the world today.
Viatina-19's beauty and strength were also celebrated when she clinched the title of Miss South America at the prestigious "Champion of the World" competition in Fort Worth, Texas. The competition, similar to a Miss Universe-style event for cattle, pits bulls and cows from around the globe against each other, highlighting the finest specimens of livestock. Viatina-19’s exceptional muscle structure, rare genetics, and overall superior physique were key to her victory in this international contest.
The Nelore breed, to which Viatina-19 belongs, is well known for its ability to adapt to tropical climates and resistance to diseases, making it highly prized in Brazil’s cattle industry. The breed is a significant part of Brazil’s cattle sector, with at least 80% of the country's cows being Zebu cattle, a subspecies that originated in India and is easily identifiable by its hump and dewlap. Viatina-19’s exceptional genetics have made her embryos in high demand globally for breeding programs, with breeders keen to incorporate her traits into their own livestock lines.
What makes Viatina-19 even more impressive is her physical adaptations that contribute to her survival in challenging environments. Her loose skin is a natural adaptation that helps with heat dissipation, while her hump serves as a fat reservoir, providing her with energy during times of food scarcity. Her robust muscular build and strong frame also enhance her resilience, making her an ideal specimen for breeding programs focused on producing highly productive and adaptable livestock.
The Nelore breed has a long history, originating from India, specifically from the Prakasam district in Andhra Pradesh. First introduced to Brazil in the 1800s, the Nelore breed has become a cornerstone of Brazil’s cattle industry. Today, Brazil is the world’s largest breeder of Nelore cattle, with the breed also being exported to several countries, including Argentina, Paraguay, Venezuela, Mexico, and the United States.
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