Milk synthesis in Tunisian local suckling goat is not affected by milking interval

The effects of milking interval (8, 16 and 24. h) on synthesis of milk in Tunisian goat were investigated in 12 suckling goats according to 3 × 3 replicated Latin square design. Milk accumulation rate in the goat mammary gland did not vary according to milking interval and averaged 20.1 ± 3.4. ml/h. Titrable acidity and density of milk increased from 8 to 16. h after milking and decreased at 24. h milking interval. Total solids, fat, protein and ash contents did not vary with milking interval. Milk lactose content was affected by milking interval; it increased until 16. h and decreased to reach a minimum value at 24. It concluded that milking intervals less or equal to 24. h did not affect milk yield and quality, and demonstrates the adaptation of this breed to the adopted rearing system in southern of the country where kids are separated from dams during long period of the day. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.