Abstract:
Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) was first detected in the African buffalo
( Syncerus caffer) in the Kruger National Park (KNP) in 1990. This study was
initiated to investigate the effects and interactions of age, sex, region / habitat
and tuberculosis status on the body condition and carcass composition of African
buffalo in the KN P. Data from approximately 600 buffalo sampled in 1998 were
analysed. It was found that gender, age and region where buffalo were sampled
affected carcass composition. It was also found that body condition scores (BCS)
and the percentage fat in the bone marrow (%BMF) of buffalo were poor
predictors of proximate body composition. BTB did not influence body
composition. Mineral levels in the liver of buffalo were also examined. There
were regional differences in Se, Cu and Mn levels. It was also found that Cu
levels were lower in buffalo that tested positive for BTB. Region, age and BTB
status had an influence on carcass pH.