Indicine

Indicine is an adjective that denotes relation to India or the Indus region. In biology, indicine refers to the zebu cattle, a group of domesticated bovines whose scientific name is Bos indicus. This is contrasted with taurine cattle, Bos taurus, which refers to the European lineage.

Indicine cattle are characterized by physical traits such as a pronounced shoulder hump, drooping ears, and a large dewlap, though breed appearance varies. They are generally more heat-tolerant and resistant to tropical parasites than taurine cattle, and they are well adapted to warm, arid, or semi-arid environments. While milk yields are often lower than those of many taurine breeds, indicine cattle are valued for their endurance, hardiness, and ability to thrive on poorer forage.

Geographic distribution and origins: indicine cattle originated in the Indian subcontinent and have since been dispersed by human activity across South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas through breeding programs and trade. Notable indicine breeds include Gir, Sahiwal, Brahman, Nellore, and various Indus Valley–derived types used for milk or work.

Taxonomy and genetics: Bos indicus is the scientific designation used for indicine cattle, in contrast to Bos taurus for taurine cattle. Genetic and archaeological evidence supports domestication in the Indian subcontinent, with later introductions and crossbreeding giving rise to regional hybrids and tropical composite breeds.

Uses and impact: Indicine cattle are employed for milk production, meat, and draught power. In many regions, indicine genetics are incorporated into crossbreeding programs to develop animals that combine heat tolerance and parasite resistance with higher production traits.