nautoja

Nautoja refers to domestic cattle, the bovine animals kept for meat, milk, leather, and draught. They belong to the genus Bos and include the species Bos taurus (taurine cattle) and Bos indicus (zebu). Domestic cattle are descendants of the wild aurochs (Bos primigenius), with domestication occurring independently in several regions during the Neolithic, roughly 8,000–10,000 years ago. Selective breeding over millennia produced a wide array of breeds adapted to different climates and purposes.

Cattle are ruminants with a four‑chambered stomach and a herbivorous diet. They are social, often living in herds, and display varied behaviors. Reproduction is typically seasonal or annual in many breeds; cows calve and may be milked for prolonged periods in dairy systems. Production systems include dairy cattle and beef cattle, along with draft breeds in some regions. Breeds range from small to very large and differ in milk yield, growth rate, temperament, and adaptability.

Globally, cattle are among the most important farm animals, providing beef, milk and dairy products, leather, and other by-products. They influence land use and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, notably methane from enteric fermentation. Welfare, environmental sustainability, and genetic diversity are central concerns in modern management and breeding programs.

Cultural notes: In many cultures, cattle have symbolic or religious significance; in others they are valued primarily for economic utility. Conservation and breeding initiatives aim to maintain genetic diversity while improving productivity.