Differences between Bos indicus and Bos taurus

Bos indicus cattle have a hump, loose skin, big ears, and strong heat and parasite tolerance, while Bos taurus cattle lack a hump and perform best in cooler climates with generally higher milk yields in intensive systems.

Bos indicus are the classic “Indian cows” with a hump and a dewlap. Their bodies handle high temperatures and humidity. They have more sweat glands and loose skin that helps cooling. They also show better tolerance to ticks and some tropical diseases. Because of these advantages, indicine breeds often do well on natural grazing and lower-input farms in hot climates.

Bos taurus cattle are common in Europe and the Americas. They have no hump, tighter skin, and are adapted to cooler climates. Many taurine dairy breeds, like Holstein and Jersey, give very high milk yields under intensive feeding and cooling. Taurine beef breeds, like Angus and Hereford, finish faster with better marbling.

Both groups can interbreed, and many countries use crossbreeding to combine traits. For example, crossing zebu and taurine can give calves with heat tolerance plus improved milk or meat yield. Management, feed, and health care still decide the final results.