The dzo is a hybrid of the yak and domestic cattle, bred primarily in Mongolia and Tibet, where it is valued for its greater size, strength and productivity compared with a purebred yak or cow. The word dzo technically refers to a male hybrid, while a female is called a dzomo or zhom, and the animals are kept for draught work, meat and milk in the high-altitude regions where yaks and cattle are both herded.
Facts
Scientific NameBos grunniens x Bos taurus (yak-cattle hybrid) 1 Domestication RegionHimalayan regions of Mongolia and Tibet 1 Primary UsesPack animal, milk and meat production 1 Connections
In the Other Atlases
- Also in Geography Atlas: Mongolia, found in there.
Sources
1. Dzo (Wikipedia)
Wikimedia FoundationBody text
In Mongolia and Tibet, khainags are thought to be more productive than cattle or yaks in terms of both milk and meat production.
Taxonomy section
B. grunniens x B. taurus
Image caption
A dzo acting as a pack animal en route to Mount Everest.
Lead section, fertility
Dzomo are fertile (or fecund), while dzo are sterile.
Lead section, definition
A dzo is a hybrid between the yak and the domestic cow.
Terminology section, male and female hybrid names
The word dzo technically refers to a male hybrid, while a female is known as a dzomo or zhom.
Body text, altitude adaptation
Consequently, this adaptation significantly enhances the dzo's capacity to thrive at higher altitudes compared to either parent.
Body text, hybrid vigor
As they are a product of the hybrid genetic phenomenon of heterosis (hybrid vigor), they are larger and stronger than yak or cattle from the region.
Lead section, Mongolian name
In Mongolian, it is called a khainag (хайнаг).
Body text, backcrossing
Dzomo can be back crossed.
Associated With: Yak, Lead section, first sentence
is a hybrid between the yak and the domestic cow
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