In Arandú, São Paulo, Brazil, Viatina-19 FIV Mara Imóveis was sold for a staggering USD 4.38 million (approximately Rs 38 crore), making it the most expensive cow ever auctioned. One-third of the cow's ownership was sold for USD 1.44 million (approximately Rs 12 crore), bringing the total valuation to USD 4.38 million. The cow's ownership is now shared among breeders Casa Branca Agropastoril, Agropecuária Napemo, and Nelore HRO. This record-breaking sale has set a new benchmark in cattle production and is expected to influence the international market for superior livestock.
What makes Viatina-19 so special?
Viatina-19 is not an ordinary cow. This is a valuable specimen of the Nelore breed. It is characterized by a muscular build, robust immunity, and resistance to extreme climates. The Nelore breed originated from the Ongole cattle in India. It has become one of the most preferred breeds among all the breeders due to its high adaptability.
Viatina-19 is loved for its physical look. It won several awards such as the highest title of 'Miss South America' at 'Champions of the World' competition. It has a white coat, sagging skin, and a prominent hump. These all features make this animal look impressive both biologically and aesthetically. It can tolerate hot temperatures with body temperature control characteristics.
India-Brazil Connection
The Nelore breed is one of the most ancient breeds of cattle in India. This breed is referred to as the Ongole breed in India. In the 1800s, they were exported to Brazil, where they thrived in the tropical climate and formed the base of Brazil's cattle industry. This industry has been booming ever since. Brazilian farmers have developed the breed to its finest through selective breeding and biotechnology.
Why is Viatina-19 so expensive?
Viatina-19 is of exceptional genetics not like any cattle bred for the dairy or meat industry. Its embryos are exported all around the world. Farmers can supplement their herds with its exceptional genetic features, which explains its staggering price tag at auction. There is a high demand for superb Nelore genetics combined with this animal's fantastic attributes.
The price of Nelore bulls stands at around USD 2,000. The price of Viatina-19 is therefore almost 2,000 times that. Such an enormous price for this cow confirms the rapidly increasing importance of elite cattle breeding in the world's agricultural markets.
Unique Physical Traits and Adaptability
Viatina-19 is a product of the Nelore breed. This breed stands out with bright white fur, loose skin, and a very visible hump. All these features are an adaptation for survival in hot climates. The loose skin acts as a means of cooling. Special sweat glands and reflective fur are also some of the traits that help maintain body temperature.
One of the significant reasons why Nelore cattle continue to be highly sought after in the world is because of the incredible resilience it has. They can easily endure extreme heat conditions. All these features make this breed very crucial in tropical and subtropical agriculture economies.
Viatina-19 is not only the world's costliest cow but also a phenomenon in the world of cattle breeding. The record-breaking sale of this Nelore cow further strengthens the breed's reputation. It sets an example for the world, proving that with high-quality genetics and scientific advancements, the field of livestock breeding can reach unprecedented heights.
