Brazilian Auction Sees Record-Breaking Sale of Nelore Cow for $4

In a historic auction in Brazil, a Nelore breed cow named Viatina-19 FIV Mara Imoveis fetched a staggering Rs 40 crore ($4.8 million), setting a new record as the most expensive cow ever sold. This remarkable sale underscores the significance of the Nelore breed, which has deep roots tracing back to India.

Originating from Nellore in Andhra Pradesh, India, the Nelore breed, also known as Bos indicus, boasts a rich heritage dating back over 2000 years. Initially called Ongole, the breed's name was later changed to Nelore in Brazil, where it found widespread recognition and popularity.

Despite facing challenging weather conditions, including harsh terrains and extreme climates, the Nelore breed has thrived, thanks to its robust adaptation genes inherited from its ancestors, the Ongole cattle.

The introduction of Nelore cattle to Brazil dates back to 1868 when two Ongoles were brought to Salvador, Bahia, and subsequently sold. Over the years, the breed's presence in Brazil grew steadily, with significant expansions in Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, Minas Gerais, and Uberaba.

Characterized by their distinct appearance, Nelore cattle typically exhibit white coats with black skin, muzzle, and tail. They possess long legs, facilitating grazing in water, and feature horns that are thick, brown, and pointed upward, with some strains naturally polled.

Renowned for their unique physiological traits, Nelores boast larger and more numerous sweat glands compared to European breeds, enabling them to regulate body temperature effectively. Their slow metabolism and efficient feeding habits contribute to their high resistance to bloating.

With their long, deep bodies and clear underlines, Nelores are prized for their resilience and disease resistance, making them a sought-after breed in the global cattle industry.