This study was undertaken to investigate postpartum fertility conditions in Simental and Holstein cows which were imported to Elazığ and its vicinity between 1991-1996 and to evaluate their adaptations to the region.

The records of the 216 Simental and 100 Holstein cows which were brought to region had been recorded during prepartum period. Feeding regimen of the animals, housing and management factor were evaluated. After parturition, animals were divided into two groups. Animals in the first group were sceened until pregnancy or fifth insemination. The animals of the second group were followed by the blood samples, taken twice a week, between the days 15 and 60 in the postpartum period and ultrasonographic examination was carried out once a week.

There was no significant difference between the two group of cows in terms of involution period, calving to first estrus interval, lenght of ovarian cylces, calving to first service interval, calving to conception interval and calving interval. The involution periods and fertility parameters in Simental and Holstein cows were correspondingly 46.25±10.80, 45.25±7.68 days; calving to first estrus interval 44.66±2.57, 40.50±3.93 days, lenght of ovarian cylces, 23.66±1.26, 23.16±2.21 days, calving to first service interval, 80.47±3.25, 90.42±5.30 days respectively. Calving to conception interval 136.88±5.22, 132.16±7.86 days and calving interval was found as 417.10±5.21, 410.83±7.78 days.

Pregnancy rate in the first service in Simental and Holstein cows was 18.31 % and 33.33 %, total pregnancy rate was calculated as 18.91 % and 29.69 % respectively. There was no significant difference in the total pregnancy rate between the two group. However, pregnancy rate in the first insemination of Simental cows was lower and services per conception higher (P<0.05). Services per conception was detected as 2.20 in Simentals and 1.78 in Holsteins.

In conclusion, it is suggested that succession in developing stock-breeding through animal importation is rather difficult unless the farmers are educated sufficiently and adequate experts are provided.