Abstract
ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate gas levels and the acoustic environment (noise) of growing-finishing swine in different facilities, one composed of shallow pool (SP) and another of partially slatted floor (PSF). Sensors and a sound level meter were used to measure gas concentrations (CO2 and NH3) and noise at 1.50 meters above the ground and at animal height. Data on gas concentrations and noise levels were measured at 9am, 12pm, and 3 pm. Results showed differences (P<0.05) between noise levels at animal height and gas concentrations measured in relation to stall type and data collection time. The highest noise values were found in the shallow pool stall, measured at animal level. The highest NH3 (13 ppm) and CO2 (1174.5 ppm) values were observed in the shallow pool stall at 3pm. The stall floor with shallow pool seems to provide greater welfare in relation to noise level for growing-finishing swine.
Highlights
Swine farming nowadays uses intensive production in confinement units (GOMES et al, 2014)
Animal welfare has been considered extremely important for the animal products sector (CAMERINI & NASCIMENTO, 2012), and for VIEIRA et al (2010), its absence has a direct impact on food safety
The shallow pool stall had masonry side locks, and it is characterized by water accumulation in one end, which is about 1 m wide and 10 cm deep
Summary
Swine farming nowadays uses intensive production in confinement units (GOMES et al, 2014). Intensive farming systems affect the conditions of animal comfort and welfare, and can modify their behavioral patterns, compromising productive and reproductive swine performance (SOUSA et al, 2012). The search for quality products requires the producer to make changes in the swine production system that prioritize animal welfare and can meet the society’s demand, expanding the domestic and foreign markets (BAPTISTA et al, 2011). According to SILVA-MIRANDA et al (2012), vocalization study and noise level analysis techniques allow to obtain data without animal stress, disruption or manipulation. According to BAPTISTA et al (2011), sound pressure and vocalization level records stand out as an innovative methodology of behavioral indication
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