Perspectives offertes à la production animale par l’usage des biotechnologies : les animaux monogastriques

Abstract

New perspectives for biotechnology in the area of monogastric farm animals. Products derived from monogastric animals, pigs, poultry and rabbit production are more and more popular in Europe to supply the demand of consummers for cheap safe and good quality meat. Thanks to research and innovations, these animals are more and more productive and efficient. Recent data on nutritional physiology provided informations about the digestive (Ileal digestibility) and nutritional role of Insoluble Non Starch Polysaccharides (INSP) and Antinutritional Factors (ANFs) included in exotic imported feedstuffs, such as cereal substitutes. The utilization of mathematical models led to a more and more accurate estimation of the nutritional requirements of animals of different species at different physiological stages, and to the prediction of energy and protein value of feedstuffs, on the basis of numerous data collected throughout analytical experimental approaches. Genetic is also a field of continuous innovation. Robertsonian translocation (T4/14) responsible for reproductive failure was recently identified in the pig species. Molecular genetic will supply informations on genetic mapping (PiGMaP) about loci governing quantitative traits in a study coordinated between 10 European countries. These results will reinforce the role of quantitative genetics applied to farm animals and herds. Integrative physiology is presently absolutely required on the basis of numerous analytical results supplied by the different disciplines of animal biology for an efficient support and control of a profitable husbandry of monogastric animals, respectful of the animals, the environment and the consummer.