Farming Conditions Research Articles

Construction and Application of the Phaeozem Health Evaluation System in Liaoning Province, China

Soil degradation has led to a continuous decline in the quality of phaeozem, which is seriously threatening the foundation of national food security. Therefore, precisely evaluating the health status of phaeozem resources and their spatial and temporal variations are crucial for ensuring the effective implementation of soil degradation prevention and control strategies. In this study, soil data from 140 sites were collected, and eight physical and chemical indices (sand content, silt content, pedon thickness, organic matter, total potassium, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and pH) were utilized to assess the soil health status of phaeozem in Liaoning Province. The results showed the following: (1) The minimum data set is aligned with previous research findings and effectively mirrors the soil’s health condition. (2) The substantial coefficients of variation observed for pedon thickness, sand content, and silt content across regions suggest notable differences, likely influenced by climatic variations, parent material differences, and anthropogenic activities. (3) The study area’s average soil pH of 6.39 indicates an overall acidic nature, potentially attributed to intense soil weathering and suboptimal fertilization practices. (4) The soil health index (SHI) ranged from 0.33 to 0.91, with an average of 0.62, which indicates that the majority of the phaeozem in Liaoning Province are in a sub-healthy state (SHI < 0.6 = unhealthy, SHI 0.6–0.8 = sub-healthy, SHI ≥ 0.8 = healthy). These sub-healthy areas are primarily located in hills, mountains, and the Liaohe Plain, and are significantly impacted by rainfall and wind erosion. Meanwhile, unhealthy areas are concentrated in the south and center of the province, characterized by fragile ecological environments and challenging agricultural conditions.

Effects of Biogas Digestate on Winter Wheat Yield, Nitrogen Balance, and Nitrous Oxide Emissions under Organic Farming Conditions

Effects of Biogas Digestate on Winter Wheat Yield, Nitrogen Balance, and Nitrous Oxide Emissions under Organic Farming Conditions

Anthropogenic vs. climatic drivers: Dissecting Lake desiccation on the Iranian plateau

Lakes are indispensable to ecological balance, supporting biodiversity and human welfare. Despite their importance, lakes around the globe are diminishing at an alarming rate, presenting substantial environmental challenges exacerbated by climate variability and human-induced pressures, such as unsustainable land management and excessive water withdrawals. This study offers an extensive analysis of the desiccation phenomena affecting major lakes on the Iranian plateau, dissecting the complex interplay of contributing factors. We examine meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural drought conditions using indices like SPI, SDI, and SPEI to gain nuanced insights into drought dynamics. This study sheds light on the factors that contribute to the drying up of lakes and quantifies the impact of anthropogenic and climatic drivers on this phenomenon. The findings indicate that the area of all lakes has declined dramatically after the change point, ranging from 51% in the Urmia Lake to an impressive rate (i.e. 100%) in Southern Hamun. Despite the stable rate of meteorological droughts (increasing in temperature by about 1 °C since the 90s and stable precipitation patterns across most basins), the research highlights the ongoing struggle against severe hydrological and agricultural drought conditions. The study delineates the predominant role of anthropogenic activities in the diminishing lake inflows and the consequential drying of the lake, accounting for approximately 100 % in five of the seven lakes.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF RABBITS USING DIFFERENT GROWING TECHNOLOGIES IN THE CHERKASSY REGION

According to the results of the study of the process of forming indicators of meat productivity of rabbits of the California and silver breeds (n = 200 heads), which were raised on the farm using retro-keeping technologies (the rabbit farm of the "Rokitchenkov A. P." Cherkassy region) and in the conditions of the industrial type rabbit farm (the rabbit farm of the Cherkassy experimental Station of Bioresources of the NAAS, Cherkassy), a different level of realization of the potential of meat productivity by rabbits was established, both according to the breed and depending on the cultivation technology. It was established that during the entire period of the study, and in particular before slaughter, a probable predominance was noted in young animals, which were raised according to industrial technology, regardless of the breed, the difference when comparing the average values was 165–222 g (р < 0.01). In terms of breed affiliation, animals of the California breed had higher live weight indicators at this age. It was established that the maximum indicators of animal growth were registered for rabbits of the California breed at the age of 60–90 days; for animals of the silver breed, the process of forming the live weight indicator continued until the age of 120 days. The obtained results indicate that rabbits of the meat direction of productivity have higher values of the index of body fatness (63.8–65.5%), which is typical for rabbits of this breed. This indicator is determined by the ratio of chest girth (27.0–27.2 cm) to the length of the trunk (41.5–42.3 cm) and has the following pattern: the larger the length of the trunk, the smaller the index of the whiplash. Among the analog groups, no significant difference was found in terms of the knockdown index in California rabbits. For rabbits of the silver breed, given the higher body length index (45.2–45.2 cm) with a slight difference in the chest girth index (24.7–25.0 cm), the body leanness index was 54.4–55.3%. Based on the results of the study, it was established that the cultivation of rabbits using industrial technology, in our opinion, to a certain extent, neutralizes the effect of negative factors in the surrounding environment and makes it possible to effectively realize the potential of meat productivity.

Seasonal Patterns of Injury Characteristics Among Farmers and Ranchers in the U.S. Central States

ABSTRACT Objective In high-risk agricultural environments, tasks, weather, and work conditions vary throughout the year. Also, injuries peak during certain periods. The primary objective of this study was to examine operator- and farm-level characteristics as risk factors for injuries within each of the four seasons. The secondary objective was to examine seasonal differences in the incident location and primary cause of these injuries. Method We analyzed data from the 2018 and 2020 Farm and Ranch Health and Safety Surveys (FRHSS), conducted in seven U.S. states by the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH), which were collected using a stratified random sampling approach to ensure representativeness. The survey data were merged with operation-level data from the Farm Market iD database. We employed Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) to examine the association of seasonal injuries with individual and operation-level characteristics. The chi-square test of independence was used to assess the association between injury incident location and season, as well as injury cause and season. Pairwise Z-tests of proportions were conducted to evaluate the differences in the proportions of injuries due to specific combinations of injury location and cause across each pair of seasons. Results Surveys conducted in 2018 and 2020 yielded a combined response rate of 15.9%, with 5,428 responses and 7,915 unique operators. Of these, 903 operators reported at least one injury during the past 12 months. Seasonally, most injuries occurred in spring (34.2%), followed by summer (24.7%). Male operators had higher injury odds in the spring (adjusted OR = 1.42) and summer (aOR = 2.41). Those managing both a farm and a ranch reported increased injury risks in winter (aOR = 1.73) and spring (aOR = 1.48). Operators in cow-calf operations faced higher springtime injury risks (aOR = 1.45). High stress and exhaustion were consistent risk factors across all seasons. The highest proportion of injury incidents occurred in the farmyard (43.6%), and livestock were the most common cause of injury (24.9%). Conclusion Results highlight the need for season-specific prevention and intervention strategies, considering farmers’ and ranchers’ risk characteristics, injury locations, and causes. These findings can inform targeted measures for high-risk populations at optimal times and locations.

Assessment and evolution of socio-environmental management of soybean farms participating in the Agro Plus program in Minas Gerais State, Brazil

The Agro Plus program supports rural producers to comply with legislation and be prepared to meet demands of the international soybean market. This paper sought to analyze the current sustainability conditions of soybean farms in Minas Gerais based on the program checklist. The assessment of property improvements was carried out using data from 70 farms evaluated twice between 2016 and 2020 by the Agro Plus. The correlation between the soybean area cultivated in the season 2021 (ha) and the score for each of the 19 themes assessed by program (in %) was calculated and the t test was applied to verify the significance of the correlations. The program has a positive impact on soybean farms in Minas Gerais and contributes significantly to the management of properties in terms of compliance with current legislation. It enabled improvements in all the topics evaluated, with emphasis on those that were most critical before the farm joined Agro Plus. However, some themes are not suitable for most farms. Risk management at work, employee training, waste management and empty packaging storage and PPE laundry facilities have the lowest averages. Focusing on their indicators on second visits, distributing specific teaching materials and organizing courses on the subject seem interesting alternatives for Agro Plus to promote greater development on farms. There are significant correlations between the size of properties and socio-environmental issues, mainly related to labor issues and waste management on the property.

Эффективность применения новой кормовой добавки в рационах цыплят-бройлеров

Purpose. Study the effectiveness of using Lecitomix feed additive in feeding broiler chickens throughout the entire technological cycle of keeping. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted on day-old broiler chickens of both sexes of Cobb-500 cross in the conditions of poultry farming in the Volgograd region. The duration of the experiment was 42 days. Experimental chickens in the amount of 387 heads were divided into 2 experimental and 1 control groups. In each of the experimental groups, Lecitomix feed additive was fed to the chickens as part of the feed mixture daily: 250 g (experimental group 1) and 500 g (experimental group 2) per 1 ton of feed. The poultry in the control group received feed that did not contain the studied feed additive. Weighing (10 animals from each experimental group) was carried out on the first day, on 21 and 42 days in order to assess the dynamics of broiler chickens live weight. Blood sampling was carried out on 42nd day of the experiment and its clinical and biochemical analysis was carried out to monitor physiological state of the experimental poultry. Generally accepted methods of zootechnical, morphological, biochemical, mathematical analysis and corresponding laboratory equipment, including URIT-3020 Vet Plus and URIT-800 Vet analyzers (China), were used in setting up the experiment and conducting scientific research. Results. Chickens of 1st and 2nd experimental groups exceeded poultry of control group for the entire experimental period in terms of average daily and absolute gains of live weight by 2.5 and 2.8%; amount of hemoglobin in the blood – by 4.0 (P≤0.05) and 4.4% (P≤0.05), erythrocytes – by 8.3 (P≤0.05) and 9.9% (P≤0.05); safety of poultry population – by 2.4 and 3.1%; digestibility of dry matter – by 1.7 and 2.9% (Р≤0.05), organic matter – by 3.1 (Р≤0.05) and 4.7% (Р≤0.001), crude protein – by 3.1 (Р≤0.001) and 5.0% (Р≤0.001), crude fat – by 2.6 (Р≤0.01) and 4,4% (Р≤0.001), crude fiber – by 12.0 (Р≤0.001) and 14.8% (Р≤0.001), nitrogen-free extractives – by 1.2 and 2.1%. Pecking incidents in experimental groups 1 and 2 of experimental broilers were lower than control chickens by 1.5 and 2.3%. Conclusion. The feasibility of using Lecitomix feed additive in industrial poultry farming to normalize metabolism, increase digestibility of diet nutrients, increase live weight and safety of broiler chickens has been confirmed.

A Review of Drip Irrigation’s Effect on Water, Carbon Fluxes, and Crop Growth in Farmland

The substantial depletion of freshwater reserves in many pivotal agricultural regions, attributable to the dual pressures of global climate change and the excessive extraction of water resources, has sparked considerable apprehension regarding the sustainability of future food and water security. Drip irrigation, as an efficient and precise irrigation method, reduces water loss caused by deep percolation, soil evaporation, and runoff by controlling the irrigation dosage and frequency, thus improving the efficiency of water resource utilization. Studies have shown that compared with traditional irrigation methods, drip irrigation can significantly decrease water consumption, optimize the water–energy relationship by reducing soil evaporation, increase the leaf area index, and promote crop growth, thereby enhancing plant transpiration. Although more wet and dry soil cycles from drip irrigation may increase soil CO2 emissions, it also enhances crop photosynthesis and improves crop net ecosystem productivity (NEP) by creating more favorable soil moisture conditions, indicating greater carbon sequestration potential. The advantages of drip irrigation, such as a short irrigation cycle, moderate soil moisture, and obvious dry and wet interfaces, can improve a crop’s leaf area index and biomass accumulation, improve root dynamics, promote the distribution of photosynthetic products to the aboveground parts, and thus enhance crop yields. This study highlights the potential for the application of drip irrigation in arid regions where resource optimization is sought, providing strong technical support for the achievement of sustainable agricultural development. Future research needs to consider specific agricultural practices, soil types, and environmental conditions to further optimize the implementation and effectiveness of drip irrigation.

Controlled drought stress affects rosemary essential oil composition with minimal impact on biomass yield

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.), an indigenous medicinal and aromatic plant within the Mediterranean region, yields essential oils renowned for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. When subjected to various stress conditions, rosemary intensifies the production of essential oils as a defensive mechanism, as occurs when it is subjected to drought stress, making it a potentially interesting crop for marginal dryland areas of Sicily and other Mediterranean areas. Managing rosemary cultivation through controlled drought stress close to the balsamic period may increase the concentration and quality of essential oils and optimize the use of limited resources like water. We conducted two on-farm field experiments in Sicily, southern Italy, to assess the effect of controlled drought stress on rosemary biomass, essential oil yield, and composition. The hypothesis was that drought could improve the concentration of essential oils and modify their chemical composition by increasing valuable aromatic components without negatively impacting crop biomass production, increasing interest in cultivating this species. The experiments were co-designed with farmers selecting dedicated field experiments, cultivars, and crop management. Drought stress was applied during autumn and spring in correspondence with medium-high temperatures and rainwater scarcity. The irrigation input was reduced for three weeks during the balsamic period for each trail. Under stressed conditions, morphometric traits were measured. At harvest time, essential oils were extracted using microwave-assisted extraction. Under the same farm conditions, the canopy height was significantly higher in ‘Barbeque’ than ‘Tuscan Blue cv. (67.3 cm vs. 43.8 cm) This indicates a genotype influence on stress response. Essential oil yield increased by 30 % in plants of Tuscan blue cv. subjected to stress conditions in one of two farms. Additionally, drought stress altered the aromatic profile of the essential oil, resulting in differing percentages of key compounds between stressed and unstressed plants. Generally, there was a higher α-pinene percentage in unstressed plants and higher bornyl-acetate and β-caryophyllene concentrations in drought-stressed plants. In the Scicli farm, α-pinene decreased in response to water stress, while camphene and myrcene increased. Our results summarized that controlled drought stress had a minimal impact on rosemary growth, increasing the percentages of some terpenes in its essential oils. No severe decrease was observed in the synthesis of essential oils, suggesting that rosemary is suitable for marginal soils in many Mediterranean countries to protect soils and diversify crops in farms.

Effect of Genetic and Non-Genetic Factors on the Performance of Cross-Bred Dairy Cattle Under Organized Farm Condition

Effect of Genetic and Non-Genetic Factors on the Performance of Cross-Bred Dairy Cattle Under Organized Farm Condition

Integrating Biochar with Solar Drip Irrigation Technology for Smallholder Vegetable Farming in South-eastern Ghana Yields Profitable Returns

Ghana's agricultural sector faces significant challenges, characterized by low productivity and a heavy reliance on unpredictable rainfall and outdated farming practices, with limited use of modern agricultural inputs. This research investigates the potential profitability of integrating biochar and solar drip irrigation technologies for smallholder vegetable farming in Ghana, a country with sub-Saharan African agricultural conditions. The study employs gross margin and net farm income approaches to estimate profitability, providing a robust financial analysis of the proposed agricultural innovations. The results reveal a substantial mean gross margin of GHȼ35,021.25 and a net farm income of GHȼ48,786.50 per ha across the study area during the dry season from 2017-2020. These findings underscore the economic viability of biochar and solar drip irrigation, demonstrating significant financial benefits for smallholder farmers. The study concludes that adopting these technologies can markedly enhance agricultural productivity and profitability. It is recommended that smallholder farmers adopt biochar and solar drip irrigation to improve their farming outcomes, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural development in the region.

PENGEMBANGAN PERANGKAT MULTI SENSOR UNTUK PRECISION FARMING MONITORING MEDIA TANAM

The development of a multi-sensor device and the implementation of a data transmission system to a database for predicting plant suitability parameters are the focus of this paper. This technology enables accurate and continuous data collection for agricultural condition monitoring. The study utilizes a DHT22 sensor for air temperature and humidity, a pH sensor for soil pH, a soil moisture sensor for soil moisture, a rain gauge sensor for rainfall, and a raindrop sensor for rain detection. The data from these sensors are managed by an ESP32 microcontroller and transmitted to a Firebase database. The multi-sensor device was functionally tested and compared with valid reference sensor readings. The results show that all the multi-sensor devices and the recording system in the Firebase database functioned well. The average measurement error for the DHT22 temperature sensor was 1.15°C, with 2.9% for humidity, 0.72% for the pH sensor, and the soil moisture sensor showed 100% accuracy. This system can be applied as a parameter for predicting the suitability of plant types with soil and environmental conditions.

Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges to Unlock Food Security in Rural Indonesia

General Background: Food security is a critical issue in rural areas, especially in developing countries, where sustainable agricultural practices and government support play a vital role in ensuring a stable food supply. Specific Background: In Sumorame Village, Candi District, Sidoarjo Regency, the local government has implemented a food security program aimed at improving agricultural productivity and community welfare. Knowledge Gap: Despite the program's significance, little is known about the specific factors influencing its success, particularly in the context of rural governance and local agricultural conditions. Aims: This study aims to describe and analyze the implementation of the food security program in Sumorame Village, focusing on four key factors: communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. Results: The findings reveal that communication between the village government, farmers, and community groups has been effective through targeted socialization efforts. Human resources are competent, with strong collaboration among farmer groups. Financial resources have been allocated in accordance with regulations, but physical infrastructure remains inadequate due to limited agricultural land, unfavorable geographical conditions, and suboptimal hydroponic yields. Disposition among stakeholders is positive, with high commitment observed. The bureaucratic structure has been functioning in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Novelty: This study highlights the importance of resource optimization, particularly in agricultural infrastructure, and stresses the need for improved technological integration to enhance program outcomes. Implications: The results suggest that strengthening communication and addressing physical resource limitations are crucial for improving food security program effectiveness in rural areas. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance rural food security initiatives. Highlights: Communication is crucial for successful food security program implementation. Infrastructure limitations present significant challenges to agricultural productivity. Collaboration and commitment among stakeholders enhance program effectiveness. Keywords: Food security, rural governance, agricultural infrastructure, communication, resource optimization

Prediction of reproductive performance in wintering females of Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii, Brandt) based on in vitro ovulation rate of isolated follicles

Early prediction of the reproductive success of sturgeon females is important both for artificial breeding conditions in sturgeon farms and for monitoring wild fish populations approaching spawning. This study demonstrated that ovarian follicles removed from wintering Acipenser baerii females can undergo in vitro ovulation when exposed to 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one. The research was conducted from 2015 to 2021 and involved the examination of 110 wintering Siberian sturgeon females (A. baerii), with an average weight of 8–11 kg and an age range of 8–10 years. Selection of females for spawning was based on the polarization index (PI) at the time when the river temperature dropped to +8 °C. The selected females were overwintered in concrete flow-through tanks with water from the Volga River for approximately two months. At the end of this period, oocyte samples were collected for in vitro incubation. An increase in water temperature to 15 °C, which precedes spawning, was achieved by mixing with warm effluent from a regional power station. The reproductive success of females was evaluated based on fertilization and embryonic survival rates. High reproductive success was characterized by females with fertilization rates above 70% and hatching rates above 60%. We identified a positive correlation between the percentage of in vitro ovulated follicles and the in vivo fertilization and embryo survival rates, with correlation coefficients of Rsp = 0.60 and Rsp = 0.48, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that females whose in vitro ovulation rate of follicles exceeded 30% displayed high reproductive performance compared to those with an in vitro ovulation rate below 30%. The predictive accuracy of this criterion was determined by calculating the ratio of ranks between females with high and low reproductive performance, averaging 80.9% for fertilization and 77% for embryonic survival. Therefore, we propose a new criterion to select females of A. baerii for spawning based on the in vitro oocyte ovulation rate obtained from wintering individuals.

IoT Applications in Agriculture: Enhancing Crop Yield in Vietnam

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the IoT applications in agriculture: enhancing crop yield in Vietnam Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: IoT applications in agriculture have significantly enhanced crop yield in Vietnam. Through sensors and IoT devices, farmers monitor soil conditions like moisture, temperature, and humidity in real-time. This data-driven approach optimizes irrigation and fertilization, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. Studies show that smart farming techniques using IoT lead to higher crop yields by ensuring optimal growth conditions and timely pest and disease management. Remote monitoring also improves farm management, reducing labor costs and promoting sustainable practices through precise resource management. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology acceptance model (TAM) & diffusion of innovations theory& resource-based view (RBV) may be used to anchor future studies on IoT applications in agriculture: enhancing crop yield in Vietnam. Encourage the adaptation and customization of IoT solutions to suit local farming practices and environmental conditions across different regions of Vietnam. Implement policies that incentivize the adoption of IoT technologies in agriculture, particularly among smallholder farmers.

Influence of outbreeding and inbreeding on milk productivity of the Kostroma breed cows

The material about modern genealogical structure of the Kostroma breed of cattle, breeding base and kinship relations of cows in the breeding farms of the Kostroma region is presented. Domestic Kostroma breed of cattle, possessing valuable economically useful qualities, accounts for 33.5% in the region. The studies were conducted in three breeding farms and two pedigree breeding units in 2023. Breeding and zootechnical records data were used as the research material. The research methods are zootechnical, population-genetic and analytical with the use of computer programs. Milk productivity of cows at outbreeding (unrelated breeding) and at different degrees of kinship at inbreeding was analyzed separately for all breeding plants and pedigree breeding units in the Kostroma region. Out of 1736 cows of the Kostroma breed studied, 918 (52.9%) were obtained by outbreeding, 818 (47.1%) by inbreeding, including distant – 461 (26.5%), moderate – 310 (17.8%), close – 41 (2.4%) and consanguinity – 6 (0.4%). Outbreeding and distant and moderate inbreeding were mostly used in breeding farms. The level of spontaneous inbreeding was 2.8%. Higher milk yields are inherent to outbred cows from all breeding farms of the Kostroma region, fat and protein content in milk - to outbred cows and the animals with different degrees of inbreeding in the conditions of specific farms. The results of the research indicate higher milk productivity of the cows under outbreeding. The obtained data were used for making plans of selection and breeding work with the Kostroma breed of cattle in breeding farms.

Treatment of functional disorders of gastrointestinal tract of calves with complex phytomineral preparation

Significant economic losses due to diarrhoea morbidity in newborn young animals lead to a decrease in the profitability of the sector in the structure of agricultural production. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to create and investigate the therapeutic effect of application of complex phytomineral preparation using local components: opoka of Taskala deposit and decoction of camelthorn (Alhagi maurorum) for treatment of diarrhoea in calves. The therapeutic effect of the preparation was studied in the conditions of dairy farm in Kyzylorda region on 5-7-day-old calves. The effect of the preparation was studied in a comparative aspect with an analogous preparation of imported production and the results obtained from healthy animals. Clinical, haematological, and biochemical methods of investigation were employed. The findings obtained suggest a high therapeutic effect of the created preparation. Its application allowed reducing the duration of the treatment period by 5-7 days compared to the imported preparation and restoring the positive dynamics of average daily gain as early as on the 5th day after the start of treatment. Haematological studies indicate stimulation of the immune system in animals that was manifested by a 14% increase in the count of lymphocytes and a 37% increase in the proteins of the γ-globulin fraction compared to healthy animals. These indices suggest an increase in the activity of the humoral part of the immune system in animals after treatment with the preparation. Another positive therapeutic effect of the preparation was observed in the protective effect on the liver of diseased animals. Despite the present effect of both preparations, the decrease in the activity of markers characterising hepatocyte destruction was higher with the Kazakh preparation. Thus, the created preparation is characterised by a higher therapeutic effect in comparison with the imported preparation and allow recommending it for treatment and prevention of diarrhoea in young animals

Experience of reproduction of pike (Esox lucius Linnaeus, 1758) using the factory method

The article is devoted to the conducted experience of reproduction of the common pike (Esox lucius Linnaeus, 1758) in the conditions of industrial fish farming. Pike is an important object of aquaculture, used for biomelioration of reservoirs and for amateur fishing. The purpose of this work was to obtain pike larvae by the factory method with a different method of incubation of eggs. To obtain sexual products, pike producers were selected, after bonification they were landed in pools on a direct-flow system. Eggs from females were obtained by pumping, into enameled containers separately for each individual, sperm from males was obtained by slaughtering. After fertilization, the eggs were de-glued and placed in a Weiss apparatus for incubation, a total of 23.75 million pieces of eggs were obtained, the average fertility of females was 25 thousand eggs, the percentage of fertilization was 70%. To conduct the experiment, the eggs were divided into two parts, the group was left for incubation in Weiss devices. Group II at the 22nd stage of development, the “pigmented eye stage”, was placed on frames with a mosquito net of a smaller diameter measuring 0.5 by 0.5 m, with a side height of 1.5 cm in the ICA-2 pools. In the group I at the 24th stage of eggs development, hatching occurred, the survival rate of the larva was 27.3%, in the group II, hatching was 40.8%. At the stage before the transition to active nutrition, the larvae were collected in polyethylene transport bags with oxygen and released into a natural reservoir. Transportation was carried out at 12 degrees, at 2000 pcs/l.

Genotoxic effects in blood cells of sturger (Acipenseridae) grown in conditions of cage farming of the Volga delta, Russia

The purpose of this work was to assess the degree of genotoxic influence of the habitat on individuals of Russian sturgeon and sterlet raised in cage farming conditions in the Volga delta, using micronucleus and DNA comet tests.The blood of the individual Russian sturgeon and sterlet was shaved off during their lifetime. A comet DNA test was performed using the alkaline method. The number of erythrocytes with micronuclei was determined microscopically. To assess the physiological state of sturgeons, conventional hematological and biochemical methods were used.In the samples of fish blood smears studied, the average proportion of erythrocytes with micronuclei was 3.20 ± 1.24 ‰ in Russian sturgeon and 5.25 ± 1.18 ‰ in sterlet. The proportion of DNA in the comet tail in erythrocytes of Russian sturgeon was 3,99 %, and in sterlet 6, 48 %. The values of tail moment and Olivet moment were also lower in Russian sturgeon. Among sterlet erythrocytes, a more heterogeneous pattern of DNA damage can be noted. The length of the comet tail in starlet individuals turned out to be lower than in Russian sturgeon: apparently, larger fragments of these molecules were formed when the DNA of starlet erythrocytes was damaged. The physiological state of sterlet individuals can be characterised as normal, and that of the Russian sturgeon as satisfactory, due to the deviations identified in the values of some hematological and biochemical blood parameters.Having studied the influence of the environment on individual sturgeon kept in cage aquaculture conditions in the Volga delta using micronuclear and DNA comet tests, we can conclude that there was no acute genotoxic effect at the time of the study.

Does the Farming Method Influence the Porcine Vomeronasal Organ Condition? A Histological Study.

The vomeronasal organ (VNO) plays a key role in mammals, since it detects pheromones thus enabling social interactions between congeners. VNO inflammatory changes have been shown to severely impact animal life, leading to impaired social interactions in groups, such as in pigs. Environmental air is known to be strongly modified in farms, and it is suspected to be one of the causes of this alteration. This study aimed to compare via histology the VNOs of pigs housed in intensive conditions (n = 38) to those of pigs housed in free-range farming conditions (n = 35). VNO sections were stained in hematoxylin and eosin to assess the presence of nonsensory and sensory epithelium alterations and collagenolysis. The nonsensory epithelium was significantly more inflamed in animals in free-range farming conditions than those in intensive conditions (p < 0.0001) and was more strongly affected by signs of collagenolysis (p < 0.0001). The sensory epithelium seemed to be less altered by the different environmental conditions (p = 0.7267). These results suggest that species-typical pig behaviors, such as digging and rooting for food, could facilitate the presence of microparticles in the oral cavity and their entrance into the vomeronasal canals, leading to changes to the VNO.