Animal Production Research Articles

Socio-Economic Characteristics of Producers and Economic Size Classes of Enterprises According To Typologies and Risk Attitudes in TR21 Region

The aim of this study was to determine the typologies of agricultural enterprises operating in the TR21 Region according to the Farm Accounting Data Network methodology and the risk attitudes of the producers. According to the typologies and risk attitudes of the enterprises, the socio-economic characteristics of the producers and the economic size classes of the enterprises were determined. As a result of sampling based on a 95% confidence interval and a 10% margin of error, the number of enterprises surveyed was determined as 334. While 63.77% of the enterprises were specialized in field crops, 25.45% engaged in mixed livestock and plant production. Additionally, 7.49% were specialized in pasture livestock and 3.29% were in the perennial plant farming group. In the enterprises examined, 55.09% of the producers were classified as risk-averse and 44.91% as risk-lover. Of the average land holdings, 71.25% was property and 28.75% was rented land. It was noteworthy that the land rental rate in risk-lover enterprises was higher than in risk-averse enterprises. It was concluded that risk-lover enterprises had higher production value in both plant production and animal production, and risk-averse enterprises were engaged with product and animal diversity as they avoided taking risks. On average, in risk-lover enterprises, 53.64% of the operating expenses were vegetative special expenses and 46.36% were animal special expenses. In risk-averse enterprises, the share of vegetative special expenses in total expenses was 47.15%, and the share of animal special expenses was 52.85%. Compared to the average of enterprises and all enterprise typologies, standard gross profit was found to be higher in risk-lover enterprises. In enterprise typology groups, the average ESU values of the enterprises varied between 10.88 and 33.80 ESU. According to enterprise typologies, risk-averse agricultural enterprises in specialized field crop farming and perennial plant farming were in the below-medium enterprise class, while other enterprise groups were in the above-medium enterprise class.

Consumers’ Perceptions and Behaviors Regarding Honey Purchases and Expectations on Traceability and Sustainability in Italy

Traceability is a cornerstone of sustainable honey production and consumption. Honey fraud and a lack of traceability have been recently highlighted by the European Commission. Innovative systems aimed at guaranteeing food safety ’from farm to fork’ and improved controls are highly recommended. Within the framework of the BPRACTICES project, part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, and the ERA-Net SusAn initiative—focused on Sustainable Animal Production Systems—an advanced traceability system has been developed. This system utilizes QR code and radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, along with a user-friendly web application, to facilitate direct interactions between producers and consumers. Despite existing research, studies on the information needs of Italian consumers regarding honey and its traceability remain limited. Understanding these needs is vital for creating effective communication strategies that enhance consumer satisfaction and trust. This study aims to identify the needs of Italian consumers’ honey during the purchasing and consumption decisions. To explore consumer perceptions, behaviors, expectations, and needs regarding honey, we employed diverse social research methodologies, including a quantitative online survey, paper-and-pencil interviews, and focus groups. The results of this study indicate a robust demand for more information on honey’s origin, production processes, and beekeeping practices, aligning with the recent EU Directive 2024/1438, which mandates clear labeling. Italian consumers would be willing to pay a premium for honey that offers detailed information about production practices and transparency. The positive reception of QR code technology by consumers suggests a growing openness to digital tools that enhance transparency and access to information. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the need for the beekeeping sector to adopt sustainable practices, improve traceability systems, and actively engage with consumers to foster trust and ensure long-term viability in the honey market. By addressing these information needs, the sector can align itself with increasing consumer demand for quality, sustainability, and transparency.

Avian Metapneumovirus Subtype B Circulation in Poultry and Wild Birds of Colombia.

The global poultry industry, as a leading producer of animal protein, faces significant challenges related to animal health and production due to high bird density and disease risks. A major concern is the Avian Respiratory Complex (ARC), a multifactorial health issue involving pathogens such as avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), an often-underdiagnosed component of the ARC. Wild birds are seen as reservoirs and spreaders of the virus. This study aimed to detect the presence and subtypes of aMPV in samples from breeders, broilers, laying hens, and wild birds in Colombia. A total of 273 samples, including swabs from the upper respiratory and reproductive tracts, were collected from commercial poultry and wild birds. Using nested RT-PCR targeting the G gene, aMPV subtype B was identified in 23 samples (8.42%). Sequencing revealed high genetic similarity to vaccine strains, classifying all viruses as vaccine-like. In the commercial birds, aMPV-B appeared in 21 samples, regardless of symptoms, often in tests for other ARC agents, indicating diagnostic bias. In the wild birds, two samples tested positive, suggesting potential transmission between wild and domestic birds. These findings highlight the need for broader diagnostics and further research into aMPV's impact on avian health.

Promising Phytogenic Feed Additives Used as Anti-Mycotoxin Solutions in Animal Nutrition.

Mycotoxins are a major threat to animal and human health, as well as to the global feed supply chain. Among them, aflatoxins, fumonisins, zearalenone, T-2 toxins, deoxynivalenol, and Alternaria toxins are the most common mycotoxins found in animal feed, with genotoxic, cytotoxic, carcinogenic, and mutagenic effects that concern the animal industry. The chronic negative effects of mycotoxins on animal health and production and the negative economic impact on the livestock industry make it crucial to develop and implement solutions to mitigate mycotoxins. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the mycotoxicosis effect in livestock animals as a result of their contaminated diet. In addition, we discuss the potential of five promising phytogenics (curcumin, silymarin, grape pomace, olive pomace, and orange peel extracts) with demonstrated positive effects on animal performance and health, to present them as potential anti-mycotoxin solutions. We describe the composition and the main promising characteristics of these bioactive compounds that can exert beneficial effects on animal health and performance, and how these phytogenic feed additives can help to alleviate mycotoxins' deleterious effects.

The LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment at Platte River High Plains Aquifer.

The Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) network of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) consists presently of 18 sites within the contiguous United States that are managed by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and its partners. The LTAR network focuses on developing national strategies for more efficient, resilient, and profitable agricultural production systems, improved environmental quality, and enhanced rural prosperity. The Platte River High Plains Aquifer (PRHPA) LTAR site is managed jointly by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and USDA-ARS and is one of the LTAR sites that conduct research on both integrated cropping and grazing systems. The PRHPA region encompasses multiple land resource areas and diverse agricultural production systems. The PRHPA sites, predominantly located in eastern Nebraska, are designated as an integrated system focused specifically on the region's dominant production practices of row crop (corn and soybean), managed pastures, and beef cattle production. Here, we focus on C3 cool-season smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.) pasture grazing systems under prevailing and alternative management practices for the region. The sites evaluate continuous and rotational grazing with and without pasture fertilization (prevailing practices). In an additional treatment, cattle are supplemented with dry distillers grains plus solubles, while manure supplies fertilization (alternative practice). Main measurements at the site evaluate plant and animal productivity, forage quality, greenhouse gas fluxes, and soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. This paper describes the regional characteristics of the PRHPA site, ongoing LTAR research related to pasture and livestock production, stakeholder engagement, and future research plans.

Comparing the Efficacy of the Medicinal Products Expresstabs® and Inspector Quadro in Treating Otodectosis in Foxes in Fur Farming Conditions

Introduction. Fur farming is a cost-effective sector of Russian agriculture, therefore the livestock health issues are relevant. The growth, development and productivity of fur caged breeding animals are affected by various biotic and abiotic factors. Among the biotic factors are diseases, in particular invasive ones, caused, among other things, by ectoparasites. Pathogens associated with ectoparasites often infect fur animals and are widespread. The aim of our work is to study the efficacy of using the medicinal products ExpressTabs® and Inspector Quadro Tabs in treating the otodectosis in foxes in fur farming conditions.Materials and Methods. The study was carried out with 30 caged breeding foxes aged 2 years at Fur Farm “Savvatevo” LLC (Tver Region, Savvatevo village). Foxes were divided into 2 experimental and 1 control groups. Foxes were preliminarily examined clinically, samples of material from the auricles and external auditory canals were taken to find the ear mites Otodectes cynotis. The ExpressTabs® was used in foxes for the first time. The ExpressTabs® and Inspector Quadro Tabs were used according to the instructions, individually, perorally, with a small amount of feed and subsequent observation. To assess the efficacy of the medicinal products, control sampling and microscopy of material from the auricles and external auditory canals were carried out 48 hours, 7 days and 28 days after the start of the experiment. Blood samples were also taken to monitor the parameters before and after administration of the ExpressTabs®.Results. Based on the results of the experiment, we have established the high efficacy of the antiparasitic drugs ExpressTabs® and Inspector Quadro Tabs in treating fox otodectosis in caged breeding conditions. When using the ExpressTabs®, the efficacy was 90% against the ear mite O. cynotis: on the 28th day after the start of using the medicinal product, during the examination of foxes using microscopy, we found only one animal having 4 specimens of O. cynotis in the material from the auricles and external auditory canals, however, all the mites were motionless and without signs of life. The efficacy of the Inspector Quadro Tabs against the ear mite O. cynotis was 80%: on the 28th day, during the examination, only two animals were found to have mites in the scrapings, however, also without signs of life. According to the blood test results, the drug ExpressTabs® proved to have no any pronounced toxic effect on the body of foxes and is safe for use in caged keeping conditions.Discussion and Conclusion. The drugs ExpressTabs® and Inspector Quadro Tabs have shown high efficacy in foxes with otodectosis. These medicinal products can be introduced into the veterinary practices of the fur farms for treating foxes with otodectosis.

Characterization of Pasture Production Systems in Makueni County of Kenya

Livestock feed is a key factor influencing animal production and productivity as evidenced by the increased demand for animal source foods (ASFs) to feed a growing human population in Kenya. However, there exists untapped potential of pasture commercialization and hence the need to harness the social, economic and environmental benefits in the ASALs for overall rural development. A study was conducted to characterize the existing pasture production systems in Makueni County. A purposive random sampling of 300 respondents drawn from 3 Sub-counties and 12 wards was conducted in Makueni County in January, 2021. The study aimed to characterize existing pasture production systems using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Multivariate statistical techniques; principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis (CA) were used to determine whether or not there were significant differences in the pasture production systems in Makueni County. Results of the study showed that majority (97%) of the farmers were small scale farmers (SSFs) who dedicated less than 5 acres of their land to pasture production. The mean age of small- scale farmers was 52 years compared to 55 years for the large-scale farmers (LSFs). Most of the households were male headed (83%). Most of the SSFs household heads had primary level of education level or lower while most of the large-scale household heads had secondary education and above. Majority (35%) of SSFs owned the land under pasture without a title while most of the LSFs had a title. The land under pasture for SSFs was about 2 acres with an average of 102 bales per season while LSFs had about 23 acres under pasture and produced about 1,762 bales per season. Majority (92%) grew local grass varieties and sold their pasture in form of a bale. 58% of SSFs sited NGOs as their main source of grass seeds while LSFs mainly sourced from agrovets Results of PCA revealed that 6 of the 17 components had eigen values greater than 1 and accounted for 58% of the total variance. Based on Euclidian distance, six clusters were determined using the agglomeration schedule. ANOVA analysis of the six profiles were estimated to have p-values of 0.000, suggesting the existence of significance difference between cluster 1 to 6 in relation to the 6 profiles and hence concluding the existence of variations in pasture production systems in Makueni County. Development strategies should focus on knowledge of and improved access to grass seeds to farmers as well as development of standards of the mode of sale of pasture.

Enhancing nutritional and potential antimicrobial properties of poultry feed through encapsulation of metagenome-derived multi-enzymes

BackgroundThe encapsulation of metagenome-derived multi-enzymes presents a novel approach to improving poultry feed by enhancing nutrient availability and reducing anti-nutritional factors. By integrating and encapsulated enzymes such as carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes, protease, lipase, and laccase into feed formulations, this method not only improves feed digestibility but also potentially contributes to animal health and productivity through antimicrobial properties.ResultsThis study investigates the encapsulation of metagenome-derived enzymes, including carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes, protease, lipase, and laccase, using Arabic and Guar gums as encapsulating agents. The encapsulated multi-enzymes exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, achieving a 92.54% inhibition rate against Escherichia coli at a concentration of 6 U/mL. Fluorescence tracking with FITC-labeled enzymes confirmed efficient encapsulation and distribution, while physical characterization, including moisture content and solubility assessments, along with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) imaging, validated successful encapsulation. The encapsulated enzymes also effectively hydrolyzed poultry feed, leading to an increase in phenolic content and antioxidant activity, as confirmed by 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays.ConclusionsThe encapsulated multi-enzymes improved the overall feed quality by increasing reducing sugars and enhancing physical properties such as solubility and water-holding capacity. The encapsulated multi-enzymes improved the overall feed quality by increasing reducing sugars, antioxidant activity and enhancing physical properties such as solubility and water-holding capacity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed the enzymatic breakdown of the feed structure. These results suggest that supplementing poultry feed with encapsulated multi-enzymes can enhance its physical, nutritional, and functional properties, leading to improved digestibility and overall feed quality.

Crude Protein as an Indicator of Pasture Availability and Quality: A Validation of Two Complementary Sensors

This study evaluated the possibility of using two complementary electronic sensors (rising plate meter (RPM) and active optical sensor (AOS)) to obtain a global indicator, pasture crude protein (CP) in kg ha−1. This parameter simultaneously integrates two essential dimensions: pasture dry matter availability (dry matter (DM) in kg ha−1) measured by RPM, and pasture quality (measured by AOS), and supports management decisions, particularly those related to the stocking rates, supplementation, or rotation of animals between grazing parks. The experimental work was carried out on a dryland biodiverse and representative pasture, and consisted of sensor measurements, followed by the collection of a total of 144 pasture samples, distributed between three dates of the pasture vegetative cycle of 2023/2024 (Autumn—December 2023; Winter—February 2024; and Spring—May 2024). These samples were subjected to laboratory reference analysis to determine DM and CP. Sensor measurements (compressed height (HRPM) in the case of RPM, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in the case of AOS) and the results of reference laboratory analysis were used to develop prediction models. The best correlations between CP (kg ha−1) and “HRPM × NDVI” were obtained in the initial and intermediate phases of the cycle (autumn: R2 = 0.86 and LCC = 0.80; and Winter; R2 = 0.74 and LCC = 0.81). In the later phase of the cycle (spring), the accuracy of the forecasting model decreased dramatically (R2 = 0.28 and LCC = 0.42), a trend that accompanies the decrease in the pasture moisture content (PMC) and CP. The results of this study show not only the importance of extending the database to other pasture types in order to enhance the process of feed supplement determination, but also the potential for the research and development of proximal and remote sensing tools to support pasture monitoring and animal production management.

Effects of Using Mechanical Brushes on the Productive Performance of Dairy Cows

Intensive farming can reduce production costs and maximize animal production efficiency; however, it also causes many adverse effects on the welfare of dairy cows. A mechanical brush is an automated grooming device that promotes the grooming behavior of dairy cattle, thereby helping to alleviate stress. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of using mechanical brushes on the production performance of dairy cows by comprehensively analyzing their milk production, health status, and reproductive performance. The cows were assigned to 6 groups: 109 lactating dairy cows (brush treatment) and 105 controls (without brush treatment), 64 dry milk dairy cows (brush treatment) and 49 controls (without brush treatment), and 198 perinatal cows (brush treatment) and 65 controls (without brush treatment). We found an increasing trend in the daily utility time and usage frequency of mechanical brushes for each cow during the lactating period (7.73 ± 4.02 min/d and 2.90 ± 1.22 times/d, respectively), dry period (15.97 ± 14.16 min/d and 4.21 ± 2.91 times/d, respectively), and perinatal period (25.15 ± 19.05 min/d and 5.45 ± 3.83 times/d, respectively) (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). The installation location of the mechanical brush significantly affected the frequency of its usage during the different periods. The head was the preferred body part for using the mechanical brush during the lactation and dry periods (59.32% and 44.54%, respectively), while the hip was the main preferred grooming part during the perinatal period (40.17%). Overall, the time, frequency, and preferred body part of dairy cows that used mechanical brushes varied across different physiological stages. Additionally, mechanical brush use in lactating and dry dairy cows significantly improved cleanliness of the body’s surface (p < 0.05) and enhanced milk production of lactating cows (p < 0.01), particularly for cows with four and five parities. Thus, the use of mechanical brushes could improve the production performance of dairy cows and enhance sustainability of large-scale farms.

Dietary supplement guava leaf extract regulates growth, feed utilization, immune function, nutrient digestibility and redox regulation in growing rabbits

The use of agricultural waste in animal production has gained global interest. An eight-week trial was conducted to investigate the impacts of adding ethanolic guava leaf extract (GLE) as a feed supplement on the growth, feed utilization, immune response, nutrient digestibility, redox regulation, and blood health of growing rabbits. Ninety weaned growing rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups. The first group was fed a basal diet (GLE0), while the other two groups were fed the control diet fortified with 15 mg (GLE15) or 20 mg (GLE20) of GLE per kg of diet for 8 weeks. The HPLC analysis of GLE exhibited the presence of gallic acid, ferulic acid, catechin, and caffeic acid in significant amounts. The results indicated that final body weight, daily body weight, daily feed intake and nutrient digestibility were significantly higher in the GLE-treated groups compared to the un-treated group (p < 0.05). Dietary supplementation of GLE significantly reduced lipid contents including triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and VLDL (P < 0.05), with the most significant results observed when adding 20 mg/kg to the diet. AST and ALT levels as well as cortisol hormone in rabbits fed GLE were lower than those in the GLE0 group (P < 0.05). Immunoglobulins (IgG and IgA), antioxidant biomarkers (SOD and TAC) and T3 hormone were significantly improved by GLE supplementation (P < 0.001). Rabbits fed with GLE had lower levels of ROS and MDA compared to those in the GLE0 group (P < 0.001). Moreover, the hepatic and intestinal architectures were maintained in all rabbits fed diets with GLE. The results suggest that GLE supplementation (20 mg/kg diet) in fattening rabbit diets could efficiently improve growth, health status, blood physiology, antioxidant capacity and tissue histology.

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) and epigenetic factors: their role in regulating the adipocytes in bovine.

Investigating the involvement of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and epigenetic processes in bovine adipocytes can provide valuable new insights into controlling adipogenesis in livestock. Long non-coding RNAs have been associated with forming chromatin loops that facilitate enhancer-promoter interactions during adipogenesis, as well as regulating important adipogenic transcription factors like C/EBPα and PPARγ. They significantly influence gene expression regulation at the post-transcriptional level and are extensively researched for their diverse roles in cellular functions. Epigenetic modifications such as chromatin reorganization, histone alterations, and DNA methylation subsequently affect the activation of genes related to adipogenesis and the progression of adipocyte differentiation. By investigating how fat deposition is epigenetically regulated in beef cattle, scientists aim to unravel molecular mechanisms, identify key regulatory genes and pathways, and develop targeted strategies for modifying fat deposition to enhance desirable traits such as marbling and meat tenderness. This review paper delves into lncRNAs and epigenetic factors and their role in regulating bovine adipocytes while focusing on their potential as targets for genetic improvement to increase production efficiency. Recent genomics advancements, including molecular markers and genetic variations, can boost animal productivity, meeting global demands for high-quality meat products. This review establishes a foundation for future research on understanding regulatory networks linked to lncRNAs and epigenetic changes, contributing to both scholarly knowledge advancement and practical applications within animal agriculture.

Unveiling the Nutritional Quality of Terrestrial Animal Source Foods by Species and Characteristics of Livestock Systems.

Background. It is well-established that a range of macronutrients, micronutrients and bioactive compounds found in animal-source foods play unique and important roles in human health as part of a healthy diet. Methods. This narrative review focuses on terrestrial animal source foods (TASFs). It particularly analyzes five groups: poultry eggs, milk, unprocessed meat, foods from hunting and wildlife farming, and insects. The objectives were as follows: (1) examine the nutrient composition of TASFs within and across livestock species, drawing on the country and regional food composition databases; (2) analyze the influence of intrinsic animal characteristics and production practices on TASF nutritional quality. Results. TASFs are rich in high-quality proteins and fats, as well as micronutrients such as vitamin B12, iron or zinc. This study found differences in the nutritional quality of TASFs by livestock species and animal products, as well as by characteristics of livestock production systems. Our findings suggest that there may be public health opportunities by diversifying TASF consumption across species and improving certain aspects of the production systems to provide products that are both more sustainable and of higher quality. Conclusions. Future research should adopt a more holistic approach to examining the food matrix and the dietary patterns that influence TASF digestibility. It is necessary to include meat from hunting and wildlife farming and insects in global food composition databases, as limited literature was found. In addition, scarce research focuses on low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the need for further exploration of TASF food composition analysis and how intrinsic animal characteristics and livestock production system characteristics impact their nutritional value.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Animal Nutrition: Historical Insights, Technical Principles, and Practical Applications

Optimizing forage quality is vital for enhancing animal performance and supporting the global animal production industry. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy offers a rapid, non-destructive alternative to traditional, time-intensive laboratory analyses, enabling the on-site assessment of forage properties with significant advantages in cost, speed, and environmental impact. This review traces the development of NIR spectroscopy, outlines its core principles, and highlights its applications in animal nutrition. Additionally, it discusses the current technological state, challenges, and future prospects, emphasizing NIR’s growing role in promoting more sustainable and efficient animal production systems.

Assessment of the Present Status of Milk Handling and Management Practices in Some Areas of Bangladesh

Milk contamination by dairy workers' spoiled hands, unclean utensils, microbes, and polluted water has caused many milk-borne epidemics. Most milk-borne zoonoses are also contracted by drinking infected milk. Bangladesh lacks milking hygiene and farmer awareness, and the milk cleanliness of dairy farmers awareness and practices in different regions was accessed. This study was aimed at documenting the present milking and management practices of dairy producers in particular districts of Bangladesh. From June 2020 to June 2022, 300 small dairy cow owners in twelve areas were surveyed using a preset questionnaire. Results revealed that male respondents (59.5%) outnumbered female respondents (41.33%) across various age categories. Most farmers milked animals at the shed and washed their hands before milking. Over half of dairy farmers cleansed the udder and teat before milking. More than two-thirds of farmers let the calf suckle before and after milking, while 98.02 percent used concentrate feed for teat massage. Most farmers (95.58%) manually milked cows twice daily. The majority of farmers sold their milk (77.25%) rather than drink it (10.17%). The study found that 93.92 percent of milkmen cleaned the milking pail using water, while 3.5-2.5 percent utilized sand, ash, or detergent. Only 53.66% of dairy farmers washed their cows' udders and teats after milking, which may not be aware of potential contamination from dipping teats in sterile cream. Mastitis prevention was not practiced by 85.42 percent of the respondents. Four to eight percent of producers know about antibiotics, milk adulteration, milk safety, and food safety issues. The application of scientific management approaches to milking is still lacking in the study areas. Therefore, training programs on improved milking management procedures can help farmers produce clean milk, increase dairy animal production, and increase farming income.

Positive impact of early-probiotic administration on performance parameters, intestinal health and microbiota populations in broiler chickens

Minimizing the utilization of antibiotics in animal production is crucial to prevent the emergence of antimicrobial resistances. Thus, research on alternatives is needed to maintain productivity, sustainability, and animal health. To gain a comprehensive understanding of probiotics' modes of action on performance, intestinal microbiota, and gut health in poultry, 3 probiotic strains (Enterococcus faecalis CV1028 [EntF], Bacteroides fragilis GP1764 [BacF], and Ligilactobacillus salivarius CTC2197 [LacS]) were tested in 2 in vivo trials. Trial 1 comprised of a negative control group fed basal diet (BD) and 3 treatment groups that received BD with EntF, BacF and LacS. Trial 2 included a negative control group, a positive control group with Zinc-Bacitracin as antibiotic growth promoter (AGP), and 2 groups treated with a blend of probiotics (EntF+BacF+LacS) during 0 to 10 or 0 to 35 d, respectively. Wheat-soybean-rye based diets without exogenous enzymes were used as a challenge model to induce intestinal mild- or moderate-inflammatory process in the gut. In Trial 1, individually administered probiotics improved FCR at 8 d compared to Control, but these positive effects were lost in the following growing periods probably due to the high grade of challenging diet and a too low dose of probiotics. In Trial 2, both Probiotic treatments, administered only 10 or 35 d, significantly improved FCR to the same extent as of the Antibiotic group at the end of the trial. Although the performance between antibiotic and probiotic mixture showed similar values, microbiota analysis revealed different microbial composition at 7 d, but not at 21 d. This suggests that modes of action of the AGP and the tested probiotic blend differ on their effects on microbiome, and that the changes observed during the first days' posthatch are relevant on performance at the end of the study. Therefore, the probiotics administration only during the first 10 d posthatch was proven sufficient to induce similar performance improvements to those observed in birds fed antibiotic growth promoters throughout the whole experimental trial.

The biological function of Urtica spp. and its application in poultry, fish and livestock.

Urtica species is an angiosperm plant in the Urticaceae family. It serves as a traditional food and medicinal herb, possessing high nutritional value and various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, flavonoids, and polyphenolic compounds. In the realm of animal feeds, Urtica spp. can replace traditional protein feed sources and high-quality forage, thereby reducing feed costs. Moreover, Urtica spp. extract exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and boosts immune regulation. Hence, Urtica spp. plays a beneficial role in enhancing animal performance and improving their immune function. Recently, with the development of sustainable farming techniques, the demand for feed additives that prioritize safety, the absence of drug residues, and environmental friendliness have grown. Consequently, Urtica spp. and its extracts have received widespread attention in animal production. This article summarizes the biological functions of Urtica spp. and its application in animal husbandry while also outlining future prospects for its application. It will provide a scientific basis and reference point for the application of Urtica spp. in animal health and breeding.

Effect of management system and dietary seasonal variability on environmental efficiency and human net food supply of mountain dairy farming systems

Although mountain dairy cattle farming systems are pivotal for the economy, as well as for social and environmental aspects. They significantly contribute to the rural development which is currently strongly prioritized in the common EU agricultural policy, at the same time they are also increasingly criticized for having relatively high environmental impacts per kg of product, such as greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, the aim of this study was to assess and compare the environmental efficiency of 2 common alpine dairy farming systems, with focus on the effects of grazing, considering the seasonal variability in feeding at individual cow level and farm management over a 3-year period. This study focuses on alpine farming systems but can be considered to represent well other topographically disadvantaged mountain areas. An intensively managed and globally dominating production system (high-input), aiming at high milk yield through relatively intensive feeding and the use of the high-yielding dual-purpose Simmental cattle, permanently confined in stables, was compared with a forage-based production system (low-input), based on seasonal grazing and the use of the autochthonous dual-purpose breed Tyrolean Grey. For the present analysis, a data set with information on feed intake and diet composition as well as animal productivity at individual cow level, and farm management data based on multiyear data recording was used. Four impact categories were quantified for 3 consecutive years: Global Warming Potential (GWP100), Acidification Potential (AP), Marine Eutrophication Potential (MEP), and Land Use (LU, m2yr and Pt, with the latter additionally considering the Soil Quality Index). Besides being attributed to 1 kg of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM), these impact categories were also related to 1 m2 of on-farm area. Due to limited agronomic options beyond forage production and pasture use in alpine regions, net provision of protein was calculated for both farming systems to assess food supply and quantify the respective food-feed competition. Overall, the low-input farming system had greater environmental efficiency in terms of MEP per kg FPCM, as well as MEP and AP per m2 than the high-input system. LU was found to be consistently higher for the high-input than for the low-input system, the GWP100 per kg of FPCM was lower for the high-input system. Additionally, pasture access had a significant effect on the reduction of environmental impacts. Lastly, the net protein provision was slightly negative for the high-input system and marginally positive for the low-input system, indicating a lower food-feed competition for the latter. Future studies should also address the social and economic aspects of the farming systems, to offer a comprehensive overview of the 3 key factors necessary for achieving more sustainable farming systems, particularly in disadvantaged marginal regions such as mountain areas.

Sero-prevalence, associated risk factors and economic impact of camel brucellosis in Elwayye district, southern Ethiopia

Camel brucellosis is a zoonotic and economically important disease that causes low productivity and mortality in animals through abortion and low herd fertility. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to December 2023 to estimate the seroprevalence of camel brucellosis, associated risk factors, and economic impact in Elwayye district, southern Ethiopia. A total of 240 blood samples were collected from extensively and traditionally managed dromedary camels. The collected samples were subjected to testing for Brucella antibodies using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and indirect ELISA for confirmation. The overall seroprevalence of camel brucellosis in the current study by RBPT was 6.2 %, and by combined RBPT and ELISA, it was 3.7 % (95 % CI: 1.94-7.05). Risk factors like herd size, age, management practice, history of abortion, and sex were assessed. Among these, age, herd size, and management practice were identified as potential risk factors significantly associated with Brucella seropositivity in camels. But the other risk factors were not associated with the disease (P > 0.05). In this study, the total estimated economic loss due to camel brucellosis in the study area was 505,727.2 Ethiopian birr (ETB) for all parameters used. The highest economic loss was due to abortion or perinatal mortality of calves (341,325 ETB). These indicate the need to study camel brucellosis in the study area, and the disease is endemic and prevalent in pastoralist areas, which need well-organized surveillance, disease control, and prevention programs.

Heat Stress in Beef Cattle: Climate Change and the Global Scenario – A Review

Abstract With the increasing human population and urbanization, the demand for animal origin products is going to grow, especially in the developing nations till the 2050s and the production needs to be escalated and optimized with the changing climate. Heat stress is known to reduce the animal performance, production, shelf life and meat quality in all animals. The beef cattle are globally reared, following different managemental practices, so the usage of natural resources like land and water, manpower, fodders, production systems and the environmental impact also varies profoundly. Recent changes in the climate, global warming and depletion of resources have severely affected the production and heat stress is now a common constraint all over the world. Due to evolutionary diversification the tropical and temperate breeds are comparatively more thermotolerant, but the beef cattle in the colder regions are vulnerable to high environmental temperatures. Also, the production of beef increases the carbon footprint and is much less eco-friendly than growing plant-based protein. So, we comprehended the environmental temperature variation over the continents and impact of heat stress on beef cattle. Also, other factors like cattle population, land and pasture usage, livestock units in trade, methane emissions and gross beef production value were examined to evaluate the collective impact of all these on the beef sector. Our findings and predictions reveal that, in the advent of climate change, depleting natural resources and rise in the greenhouse gases, beef production will be a constant challenge, which can be only achieved by maintaining a healthy cattle population and optimum usage of natural resources. Only then can the beef sector be efficient, sustainable, and a profitable enterprise in future.