Livestock Farming Research Articles

Assessment of BxN Hybrids for Fodder Productivity in South Gujarat, India

A field experiment was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bharuch, Gujarat to evaluate eight Bajra x Napier (BxN) hybrids viz. BNH-10, BNH-11, CO-5, CO-6, DHN-5, DHN-15, Phule Jaywant, and Phule Gunwant for their fodder yield potentials and quality parameters over three years (2021-2024). A Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications was employed for the experiment. The pooled results of three years revealed that significant variations were observed in hybrids investigated. The hybrid BNH-11 consistently and significantly outperformed other tested hybrids, demonstrating superior performance across multiple parameters, including plant height (143.25 cm), tillers per plant (26), leaf-to-stem ratio (1.14), green fodder yield (207.05 MT ha⁻¹), dry matter yield (80.36 MT ha⁻¹) and crude protein yield (6.06 MT ha⁻¹). Phule Gunwant closely followed BNH-11, performing on par across all evaluated parameters. These findings indicate that BxN hybrids exhibit substantial potential for fodder production, supporting their use in sustainable livestock farming systems in the region.

Livestock Changes in Brazil and Sustainable Intensification Challenges

The increasing global demand for animal products has impacted Brazilian cattle farming. This study aims to offer references for developing more sustainable livestock farming in Brazil. It analyzes the numbers of pasture areas, cattle herds, and stocking rates from 1970 to 2017, based on agricultural census data. Additionally, it compares pasture conditions using agricultural census data and satellite imagery for the years 2006 and 2017. The key findings include the following: (1) a 119.7% increase in cattle herds, with migration from the South and Southeast to the North and Central–West regions, which have lower land prices; (2) a 2.6% decrease in the pasture area for cattle (except in the North region); (3) a 3.8% decrease in areas in poor condition; and (4) a 125.5% increase in the stocking rate. Despite technological advancements improving productivity, most pastures (59.6%) are still underperforming, indicating potential for reducing the pressure on native vegetation. This study concludes that production areas are shifting between regions in Brazil, with livestock farming intensifying, marked by a decrease in pasture areas and degraded pastures, alongside an increase in cattle numbers and stocking rates. However, these changes are heterogeneous across the country. This analysis provides an overview of beef cattle nationwide, which is relevant for addressing production sustainability challenges.

Insect Production: A Circular Economy Strategy in Iceland

In this review, the multifaceted issue of food security is addressed, emphasizing the need for innovative and culturally appropriate solutions. Exploring insect livestock farming emerges as a potential remedy, offering a pathway to alleviate food insecurity and promote food sovereignty, particularly when integrated with social acceptability. Stakeholder engagement on both production and consumption fronts, coupled with sustained support, is vital for successful implementation. The expanding landscape of commercial insect farming in the West prompts questions about its broader scalability and equitable deployment, especially for vulnerable populations. Existing research gaps underscore the need for a coordinated effort across international, national, and legal frameworks to effectively integrate insect farming into existing agricultural systems. In this review, we have delved into the industrial-scale production processes of mealworms and black soldier flies (BSFs), known for their high protein content and organic waste conversion, covering small and industrial cultivation methods, offering insights into mealworm production life cycles, innovative rearing systems, and harvesting techniques. This review concludes with climate-specific recommendations for insect facilities, stressing the importance of sustainable practices, continuous research and development, effective market strategies and economic feasibilities in Iceland. In the context of escalating demand for sustainable protein sources, industrial-scale insect production emerges as a pivotal player in addressing global food security challenges.

Trends and future directions of artificial intelligence applications in Iranian livestock production systems

Abstract In recent years, the global quest for livestock intensification driven by ever-increasing demands for animal food products raised concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and public health. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technologies such as remote sensing, Internet of Things (IoT), computer vision, and data-driven modeling has become a hotspot in livestock farming that could facilitate animal monitoring, disease detection, feed optimization, and health management. This review includes an assessment of these topics and research done in Iran so far, proposing future steps for the deployment of AI-powered technologies in farm applications. The Iranian livestock sector already seeing benefits from AI advancements and information technologies, however, most studies focused on model development without applications or deployment for the industry. Significant work is needed to address the limitations and challenges namely lack of data, economic feasibility, ethical concerns, infrastructure issues, and regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, reported AI-based methods and approaches have some inconsistencies in Iran that hinder validation. Looking forward, AI could create a new era in the livestock sector of Iran that not only copes with upcoming challenges but also boosts the circular economy making this country a pioneer in the region. However, tackling some potential limitations accompanying AI application in the Iranian livestock sector warrants the multi-disciplinary collaboration of veterinarians, computer scientists, animal nutritionists, agri-engineers, and governmental organizations.

Improved Agronomic Practices on Enhancement of Quality Forage Production for Livestock Farming

The lack of nutrient-rich fodder and forage is one of the problems of livestock farming. Adequate tillage operations, timely and suitable water management, weed management, insect pests and disease management, fertilizer management, seeding at the proper time and seed rate, timely harvesting, and other agronomic techniques can all help to increase the nutritional content and yield of fodder and forage crops. A number of research and review papers have been systematically reviewed in this study. The use of tillage practices such as primary, secondary, conventional, and deep tillage enhances dry matter and yield of green fodder as compared to zero tillage. The organic matter (OM) content and dry matter (DM) of fodder crops are increased by regular and appropriate irrigation. The DMD (dry matter digestibility) and CP (crude protein) contents of early harvested forages are higher than those of late harvested forages. The application of nitrogen promotes crop development and growth, increasing the production of green fodder and improving its quality. Intercropping is essential for increasing the yield of fodder crops. Compared to sole cropping of maize and cowpea, the yield is found higher in intercropping of maize + cowpea. The production and quality of fodder are decreased by late seeding. The management of insect pests and diseases enhances the production and quality of fodder and forage. Thus, we draw the conclusion that fodder and forage crops production and their quality parameters are greatly influenced by agronomic practices.

Impact of Fertilization on Productivity and Nutritional Quality of Napier Varieties in Southern Mindanao, Philippines

Aims: This study investigates the effects of fertilizer application on the growth performance, proximate composition, and chlorophyll content of three Napier grass varieties (King, Pakchong, and Juncao) in Southern Mindanao, Philippines. Study Design: Utilizing a Randomized Complete Block Design with a 3x2 factorial arrangement. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was performed at the University of Southern Mindanao Animal Production Center facilities from January to March 2023. Methodology: The three Napier grass varieties (King, Pakchong, and Juncao) was the first factor, and fertilizer application (with or without) were the second factor. Four blocks were prepared, each containing six plots, resulting in 24 plots. The fertilized plots received two applications of 150kg N/ha and 75kg N/ha of the recommended NPK fertilizer, respectively, while non-fertilized plots did not receive any fertilizer. Results: Results showed that fertilizer application significantly improved herbage yield, with fertilized plants yielding 20.25 tons per hectare compared to 15.14 tons in non-fertilized plants. Pakchong exhibited the highest yield and crude fiber content, while Juncao grass showed higher crude protein content without fertilizer. Fertilization also increased ether extract content, with Pakchong displaying the greatest response. However, nitrogen-free extract (NFE) was higher in non-fertilized plants across all varieties, indicating a complex interaction between nutrient availability and carbohydrate allocation. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of targeted fertilizer management to optimize both growth and nutritional quality, depending on specific production goals. The differential responses among Napier varieties suggest the potential for variety-specific fertilization strategies, which can enhance forage quality and sustainability in livestock farming. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impacts of continuous fertilization and the underlying genetic mechanisms driving varietal differences.

Pelatihan Pembuatan Pakan Ternak Fermentasi Berbahan Baku Sumberdaya Lokal Di Kelompok Tani Ternak (KTT) Berlian Desa Sukadana

The purpose of this activity is training in special production technology for fermented feed using local resources such as straw and others. The implementation of preparation for community service activities includes: initial observation/survey activities, identification of potential and problems, preparing an action program plan, determining activities, coordinating and taking care of permits for all parties related to the service activities. The results obtained were that most group members did not utilize local raw materials for animal feed and they did not provide fermented animal feed for their livestock. Providing an understanding of the importance of the concept of increasing livestock production in the form of information transfer, knowledge about the concept of fermented animal feed related to its benefits and functions for increasing production carried out through FGD and lecture methods. During the discussion session, input and feedback were obtained from participants that could be useful for the implementation of the service process. The next session was a demonstration or practice of making fermented animal feed using local resources. In the follow-up stage, assistance was provided in providing fermented animal feed to each farmer's livestock, with the hope that the livestock would accept and eat the results of the fermented feed so that it could increase production and increase the income of livestock farmers. The implementation of community service activities went according to plan and could be realized according to expectations. In order to optimize and massively implement the activity of making fermented animal feed among livestock farmers, especially in the surrounding areas, the next community service activities were carried out in various community groups that could be directly affected by handling vulnerable animal feed.

Adapting East and Southern Africa’s livestock to climate change: a decision making under deep uncertainty-based approach for effective actions

ABSTRACT Livestock farmers are increasingly challenged to adapt to the impacts of climate change, necessitating the selection of adaptation strategies to effectively mitigate risks and protect livelihoods. This paper introduces a framework designed specifically for guiding the selection of context-specific adaptation options in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. The framework builds on a decision tree that incorporates changes within a management system or switching to another one, enabling a nuanced evaluation of adaptation options. Driven repetitively under different scenarios of climate changes and/or climate models, the frequencies of selecting different adaptation measures vary across livestock value chains, climate zones, and systems. Responding to the evolution of the climate system, these frequencies evolve over time, affecting the selection. For instance, agroforestry emerges as an increasingly suitable option for cattle and, to a lesser extent, for goats due to the projected rise in moderate heat stress periods, particularly in tropical climates. Conversely, this frequency decreases for sheep, more susceptible to heat stress, beyond the effect of agroforestry. This framework resolves the need for more context – and time-specific decisions on adaptation. This decision tree-based framework serves as a robust decision-making tool to steer the livestock sector toward effective climate change adaptation.

Optimization of Manure-Based Substrate Preparation to Reduce Nutrients Losses and Improve Quality for Growth of Agaricus bisporus

With the growing world population, food demand has also increased, resulting in increased agricultural waste and livestock manure production. Wheat straw and cow dung are rich nutrient sources and, if not utilized properly, may lead to environmental pollution. Keeping in view the cultivation of Agaricus bisporus on straw/manure-based substrate, the current study aimed to optimize the conventional manure preparation technique to reduce nutrient losses and keep the quality of manure at its best. The treatments were considered as traditional and optimized schemes for mushroom substrate preparation. The results achieved herein indicated that the nutrient losses were low in the optimum scheme. For carbon (C), the loss was 43.55% at the substrate stage in the traditional scheme and reduced to 37.75% in the optimum scheme. In the case of nitrogen (N), the loss was 22.01% in the traditional scheme and was lower (18.49%) in the optimum scheme. The nutrient concentration in Agaricus bisporus was higher with the optimum scheme compared with the traditional scheme. It was 1.74% for C, 7.17% for N, 3.58% for phosphorus (P), and 4.92% for potassium (K). The optimum scheme also improved the Agaricus bisporus yield per unit area (84.55%) and the total yield (28.92%). The net income of the optimum scheme was 102.95% higher compared to the traditional scheme. The economic analysis also revealed that the benefit–cost ratio of the optimum scheme was high (48.86%) compared with the traditional scheme. This study concludes that the use of the optimum scheme can better utilize the wheat straw and cow manure waste for substrate preparation and reducing nutrient losses. In addition, the final mushroom residue can also be used as a leftover substrate for further utilization.

The Intersectionality Between Amazon and Commodities Production: A Close Look at Sustainability

Food production’s environmental, economic, and social challenges should be demystified through quantitative data. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate the ecoregional sustainability of the Amazon biome from the perspective of the environmental life cycle, economic feasibility, and social life cycle analysis, emphasizing the pillars of sustainability in the production of three commodities: soybean, beef cattle, and Brazil nuts. Carbon footprint, net present value, and worker endpoint were the metrics evaluated. According to the results found in this study, the livestock presented greater environmental burdens in terms of carbon balance when compared to the production of Brazil nuts and soybean production with carbon balances in the order of 4.75 tCO2eq/ha, −0.02 tCO2eq/ha, and −1.20 tCO2eq/ha, respectively. From an economic viewpoint, the extractive production of Brazil nuts presented the highest net profit per hectare/year (USD 559.21), followed by the agricultural system (USD 533.94) and livestock (USD 146.19). Finally, in relation to the social aspect of the production systems analyzed, the negative impacts linked to beef cattle production are related to the subcategories of forced labor and equal opportunities, and the positive impacts linked to soybean production are related to the subcategories of salary and benefits. The results highlight a genuine and sustainable balance in Brazil nuts extraction, presenting it as an investment for a sustainable future while demystifying the multifaceted information related to food production as a whole, in order to assist in decision-making and the formulation of public policies.

Success of Artificial Insemination in Rural Area Cows

Biotechnologies of reproduction like artificial insemination were identified as a mean to intensify the local production. Therefore, some factors are still responsible to the failure of their applications in rural area. This survey was conducted from April to June 2023, to evaluate the effects of age, body weight, body condition score (BCS), calving rank, postpartum to artificial insemination interval and feed complementation on the success rate of artificial insemination in females Goudali. Thus, activities took place at two peri-urban livestock farms in the town of Ngaoundéré, in the Adamaoua region of Cameroon where 34 cows were concerned. The selected cows have an average of 8.21±2.41 years old, a body weight of 343±52.28 kg, a body condition score of 3.23±0.55, a calving rank of 2.21±1.22 and a postpartum to insemination interval of 4.39±1.40 months. The induction and synchronization of estrus were carried out based on the PRID-PGF2α-PMSG protocol which allowed to obtain a synchronization rate of 97.06% and the insemination were done 56-57 hours after the previous operation, with an imported semen of Brahman bull. During rectal palpation and early pregnancy diagnosis based on progesterone level measurement, the result shown that, 20 cows out of 33 inseminated were pregnant. The success rate of artificial insemination recorded was 60.6%. Amongst all the studied factors, analysis shown no significant (P> 0.05) effect on the success rate after artificial insemination. Thus, recommendations were made to popularize the use of artificial insemination and early pregnancy diagnosis test as a mean to improve reproductive performances of local farms. However, studies must be done to evaluate the cost of their applications in rural areas.

Early Detection of Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle Using Deep Learning-A Comparative Analysis of Pretrained Models.

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) poses a significant threat to agricultural economies, particularly in livestock-dependent countries like India, due to its high transmission rate leading to severe morbidity and mortality among cattle. This underscores the urgent need for early and accurate detection to effectively manage and mitigate outbreaks. Leveraging advancements in computer vision and artificial intelligence, our research develops an automated system for LSD detection in cattle using deep learning techniques. We utilized two publicly available datasets comprising images of healthy cattle and those with LSD, including additional images of cattle affected by other diseases to enhance specificity and ensure the model detects LSD specifically rather than general illness signs. Our methodology involved preprocessing the images, applying data augmentation, and balancing the datasets to improve model generalizability. We evaluated over ten pretrained deep learning models-Xception, VGG16, VGG19, ResNet152V2, InceptionV3, MobileNetV2, DenseNet201, NASNetMobile, NASNetLarge, and EfficientNetV2S-using transfer learning. The models were rigorously trained and tested under diverse conditions, with performance assessed using metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-score, and AUC-ROC. Notably, VGG16 and MobileNetV2 emerged as the most effective, achieving accuracies of 96.07% and 96.39%, sensitivities of 93.75% and 98.57%, and specificities of 97.14% and 94.59%, respectively. Our study critically highlights the strengths and limitations of each model, demonstrating that while high accuracy is achievable, sensitivity and specificity are crucial for clinical applicability. By meticulously detailing the performance characteristics and including images of cattle with other diseases, we ensured the robustness and reliability of the models. This comprehensive comparative analysis enriches our understanding of deep learning applications in veterinary diagnostics and makes a substantial contribution to the field of automated disease recognition in livestock farming. Our findings suggest that adopting such AI-driven diagnostic tools can enhance the early detection and control of LSD, ultimately benefiting animal health and the agricultural economy.

A review and future trends of precision livestock over dairy and beef cow cattle with artificial intelligence

Abstract The demand for meat and dairy products is expected to rise significantly in the current demographic and economic growth context. Concurrently, various factors, including financial crises and reduced profitability, have decreased the number of livestock farms. Consequently, the livestock industry is undergoing intensification, with an increased number of cows per farm. This shift makes the management of animals increasingly complex. Amid these challenges, the society’s growing concern for animal health and welfare and the quality of consumed products underscores the importance of systems that aid in the individual and herd-level monitoring and control within livestock operations. In this scenario, precision livestock farming has become essential with the emergence of new sensors and technologies and the evolution of artificial intelligence. Against this backdrop, this paper reviews systems and techniques used in precision livestock farming to detect anomalies caused by reproductive processes and diseases in dairy and beef cattle. The article analyzes sensors and technologies employed, presents key studies conducted, and discusses the most commonly used artificial intelligence techniques in detecting prevalent anomalies.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever cases diagnosed during an outbreak of Sudan virus disease in Uganda, 2022-23.

In September 2022, Uganda experienced an outbreak of Sudan virus disease (SVD), mainly in central Uganda. As a result of enhanced surveillance activities for Ebola disease, samples from several patients with suspected viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) were sent to the VHF Program at Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Entebbe, Uganda, and identified with infections caused by other viral etiologies. Herein, we report the epidemiologic and laboratory findings of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) cases that were detected during the SVD outbreak response. Whole blood samples from VHF suspected cases were tested for Sudan virus (SUDV) by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR); and if negative, were tested for CCHF virus (CCHFV) by RT-PCR. CCHFV genomic sequences generated by metagenomic next generation sequencing were analyzed to ascertain strain relationships. Between September 2022 and January 2023, a total of 2,626 samples were submitted for VHF testing at UVRI. Overall, 13 CCHF cases (including 7 deaths; case fatality rate of 53.8%), aged 4 to 60 years, were identified from 10 districts, including several districts affected by the SVD outbreak. Four cases were identified within the Ebola Treatment Unit (ETU) at Mubende Hospital. Most CCHF cases were males engaged in livestock farming or had exposure to wildlife (n = 8; 61.5%). Among confirmed cases, the most common clinical symptoms were hemorrhage (n = 12; 92.3%), fever (n = 11; 84.6%), anorexia (n = 10; 76.9%), fatigue (n = 9; 69.2%), abdominal pain (n = 9; 69.2%) and vomiting (n = 9; 69.2%). Sequencing analysis showed that the majority of identified CCHFV strains belonged to the Africa II clade previously identified in Uganda. Two samples, however, were identified with greater similarity to a CCHFV strain that was last reported in Uganda in 1958, suggesting possible reemergence. Identifying CCHFV from individuals initially suspected to be infected with SUDV emphasizes the need for comprehensive VHF testing during filovirus outbreak responses in VHF endemic countries. Without expanded testing, CCHFV-infected patients would have posed a risk to health care workers and others while receiving treatment after a negative filovirus diagnosis, thereby complicating response dynamics. Additionally, CCHFV-infected cases could acquire an Ebola infection while in the ETU, and upon release because of a negative Ebola virus result, have the potential to spread these infections in the community.

Design and implementation of an IoT-based monitoring system for early detection of lumpy skin disease in cattle

Livestock farming serves a crucial role in global food security and sustainability, yet infections like Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) present huge difficulties. LSD reduces the marketability and productivity of cattle, but it is not fatal. Current preventive measures that rely on routine veterinary testing can be time-consuming and miss early signs of infection, requiring a more effective management strategy first works This article presents an IoT-enabled intelligent system to prevent LSD in animals. The system uses a smart wearable sensor device to collect real-time health information including body temperature, heart rate and 3-axis motion data. Advanced analysis of data is considered to identify early diagnosis of potential LSD infection results based on deviations from normal parameters, this data prevents further infection within livestock by supporting immediate isolation. On a cloud-based online platform, and integrated into the mobile application provides a comprehensive experience and timely alerts to provide potential health issues. Furthermore, the IoT features of the system enable farmers and veterinarians to quickly guide and optimize disease control strategies, improving biosecurity protocols and overall livestock health management. This creative approach represents a significant improvement over traditional methods, providing a cost-effective, accurate and real-time solution for animal health monitoring and management.

Impact of temperature humidity index (THI) on blood gas and electrolytes of dairy cows in late gestation

The study was carried out to assess the impact of heat stress on dairy cows in late gestation and their newborn calves. Study was conducted in two phases in crossbred cattle during last trimester of pregnancy, maintained in University Livestock Farm and Fodder Research Development Scheme, Mannuthy, KVASU. December to February with minimum THI was taken as season 1 and March to May with maximum THI as season 2 of the study. Microclimatic data in the animal shed was recorded three times at three days intervals. The ambient temperature, relative humidity and THI obtained during season 2 was significantly (p<0.01) higher than season 1 in both macro and microclimatic data. Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2 ) was low in season 2 but there was no significant difference in potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), bicarbonate (HCO3 - ) and partial pressure of oxygen (pO2 ) between the seasons. Keywords: Heat stress in cattle, THI, blood gases, electrolytes, late gestation

The Role of Agricultural Technology in Attaining Food Security among Small Farmers in Char Area in Mymensingh District

Farmers in the char areas of Bangladesh are frequently affected by food insecurity due to their low engagement in modern agriculture such as less use of modern agricultural technology. This study evaluates the socio-demographic characteristics of the sample farmers to assess their nutritional status and the factors influencing char dwellers' dietary diversity. Survey data were collected from 70 households, and focus group discussions were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire from Nilokhiya char under the Mymensingh District of Bangladesh. An OLS regression model was used to estimate the influence of socioeconomic characteristics of sample households on the decision on factors influencing dietary diversity. The farming type of the farmers is another concern of this study where results show that 90% of farmers in the char areas rely on rice and vegetable farming, whereas more than 60% of the farmers are also involved in livestock and poultry farming at the same time. The nutritional status of char farmers shows that their diet includes a variety of foods but is deficient insufficient protein and healthy fats, which could have an impact on their overall nutrition. Cereals are a staple in the diet, as indicated by the high consumption rate (97.1%) and the substantial average intake (2.30 kg/day). Every household consumes fruits, though in smaller quantities (0.28 kg/day). Eggs are less frequently consumed (57.1%) despite a higher intake (2.64 kg/day). Dietary diversity has a strong positive correlation with supply (.913) at a 1 % significant level which means that efficient supply chains minimize delays, reduce spoilage, and ensure a continuous flow of food to markets to ensure food security. A positive correlation with total income (.373) leads to a higher total income also supports greater dietary diversity. Credit was significant at a 5% level (.267) indicating that a 1 % increase in credit leads to an increase in dietary diversity by 267%. On the contrary, Experience has a negative relationship with dietary diversity which means that experience does not influence food security. Lack of transport and communication, environmental hazards, and natural disasters are the most significant problems faced by the farmers in the char area.

STRAIN SELECTION AND CULTIVATION OF FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE VIRUSES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TRIVALENT INACTIVATED VACCINE

Foot-and-mouth disease is a well-known transboundary animal disease and has been recognised as a priority disease by the Steering Committee of the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases in Europe. The territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan is generally free of foot-and-mouth disease, however, sporadic cases of foot-and-mouth disease occur in various regions of the country as a result of importation from unfavorable countries. Epizootic safety in the Republic of Kazakhstan is maintained by vaccinating animals in the border areas of the southern and eastern regions. Inactivated vaccines against serotypes A, O, Asia produced by the All-Russian Research Institute of Animal Health (Russia) are used for vaccination. Continuous seromonitoring is carried out to maintain the level of post-vaccination antibodies at a high level, ensuring the immunity of animals to foot-and-mouth disease. However, despite all the measures taken, sporadic outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease cause damage to livestock farming in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The effectiveness of preventive measures using vaccination depends on the strain used in the vaccine. The closer the strain used in the vaccine is genetically to the viruses circulating in that area, the more effective the preventive measures will be and the research conducted to create the most immunogenic domestic anti-foot-and-mouth disease vaccines have scientific and practical significance. This article presents the results of the selection of foot-and-mouth disease virus strains previously circulating in the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan and studies their cultural and biological properties. Studies of the above-mentioned strains on adaptation to a transplantable cell culture line were conducted, the stability of cultural properties was studied over 10 generations and the stability was confirmed by the PCR method. Also, based on the studies, it was found that the maximum accumulation of the virus in cell culture occurs at a multiplicity of infection of 0.01-0.1 TCID50/cell. The reproductive activity of the studied isolates was within 6.5-7.25 lg TCID50/cm3 when cultivated for 16 hours.

Assessment of the Response to Fertilization for the Sustainable Management of Native Grasses from Flooded Savannah Ecosystem Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia

The native grasses of the flooded savannah ecosystem are produced under natural conditions and there is little information on the productive and nutritional response to the application of fertilizers. They are proposed as a strategy for adaptation to climate change and for the sustainable development of livestock farming. The aim of the study was to evaluate the response to low doses of fertilization of native grasses (“bank” grasses: Paspalum plicatulum, Panicum versicolor, and Paspalum sp. “Low” grasses: Leersia hexandra and Hymenachne amplexicaulis) in flooded savannah conditions. The green forage samples were taken in a 1 m2 frame at 28-, 35-, and 42-day cutting intervals and biomass production was estimated with and without fertilization. After 35 days, the nutritional composition was analyzed by near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS). The effect of fertilization and the grasses × cutting interval interaction influenced (p < 0.05) green forage (GF, t/ha) and dry matter (DM, t/ha). The effect of fertilization and the grasses × fertilization interaction on the nutritional composition only influenced the content of calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) in the “low” grasses, while in the “bank” grasses, it influenced the sodium (Na) content (p < 0.05). The application of fertilizers generated significant differences in forage yield, but not in the general nutritional composition of grasses. However, some numerical variations were observed in favor of fertilized grasses. According to these results, the application of fertilizers will not be required to increase the value of the nutritional composition. Native grasses constitute an important sustainable food resource for livestock in flooded savannah ecosystems. This study constitutes the first approximation to understanding the behavior of native grasses for sustainable management in the flooded savannah ecosystem.

Development and Evaluation of the Acaricidal Activity of Xantan Gum-Based Hydrogel and Polymeric Nanoparticles Containing Achyrocline satureioides Extract.

The Rhipicephalus microplus tick causes enormous economic losses in livestock farming around the world. Despite several promising studies carried out with plant extracts such as Achyrocline satureioides against this ectoparasite, a major obstacle is related to pharmaceutical presentation forms. There is no study showing xantan gum-based hydrogel and polycaprolactone nanoparticles containing A. satureioides extract against R. microplus larvae. The objective of this study was to incorporate A. satureioides extract to develop a nanoformulation (AScn) and a hydrogel (ASlh) and evaluate them against R. microplus larvae with the purpose of increasing the contact time of the extract with the larvae and improve the effectiveness. The ethanolic extracts were incorporated in polycaprolactone nanoparticles and characterized via analysis of the mean hydrodinamic diameter and polidispersity index. The xanthan gum-based hydrogel formulation was prepared with crude extract of A. satureioides 40 mg/mL, 0.25% xanthan gum, and 8% poloxamer, to determine the bioadhesiveness of the formulation in bovine leather and the flow rate of the formulation in the animal. The results in larvae demonstrated that when evaluated in the form of a hydrogel (ASlh), mortality was higher, with 91.48% mortality at a concentration of 20 mg/mL presenting itself as an interesting alternative for controlling this ectoparasite.