Semi-extensive System Research Articles

Prevalence of Neospora caninum and associated risk factors in semi-intensive female water buffaloes reared in Greece, using an ELISA kit on milk samples

Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan (family: Sarcocystidae) protozoan parasite with a global distribution. In the N. caninum life cycle, dogs and other related canids are the definitive hosts, while other animals such as water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) constitute the intermediate host for this parasite. In many countries, the water buffalo is of high economic importance, providing valuable high-quality products for human needs. Although knowledge concerning the prevalence of this parasite in intermediate animal host populations is crucial, data from water buffalo are scarce. Keeping this in mind, the aim of this study was to examine the presence and assess the prevalence rates of N. caninum infection in water buffaloes in Northern Greece, where this animal husbandry sector started to raise, as well as to determine associated risk factors, with the application of a commercially available Neospora ISCOM ELISA test kit, developed for the detection of antibodies against N. caninum in milk samples The study was conducted during January–June 2023 in a total of 172 individual raw milk samples, collected from dairy buffaloes, reared under a semi extensive system, in three different farms. Information on the status of N. caninum infection in buffaloes from Greece was so far unknown with a lack of epidemiological or risk factors associated. For the detection of N. caninum, the commercially available Neospora ISCOM ELISA test kit (SANOVIR ®, Svanova Biotech AB, Uppsala, Sweden) was utilized. Results demonstrated the presence of N. caninum in water buffaloes from Greece for the first time. All positive N. caninum animal were asymptomatic, with absence of any disease signs. The overall prevalence of infection was 22.10%, whereas the main risk factors include the presence of dogs as well as the low biosecurity measures.

Subclinical mastitis in Jersey dairy cows and its effects on productivity and inflammatory markers

This study assessed the effect of subclinical mastitis on the productivity and inflammatory markers in Jersey dairy cows. Blood, milk, and milk yield data were collected from 59 Jersey dairy cows reared under a semi-extensive system. Milk samples were collected from individual collectors and evaluated for their somatic cell count (SCC), lactose (Lact), protein, fat, total and defatted dry extracts (DDE), casein, freezing point, and milk urea nitrogen (MUN) levels. After milking, blood was collected by puncturing the coccygeal arteriovenous complex. In the serum samples, the inflammatory biomarkers paraoxonase-1, albumin, and total plasma protein levels were analyzed using colorimetric methods. Samples of the entire diet provided and pastures were submitted for bromatological analysis. Additionally, the body condition score, number of lactations, milk yield, days of lactation, calving interval, number of inseminations until conception, calving-conception interval, and days of pregnancy were analyzed. The cows were categorized based on their SCC into a subclinical mastitis group (SubG), with SCC levels greater than or equal to 200,000 cells/mL, and a control group (CG), with SCC levels below 200,000 cells/mL. Blood metabolic variables, milk quality, and milk production data were analyzed using multivariate regression, analysis of variance, and logistic regression using the SAS® program. The multivariate regression analysis revealed that several markers, such as Lact, total protein, and casein, influenced milk composition, predicting over 97% of the data. The SubG showed lower concentrations of Lact (4.37 vs. 4.47%; P = 0.0002), MUN (20.55 vs. 23.85 mg/dL; P = 0.02), and DDE (9.24 vs. 9.50%; P = 0.02) compared with the CG; moreover, animals in the SubG had a higher number of lactations compared with those in the CG (4.30 vs. 2.69; P = 0.0039). Cows with a Lact content lower than 4.265% (quartile 25%), compared with those with Lact content greater than 4.565% (quartile 100%), were 52 times more likely to have subclinical mastitis. Jersey dairy cows with subclinical mastitis have lower Lact, urea, and defatted dry extract levels in their milk as well as a higher number of lactations. Therefore, Lact levels in milk serve as a good diagnostic marker of subclinical mastitis in Jersey cows. Subclinical mastitis in Jersey dairy cows did not decrease milk yield nor effect reproductive performance.

Impact of feeding native Caatinga pasture on the rumen histomorphometry of sheep raised in semi-extensive management.

In the northeastern region of Brazil, sheep and goat farming, encompassing around 20 million animals, is predominantly a subsistence activity. Forage quality plays a crucial role in animal productivity, posing a complex interplay between plant and animal aspects. The Caatinga biome, vital for livestock in the region, serves as a significant source for animal diet through pastures. This study aimed to conduct a histomorphometric evaluation of sheep rumens in a semi-extensive system, comparing those feeding on native Caatinga pastures to those on cultivated pastures. Histological processing followed standard protocols, with morphometry focusing on six viable rumen papillae and the submucosa and muscular layer thickness. Statistical correlation analysis revealed morphological differences in papillae across various rumen regions. Morphometric data indicated no significant difference in papillae area between the groups, with average values in Group A surpassing those in Group B, except for width. This study establishes a morphological and morphometric pattern for rumen regions linked to diet types-native or cultivated. The findings not only enhance understanding of the dietary foundation in the Caatinga's extensive system, but also contribute valuable insights for formulating nutritional strategies to enhance sheep production in the region. This research sheds light on the intricacies of forage-based animal nutrition, particularly in semi-extensive systems, offering a foundation for future studies and practices to optimise livestock management in the northeastern Brazilian context.

A Preliminary Investigation of Salmonella Populations in Indigenous Portuguese Layer Hen Breeds.

The sustainability of agroecological systems, biodiversity protection, animal welfare, and consumer demand for higher quality products from alternative and extensive farming methods have reinforced interest in local breeds that are well adapted to low-input environments. However, food safety needs to be safeguarded to reinforce consumer confidence. The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation on the occurrence of Salmonella spp. in eggshells, hen's cloaca, and litter materials from autochthonous Portuguese laying hens raised in a semi-extensive system for small-scale production. A total of 279 samples from 31 flocks belonging to 12 farms were obtained, with 63 samples from the "Preta Lusitânica" breed, and 72 samples each from the remaining autochthonous breeds, namely, "Branca", "Amarela", and "Pedrês Portuguesa". None (0%) of the samples analyzed were positive for Salmonella spp. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first results of Salmonella evaluation from hen's cloaca, eggshells, and litter materials in autochthonous Portuguese chickens, suggesting that a semi-extensive production system can contribute to better food security and a lower risk to public health and the environment.

Metabolic profile of transition period in ewes and its influence on passive immunity transference in lambs.

The intensification of ewe production, focusing on increasing prolificity, results in a higher incidence of metabolic disorders, especially in the transition period, which can lead to production losses with consequences for the health of the animals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the metabolic profile in transition period Lacaune ewes according to the parity and litter size born and its influence on the transference of passive immunity. Nineteen Lacaune ewes, with initial mean body weight of 76.36 ± 10.37kg (SD), kept in a semi-extensive system and receiving the same diet, were used. Ewes were classified according to parity (primiparous and multiparous) and the litter size born at parturition (1, 2, and 3). On days - 14, - 7, and - 4 of the expected date of parturition and on days 1, 4, 7, and 14days postpartum, blood sampling, the evaluation of the body condition score (BCS), and the weighing of animals were performed. Blood samples were taken from the lambs 48h after birth. Colostrum was collected up to 6h postpartum to determine the brix percentage. Serum concentrations of total plasma proteins (TPP), albumin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), paraoxonase (PON1), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) were evaluated. In lambs, the blood parameters evaluated were TPP, albumin, GGT, and PON1. Lamb plasma was used to estimate colostrum efficiency, brix percentage immunity, and total plasma protein (PPT). Productive data, pre- and postpartum metabolic variables for ewes, lambs, and those related to colostrum brix were analyzed. The BCS had a reduction (p < 0.0001) in the postpartum period, which is evidenced on days 7 and 14 (2.88 and 2.73, respectively). Serum concentration of BHB presented the highest concentrations in the prepartum period for ewes that gave birth to triplets, from day - 14, and for ewes that gave birth to twins on day - 4 (p = 0.0245). Serum concentration of NEFA demonstrated the highest value on day 14 in primiparous (1.07; p = 0.0402). Calcium had the lowest concentrations on day 1 (8.85mg/dl, p < 0.0001) and magnesium on day 3 (1.79mg/dl, p < 0.0001) postpartum. The multiparous with two lambs had higher brix percentages (30.5%), and the lowest value was observed in primiparous ewes that gave birth to a single lamb (27.06%; p = 0.0395). Triplet lambs had the lowest weight (3.73kg, p = 0.0007), and the best brix percentage in plasma was observed in twins (10.29%, p = 0.0174). Regardless of the parity, the ewes that presented the greatest metabolic challenge were those that gave birth to triplets, and these lambs presented the worst immunity and the lowest live weight. The quality of colostrum was influenced by the parity, and multiparous ewes that gave birth to triplets had the lowest brix percentage in the colostrum.

Profile of hillbilly pork producers and consumers from Alto São Francisco region of Minas Gerais state

Small rural properties are common in the interior of the state of Minas Gerais, making the production of animals in a rustic system expressive, such as the raising of swine in an extensive or semi-extensive system. The objective was to evaluate the profile of producers and consumers of redneck swine in the Alto São Francisco Region - MG. The research was carried out in the municipality of Bambuí - MG, located in the center west of Minas Gerais. Participated in the questionnaire 16 rural producers in the region of Bambuí and 40 Bambuí residents approached at the open-air market who agreed to participate in the research. A questionnaire containing 21 questions was used, consisting of 17 open questions and 4 multiple-choice closed questions. Data analysis was carried out with the help of spreadsheets in Microsoft Office Excel® 2019. The lack of technical assistance and the dissemination of products through marketing are the main factors that negatively influence the growth of the activity. The analysis of the data obtained allows us to affirm that it is necessary to promote and structure the rustic pig farming, where 70% of the producers are unaware of the subject. 50% of the producers say they do not have technical assistance due to the price and difficulty of access to the properties, which would otherwise favor the best production and commercial rates in alternative systems. Consumers point out that pig’s meat is purchased through the local fair (50%), where the price and origin of the products are the most relevant factors at the time of purchase and 90% of consumers believe that pork can be a vector for disease transmission.

Household Baseline Survey on Indigenous Chicken Production Characteristics and Constraints in Busia and Machakos Counties of Kenya

Aims: To collect preliminary baseline data prior to validation of three climate-smart technologies.&#x0D; Study Design: A structured questionnaire was employed with participation of actors along the Indigenous Chicken value chain.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted from May 2019 to June 2020 within four (4) Sub-Counties in Busia and Machakos where high Indigenous Chicken populations are found.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 160 households were surveyed. Targeted household information was recorded viz: distribution of respondents by village in the Counties; farmer socio-economic factors; flock structure and characteristics; disease and parasite constraints, management practices; disease reporting and communication amongst recruited farmers.&#x0D; Results: Results revealed that 56.5% of the respondents were male and 43.5% were female wit mean age of 50 years. Most farmers had formal education (97%) and practiced semi extensive poultry farming system (59%). Both indigenous and exotic chicken (62%) were kept for income purposes (82.6%) and only young chicks received feed supplements (55.8%). Newcastle (18.5%) and coccidiosis (16.4%) comprised the two major disease constraints reported. Prevalent bird disease symptoms were diarrhea (24.9%) and coughing (23.1%) while mites (27.9%) and fleas (22.3%) dominated the ecto-parasites. Disease control strategies comprised: vaccines (72.8%), dewormers (44.9%) and ethno-veterinary medicine. Aloe secundiflora and Aloe feroxin, were singled out as locally available and effective means of treating diarrhea (62.9%), respiratory infections (61.9%) and worm control (64.5%). Most Indigenous Chicken farmers (76.8%) failed to report illnesses among their flock and did not access to health services (72.1%). Farmers accessed health information through radio (26.5%) as opposed to mobile phones (1.65%).&#x0D; Conclusion: Findings of this survey reveal a low-grade free-range poultry system characterized by poor disease control. This scenario calls for targeted efforts by both government and private stakeholders to improve Indigenous Chicken management and help farmers adopt alternative climatic smart disease control interventions.

Reproductive Performances of Livestock Goats in Sahelian Region of Africa

The aim of this work was to determinate the reproductive performances of kidirmini goats in the farming systems of the south western of Chad. A total of 3599 local goats of Kirdimi breed in 2 farming systems was used in the study: the semi-extensive (n=2747) and the traditional extensive system (n=852). The age at the first farrowing, the farrowing interval and the cull age were calculated. The fecundity, fertility and prolificacy rates were also estimated in each farming systems. Results showed that the age at the first farrowing, the farrowing interval, the fertility and the fecundity rates did not differ between the systems. The cull age was higher in the traditional extensive system compared to that of the semi extensive system (p<0.05). However, the prolificacy rate was higher in the semi extensive system compared to the traditional extensive system (p<0.05). In conclusion, most of reproductive performances did not differ between the two goat farming systems. Despite the constraints of the region, reproductive performances of local goats in Sahelian region of Africa are considered acceptable compared to other regions. Thus, Kdirmini goat is a suitable breed in this region that requires good breeding practices to enhance a sustainable productivity.

Effect of Breed and Finishing Diet on Chemical Composition and Quality Parameters of Meat from Burguete and Jaca Navarra Foals.

Simple SummaryIn modern society, the quality, the nutritional value and the environmental impact of foods are factors acquiring a relevant position from the consumers’ perspective. In this sense, horsemeat perfectly meets the current market requirements and is arousing great interest, since not only is it claimed as a healthier red meat alternative, but also due to its sustainable image. Nevertheless, it has been demonstrated that meat quality could be affected by several factors. In this sense, the purpose of our study is to assess the impact of breed (Jaca Navarra and Burguete) and type of finishing diet (conventional diet and silage with organic feed) on the composition and quality attributes of meat from Navarre endangered foals. Moreover, considering the shortage of information about the meat quality of these two autochthonous breeds, especially in the case of Jaca Navarra foals, this research could be considered a starting point to revalue and characterize these valuable equine breeds. Data showed that meat belonging to Burguete and traditional diet groups presented the highest intramuscular fat contents conferring ameliorate quality attributes, as marbling, tenderness and juiciness, which are some of the most required by meat consumers. Moreover, lower amounts of cholesterol were detected.The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of breed, Jaca Navarra (JN) vs. Burguete (BU), and finishing diet, conventional concentrate and straw, diet 1 (D1), vs. silage and organic feed, diet 2 (D2), on chemical composition and quality parameters of the longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle from forty-six foals. Animals were reared under a semi-extensive system and slaughtered at a mean age of 21 months. The results reported that both studied effects had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on meat quality; however, it was the breed to strongly influence the majority of the parameters evaluated. In particular, BU foals reported the highest amounts of intramuscular fat, positively affecting the meat properties of marbling and texture traits. Moreover, this group presented higher values for L* and b* and the lowest cholesterol contents. As regards the diet, D1 increased the fat content in foals supplemented with this diet, improving the organoleptic properties of this group. On the other hand, the combination of silage and organic feed (D2) had an opposite trend. Thus, both BU and D1 groups presented enhanced quality attributes, such as marbling, juiciness and reduced hardness, which are some of the most demanded by meat consumers.

Fatty Acid Composition and Volatile Profile of longissimus thoracis&nbsp;et&nbsp;lumborum Muscle from Burguete and Jaca Navarra Foals Fattened with Different Finishing Diets.

The present study evaluated the effect of breed, Jaca Navarra (JN) vs. Burguete (BU), and finishing diet, conventional concentrate—diet 1 (D1) vs. silage and organic feed—diet 2 (D2), on the fatty acid composition and volatile profile of longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle from forty-six foals. For this, foals were reared under a semi-extensive system and slaughtered at about 21 months of age. The outcomes showed that breed and finishing regime had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the lipid and volatile profile of foal meat. In particular, JN foals reported higher polyunsaturated fatty acid contents and better nutritional indices in line with the health guidelines; whereas, BU and D1 groups generated higher amounts of total volatile compounds. However, it was the diet to occupy a central role in this study. Indeed, diet 2, due to its “ingredients” and composition, not only ameliorated the lipid profile of foal meat, but also reduced the generation of volatile compounds associated with lipid oxidation and minimized off-flavors. Thus, this diet could give an added value to the aromatic perception of meat and improve its sensorial acceptability.

Farming practices and biodiversity: Evidence from a Mediterranean semi-extensive system on the island of Lemnos (North Aegean, Greece)

The management of agroecosystems affects biodiversity at all levels from genetic to food-web complexity. Low-input farming systems support higher levels of genetic, species and habitat diversity than high-input, industrial ones. In Greece, as in other Mediterranean countries, the role of traditional farming practices has been underlined in studies concerning conservation in agricultural landscapes. With this study, we aim to provide evidence for the potential of semi-extensive farming for biodiversity conservation at landscape-scale, focusing on Lemnos, a medium-sized island in the North Aegean. Evidence was gathered by species- and community-level local-scale surveys on various trophic levels (vascular plants, arthropods, birds). The surveys took place in 2018 and 2019 in 25 sampling areas comprising 106 plots of 100 m2 (vascular plants, arthropods) and 57 points where bird species were recorded. The plots were classified into three landscape types: mosaic agriculture, mixed rangelands and uniform rangelands. The relevés of Lemnos farmlands were assigned to plant communities of 18 phytosociological alliances, grouped into 12 classes. The most abundant arthropods were Coleoptera, Chilopoda, and Hymenoptera, followed by Opiliones and Isopoda, while 133 different bird species were recorded in total, including the recording for the first time on the island of five species. Farming on Lemnos is rather extensive compared to most agricultural landscapes of Europe. Our approach has demonstrated that, given the geographic characteristics of the area, the measured data reveal very high biodiversity. Our explorative findings suggest that moderate seasonal grazing, the mixed habitat mosaic with ecotones, fallow and stubble fields at the landscape scale, and the small size of fields, the kinds of crop, and farm-scale crop diversification, like mixed cultivation and crop rotation, are key practices supporting this diversity. These explorative findings are considered as a first step providing the baseline for future assessments. A wider effort, for systematic evaluation of the impacts of farming practices to biodiversity, is required, as part of a subsidized agri-environmental scheme and/or through a market-oriented product certification system for the area.

Sensory Characteristics of Male Impala (Aepyceros melampus) Meat, Produced under Varying Production Systems and Nutrition.

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of three production systems (intensive, semi-extensive and extensive) with differing nutrition on the descriptive sensory and fatty acid profiles of sub-adult (±15–18 months old) male impala longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscles. The discriminant analysis plot showed that extensively produced impala had a sensory profile distinct from the intensive and semi-extensive system impala. Extensively produced impala had the highest sensory ratings for overall intensity, gamey, beef-like, herbaceous, and sweet-associated aroma and flavor of their meat. The intensive and semi-extensive system impala did not differ for most of the sensory attributes, except for higher ratings for gamey flavor, liver-like flavor, tenderness and mealiness, and lower ratings for residue found in semi-extensive system impala. The overall aroma and flavor intensities of impala meat in general had strong positive correlations with gamey, beef-like, herbaceous, and sweet-associated aromas and flavors; however, marketing should be adjusted depending on the nutrition received by the impala, to allow consumers to select their preferential sensory profile. Impala meat from all three production systems had low fat contents (<2%), and desirable fatty acid profiles.

Influence of production system and finishing feeding on meat quality of Rubia Gallega calves

Aim of study: Beef quality is mainly affected by finishing feeding (FF) and production system (PS). The effects of PS (extensive, semi-extensive, traditional and intensive systems) and FF from Rubia Gallega calves were compared in terms of meat quality.Area of study: Galicia (NW Spain)Material and methods: Calves (n=10 per treatment) were slaughtered at nine months of age and meat samples were assessed in terms of meat quality attributes such as physicochemical, nutritional and sensory analysis performed by a trained panel.Main results: Meat chemical composition varied (p&lt;0.01) with PS and FF. The semi-extensive system showed the lowest values (p&lt;0.05) for cooking loss (22.8%) and for shear force (26.0 N) while the extensive system presented the lowest contents of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and the highest contents of linolenic acid (p&lt;0.001). The SFA and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) contents varied with FF (p&lt;0.05). The lowest and highest values for SFA and PUFA were displayed in extensive group finished with Pasture/Concentrate, meanwhile feedlot group finished with Concentrate/Straw showed and opposite trend. The n-6/n-3 ratio was lower than 4 for extensive and semi-extensive systems (p&lt;0.001). In addition, tenderness and juiciness showed significant differences mainly due to FF.Research highlights: This study showed that meat of calves reared in extensive systems was the healthiest, regarding total fat and fatty acid composition. It can be concluded that finishing feeding, and PS affected meat quality. Hence the potential usefulness of these results is to improve meat quality and safety according to market demands.

Effects of increasing dietary zinc sulfate fed to primiparous ewes: I. Effects on serum metabolites, mineral transfer efficiency, and animal performance

ABSTRACT Objective The objective of this research was to determine the effects of increasing Zn concentrations during late gestation on serum metabolites, serum mineral element transfer efficiency ratios (TE), and ewe and lamb performance in a semi-extensive management system. Materials and Methods Commercial white-face (WF; n = 23) and black-face (BF; n = 24) ewes (age ≈18 mo; BW 87.48 ± 8.37 kg) were sorted into breed-type groups and within groups ranked by BW and randomly divided into 3 dietary supplement treatment groups along the rank: CON (n = 13, 40 mg/kg Zn, ≈1 × NASEM recommendations), Zn500 (n = 19, 500 mg/kg Zn, ≈4 × NASEM recommendations), and Zn1000 (n = 15, 1,000 mg/kg Zn, ≈7 × NASEM recommendations). Treatments were administered in pelleted alfalfa (0.45 kg/ewe per day) fortified with Zn sulfate to increase Zn concentrations fed from 87.5 ± 8.9 d of gestation until parturition. Results and Discussion Maternal treatment did not affect ewe BW change throughout the experiment, nor serum metabolites, mineral element TE, or progeny performance through weaning (P ≥ 0.06). However, ewe greasy fleece weight the following year was greater for Zn500 than Zn1000 ewes (4.13 ± 0.18 kg vs. 3.48 ± 0.19 kg; P = 0.03) but did not differ between CON and the other treatments (3.68 ± 0.22 kg; P ≥ 0.22). The most marked effects were observed between breeds where Zn TE of WF ewes and lambs (264.3 ± 23.2) was approximately twice that of BF ewes and their lambs (165.4 ± 19.7; P Implications and Applications The results suggest feeding Zn supplemented from Zn sulfate beyond current NASEM recommendations from d 87 of gestation until parturition had minimal beneficial effects on fine-wool or meat-type ewes and lambs. Breed differences observed in serum mineral element concentrations (Fe and Zn) and related TE of the neonatal lamb may provide insights into adaptive trace mineral supplementation strategies based on breed type and related levels of production.

Crecimiento de corderos y productividad en ovejas Pelibuey mantenidas bajo condiciones tropicales de producción

El objetivo fue evaluar los efectos de época y año de nacimiento, tipo de parto, sexo y número de parto sobre el crecimiento predestete y la productividad de las ovejas en ovinos de raza Pelibuey que producen bajo un sistema semi-extensivo en el trópico húmedo de México. Se usaron datos de 323 ovejas Pelibuey a partir de registros de producción de 2011-2017. Se evaluaron los pesos al nacimiento (PN) y al destete (PD, a 60 d), así como los pesos de camada al destete (PCD). Adicionalmente, se evaluó prolificidad, mortalidad hasta el destete y kilos de cordero producido por oveja en un ciclo de 240 días (PC240d). Todos los factores afectaron (P≤0.05) las variables de respuesta. Los corderos procedentes de partos múltiples tuvieron menor (P&lt;0.05) PN y PD, pero mayor (P&lt;0.05) PCD, PC240d y mortalidad que los corderos procedentes de partos simples. Los corderos nacidos en época de seca tuvieron mayores (P&lt;0.05) PN y PD, mientras que las ovejas tuvieron mayores PCD y PC240d, comparado con otras épocas del año. Las ovejas primíparas tuvieron corderos más livianos (P&lt;0.05) al nacimiento y al destete, así como menor (P&lt;0.05) prolificidad, PCD y PC240d que las ovejas multíparas (≥3 partos). El año de nacimiento afectó (P&lt;0.05) PN, PD, tasa de mortalidad y características de productividad. En conclusión, se observó un mejor desempeño en el crecimiento predestete para corderos Pelibuey nacidos de ovejas multíparas y con parto simple en la época de seca. Sin embargo, la productividad de la oveja fue mejor con la presencia de partos dobles, en tiempo de sequía, y con el aumento en número de partos.

Maternal investment and growth performance of lambs in a hair coat sheep breed raised in equatorial semi-arid environment

ABSTRACT Thirty four lambs and twenty multiparous Morada Nova ewes with 3 ± 1.2 years of age were evaluated in a semi-extensive system for assessments of their suckling activities when they were 10-40 days old. The body mass (kg) and biometric measurements were also assessed at each 15 days from birth to 90 days of age. From 15 to 90 days of age, single lambs had superior (P < 0.05) body mass than those twins. Both for single and twins the daily weight gain substantially decreased (P < 0.05) after thirty days of age. There was a high correlation (i.e., r > 0.90; P < 0.05) between all biometric measurements and body mass of lambs. Both for single and twins the frequency of suckling decreases (P < 0.05) as the lambs grows older. At 20 days, mothers of twin lambs prevented more (P < 0.05) the suckling attempts than those of single lambs. Both for single and twin lambs the suckling success was lower (P < 0.05) when they were 20 days of age. The present study sheds some light on how the dynamics between growth performance of Morada Nova lambs and the maternal investment are linked

Epidemiology of infections with zoonotic pig parasites in Enugu State, Nigeria.

Pig production is an important component of animal agriculture in Nigeria but zoonotic parasites constrain the production and make pork unsafe for human consumption. This epidemiological study was therefore conducted, to ascertain the prevalence and determinants of Taenia solium cysticerci and Ascaris spp infections in pigs in Enugu State. Presence of cysticerci was determined by post-mortem examination of pig carcasses while pig faeces were coprologically examined for presence of Ascaris spp egg, according to standard parasitological protocol. Structured questionnaire was used to elicit information on pig farmers' involvement in practices predisposing to parasitic infections and deworming progammes in 107 piggeries surveyed. Cysticerci were detected in 3.51% (12/342) of pig carcasses inspected. Overall prevalence of Ascaris spp. infections were 38.3% (41/107) and 14.3% (63/441) at farm and individual pig levels respectively. Major determinants of the infection and the percentage of farmers involved were: eating on duty (66.4%), open defecation (35.5%) and semi-extensive husbandry system (62.3%). Others are non-availability of deworming programme (54.4%), rearing pigs of different ages together (41.9%), non-disinfection of feeding or water troughs (41.2%) and early weaning (54.3%). Cognizant of the zoonotic potentials of Ascaris spp and Taenia solium cysticerci, the prevalence found for the parasites are significant from public health and food safety points of view. This underscores the need for cost-effect control measures against the parasites, using a coordinated One Health approach; in order to boost pig production, limit spread of the zoonoses and hence, the public health consequences thereof.

Evaluation of genetic diversity in long hair Nagaland goat Sumi-Ne

The long hair Nagaland goat (LHNG) registered by the name Sumi-Ne (Accession No. ‘INDIA_GOAT_1400_ SUMI-NE_06028’) are mainly found in Zunehoboto and Tuensang districts whereas their number is very less in Kiphire, Phek and other districts of Nagaland. The long hair goat, as the name indicates, is distinguished from other goat populations of NEH region by the presence of long silky hair in males and are reared by Sumi tribe people under extensive and semi-extensive system of management. These goats are predominantly of black (head &amp; neck) and white (remaining parts) colour. The long hair of these goats are of commercial utility for the tribal people. An attempt was made to characterize these goats genetically using microsatellite markers (23). All the 23 loci investigated were found polymorphic. Polymorphic information content ranged from 0.044 (OarJMP29) to 0.789 (ILSTS058) with an average 0.465±0.048. The total number of alleles observed across these microsatellite loci was 116. The number of alleles observed varied from 2 (OarJMP29) to 9 (ILSTS058) with an overall mean of 5.043±0.380. Effective number of alleles ranged from 1.048 (OarJMP29) to 5.414 (ILSTS058) with mean 2.576±0.285. The average observed heterozygosity within the population of LHNG ranged from0.043 (ETH225) to 0.786 (OMHC1) with an average of 0.347±0.040, whereas expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.045 (OarLMP29) to 0.815 (ILSTS058) with an average of 0.499±0.050. The expected heterozygosity was significantly higher than observed heterozygosity at most of loci except ILSTS059, OarJMP29, ILSTS34, ILSTS022 and RM088. Shannon’s information index which measures the level of genetic diversity was sufficiently high with a mean of 1.008±0.105 and ranged from 0.110 (OarJMP29) to 1.811 (ILSTS058). The within population inbreeding estimates (FIS) varied from –0.467 (ILSTS022) to 0.780 (ETH225) with average 0.258±0.064. Only 5 loci (ILSTS059, OarJMP29, ILSTS34, ILSTS022, RM088) revealed negative F values indicating the absence of inbreeding at these loci. About 26% of the inbreeding was noticed in LHNG leading to moderate level of homozygosity in the population. The L-shaped mode-shift curve indicated absence of bottleneck (reduction in the effective population size) in the recent past. Long hair goats of Nagaland are genetically distant (0.636) from both Singharey and Black goats of Sikkim and many other goat breeds of the country. There is a need to establish a separate goat farm in the native tract for maintaining the genetic purity, their propagation and conservation.

Typology and structural characterisation of suckler cow farming system in Central Macedonia, Greece

The aim of this study was to establish a farm typology of the suckler cow sector, based on a stratified sample of 66 farms in the region of Central Macedonia, Greece. The method of hierarchical cluster analysis has been used to typology and characterisation of the farming system. The farm size was determined by the number of suckler cows and total livestock units. The degree of intensification of the farming system was classified based on the stocking rate of available pastures, labour efficiency, housing system and level of infrastructure. Cow productivity was evaluated as the weaned calves to cows’ ratio. The profitability and the dependence of farms on subsidies were estimated by using gross profit with or without the addition of total subsidies. Following the results, four principal farming systems and one diversified were highlighted: firstly, a traditional, pasture-based, semi-extensive system with low profitability and strong dependence on subsidies was identified. Secondly, a viable and relatively profitable, despite the lack of pasture land, semi-intensive system was revealed. The third one was also a semi-intensive system with high pasture availability and low reliance on subsidies. The intensive farming system that was represented by the fourth case was unsustainable due to the absence of available pastures. The semi-intensive one, which characterised as ‘diversified’ was not a pure suckler cow farming system as it was mainly based on purchased calves fattening.HIGHLIGHTSThe lack of pastures constrains the development of suckler cow farming sector in Central Macedonia, Greece.The low percentage of weaned calves (62%) leads to low capital outputs.Semi-intensive systems are best suited to ensuring the future viability of suckler cow farms with or without receiving subsidies.

Calcium and Magnesium Urinary Excretion in Dairy Cows with Different Fee of Glucose Metabolization

Background: The post-partum period in dairy cows is accompanied by a low glucose metabolism in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle tissue, being glucose conducted to the milk production. In humans, low glucose metabolism is associated with metabolic syndromes, the high glucose levels reduce tubular reabsorption of Magnesium (Mg) and Calcium (Ca), leading to hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia. These minerals are important to the dairy cow, as their decrease leads to diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between glucose metabolism rate with the urinary excretion of Ca and Mg in multiparous dairy cows during the post-partum period.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: Twenty dairy cows were used from a commercial farm southern Brazil, in the semi-extensive system. Glucose tolerance tests were performed (TTG) on day 9 relative to calving. The cows were categorized into three groups according to the glucose metabolism rate (area under the glucose curve, glucose half-life and glucose consumption rate): High Glucose Metabolization (GA); Intermediate Glucose Metabolizing (GI); and Low Glucose Metabolization (GL). Blood and urine samples were collected on days 0, + 3, + 6, + 9, +16 and +2 3 in relation to calving for to determine the levels of Ca, Mg, insulin (Ins), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and Glu. In urine was evaluated the excretion of Ca and Mg. The cows were milked twice a day (at 3:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.) and the milk yield (kg/cow) was recorded daily and averages were generated every five days from day 15 to day 60 postpartum. The statistical analyses were performed with the MIXED procedure to assess the main effect of group, time (in days) and their interaction by using version 9.2 SAS software. The influence of the different rates of glucose metabolism on milk production was observed, the GB group had a production than GH group (30.88 ± 1.44 kg vs 23.96 ± 1.43 kg, P &lt; 0.01), but did not differ from GI. The GL group showed higher levels of Glu compared to GA (P &lt; 0.05). The plasma Ca levels were higher in GL (P &lt; 0.05) compared with GH. The NEFA, insulin, and excretion of minerals did not differ between groups (P &gt; 0.05).Discussion: The low glucose metabolism in humans causes an increase in the excretion of Ca and Mg urine, however, in the animals studied, these changes were not observed. This result can be attributed to the fact that insulin resistance is transitory in dairy cattle. The higher glucose levels in the GL group are related due to the lower capacity of glucose entry in the peripheral tissues (adipose and skeletal muscle), which reflected in the higher milk production observed this group. However, the higher calcium concentrations were not expected, since the release of insulin by β-pancreatic cells is dependent on calcium. Possibly, these higher calcium levels in GB, are related to higher milk production, requiring a greater amount of calcium for the production of casein, increasing bone mobilization, intestinal absorption. The energy metabolites, non-esterified fatty acids and insulin, did not differ between groups, suggesting that the animals did not present different metabolic conditions. We conclude that multiparous dairy cows with low glucose metabolism rate (GB) have higher levels of glucose after delivery and increased milk production. The metabolism rate of glucose did not influence the excretion of the Ca and Mg minerals.