Sustainable Livestock Production Research Articles

Cleaner anaerobic fermentation and greenhouse gas reduction of crop straw.

Rice anaerobic fermentation is a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and in order to efficiently utilize crop residue resources to reduce GHG emissions, rice straw anaerobic fermentation was regulated using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculants (FG1 and TH14), grass medium (GM) to culture LAB, and Acremonim cellulolyticus (AC). Microbial community, GHG emission, dry matter (DM) loss, and anaerobic fermentation were analyzed using PacBio single-molecule real-time and anaerobic fermentation system. The epiphytic microbial diversity of fresh rice straw was extremely rich and contained certain nutrients and minerals. During ensiling, large amounts of GHG such as carbon dioxide are produced due to plant respiration, enzymatic hydrolysis reactions, and proliferation of aerobic bacteria, resulting in energy and DM loss. Addition of FG1, TH14, and AC alone improved anaerobic fermentation by decreasing pH and ammonia nitrogen content (P < 0.05) and increased lactic acid content (P < 0.05) when compared to the control, and GM showed the same additive effect as LAB inoculants. Microbial additives formed a co-occurrence microbial network system dominated by LAB, enhanced the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, diversified the microbial metabolic environment and carbohydrate metabolic pathways, weakened the amino acid metabolic pathways, and made the anaerobic fermentation cleaner. This study is of great significance for the effective utilization of crop straw resources, the promotion of sustainable livestock production, and the reduction of GHG emissions.IMPORTANCETo effectively utilize crop by-product resources, we applied microbial additives to silage fermentation of fresh rice straw. Fresh rice straw is extremely rich in microbial diversity, which was significantly reduced after silage fermentation, and its nutrients were well preserved. Silage fermentation was improved by microbial additives, where the combination of cellulase and lactic acid bacteria acted as enzyme-bacteria synergists to promote lactic acid fermentation and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, such as protein degradation and gas production, thereby reducing GHG emissions and DM losses. The microbial additives accelerated the formation of a symbiotic microbial network system dominated by lactic acid bacteria, which regulated silage fermentation and improved microbial metabolic pathways for carbohydrates and amino acids, as well as biosynthesis of secondary metabolites.

Sustainable Livestock Production: Screening Analysis and Pilot Implementation of a Biofilm in Piggery Biofilters for Mitigation of Ammonia and Hydrogen Sulfide Emissions

One of the most noticeable problems associated with the close location of piggeries is gaseous compounds emission. Ammonia and hydrogen sulfide emissions affect the quality of life of people living in the vicinity of such facilities. Among the diverse methods for managing and controlling malodorous substances, biological methods, which involve the utilization of microbiological agents, are widely employed. The use of bacterial strains is a relatively simple, low-cost, and ecological method. The study aimed to conduct a preliminary evaluation of the implementation of a novel consortium of deodorizing bacteria. The study involved the selection of bacteria, assessment of the antagonistic properties, implementation of the inoculum in a mesh-filled biofilter, and analysis of ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, and fine dust content in the air before and after passing through the mature biological bed. The results obtained demonstrate the effectiveness of the biofiltration bed in reducing ammonia levels, with a maximum decrease observed at 73.90%. For hydrogen sulfide, a removal efficiency of &gt;72.08% was observed. Reduction in fine dust pollution also decreased from a level of 3.75 mg/m3 to 1.06 mg/m3. The study’s findings demonstrate the promising potential of utilizing a consortium of deodorizing bacteria as an effective approach to mitigating emissions from piggeries.

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN KEDAH, MALAYA (1909–1940): THE KEY TO ACHIEVING FOOD SECURITY, ECONOMIC GROWTH, AND RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION UNDER THE BRITISH

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN KEDAH, MALAYA (1909–1940): THE KEY TO ACHIEVING FOOD SECURITY, ECONOMIC GROWTH, AND RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION UNDER THE BRITISH

A Look at Genomic Selection Techniques for Climate Change Adaptation and Production in Livestock

Livestock production profoundly intersects with global climate dynamics, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and confronting vulnerability to climate impacts. In addressing these challenges, imperative adjustments are requisite to fortify the climate robustness of livestock systems. Notably, the prevalent reliance on commercial breeds with limited genetic diversity exposes production strategies to disruption, especially if these breeds are confined to environments that may lose economic viability under future climate scenarios. Consequently, understanding the adaptability of animal populations to forthcoming environmental conditions is paramount for sustaining livestock production. Assessing the genetic underpinnings of climate adaptation necessitates the exploration of tailored genomic selection techniques encompassing both production traits, presumed to have moderate heritability, and adaptation traits, presumed to have low heritability. Through a nuanced examination of genomic selection dynamics, insights into the genetic mechanisms fostering resilience in livestock populations amidst shifting environmental contexts are garnered. Employ genomic analysis to pinpoint genetic markers associated with traits like heat tolerance, disease resistance, and feed efficiency in livestock. Collaborate across disciplines to develop tailored breeding programs integrating these markers, and validate their effectiveness through rigorous field trials and ongoing monitoring to enhance livestock resilience and productivity in varied climatic conditions. Elucidating these mechanisms and their application in breeding programs offers a comprehensive understanding of how genetic advancements can enhance both production efficiency and climate resilience in livestock. This discourse aims to bridge the chasm between scientific inquiry and pragmatic implementation, thereby facilitating informed decision-making in livestock breeding strategies tailored to mitigate the ramifications of climate change.

Assessment of Performance in Cereal Fodder Crops with Relation to Seeding Rates and Cutting Stages

Cereal fodder crops serve as indispensable sources of nutrition for livestock, contributing significantly to the efficiency and sustainability of animal production systems worldwide. Maximizing the productivity and quality of these crops requires careful management, with seed rates and cutting stages playing pivotal roles in determining crop performance. Seeding rates play a critical role in crop establishment and growth, with both low and high rates affecting plant competition and ultimately yield. Cutting stages, on the other hand, are pivotal in determining the quality and nutrient composition of the forage. Optimal cutting stages vary depending on the intended use, such as hay, silage, or grazing and can significantly influence digestibility and overall nutritional value. The assessment of cereal fodder crops is therefore pivotal for optimizing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable livestock feed production. Understanding the intricate relationship between seeding rates, cutting stages and crop performance is essential for sustainable agriculture and livestock production systems, contributing to improved resource efficiency and economic viability.

Methane production from locally available ruminant feedstuffs in Ethiopia – An in vitro study

Achieving optimal nutrient composition in locally sourced ruminant feeds is important, but can be challenging in resource-limited production systems. For example, improving the composition of available local feed resources is a key obstacle to efficiently mitigating enteric methane (CH4) emissions in ruminants. This study characterized the nutritional content and in vitro methane (CH4) yield of ruminant feedstuffs accessible in Ethiopia. A survey of 60 experienced farmers in two representative districts in Amhara region, Ethiopia, provided 33 feed samples, which were classified into four ruminant feed categories: Grasses (n=10); indigenous plants (trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants) (n=13); crop residues (n=5); and agro-industrial by-products (n=5). Nutritional composition was assessed by proximate and detergent methods. Methane yield (g CH4/kg feed dry matter (DM)) and total gas yield (L/kg DM) were evaluated using a fully automated in vitro gas production system. A colorimetric assay was conducted to measure condensed tannin content (CT, mg/g) in relevant feeds. Lower crude protein (CP) values were observed for the grass (mean 65.2 g/kg DM) and crop residues (mean 54.5 g/kg DM) categories. Agro-industrial by-products had the highest CP (mean 260 g/kg DM), while indigenous plants exhibited intermediate levels (163 g/kg DM). There was significant variation in CH4 yield (P<0.01) between grasses (12.4–24.7 g/kg DM) indigenous plants (1.8–19.3 g/kg DM), and agro-industrial by-products (8.1–26.9 g/kg DM). The indigenous plant Trifolium acaule gave the lowest in vitro CH4 yield (1.8 g/kg DM). A positive relationship was observed between in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), CH4, and total gas yield. Percentage of CH4 in total gas production varied with feed category (grasses 14.5–19.6%; indigenous plants 3.1–16.9%; crop residues 15.8–20.6%; agro-industrial by-products 12.8–18.7%), and within category, e.g., Trifolium acaule (3.1%), Acacia nilotica L. (7.1%), Ziziphus spina-christi (9.9%), brewer’s spent grains (BSG) (12.8%), local liquor (areki) residues (14.1%), and local beer (tella) residues (15.1%). A negative relationship was observed between CT content and in vitro CH4 yield, with a stronger (P<0.05) correlation for soluble CTs (R2 = 0.46) than cell-bound CTs (R2 = 0.25) and total CTs (R2 = 0.29). Based on methanogenic properties and effects of CTs on in vitro CH4 yield, indigenous plants should be prioritized in ruminant rations in Ethiopia. Making nutritional composition and CH4 data publicly available could help develop environmentally sound, cost-effective rations for ruminant livestock, benefiting local farmers and leading to more sustainable and efficient livestock production in Ethiopia.

Microbiome composition as a potential predictor of longevity in rabbits

BackgroundLongevity and resilience are two fundamental traits for more sustainable livestock production. These traits are closely related, as resilient animals tend to have longer lifespans. An interesting criterion for increasing longevity in rabbit could be based on the information provided by its gut microbiome. The gut microbiome is essential for regulating health and plays crucial roles in the development of the immune system. The aim of this research was to investigate if animals with different longevities have different microbial profiles. We sequenced the 16S rRNA gene from soft faeces from 95 does. First, we compared two maternal rabbit lines with different longevities; a standard longevity maternal line (A) and a maternal line (LP) that was founded based on longevity criteria: females with a minimum of 25 parities with an average prolificacy per parity of 9 or more. Second, we compared the gut microbiota of two groups of animals from line LP with different longevities: females that died/were culled with two parities or less (LLP) and females with more than 15 parities (HLP).ResultsDifferences in alpha and beta diversity were observed between lines A and LP, and a partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) showed a high prediction accuracy (> 91%) of classification of animals to line A versus LP (146 amplicon sequence variants (ASV)). The PLS-DA also showed a high prediction accuracy (> 94%) to classify animals to the LLP and HLP groups (53 ASV). Interestingly, some of the most important taxa identified in the PLS-DA were common to both comparisons (Akkermansia, Christensenellaceae R-7, UnculturedEubacteriaceae, among others) and have been reported to be related to resilience and longevity.ConclusionsOur results indicate that the first parity gut microbiome profile differs between the two rabbit maternal lines (A and LP) and, to a lesser extent, between animals of line LP with different longevities (LLP and HLP). Several genera were able to discriminate animals from the two lines and animals with different longevities, which shows that the gut microbiome could be used as a predictive factor for longevity, or as a selection criterion for these traits.

Resistance to natural tick infestation varies with age and coat and hair traits in a tropically adapted beef cattle breed

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus causes considerable livestock production losses. Knowledge of the traits that influence tick resistance contributes to the development of breeding strategies designed to improve herd productivity. Within this context, this study evaluated the resistance of Caracu, a tropically adapted cattle breed, to R. microplus. Tick count, hair length, coat thickness, and coat color were evaluated in 202 naturally tick-infested females (cows and heifers) over a period of 18 months. Blood samples were collected from all animals during the winter season for hematological analysis. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlations, generalized linear models, and principal component analysis. Correlation coefficients of tick count with coat color, coat thickness, and hair length were estimated within each season. Hematological parameters were only included in the winter season analysis and were analyzed by the restricted maximum likelihood method using log-transformed data. No differences in blood parameters were observed between animals with and without ticks. However, tick count was negatively correlated with erythrocytes (−0.29) and hematocrit (−0.24) and positively correlated with mean corpuscular hemoglobin (0.21) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (0.25). These findings suggest that higher tick counts lead to a decrease in erythrocytes but also to an increase in the amount of hemoglobin per erythrocyte, which could reduce the damage caused by low erythrocyte levels due to tick hematophagy, delaying or preventing anemia. Although tick infestation on pasture was demonstrated by the infestation of all staff members during herd management, none of the animals exhibited high tick counts, providing evidence of resistance of Caracu animals to R. microplus. Tick infestation was influenced by age class (cows > heifers), season (spring and summer > fall and winter), coat thickness (>1.5 mm > <1.5 mm), and hair length (>6 mm > <6 mm). Three components were extracted by principal component analysis, which accounted for 69.46% of data variance. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of efficient strategies aimed at reducing economic losses due to tick infestation and could be applied in animal breeding to select for tick resistance traits, reducing chemical control strategies and consequently improving sustainable livestock production.

Landscape genomics reveals regions associated with adaptive phenotypic and genetic variation in Ethiopian indigenous chickens.

Climate change is a threat to sustainable livestock production and livelihoods in the tropics. It has adverse impacts on feed and water availability, disease prevalence, production, environmental temperature, and biodiversity. Unravelling the drivers of local adaptation and understanding the underlying genetic variation in random mating indigenous livestock populations informs the design of genetic improvement programmes that aim to increase productivity and resilience. In the present study, we combined environmental, genomic, and phenotypic information of Ethiopian indigenous chickens to investigate their environmental adaptability. Through a hybrid sampling strategy, we captured wide biological and ecological variabilities across the country. Our environmental dataset comprised mean values of 34 climatic, vegetation and soil variables collected over a thirty-year period for 260 geolocations. Our biological dataset included whole genome sequences and quantitative measurements (on eight traits) from 513 individuals, representing 26 chicken populations spread along 4 elevational gradients (6-7 populations per gradient). We performed signatures of selection analyses ([Formula: see text] and XP-EHH) to detect footprints of natural selection, and redundancy analyses (RDA) to determine genotype-environment and genotype-phenotype-associations. RDA identified 1909 outlier SNPs linked with six environmental predictors, which have the highest contributions as ecological drivers of adaptive phenotypic variation. The same method detected 2430 outlier SNPs that are associated with five traits. A large overlap has been observed between signatures of selection identified by[Formula: see text]and XP-EHH showing that both methods target similar selective sweep regions. Average genetic differences measured by [Formula: see text] are low between gradients, but XP-EHH signals are the strongest between agroecologies. Genes in the calcium signalling pathway, those associated with the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factors, and sports performance (GALNTL6) are under selection in high-altitude populations. Our study underscores the relevance of landscape genomics as a powerful interdisciplinary approach to dissect adaptive phenotypic and genetic variation in random mating indigenous livestock populations.

Assessment of Potential, Opportunities, Challenges, and Gaps of Fodder for Sustainable Livestock Production in Bardhere District, Somalia.

Fodder refers particularly to feed of a vegetative nature given to the animals (including plants cut and carried to them), for Sustainable farm animal raising of sufficient quantities and quality of forages and fodder, rather than that which they forage for themselves. It includes hay, straw and silage. Therefore, the purpose of this review paper was to explore the potential, opportunities, challenges and gaps in fodder production in arid and semiarid regions at the Bardhere district of Gedo, Somalia. For describing the evaluation of potential, opportunities, challenges and gaps in fodder production, descriptive survey designs were used. The information was gathered between November 2022 and June 2023. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The total number of respondents was 80 across various fields (livestock farmers and forage producers in bardhere district). The data was arranged and analysed by using SPSS. The researchers met all of their study objectives and came up with a beneficial: The researchers met all of their study objectives and came up with a beneficial conclusion. The majority of the respondent 65% answer 18 and 45 between ages. The majority of the respondents (81.25%) were male, while only 18.75% percent were female, according to the study. The researcher discovered that 63.75% percent of the respondents were married, while 6.25% were widow and divorced. However, 18.75% of the respondents were single, and 11.25% were just window. According to the educational background, 33.75%were illiterates, 30% were primary school, 30%had secondary education and 16.25% had of university. The bulk of the respondents were farmers, with 57.75%being farmers, 21.25 percent being livestock keepers, 11.25% being fodder traders and 10% prevented then others specific tread according to the study. The majority of respondents main challenge of fodder production answered 50.5% disagree. Therefore, it is strongly suggested that forage should be promoted into the sustainable livestock production and the environment, particularly in the country’s arid and semiarid regions.

Impact of farming structure on intensity of wild birds accidents

Abstract. The living environment of progressively increasing population worldwide is significantly encroaching on and occupying areas of wild nature. At the marginal zones where human activity and environment meet, biodiversity is subjected to the effects of agriculture and its modern intensification. The grasslands within human settlements serve as intersections where farm animals and wildlife meet and interact, sometimes directly competing for resources. One aspect of this interaction involves active management of encounters between wild and domestic animals in order to control animal health at both individual and herd levels, aiming to minimize economic losses and maximize productivity and sustainability of livestock production. On the other hand, wild animals are also directly and indirectly influenced by the type of animal husbandry practices developed in each region, often with adverse consequences for wildlife. Human-wildlife conflict is among the most urgent and well-researched issues for the creation and implementation of effective wildlife conservation measures worldwide. However, systematic knowledge of these conflicts remains insufficient. In order to explore the spatial overlap between livestock and wildlife leading to conflicts between them, this study aims to assess the incidence of wildlife poisoning cases and their relation to changes in the type of livestock farming by economic planning regions in the country. For this study, we analyzed variations in the number of farm animals raised in specific regions from 2000 to 2019, and the trends in structural changes of registered livestock facilities in Bulgaria. We examined the influence of the structure of livestock holdings and the intensification of animal husbandry on the rate of patient admissions to the “Green Balkans” Wildlife Rehabilitation and Breeding Centre in Stara Zagora.

Livestock farming sustainability and forage production in volcanic-hazard prone areas of Indonesia’s active volcano

Volcanic eruptions have varied and complex impacts on small-scale livestock farming located in volcanic hazard-prone areas due to diverse stock, rearing, and feeding practices. The study was aimed to clarify the critical factors for designing forage recovery and sustainable livestock production in highrisk-prone areas of active volcanic mountains. A total of seventy-five ruminant livestock farmers located in the eruption-impacted areas of five active volcanoes were surveyed on flock size, rearing, and feeding practices. They were interviewed about their experiences of the eruption's impact on the animals, forage feed, and livestock mitigation regarding survival efforts. Forage plants and soil samples were collected to analyze dry matter and crude nutrient composition and estimate the botanical composition, biomass production, and carrying capacity. Results showed that there were five species of ruminant animals reared in small flock size (&lt; 7 heads/farm): beef cattle, buffalo, horses, goat, and sheep. Beef cattle and goats were the most popular farm animals raised in different breeds, rearing, and feeding systems. The volcanic eruption caused animal loss and health problems due to exposure to volcanic materials, forage damages, and animal mitigation constraints, resulting in flock size decrease and economic loss. The impact of the eruption on farm animals and forage plants varied among the volcanoes due to diverse eruptive characteristics, stock breed, rearing, and feeding practices. Livestock farming recovery post-eruption depended largely on the survival flock and the regrowth of forage plants. In conclusion, sustainable beef cattle farming in volcanic hazard-prone areas might be realized by effective livestock mitigation efforts, selecting appropriate types of animals and rearing/feeding systems based on agroecological conditions, and improving forage capacity and survival rate during and posteruption.

In vitro Evaluation of Different Levels of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) Nut Meal Supplementation on Rumen Fermentation Kinetics and Digestibility

Background: Globally, safeguarding food and nutritional security of ever increasing population demands sustainable crop and livestock production. While urbanization, decrease in cultivable land and stiff feed-fuel-food competition accompanied with skyrocketing price of conventional feedstuffs hinders the sustainable livestock production. Hence, it necessitates search and exploration of alternative feed resources along with judicious utilization of existing feed resources. In this context, Cashew nut meal (CNM) is one such alternative feed resource but the studies pertaining to its optimum level of inclusion in animal diet is scanty. Therefore, the study was conducted to assess the effect of incorporating varying levels of cashew nut meal (CNM) as a supplement on in vitro rumen fermentation kinetics and digestibility. Methods: Seven distinct compounded feed mixtures (CFM) were formulated, with CNM progressively replacing 0 (C0), 10 (C1), 20 (C2), 30 (C3), 40 (C4), 50 (C5), and 60 (C6) per cent of the soybean meal (SBM) protein present in the control CFM. Additionally, seven experimental complete diets (T0 to T6) were prepared by blending these CFM with Super Napier (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum glaucum) hay in a 40:60 ratio. These diets were subjected to rumen in vitro gas production (RIVGP) study with cumulative gas production measured at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72 and 96 h post-incubation. Subsequently, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVTDMD) and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) of the diets were determined using a modified in vitro two-stage technique. Later, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) were estimated using gas chromatography. Result: Analysis of chemical composition revealed that CNM contains good protein of 256.5 g/kg. The potential gas production (D) and the rate and extent of gas production (c) for diets containing CNM ranged from 54.63 to 60.24 mL and 0.036 to 0.043 h-1, respectively. IVTDMD and NDFD analysis of the seven diets fell within the range of 79.12% to 80.80% and 64.72% to 66.47%, respectively. The estimated TVFA for seven diets ranged from 17.87 to 23.65 mM. Further, the metabolisable energy (ME) of diets ranged from 7.89 to 8.08 MJ/kg DM. Importantly, no significant differences were observed in rumen fermentation kinetics parameters, IVTDMD, NDFD and TVFA among treatments (T0 to T6). In conclusion, cashew nut meal could be used as an alternative to soybean meal in compounded feed mixtures of ruminants up to 30% (w/w) without any adverse effect on rumen fermentation pattern and digestibility.

Correlations between root phosphorus acquisition and foliar phosphorus allocation reveal how grazing promotes plant phosphorus utilization

Overgrazing and phosphorus (P) deficiency are two major factors limiting the sustainable development of grassland ecosystems. Exploring plant P utilization and acquisition strategies under grazing can provide a solid basis for determining a reasonable grazing intensity. Both foliar P allocation and root P acquisition are crucial mechanisms for plants to adapt to environmental P availability; however, their changing characteristics and correlation under grazing remain unknown. Here, we investigated foliar P fractions, root P-acquisition traits and gene expression, as well as rhizosphere and bulk soil properties of two dominant plant species, Leymus chinensis (a rhizomatous grass) and Stipa grandis (a bunchgrass), in a field grazing intensity gradient site in Inner Mongolia. Grazing induced different degrees of compensatory growth in the two dominant plant species, increased rhizosphere P availability, and alleviated plant P limitation. Under grazing, the foliar metabolite P of L. chinensis increased, whereas the nucleic acid P of S. grandis increased. Increased P fractions in L. chinensis were positively correlated with increased root exudates and rapid inorganic P absorption. For S. grandis, increased foliar P fractions were positively correlated with more fine roots, more root exudates, and up-regulated expression of genes involved in defense and P metabolism. Overall, efficient root P mobilization and uptake traits, as well as increases in leaf metabolic activity-related P fractions, supported plant compensatory growth under grazing, a process that differed between tiller types. The highest plant productivity and leaf metabolic activity-related P concentrations under medium grazing intensity clarify the underlying basis for sustainable livestock production.

Environmental Sustainability in Livestock Production

Purpose: The general purpose of this study was to analyze environmental sustainability in livestock production.&#x0D; Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.&#x0D; Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to environmental sustainability in livestock production. The study provided valuable insights into the complex interactions between livestock production practices and environmental sustainability, highlighting significant challenges such as greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. It emphasized the importance of adopting integrated approaches to mitigate these impacts, stressing the need for transformative changes in livestock production. The study also underscored the role of policy and governance mechanisms in driving sustainable practices and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration. Urgency was emphasized in addressing environmental sustainability in livestock production to mitigate negative impacts, urging concerted action from governments, industry stakeholders, researchers, and consumers for a sustainable future.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Agroecology theory, Socio-Ecological Systems theory and the Sustainable Livelihoods approach may be used to anchor future studies on environmental sustainability in livestock production. The recommendations advocate for the promotion of sustainable livestock production practices, emphasizing techniques like rotational grazing and integrated pest management to minimize environmental degradation. Investing in research and innovation is crucial to developing new technologies for enhanced sustainability, while education initiatives empower farmers with necessary skills. Policymakers are urged to shape regulations and provide incentives for sustainable practices, with collaboration among stakeholders highlighted as essential for addressing environmental challenges effectively. Raising consumer awareness and promoting sustainable consumption patterns further drive positive change throughout the supply chain. In conclusion, a multifaceted approach integrating innovation, policy, education, and collaboration is essential for achieving environmental sustainability in livestock production, ensuring a balance between conservation and development.

Indoor Temperature Forecasting in Livestock Buildings: A Data-Driven Approach

The escalating global population and climate change necessitate sustainable livestock production methods to meet rising food demand. Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) integrates information and communication technologies (ICT) to improve farming efficiency and animal health. Unlike traditional methods, PLF uses machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyze data in real time, providing valuable insights to decision makers. Dairy farming in diverse climates is challenging and requires well-designed structures to regulate internal environmental parameters. This study explores the application of the Facebook-developed Prophet algorithm to predict indoor temperatures in a dairy farm over a 72 h horizon. Exogenous variables sourced from the Open-Meteo platform improve the accuracy of the model. The paper details case study construction, data acquisition, preprocessing, and model training, highlighting the importance of seasonality in environmental variables. Model validation using key metrics shows consistent accuracy across different dates, as the mean absolute percentage error on daily base ranges from 1.71% to 2.62%. The results indicate excellent model performance, especially considering the operational context. The study concludes that black box models, such as the Prophet algorithm, are effective for predicting indoor temperatures in livestock buildings and provide valuable insights for environmental control and optimization in livestock production. Future research should explore gray box models that integrate physical building characteristics to improve predictive performance and HVAC system control.

Moral disengagement in the media discourses on meat and dairy production systems

Meat and dairy production and consumption are the subject of ongoing public debates that touch on various sustainability issues such as biodiversity loss, climate change, animal welfare, and social and health aspects. Despite extensive discussions specifically relating to the environmental impacts of livestock farming in conjunction with animal welfare aspects, there have been no substantial changes in production or consumption patterns. Moreover, the focus of extant research is usually on consumers' responses to public concerns around livestock production. In this study, we shed light on the discrepancy between the normative discourse and action of relevant value chain actors with the help of Bandura's theory of moral disengagement, which allows us to identify mechanisms that contribute to the perpetuation of unsustainable production and consumption patterns. In particular, we focus on the shifting of responsibility between actors in the normatively charged field of sustainable livestock production. We collected 109 media interviews on meat and dairy production and consumption from the years 2020–2022, including interviews with actors from agriculture, processing industries, and food retail. Using qualitative content analysis, we investigated the role of moral disengagement in the media discourse on meat and dairy production and explored differences between actors in terms of moral disengagement. We found that shifting of responsibility shows a quasi-circular dynamic of being shifted from all actors to all, in our case most frequently to consumers, politics, and (diffuse) economic forces. In addition, our analysis showed the use of social justifications, beneficial comparisons, and euphemistic labelling to be common mechanisms of moral disengagement, constituting a collective problem within agri-food systems.

Assessing the potential of phytogenic feed additives: A comprehensive review on their effectiveness as a potent dietary enhancement for nonruminant in swine and poultry.

Phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) often referred to as phytobiotics or botanical feed additives, are natural compounds derived from various plants, herbs, spicesand other botanical sources. These feed additives are intended to serve a variety of purposes, including an immune system regulator, an antimicrobial, an antimutagenic, an antioxidantand a growth promoter. They are composed of bioactive compounds extracted from plants, including essential oils, polyphenols, terpenoidsand flavonoids. They are mostly utilized as substitute antibiotic growth promoters in nonruminant (swine and poultry) livestock production, owing to the prohibition of antibiotic usage in the feed industry. It has been thoroughly examined to ascertain their impact on intestinal health and activity, correlation with animals'effective health and well-being, productivity, food securityand environmental impact. The potential uses of these feed additives depend on the properties of herbs, the comprehension of their principal and secondary components, knowledge of their mechanisms of action, the safety of animalsand the products they produce. They are gaining recognition as effective and sustainable tools for promoting animal health and performance while reducing the reliance on antibiotics in nonruminant nutrition. Their natural origins, multifaceted benefitsand alignment with consumer preferences make them a valuable addition to modern animal farming process. However, because of their inconsistent effects and inadequate knowledge of the mechanisms of action, their usage as a feed additive has been limited. This review offers a comprehensive assessment of the applications of PFAs as an effective feed supplement in swine and poultry nutrition. In summary, this comprehensive review provides current knowledge, identifies gaps in researchand emphasizes the potential of phytogenic additives to foster sustainable and healthier livestock production systems while addressing the global concerns associated with antibiotic use in livestock farming.

SMART LIVESTOCK FOR SCIENCE…12 months later

The fourth issue of Slovak Journal of Animal Science 2023 gives to me the opportunity to overview our scientific publishing activity after the first 12 months together. Along four issues, our Journal has been faced with many different aspects of animal farm production, among them mainly circular economy strategy, non-conventional feed resources, and community-based livestock programs. All these different aspects have a common point: boost and develop the livestock farming system, in terms of competitiveness and profitability. Looking at the different articles collected and published during this year, the incorporation of locally available novel feed resource alternatives can promote circular economy concepts, increase food security, and improve sustainable livestock production. By exploiting locally accessible resources, the inclusion of these materials in animal feed nutrition has significant potential to enhance livestock performance, lower production costs, and promote bioeconomy concepts.&#x0D; On the other hand, analysis of genomic data is an important resource for the effective management of small and endangered animal populations. The research activity of scientists has deeply been focused on developing breeding programs able to conserve animal biodiversity and monitor animal biodynamics.&#x0D; &#x0D; In the last Editorial article of 2023, I am going to introduce the contents of the articles collected and published in the fourth issue of 2023 year.&#x0D; Formelova et al. performed a study to evaluate the effect of dried hempseed cake (by-product of oil production) supplementation (5% - EG1 and 10% - EG2) to rabbit feed mixture on livestock performances, quality of meat, digestibility of nutrients and animal health status. All obtained data let Authors to recommend the inclusion of hempseed cake up to 10% in rabbit diet without any negative effect on animal welfare, livestock performance and quality of meat.&#x0D; Osaiyuwu et al. organized a study to provide useful information for the creation of sustainable breeding programmes and developing a sustainable use and conservation strategy aimed at developing highly producing Muscovy ducks in Nigeria; consequently, increasing the food security index of the nation and source of income for small-scale farmers. In general, the ducks from all seven ecogeographic locations were rather homogeneous than heterogeneous.&#x0D; Mekonnen et al., had the prime objective to survey and characterize the husbandry practices of the different indigenous sheep populations. Authors concluded the study claiming a need of feed development, shift to modern husbandry practices, access to veterinary services, indigenous sheep conservation through utilization, control of inbreeding, ram-to-ewe ratio, fattening and castration should be of future attention of farmers and stakeholders.&#x0D; Ajayi et al., to justify the use of duckweed as an alternative and novel aquatic-derived fodder in ruminants' feeding strategies, performed preliminary investigation via in vitro gas production technique. The study assessed the nutrient and mineral potential, secondary metabolites and in vitro gas production characteristics of duckweed to estimate the short-chain volatile fatty acids, metabolizable energy, organic matter digestibility and apparent in vitro dry matter degradability. In conclusion, duckweed from earthen fish ponds is fairly degradable in vitro, and the nutrient contents elucidate its forage value for ruminants.&#x0D; Editorial Team looks forward to evaluating your submitted contributions and providing all necessary support to Authors in order to best serve animal science and the scientific community, with commitment to research integrity and the highest publishing ethics. Enjoy the reading!

Impacts of Grazing on the Selected Features of Herbaceous Species and Harvested Dry Matter Yield of Natural Pasture

This study evaluated how grazing influenced the specific features of herbaceous species (basal cover, species richness, evenness, and diversity) as well as dry matter yield in the northwestern highlands of Ethiopia. For this study, the natural pastures were divided into three strata based on grazing types (grazing exclusion areas, controlled grazing, and continuous grazing). The areas in each grazing type were divided into two randomly selected (100 m × 50 m) sampling blocks. Then, each of the separated areas was divided into five 10 m × 10 m, and in each subdivided plot, (0.5 m × 0.5 m) were placed across the plots. Thus, a total of 30 (0.5 m × 0.5 m) quadrats were used to evaluate the effect of grazing on the basal cover, species richness, diversity, and dry matter yield of the herbaceous pasture layers. As the results showed, there were significant differences in dry matter yield, basal cover, species richness, evenness, and diversity among grazing areas. The dry matter yield, basal cover, species richness, and diversity were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in both grazing exclusion and controlled grazing areas than in continuous grazing areas. Therefore, to increase the dry matter yield of natural pasture and to ensure sustainable livestock production, the livestock producers in the study areas should practice either a cut-carry system or a controlled grazing system.