Effect of Density and Lineage on Dorsal Surface Temperature, Performance, and Carcass Condemnation of Broiler Grillers.

The aims of this study were (i) to evaluate the effect of density, lineage, age, and time of day on dorsal surface temperature and (ii) to evaluate the effect of density and lineage on performance and carcass condemnations in broiler grillers. The evaluations were carried out in barns with the Dark House system, with two densities, 17 and 19 chickens/m2 and two lineages, Cobb and Ross. The dorsal surface temperature of the chickens was measured by infrared thermography at 7, 14, 21, 23, 25 and 27 days of age, four times a day. The average daily weight gain, feed conversion, mortality, partial carcass condemnations, as well as those due to arthritis and dermatosis were also evaluated. The highest dorsal surface temperatures were observed in Cobbs housed at a density of 17 chickens/m2, and in Ross housed at a density of 19 chickens/m2. Cobbs housed at a 17 chickens/m2 density showed the lowest feed conversion compared to Ross at the same density. Ross showed higher dorsal surface temperatures when compared to Cobbs at 14, 21, and 27 days. Cobbs showed higher percentages of partial carcass condemnation and arthritis compared to Ross. The higher density of broiler grillers in the Dark House system does not influence the dorsal surface temperature, performance, dermatosis, arthritis, and partial carcass condemnations.

Nutritional plans and ambient temperature on the growth curves of Japanese quails / Planos nutricionais e temperatura ambiente nas curvas de crescimento de codornas japonesas

This study estimated the growth of body, carcass, primal cuts, edible offal, and feathers of Japanese quail reared in two thermal environments, receiving three nutritional plans, from one to 39 days of age. A total of 576 one-day-old female chicks (Coturnix japonica) with an average initial weight of 7.51±0.75g/bird were evaluated in a completely randomized design with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement (three nutritional plans × two temperatures). The animals were housed in two climatic chambers, at 25 ºC and 35 ºC, using 12 replications with eight birds per experimental unit. Nutritional plans (NP) were as follows: NP1: one diet from 1-21days and another from 22-39 days; NP2: one diet from 1-14 days and another from 15-39 days; and NP3: a single diet from 1-39 days. The growth curves and growth rates of body, carcass, primal cuts, feathers, and edible offal were evaluated using the Gompertz mathematical model. Quail fed NP3 showed higher growth curves and rates for body, carcass, drumstick +thigh, and feather. There was an effect on maturity rate, which was lowest in quail housed at 35 ºC. Among the animals kept at 25 ºC, the group fed NP3 exhibited the highest growth rate and breast weight. The nutritional plan consisting of a single diet offered from 1 to 39 days, formulated based on the tables for Japanese and European quail, is the most suitable for estimating the growth curves (Gompertz model) of Japanese quail housed at 25 ºC or 35 ºC.

Objetivou-se estimar o crescimento corporal, carcaça, cortes nobres, vísceras comestíveis e penas de codornas japonesas criadas em dois ambientes térmicos e alimentadas com três planos nutricionais de um a 39 dias. Foram utilizadas 576 pintainhas (Coturnix japônica), fêmeas, com um dia de idade, com peso médio inicial 7,51 ± 0,75g/ave, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 × 2 (três planos nutricionais x duas temperaturas), alojadas em duas câmaras climáticas de 25º e 35 ºC, com 12 repetições e oito aves por unidade experimental. Os planos nutricionais foram: plano nutricional um (PN1) - uma dieta de 1-21 dias e uma dieta de 22-39 dias; plano nutricional dois (PN2) - uma dieta de 1-14 dias e uma dieta de 15-39 dias; e plano nutricional três (PN3) - dieta única de 1-39 dias. Foram avaliadas as curvas e taxas de crescimento corporal, carcaça, cortes nobres, penas e vísceras comestíveis, através do modelo matemático de Gompertz. Codornas alimentadas com PN3 apresentaram maiores curvas e taxas de crescimento corporal, de carcaça, coxa + sobrecoxa e penas. Houve efeito para taxa de maturidade, sendo inferior para codornas alojadas em 35 ºC. Nas aves mantidas em 25 ºC, observou-se maior taxa de crescimento e peso de peito nas codornas alimentadas com PN3. O plano nutricional composto por uma única dieta ofertada durante o período de um a 39 dias, formulado com base nas recomendações das tabelas para codornas japonesas e europeias, é o mais indicado para estimar curvas de crescimento no modelo de Gompertz de codornas japonesas alojadas em 25 ºC ou 35 ºC.

Thermography as an indicator of goat welfare in an intensive production system.

This study evaluated the welfare of Saanen, Moxoto, and Anglo-Nubian goats kept in collective or individual pens for a feedlot system, evaluated with infrared thermography. A total of twenty-four goats were used, eight for each breed. Animals were distributed in a completely randomized design, with a 2 × 3 factorial with two fixed effects: housing type (collective or individual pens) and breed (Moxoto, Saanen, and Anglo-Nubian). The surface temperature was evaluated using an infrared thermographic camera, and behavioral analysis was based on the qualitative behavior assessment using a fixed list of descriptors. The breed was not different for all behavior evaluations and surface temperature (p>0.05). There was a difference between the housing types, where the collective pens showed goats more agitated, frustrated, and sociable (p<0.05). There was an influence of agitated, apathetic, frustrated, attentive, and curious behaviors on surface temperatures, in which feet and body temperatures decreased in these goats. (p<0.05). Moxoto, Anglo-Nubian, and Saanen goats showed similar behavior even when kept in collective or individual pens. Individual pens can restrict the goats' social relationships but reduce negative behaviors such as irritation and frustration. The lower foot temperatures of feedlot goats are related to the attention behavior in 86.75% of the observations.

Environmental factors on the probability of pregnancy in early or conventionally weaned beef cows.

Potential variables for the reproductive success of beef cows were evaluated. Included in the model were the age of the cow at calving; the interval between the Julian calving date and the end of the breeding season; the body weight and conditions at calving, at 75 days post-partum and at the end of the breeding season; and the mean daily variation in weight between these dates. Logistic regression was used in the analysis, with the parameters evaluated using the odds ratio statistic, estimating the chance of pregnancy. The mean rate of pregnancy was 84% and 55% for early and late-weaned cows, respectively. For early weaned cows, the regression variables were the Julian calving date, age of the cow, weight gain from calving to 75 days post-partum, and from 75 days post-partum to the end of the reproductive period. For late-weaned cows, there were only two regression variables, weight at calving and weight gain from calving to the end of the reproductive period. For every year above the average age of the herd, early weaned cows have an 80.9% greater chance of pregnancy, while a reduction of one year reduces the chance of pregnancy by 44.7%. In early weaned cows, every seven days after the mean Julian calving date reduces the chances of pregnancy by 22.6%, whereas every seven days before the mean calving date increases pregnancy by 29.2%. Greater gains in cow body weight, from calving to the end of the reproductive period, determine a greater probability of pregnancy.

Thermal comfort thresholds for Japanese quails based on performance and egg quality.

Knowledge of the effects of thermal stress on Japanese quails helps support decision-making regarding the management of climate control systems. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and egg quality of Japanese quails subjected to different air temperatures (tair) and to propose thresholds for the temperature-humidity index (THI), the Black globe humidity index (BGHI), and enthalpy (H). Two experiments (21 days each) were conducted in four climate-controlled wind tunnels. In the first experiment, tair was 20, 22, 24, and 26 °C, and in the second, tair was 20, 28, 30, and 32 °C. The relative humidity (RH) and air velocity were 60% and 0.3 ms-1, respectively. To define the comfort thresholds, the productive performance of the birds, water intake, and egg quality were evaluated. No differences were observed (p > 0.05) for the performance-related variables, except for feed intake, which decreased (p < 0.05) as tair increased, and water intake, which increased (p < 0.5) by 15.9% starting at 28 °C. For experiments 1 and 2, with tair at 20 °C (tair,obs = 20.8 and 21.3 °C, respectively), there was evidence of cold stress. The shell thickness, Haugh unit, and internal quality unit were negatively influenced (p < 0.05) by tair starting at 28 °C. Japanese quails were able, within certain limits, to adapt to continuous thermal stress. The Japanese quails thermal comfort intervals recommended for THI, BGHI, and H are 68.4 to 76.2, 69.1 to 77.2, and 50.5 to 67.2 kJ kgdry air-1, respectively.

Environmental factors on the probability of pregnancy in early or conventionally weaned beef cows

Abstract Potential variables for the reproductive success of beef cows were evaluated. Included in the model were the age of the cow at calving; the interval between the Julian calving date and the end of the breeding season; the body weight and conditions at calving, at 75 days post-partum and at the end of the breeding season; and the mean daily variation in weight between these dates. Logistic regression was used in the analysis, with the parameters evaluated using the odds ratio statistic, estimating the chance of pregnancy. The mean rate of pregnancy was 84% and 55% for early and late-weaned cows, respectively. For early weaned cows, the regression variables were the Julian calving date, age of the cow, weight gain from calving to 75 days post-partum, and from 75 days post-partum to the end of the reproductive period. For late-weaned cows, there were only two regression variables, weight at calving and weight gain from calving to the end of the reproductive period. For every year above the average age of the herd, early weaned cows have an 80.9% greater chance of pregnancy, while a reduction of one year reduces the chance of pregnancy by 44.7%. In early weaned cows, every seven days after the mean Julian calving date reduces the chances of pregnancy by 22.6%, whereas every seven days before the mean calving date increases pregnancy by 29.2%. Greater gains in cow body weight, from calving to the end of the reproductive period, determine a greater probability of pregnancy.

Bioclimatic zoning for quails in the rain season in the state of Paraíba, Brazil

This work aimed to perform bioclimatic zoning based on the temperature and humidity index (THI) for quails from the 3rd to the 5th week of life during the rainy season in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, in order to identify the most suitable mesoregions among the Zona da Mata, Agreste, Borborema and Sertão for the breeding of these birds and to propose mitigating measures for the thermal comfort of the animals. The monthly air temperature and relative humidity data for calculating the THI were obtained from conventional meteorological stations of the National Meteorological Institute of the Brazilian federal government from 1961 to 2015, in turn making maps with the spatial distribution of the index. The index ranged from 71 to 76 in the various mesoregions of Paraíba, with Agreste being the best mesoregion for breeding quails from the 3rd to the 5th week of life, thus providing a thermal comfort zone for birds and only requiring a few corrective measures in their facilities, when necessary, followed by the Sertão, Zona da Mata and Borborema mesoregions.

Key points for the thermal comfort of water buffaloes in Eastern Amazon / Pontos-chave do conforto térmico de bubalinos na Amazônia Oriental

This study presented relevant aspects about the Amazonian environment and how it impacts the thermal comfort of domestic buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) raised in the Eastern Amazon. Furthermore, strategies for monitoring and mitigating animal heat stress are presented, based on research results with the species. Although domestic buffaloes are considered adaptable animals, exposure to intense solar radiation causes thermal discomfort. This condition is expressed in biophysical indicators, in metabolic, endocrine, behavioral responses, and in body thermographic patterns. Therefore, the biometeorological monitoring of production is crucial to support decision-making regarding environmental management strategies, genetic selection of thermotolerant individuals, and increase in animal welfare. Lastly, the use of silvopastoral systems can help to provide higher thermal comfort, which is a condition that directly impacts the productivity of milk and meat buffaloes when they are raised in tropical regions, such as in the Eastern Amazon.

Objetivou-se apresentar aspectos relevantes sobre o ambiente amazônico e como este impacta no conforto térmico de búfalos domésticos (Bubalus bubalis) criados na Amazônia Oriental. Adicionalmente, são apresentadas estratégias para monitoramento e mitigação do estresse térmico animal, a partir de resultados de pesquisa com a espécie. Apesar dos búfalos domésticos serem considerados animais adaptáveis, a exposição à intensa radiação solar provoca desconforto térmico. Essa condição é expressa em indicadores biofísicos, nas respostas metabólicas, endócrinas, comportamentais e nos padrões termográficos corporais. Assim, o monitoramento biometeorológico da produção é crucial para subsidiar tomadas de decisão em relação a estratégias de manejo ambiental, seleção genética de indivíduos termotolerantes e incremento do bem-estar animal. Por fim, o uso de sistemas silvipastoris pode auxiliar na oferta de maior conforto térmico, que é uma condição que impacta diretamente na produtividade de bubalinos de leite e carne, quando estes são criados em regiões tropicais, como na Amazônia Oriental.

Utilização de caneca de alumínio como material alternativo para temperatura de globo de Vernon / Use of aluminum mug as alternative material for Vernon globe temperature

Diversos estudos relacionados à viabilidade e eficiência do uso de materiais alternativos ao globo de Vernon têm sido realizados, principalmente em decorrência ao preço elevado do cobre, componente do instrumento padrão. O objetivo foi avaliar a eficiência da utilização de caneca de alumínio como material alternativo para substituição do globo de Vernon. Para a confecção do protótipo empregou-se uma caneca de alumínio, utilizada em pistola de pintura, com capacidade de 50 ml. A caneca foi pintada com tinta preto-fosca, em duas camadas e um termômetro de mercúrio foi inserido ao centro. Para realização dos testes foram utilizados quatro equipamentos (dois globos de Vernon e dois globos negros alternativos). Foram efetuados testes prévios de comportamento temporal. Estabelecido o tempo, as temperaturas dos globos foram coletadas durante sete dias consecutivos, em três períodos, de 15 minutos cada. Os registros de temperatura foram realizados a cada cinco minutos, num total de 84 por equipamento. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de correlação de Pearson. Os resultados indicaram correlação positiva com o r2 de 0,9927, estabelecendo uma forte correlação entre os resultados de temperatura média do globo negro alternativo e globo de Vernon. Conclui-se que o globo negro alternativo do tipo caneca de alumínio mostrou-se eficiente para aferição da temperatura de globo negro em estudos de ambiência em substituição ao Globo de Vernon.(AU)

Several studies related to the feasibility and efficiency of using alternative materials to Vernon's globe have been carried out, mainly due to the high price of copper, a component of the standard instrument. The objective was to evaluate the efficiency of using an aluminum mug as an alternative material for replacing Vernon's globe. To make the prototype, an aluminum mug was used, used in a paint gun, with a capacity of 50 ml. The mug was painted with matte black paint, in two layers and a mercury thermometer was inserted in the center. Four pieces of equipment were used to carry out the tests (two Vernon globes and two alternative black globes). Previous temporal behavior tests were carried out. Once the time was established, the globes' temperatures were collected for seven consecutive days, in three periods of 15 minutes each. Temperature records were taken every five minutes, a total of 84 per equipment. Data were subjected to Pearson's correlation analysis. The results indicated a positive correlation with the r2 of 0.9927, establishing a strong correlation between the mean temperature results of the alternative black globe and Vernon's globe. It is concluded that the alternative black globe of the aluminum mug type proved tobe efficient for measuring the temperature of the black globe in ambience studies, replacing the Vernon Globe.(AU)

Key points for the thermal comfort of water buffaloes in Eastern Amazon / Pontos-chave do conforto térmico de bubalinos na Amazônia Oriental

ABSTRACT: This study presented relevant aspects about the Amazonian environment and how it impacts the thermal comfort of domestic buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) raised in the Eastern Amazon. Furthermore, strategies for monitoring and mitigating animal heat stress are presented, based on research results with the species. Although domestic buffaloes are considered adaptable animals, exposure to intense solar radiation causes thermal discomfort. This condition is expressed in biophysical indicators, in metabolic, endocrine, behavioral responses, and in body thermographic patterns. Therefore, the biometeorological monitoring of production is crucial to support decision-making regarding environmental management strategies, genetic selection of thermotolerant individuals, and increase in animal welfare. Lastly, the use of silvopastoral systems can help to provide higher thermal comfort, which is a condition that directly impacts the productivity of milk and meat buffaloes when they are raised in tropical regions, such as in the Eastern Amazon.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se apresentar aspectos relevantes sobre o ambiente amazônico e como este impacta no conforto térmico de búfalos domésticos (Bubalus bubalis) criados na Amazônia Oriental. Adicionalmente, são apresentadas estratégias para monitoramento e mitigação do estresse térmico animal, a partir de resultados de pesquisa com a espécie. Apesar dos búfalos domésticos serem considerados animais adaptáveis, a exposição à intensa radiação solar provoca desconforto térmico. Essa condição é expressa em indicadores biofísicos, nas respostas metabólicas, endócrinas, comportamentais e nos padrões termográficos corporais. Assim, o monitoramento biometeorológico da produção é crucial para subsidiar tomadas de decisão em relação a estratégias de manejo ambiental, seleção genética de indivíduos termotolerantes e incremento do bem-estar animal. Por fim, o uso de sistemas silvipastoris pode auxiliar na oferta de maior conforto térmico, que é uma condição que impacta diretamente na produtividade de bubalinos de leite e carne, quando estes são criados em regiões tropicais, como na Amazônia Oriental.

Thermal environment characterization of laying hen-housing systems

This study systematically collected data on variables that influence the thermal environment characteristics in poultry houses. Laying poultry farming is a relevant economic activity in Brazilian agriculture and has been expressively growing mainly regarding genetics and nutrition. Thermal comfort in poultry houses is needed to achieve poultry's maximum productive potential. Therefore, laying aviaries previously naturally ventilated (positive pressure) are starting to be equipped with cage batteries and designed with lateral closures, using negative pressure ventilation and in some cases associated with adiabatic cooling. However, negative pressure ventilation systems' thermal efficiency in tunnel mode and its distribution in different cage levels is still slightly known. Consequently, this system's thermal efficiency needs to be investigated to ensure adequate climate indices recommendations and avoid costs and losses due to inadequate handling and facilities.

Magnesium in the water of Japanese quails kept under comfort zone and under thermal stress / Magnésio na água de codornas japonesas mantidas em zona de conforto e sob estresse térmico

The objective was to evaluate the increasing levels of magnesium in the water supplied to laying quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica), kept in climatic chambers under thermoneutral temperature and thermal stress, on their performance and morphometry of their organs. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized design, 2x4 factorial arrangement, 2 temperatures (24 and 32 ºC) and 4 levels of magnesium in the water (50, 150, 250 and 350 mg L-1), with six replicates and eight birds per experimental unit. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means compared by the Tukey test at 5% probability level. The magnesium levels in the water did not affect (P > 0.05) the production performance and morphometry of the organs, with less water consumption at the magnesium level of 150 mg L-1, and birds kept at 32 °C had a reduction in feed consumption and feed conversion, but without affecting organ morphometry. Japanese quails in the production phase can consume water with magnesium levels up to 350 mg L-1 without having their production performance and morphometry of organs affected and raised in an environment with temperatures of up to 32 °C.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar os níveis crescentes de magnésio na água fornecida a codornas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) em postura, mantidas em câmaras climáticas sob temperatura termoneutra e estresse térmico, sobre o desempenho e morfometria dos órgãos das aves. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, arranjo fatorial 2x4, 2 temperaturas (24 e 32 ºC) e 4 níveis de magnésio na água (50, 150, 250 e 350 mg L-1), com seis repetições e oito aves por unidade experimental e os dados submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Os níveis de magnésio na água não afetaram (P > 0,05) o desempenho produtivo e a morfometria dos órgãos, com menor consumo de água ao nível de 150 mg L-1 de magnésio e, as aves mantidas a 32 °C tiveram uma redução no consumo de ração e conversão alimentar, mas sem afetar a morfometria dos órgãos. Codornas japonesas em fase de produção podem consumir água com níveis de magnésio de até 350 mg L-1 sem ter o desempenho produtivo e a morfometria dos órgãos afetados e criados em ambiente com temperatura de até 32 °C.(AU)

Prevalence of Eimeria sp. in Broiler Poultry Houses with Positive and Negative Pressure Ventilation Systems in Southern Brazil.

Coccidiosis is an enteric disease caused by protozoa of the Eimeria genus and is of great economic relevance in industrial aviculture. The objective of this work was to determine the prevalence of Eimeria sp. in broiler poultry houses with positive (System 1) and negative (System 2) pressure ventilation and assess the associated factors. A transversal study was conducted using 8 random broiler chickens from 64 houses (n = 512) and macroscopic and histologic evaluation of the intestines, as well as PCR for Eimeria sp. The prevalence of Eimeria sp. was 90.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 97.8-83.5), with 93.8% (95% CI: 100-85.4) in System 1 and 87.5% (95% CI: 99.0-76.0) in System 2. The most prevalent species was Eimeria acervulina, and the most common combination was Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria maxima, and Eimeria tenella. System 2 and the negative Eimeria subgroup showed the best results for feed conversion and daily weight gain. By evaluating litter treatment, we found that quicklime reduced the risk of presence of Eimeria maxima and Eimeria tenella. In conclusion, Eimeria sp. had a high prevalence in both systems, with a predominance of mixed infections. System 2 and negative flocks showed the best zootechnical results.

Prevalencia de Eimeria sp. en casetas de pollo de engorde con presión positiva y presión negativa. La coccidiosis es una enfermedad entérica causada por protozoos del género Eimeria. Es una enfermedad de gran relevancia económica en la avicultura industrial. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la prevalencia de Eimeria sp. en gallineros de engorde con ventilación de presión positiva (sistema 1) y negativa (sistema 2) y evaluar los factores asociados. Se realizó un estudio transversal con ocho pollos de engorde de 64 galpones (n = 512) con los cuales se realizó una evaluación macroscópica e histológica de los intestinos, así como PCR para Eimeria sp. La prevalencia de Eimeria sp. fue 90,6% (95% CI: 97,8-83,5), con 93,8% (95% CI: 100-85,4) en el sistema 1 y 87,5% (95% CI: 99,0-76,0) en el sistema 2. La especie más prevalente fue Eimeria acervulina, y la combinación más común fue Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria maxima y Eimeria tenella. El sistema 2 y el subgrupo Eimeria negativo mostraron los mejores resultados para la conversión alimenticia y el aumento de peso diario. Al evaluar el tratamiento de la cama, la cal viva redujo el riesgo de presencia de Eimeria maxima y Eimeria tenella. En conclusión, Eimeria sp. tuvo una alta prevalencia en ambos sistemas, con predominio de infecciones mixtas. El sistema 2 y los lotes negativos mostraron los mejores resultados zootécnicos.

Environmental variables responsible for Zebu cattle thermal comfort acquisition.

The aim of this study was to estimate, using data mining, which microclimate and behavioral variables affect the behavior of animals to seek shaded or sunny areas. The experiment was carried out between January and May 2016 in an integrated crop-livestock-forest system. In this system, we defined two different areas: shaded and sunny. Microclimatic variables (At, BGt, RH, and WS) were measured in each area on 4 consecutive days per month. With these variables, we determined the bioclimatic indicators (THI, BGHI, HLI, MRT, RTL, and ETI). In addition, we calculated the absolute difference (Δ) by subtracting the value recorded in shaded areas from the value recorded in sunny areas for all microclimatic variables and bioclimatic indicators, except for WS. The behaviors (grazing, ruminating, and other activities), posture (standing or lying), and use of areas (shaded or sunny) of 38 Zebu cattle were recorded on 2 consecutive days per month. The data mining technique was applied for analysis in a classification task. The model correctly classified 76% of the instances with a Kappa statistic of 0.51 after features selection from the database. The ΔBGt was the most important feature in the model to classify the decision of Zebu cattle to seek another area or remain in a determined area. The model was built with seven classification rules, being one simple rule, composed of the interaction between ΔBGt and rumination; and other more complex rules, composed of the interactions among the ΔBGt, WS, and rumination. The preference of Zebu cattle to seek or remain in shaded or sunny areas was influenced by eight features: rumination, drinking water, WS, ΔBGt, MRT in shade, BGHI in sun, ΔBGHI, and HLI in sun.

Use of alternative tiles in the free-range broilers rearing: thermal environment, productive performance and physiological responses

The physiological parameters and the productive performance of free-range broilers submitted to installations with different materials of tile composition were evaluated. 320 male broilers of the Vermelho Pesadão lineage were used, with an initial age of 35 days, distributed among the following treatments: 1) Fiber cement tile painted white on the outside; 2) Cardboard tile coated with double-sided canvas - black for the interior and white for the exterior; 3) Tetra Pak® box tile; 4) Tile of Tetra Pak® boxes covered with PET bottles. A completely randomized design was used, with 4 replicates per treatment and 20 broilers per experimental unit. The climatic environment was evaluated daily at 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 hours. The productive and physiological parameters were evaluated every 7 days, the last ones being collected at 9 and 15 hours. In the afternoon, the highest values of air temperature and black globe temperature index and humidity were recorded, regardless of the materials evaluated. Fiber cement tiles and cardboard tiles coated with double-sided canvas showed the lowest values of climatic variables. There was no difference between the types of tile for the variables of productive performance and physiological parameters. It was concluded that the fiber-cement tiles painted white on the outside, and the cardboard coated with light canvas on the outside provided a better thermal environment inside the aviaries, which can be indicated for use in shelters for the creation of free-range broilers.(AU)

Use of alternative tiles in the free-range broilers rearing: thermal environment, productive performance and physiological responses

The physiological parameters and the productive performance of free-range broilers submitted to installations with different materials of tile composition were evaluated. 320 male broilers of the Vermelho Pesadão lineage were used, with an initial age of 35 days, distributed among the following treatments: 1) Fiber cement tile painted white on the outside; 2) Cardboard tile coated with double-sided canvas - black for the interior and white for the exterior; 3) Tetra Pak® box tile; 4) Tile of Tetra Pak® boxes covered with PET bottles. A completely randomized design was used, with 4 replicates per treatment and 20 broilers per experimental unit. The climatic environment was evaluated daily at 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 hours. The productive and physiological parameters were evaluated every 7 days, the last ones being collected at 9 and 15 hours. In the afternoon, the highest values of air temperature and black globe temperature index and humidity were recorded, regardless of the materials evaluated. Fiber cement tiles and cardboard tiles coated with double-sided canvas showed the lowest values of climatic variables. There was no difference between the types of tile for the variables of productive performance and physiological parameters. It was concluded that the fiber-cement tiles painted white on the outside, and the cardboard coated with light canvas on the outside provided a better thermal environment inside the aviaries, which can be indicated for use in shelters for the creation of free-range broilers.

Physiological variables and egg quality from quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) that received water with increasing levels of NaCl and under different temperatures / Variáveis fisiológicas e qualidade de ovos de codorna (Coturnix coturnix japonica) que receberam água com teores crescentes de NaCl e sob diferentes temperaturas

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of water salinity and ambient temperature on the physiological variables and the quality of Japanese quail eggs (Coturnix coturnix japonica) in the laying phase. The quails received water with increasing levels of salinity (1.5, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 dS m-1) and were kept in climatic chambers under two different temperatures (24ºC and 32ºC). The design used was completely randomised, with a 2 x 4 factorial arrangement (temperatures and salinity levels), with six replicates of eight birds each. Data were submitted for analysis of variance and the means were compared by the Tukey test at 5%. There was no influence (P > 0.05) of water salinity levels on the physiological variables nor on the quality of the birds' eggs. At 32oC there was an increase (P < 0.05) in respiratory rate, cloacal and body surface temperature of the birds, and a slight reduction (P < 0.05) in the weight of eggs, shells, and percentage of shell. For laying quails, water with salinity levels of up to 6.0 dSm-1 can be used and the birds can be raised in an environment with temperatures up to 32ºC.(AU)

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a influência da salinidade da água e da temperatura ambiente nas variáveis fisiológicas e na qualidade dos ovos de codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) na fase de postura, recebendo água com níveis crescentes de salinidade (1,5, 3,0 , 4,5 e 6,0 dS m-1), e mantidos em câmaras climáticas sob duas temperaturas diferentes (24 e 32ºC). O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, com arranjo fatorial 2x4 (temperaturas e níveis de salinidade), com seis repetições de oito aves cada. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5%. Não houve influência (P > 0,05) dos níveis de salinidade da água nas variáveis fisiológicas e na qualidade dos ovos das aves. A 32ºC houve um aumento (P < 0,05) na frequência respiratória, temperatura cloacal e da superfície corporal das aves e uma pequena redução (P < 0,05) no peso dos ovos, cascas e porcentagem da casca. Para codornas em postura pode-se utilizar água com salinidade de até 6,0 dSm-1, podendo as aves ser criadas em ambiente com temperatura de até 32ºC.(AU)

Behavioral, productive, reproductive and thermoregulatory performance of lactating ¾ and ⠞ Holstein/Gir cows / Desempenho comportamental, produtivo, reprodutivo e termorregulador de vacas em lactação ¾ e ⠞ Holandês/Gir

The aim of this study was to examine the behavioral, productive, reproductive and thermoregulatory performance of ¾ and ⅞ Holstein/Gir (HG) dairy cows to identify which genetic composition suffers the least heat stress. A completely randomized design was adopted involving 20 multiparous, lactating crossbred cows from a dairy farm located in the municipality of Turvânia - GO, Brazil. During the experimental period, data on behavioral, productive, reproductive and thermoregulatory traits were collected every 15 days. Bioestat (5.0) statistical software was used for statistical analysis. The mean temperature-humidity index, ambient temperature and relative humidity obtained throughout the experimental period were 74.45, 30.51 ºC and 63.64%, respectively. In terms of reproductive performance, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the genetic compositions for the time from calving to first service, with a longer period shown by the animals with greater Holstein breed genetic composition. Service period and calving interval differed significantly (p < 0.05) during the experimental period between the genetic compositions. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was also detected between the compositions for respiratory rate, with higher values observed in the animals with higher European genetic composition. Benezra thermal comfort index also differed significantly (p < 0.05), with the ⅞ HG animals showing a higher value. Lactating cows with a ⅞ HG genetic composition achieved better results in milk production, whereas those with ¾ HG genetic composition showed superiority in milk fat composition and reproductive and thermoregulatory performance, indicating greater adaptation to the climatic conditions of the region.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho comportamental, produtivo, reprodutivo e termorregulador de vacas leiteiras ¾ e ⅞ Holandês/Gir (HG), com intuito de identificar qual composição genética sofre menor estresse térmico pelo calor. Foi utilizado um delineamento inteiramente casualizados com 20 vacas mestiças, em lactação, multíparas, pertencentes à propriedade leiteira localizada no município de Turvânia, GO. Durante o período experimental, a cada 15 dias foram coletados dados das características comportamentais, produtivas, reprodutivas e termorreguladoras. Para a realização das análises estatísticas foi utilizado o programa estatístico Bioestat (5.0). Os valores médios obtidos durante todo o período experimental para índice de temperatura e umidade, temperatura ambiente e umidade relativa do ar foram 74,45, 30,51ºC e 63,64%, respectivamente. Quanto ao desempenho reprodutivo, houve diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre as composições genéticas para o intervalo do parto ao primeiro serviço, observando valor maior para os animais com maior composição genética da raça Holandesa. Para as características período de serviço e intervalo de parto foram constatadas diferenças significativas (p < 0,05) durante o período experimental entre as composições genéticas. Foi encontrado diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre as composições na característica de frequência respiratória, observando-se maior frequência para os animais com maior composição genética europeia. Foi observado diferença significativa (p < 0,05) na característica índice de conforto de Benezra, onde foi encontrado maior valor para a composição genética ⅞ HG. As vacas em lactação com composição genética ⅞ HG obtiveram melhores resultados na produção de leite, mas em contrapartida a composição genética ¾ HG mostraram superioridade na composição de gordura do leite e no desempenho reprodutivo e termorregulador, evidenciando maior adaptação as condições climáticas da região.(AU)

Thermoregulatory and Behavioral Responses of Buffaloes With and Without Direct Sun Exposure During Abnormal Environmental Condition in Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil.

This study aimed to assess the effect of thermal-hydraulic variables in female buffaloes with or without direct solar exposure in a year of strong El Niño through behavior responses and infrared thermography to reinforce the environmental comfort indicators, in Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil. The experiment was carried out in Cachoeira do Arari municipality and 20 female Murrah buffaloes were randomly assigned to two groups: Group WS (n = 10) was kept in pickets with native trees. Group NS (n = 10) was kept in crush squeeze with no shade. Data on air temperature (AT, °C), relative air humidity (RH, %), wind velocity (WV, m/s), rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR), and body surface temperature (BST) were collected. Practical Buffalo Comfort Climatic Condition Index (BCCCI), practical Buffalo Environmental Comfort Index (BECI), Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) and Benezra's Thermal Comfort Index (BTCI) were obtained. Infrared thermography analysis was carried out with a FLIR T-series T640bx camera. Data on time spent grazing, ruminating, idleness, and in other activities were recorded. A significant difference in AT of ~1°C was found between the groups at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. THI indicated emergency conditions. Female buffaloes were at danger PBCCCI conditions at 2 p.m. There was also significant difference for RT between treatments at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., whose values were higher (P < 0.05) for animals from NS Group, with the highest mean time at 2 p.m. Pearson correlation was significant and positive (P < 0.01) between RT mean and VUL, TI and ORB mean, maximum and minimum temperatures. The total time given to grazing was 518.2 min for the group NS and 629.5 min for the group WS. Rumination was more pronounced in the afternoon shift for the group NS. Buffaloes kept in a system with trees graze, ruminate and perform other activities with more intensity than animals raised in systems without access to shade, and tend to hyperthermia, mainly at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., in Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil.

Thermal environment in mobile shelters with different cover types used for chicken housing at the semi-extensive rearing system.

In tropical climate countries, animal production faces a huge challenge, being the high solar irradiation levels an important factor that negatively influences the welfare and animal performance. The purpose of this research was to check the environment inside mobile shelters with different kinds of cover materials. This research has been developed at the State University of Goiás, Brazil, being used four different cover materials: DFPC, double-faced plastic canvas; PVC, polyvinyl chloride; VFB, tiles made with vegetable fiber and bitumen; and VFBW, tiles made with vegetable fiber and bitumen being the outer face painted white. Covers were placed up mobile shelters with the following dimensions: 1 m length × 1 m width × 1 m height and cover pitch of 30°. The environment was evaluated through thermal comfort indexes: enthalpy (H), temperature and humidity index (THI), black globe and humidity index (BGHI), mean radiant temperature (MRT) and thermal heat load (THL), and the measurement of thermal environmental variables (temperature of external (EST) and internal (IST) surface of the cover, dry bulb temperature (Tdb), black globe temperature (Tbg), relative humidity (RH), and wind speedy (WS)). Data analysis was performed using PROC MIXED of SAS® by analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Tukey test, at 5% of significance level. There was observed beneficial effect of the usage of shading, with a decrease in air temperature and thermal comfort indexes when compared with the unshaded environment. The materials presented different thermal behavior, with better results for PVC and VFBW, that presented lower internal (IST) and external surface temperature (EST), in addition to lower black globe temperature, thermal heat load, and black globe and humidity index. PVC and VFBW were the best types of covers evaluated, with significant decreased thermal comfort indexes.