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.

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

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.

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)

Impacto da qualidade de sêmen sobre os resultados da IATF / Impact of sperm quality on IATF results

O Brasil vive um cenário de grande demanda pelo produto carne, tanto para o mercado interno quanto para o mercado externo. Para atender a esta demanda, há o envolvimento de toda a cadeia da carne, desde os programas de melhoramento genético com o fornecimento de touros melhoradores para tais características, como as centrais de colheita de sêmen desses animais para uso em massa por meio da Inseminação Artificial em Tempo Fixo (IATF). Para que haja sucesso no uso desta biotécnica, é de vital importância a qualidade do produto sêmen aliado às outras características como ambiência e nutrição.(AU)

Brazil is now with a great demand of beef products, for the domestic and exportation markets. To delivery the demand, the entire meat chain must be involved, included genetics programs to provide and separate superior bulls, and the collection centers that collect this superior genetics bulls to be used in the Fixed Timed Artificial Insemination (FTAI) biotechnique in a large scale. In order to be successful using this biotechnology, the quality of the semen combined with other characteristics such as ambience and nutrition are extremely important.(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.(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)

Effect of wetting method on the broiler transport in Brazilian Northeast

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the load wetting method to attenuate the ambience of the load the transport of broilers. Fourteen commercial consignments were monitored over a 25 km route, and in seven of these, the load wetting was carried (LW) out while in the other seven no wetting was done (LD). The temperatures of the side, top and rear load boxes were analyzed by infrared thermography. The central row load boxes were evaluated by geostatistics, using temperature variability (TA), relative humidity (RH) and the enthalpy comfort index (ECI). The mean was compared by Student's t-test (P < 0.05). The results showed that load wetting has a momentary effect (P < 0.05). The boxes located in the central rows in the LW showed a higher (P < 0.05) ECI compared to those in the LD. Inaddition, areas classified as lethal were formed in the LW. In conclusion, load wetting was not an efficient method to attenuate the ambience of load during the commercial transport of broilers, as it only has momentary and transient effects.(AU)

Effect of wetting method on the broiler transport in Brazilian Northeast

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the load wetting method to attenuate the ambience of the load the transport of broilers. Fourteen commercial consignments were monitored over a 25 km route, and in seven of these, the load wetting was carried (LW) out while in the other seven no wetting was done (LD). The temperatures of the side, top and rear load boxes were analyzed by infrared thermography. The central row load boxes were evaluated by geostatistics, using temperature variability (TA), relative humidity (RH) and the enthalpy comfort index (ECI). The mean was compared by Student's t-test (P < 0.05). The results showed that load wetting has a momentary effect (P < 0.05). The boxes located in the central rows in the LW showed a higher (P < 0.05) ECI compared to those in the LD. Inaddition, areas classified as lethal were formed in the LW. In conclusion, load wetting was not an efficient method to attenuate the ambience of load during the commercial transport of broilers, as it only has momentary and transient effects.

Alternative light colors in suckling piglet creep area: preference and validation tests in swine maternity / Cores alternativas de luz de abrigos escamoteadores para leitões lactentes: teste de preferência e validação em maternidade suína

We performed a two-stage experiment: a preference and a validation test in swine litters, to determine whether suckling piglets preferred alternative light colors in their creep area over white light; we also determined whether the preferred color affected piglet behavior. In the first stage, five trials of two consecutive days were performed, each at 21-day intervals. In each trial, 40 piglets, from three to five days old, from four F1 sows (Large White x Landrace), were distributed in four treatments, in a paired scheme, receiving the following treatments: Treatment GR: white light vs. green light ; Treatment BL: white light vs. blue light; Treatment YE: yellow light vs. white light; Treatment RD: white light vs. red light. For the validation test, three consecutive lots of eight F1 sows (Large White x Landrace) and their corresponding maternity were used, remaining from birth under the influence of treatments T_Gr and T_Wh, totaling three replicates. T_Gr corresponded to four creep areaswith green LED light and T_Wh to four nurseries with white LED light. The piglets showed a significant preference only for white over blue. Among the alternative colors, piglets significantly preferred green. In the validation stage, there was no significant effect of colors on the mean percentage of permanence of the piglets inside the creep areas over all evaluated periods. Piglets between two and five days of age prefer green lighting;however,in the creep area, the light color used did not influence piglet behavior.(AU)

Foi realizado um experimento de duas etapas: teste de preferência e validação em maternidade suína, para verificar se leitões possuem preferência por cores alternativas de luz do abrigo escamoteador em relação à luz branca, e o efeito da cor de luz preferida em teste realizado em abrigos escamoteadores (cor alternativa e branca) no comportamento de leitões. Na primeira, foram realizados cinco ensaios de dois dias cada, em intervalos de 21 dias. Quarenta leitões, entre três e cinco dias de vida, provenientes de quatro matrizes F1 (Large White x Landrace), foram distribuídos em quatro tratamentos, em esquema pareado: Tratamento Vd: luz branca/luz verde; Tratamento Az: luz branca/luz azul; Tratamento Am: luz amarela/luz branca; Tratamento Vm: luz branca/luz vermelha. Para a validação, três lotes consecutivos de oito matrizes F1 (Large White x Landrace) e suas leitegadas permaneceram desde o nascimento sob os tratamentos T_Vd e T_Br. T_Vd correspondia a quatro escamoteadores com luz de LED verde e T_Br a quatro escamoteadores com luz de LED branca. A comparação entre cada cor alternativa e o branco mostrou diferença quanto à preferência (p 0,05) apenas para o azul. Entre as cores alternativas os leitões preferem a cor verde (p 0,05). Na etapa de validação, não houve efeito (p>0,05) no percentual médio de permanência dos leitões no interior dos escamoteadores, entre as cores de luz, para todos os períodos avaliados. Leitões entre dois a cinco dias de vida preferem a iluminação verde, porém no ambiente de maternidade, a cor de luz utilizada não influenciou no comportamento dos leitões.(AU)

Productive, behavioral and physiological performance of feedlot Guzerat and ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus cattle / Desempenho produtivo, comportamentais e fisiológico de bovinos Guzerá e ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus criados em confinamento

The objective of this study was to compare the productive, behavioral and physiological performance of feedlot Guzerat and ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus cattle. The experiment was conducted in a commercial feedlot for 80 days, between April and June 2016. Fifteen male Guzerat and 15 male ½ Guzerat-Aberdeen Angus cattle, both at the same age, with respective average initial weights of 381.27 and 401.34 ± 54.70 kg, were used. The animals were kept in collective pens, one for each breed group, with 14 m2 available per animal. Environmental conditions, respiratory frequency and behavior were evaluated for 12h00, starting at 06h00 and ending at 18h00. Feeding, rumination, rest, other activities and social, body care, anomalous, playful and locomotion behavior were observed. To examine the productive responses, initial weight, final weight, average daily weight gain, total weight gain, carcass yield, conformation and fatness were measured. Behaviors referring to feeding, rumination and other activities did not differ between the breed groups, except for the rest, playful and locomotion behaviors. A significant difference was detected (p < 0.05) for respiratory frequency and productive characteristics between the breed groups. In conclusion, ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus were superior to Guzerat cattle in productive performance. However, for behavioral and physiological variables, Guzerat animals exhibited better performance.

Objetivou-se comparar o desempenho produtivo, comportamental e fisiológico de bovinos Guzerá e ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus criados em confinamento. O experimento foi conduzido em um confinamento comercial, durante 80 dias, entre os meses de Abril e Junho de 2016. Utilizaram-se 15 bovinos machos Guzerá e 15 machos ½ Guzerá-Aberdeen Angus, ambos com a mesma idade, com peso inicial médio de 381,27 e 401,34 ± 54,70kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram mantidos em baias coletivas, sendo uma para cada grupo racial, com 14 m² disponíveis por animal. Quinzenalmente foram realizadas avaliações ambientais, frequência respiratória e avaliação de comportamento realizada com 12h00 de duração, tendo início às 6h00 e término às 18h00. Observaram-se o comportamento alimentar, ruminação, descanso, outras atividades, social, cuidados corporais, anormal, lúdico e locomoção. Para verificação das respostas produtivas foi identificado o peso inicial, peso final, ganho de peso médio diário, ganho de peso total, rendimento de carcaça, conformação e acabamento. Os comportamentos referentes à alimentação, ruminação e outras atividades não diferiram em função do grupo genético, observando diferença nos comportamentos de descanso, lúdico e locomoção. Foi verificado diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre a frequência respiratória e características produtivas dos diferentes grupos genéticos. Conclui-se que os bovinos ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus apresentaram desempenho produtivo superior aos bovinos da raça Guzerá. Entretanto, para a variável comportamental e fisiológica os animais da raça Guzerá apresentaram melhor desempenho.

Análise termográfica aplicada na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas / Thermographic analysis applied to body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates

Avaliou-se a produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas. Foram avaliadas 48 vacas, divididas em três grupos, manejadas em pastos e microclimas diferentes. Cada grupo foi subdividido em três grupos de suplementação fornecida durante a ordenha. Os registros termográficos dos flancos direito e esquerdo ocorreram com os animais a pasto. As temperaturas do olho e retal foram mensuradas após a ordenha. O ITGU caracterizou sinal de perigo para o microclima 1 no período da tarde (81,7) e para o microclima 2 nos turnos da manhã e da tarde (81,6 e 83,8, respectivamente). No microclima 2, houve diferença da temperatura do flanco direito para animais do grupo 2 em relação aos animais do grupo 3. A temperatura do flanco esquerdo foi superior para os animais do grupo 1. O microclima 1 foi caracterizado de conforto térmico, e o 2 de desconforto nos períodos da manhã e da tarde. A suplementação não influenciou na produção de calor dos animais. As médias da temperatura retal e do olho não diferiram entre os grupos, e a correlação apresentou valores baixos e moderados para os microclimas 1 e 2, respectivamente. A oferta de diferentes fontes de suplementação não interfere na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ, mesmo quando fornecido em ambiente climático em que o ITGU é próximo a 84.(AU)

Body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates was evaluated. We evaluated 48 cows, divided into two groups, managed in different pastures and microclimates. Each group was subdivided into three groups of supplementation provided during milking. The thermographic records of the right and left flanks occurred with the animals on the grass. Eye and rectal temperatures were measured after milking. The BGT had a danger signal for microclimate 1 in the afternoon (81.7) and microclimate 2 in the morning and afternoon shifts (81.6 and 83.8, respectively). In microclimate 2, there was difference in the temperature of the right flank for animals in group 2 in relation to the animals in group 3. The temperature of the left flank was higher for the animals in the group 1. Microclimate 1 was characterized by thermal comfort and 2 was discomfort in the morning and afternoon. Supplementation did not influence the heat production of the animals. Rectal and eye mean averages did not differ between groups and the correlation presented low and moderate values for microclimate 1 and 2, respectively. The supply of different sources of supplementation does not interfere with the production and body heat of F1 HxZ cows even when supplied in a climatic environment in which the BGT is close to 84.(AU)

Productive, behavioral and physiological performance of feedlot Guzerat and ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus cattle / Desempenho produtivo, comportamentais e fisiológico de bovinos Guzerá e ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus criados em confinamento

The objective of this study was to compare the productive, behavioral and physiological performance of feedlot Guzerat and ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus cattle. The experiment was conducted in a commercial feedlot for 80 days, between April and June 2016. Fifteen male Guzerat and 15 male ½ Guzerat-Aberdeen Angus cattle, both at the same age, with respective average initial weights of 381.27 and 401.34 ± 54.70 kg, were used. The animals were kept in collective pens, one for each breed group, with 14 m2 available per animal. Environmental conditions, respiratory frequency and behavior were evaluated for 12h00, starting at 06h00 and ending at 18h00. Feeding, rumination, rest, other activities and social, body care, anomalous, playful and locomotion behavior were observed. To examine the productive responses, initial weight, final weight, average daily weight gain, total weight gain, carcass yield, conformation and fatness were measured. Behaviors referring to feeding, rumination and other activities did not differ between the breed groups, except for the rest, playful and locomotion behaviors. A significant difference was detected (p < 0.05) for respiratory frequency and productive characteristics between the breed groups. In conclusion, ½ Guzerat × ½ Aberdeen Angus were superior to Guzerat cattle in productive performance. However, for behavioral and physiological variables, Guzerat animals exhibited better performance.(AU)

Objetivou-se comparar o desempenho produtivo, comportamental e fisiológico de bovinos Guzerá e ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus criados em confinamento. O experimento foi conduzido em um confinamento comercial, durante 80 dias, entre os meses de Abril e Junho de 2016. Utilizaram-se 15 bovinos machos Guzerá e 15 machos ½ Guzerá-Aberdeen Angus, ambos com a mesma idade, com peso inicial médio de 381,27 e 401,34 ± 54,70kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram mantidos em baias coletivas, sendo uma para cada grupo racial, com 14 m² disponíveis por animal. Quinzenalmente foram realizadas avaliações ambientais, frequência respiratória e avaliação de comportamento realizada com 12h00 de duração, tendo início às 6h00 e término às 18h00. Observaram-se o comportamento alimentar, ruminação, descanso, outras atividades, social, cuidados corporais, anormal, lúdico e locomoção. Para verificação das respostas produtivas foi identificado o peso inicial, peso final, ganho de peso médio diário, ganho de peso total, rendimento de carcaça, conformação e acabamento. Os comportamentos referentes à alimentação, ruminação e outras atividades não diferiram em função do grupo genético, observando diferença nos comportamentos de descanso, lúdico e locomoção. Foi verificado diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre a frequência respiratória e características produtivas dos diferentes grupos genéticos. Conclui-se que os bovinos ½ Guzerá x ½ Aberdeen Angus apresentaram desempenho produtivo superior aos bovinos da raça Guzerá. Entretanto, para a variável comportamental e fisiológica os animais da raça Guzerá apresentaram melhor desempenho.(AU)

Análise termográfica aplicada na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas / Thermographic analysis applied to body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates

Avaliou-se a produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas. Foram avaliadas 48 vacas, divididas em três grupos, manejadas em pastos e microclimas diferentes. Cada grupo foi subdividido em três grupos de suplementação fornecida durante a ordenha. Os registros termográficos dos flancos direito e esquerdo ocorreram com os animais a pasto. As temperaturas do olho e retal foram mensuradas após a ordenha. O ITGU caracterizou sinal de perigo para o microclima 1 no período da tarde (81,7) e para o microclima 2 nos turnos da manhã e da tarde (81,6 e 83,8, respectivamente). No microclima 2, houve diferença da temperatura do flanco direito para animais do grupo 2 em relação aos animais do grupo 3. A temperatura do flanco esquerdo foi superior para os animais do grupo 1. O microclima 1 foi caracterizado de conforto térmico, e o 2 de desconforto nos períodos da manhã e da tarde. A suplementação não influenciou na produção de calor dos animais. As médias da temperatura retal e do olho não diferiram entre os grupos, e a correlação apresentou valores baixos e moderados para os microclimas 1 e 2, respectivamente. A oferta de diferentes fontes de suplementação não interfere na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ, mesmo quando fornecido em ambiente climático em que o ITGU é próximo a 84.(AU)

Body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates was evaluated. We evaluated 48 cows, divided into two groups, managed in different pastures and microclimates. Each group was subdivided into three groups of supplementation provided during milking. The thermographic records of the right and left flanks occurred with the animals on the grass. Eye and rectal temperatures were measured after milking. The BGT had a danger signal for microclimate 1 in the afternoon (81.7) and microclimate 2 in the morning and afternoon shifts (81.6 and 83.8, respectively). In microclimate 2, there was difference in the temperature of the right flank for animals in group 2 in relation to the animals in group 3. The temperature of the left flank was higher for the animals in the group 1. Microclimate 1 was characterized by thermal comfort and 2 was discomfort in the morning and afternoon. Supplementation did not influence the heat production of the animals. Rectal and eye mean averages did not differ between groups and the correlation presented low and moderate values for microclimate 1 and 2, respectively. The supply of different sources of supplementation does not interfere with the production and body heat of F1 HxZ cows even when supplied in a climatic environment in which the BGT is close to 84.(AU)

Animal and workers' welfare during agricultural fairˆien

The animal welfare concept in the last years began to be implanted in the animal production scenario and in the environment where the workers are inserted. But, the animal breeders themselves know little about rational handling, the labor laws, and the positive effects that this practice can offer. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the physiological parameters and the welfare conditions of the animals and the workers, during an agricultural fair in the Brazilian semi-arid. Questionnaires were applied to visitors, caretakers, and farmers, in order to verify the perception level regarding the adoption of rational handling and, animal and workers welfare. Subsequently, the handling and thermal environment were evaluated. The following physiological variables were collected: rectal and body surface temperature and, respiratory rate during shipment and landing of the beef cattle belonging to the elite category at the fair. Questionnaires data showed that the theme welfare and rational handling is known among visitors, caretakers and farmers, and that the practice is less stressful to animals. The physiological variables were within the recommended standards, indicating the animal thermoregulation and animal adaptation to the shipment, transport and landing. However, the handling adopted by the workers is still result on cultural issues, lack of information and awareness about the benefits of rational handling.(AU)

Using infrared thermography to measure the body surface temperature of crossbred cows and calves in the semi-arid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

This study aimed to evaluate the body surfacetemperature of crossbreed cows and calves managed in thesemi-arid region of Minas Gerais (Brazil), using the infraredthermography technique. The thermal environment wascharacterized by daily collections of meteorological variablesand subsequent calculation of thermal indices. Body surfacetemperature (BST) was measured at 6:00, 12:00 and 16:00hours, at 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 4.0 meters distances from theanimals to measure the right and left flank temperature andcompare with the different information obtained in theliterature. The thermal environment was classified as anemergency from 12:00. There was no significative differencebetween the distances studied, where the body surfacetemperature of cows and calves was 36.8 °C and 38.2 °C,respectively. There was significative interaction between thehours and the laterality of the body, where at 7:00 the BSTwas higher in the left flank due to the more intense ruminalactivity and at 16:00 there was no difference in the BST, butin this period the higher BST values were observed due to thethermal environment. It is possible to obtain BST by means ofthermographic camera reliably up to a distance of 2.0 m. Thethermal environment elevates BST in the afternoon period, butthe adaptability of the animals obtained through heterosis doesnot expose them to the heat stress condition. The microclimateof the shaded environment and in full sun does not interferewith the calves' preference of accommodation.(AU)

Animal and workers' welfare during agricultural fairˆien

The animal welfare concept in the last years began to be implanted in the animal production scenario and in the environment where the workers are inserted. But, the animal breeders themselves know little about rational handling, the labor laws, and the positive effects that this practice can offer. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the physiological parameters and the welfare conditions of the animals and the workers, during an agricultural fair in the Brazilian semi-arid. Questionnaires were applied to visitors, caretakers, and farmers, in order to verify the perception level regarding the adoption of rational handling and, animal and workers’ welfare. Subsequently, the handling and thermal environment were evaluated. The following physiological variables were collected: rectal and body surface temperature and, respiratory rate during shipment and landing of the beef cattle belonging to the elite category at the fair. Questionnaires data showed that the theme welfare and rational handling is known among visitors, caretakers and farmers, and that the practice is less stressful to animals. The physiological variables were within the recommended standards, indicating the animal thermoregulation and animal adaptation to the shipment, transport and landing. However, the handling adopted by the workers is still result on cultural issues, lack of information and awareness about the benefits of rational handling.