Effect of solar radiation on Holstein heifers' physiological variables and grazing behavior

The objective was to assess the physiological and behavioral variables of pasture-raised Holstein heifers on the basis of their coat color. Eight heifers were used, four with black coat, and four with white coat. In the morning and afternoon periods, their physiological variables were measured, namely respiratory rate (RR, mov min. -1), rectal temperature (TR, ºC), and coat surface temperature (TS, ºC). The behavior analysis considered the site (sun or shade), position (standing or lying down), and activities (idleness, rumination, grazing, and others). The data of the physiological variables were assessed through analysis of variance, and significance, through Tukey's test at 5%, while behavioral data were assessed using the Chi-squared test (SAS Software). There was a difference for all of the heifers' physiological variables as a function of coat color (p < 0.0001) and period (p < 0.0001), with black ones showing greater results than white ones as to all physiological variables in the afternoon period (p < 0.0001). Grazing behavior is reduced during the hottest hours of the day. We conclude that solar radiation changes the physiological variables and grazing behavior of pasture-raised Holstein heifers.(AU)

Climate impacts on reproductive performance of Romanov sheep in the moderate climate

This study aimed to investigate the climatological impacts of air temperature, sunshine duration, and rain precipitation, in a moderate climate, on the reproductive performance of Romanov sheep in the continental part of Croatia, during two consecutive years (2019-2020). Our study included 549 matings with 520 successful conceptions at 5 Romanov sheep farms, and the fertility rate was 94.72%. The percentage of lambs delivered in winter was 53.27% (n = 277), in spring 20.19% (n = 105), in summer 14.23% (n = 74) and 12.31% in autumn (n = 64). According to percentile ranks and classification ratings, thermal conditions have been described as very warm (during 2019-2020), while precipitation conditions, expressed in percentiles, were wet (during 2019) but dry (during 2020) for this region. The peak of sexual activity was from mid-August until October in 2019 and from the end of August to November in 2020 for Romanov sheep in northwestern (NW) Croatia. A Kruskal-Wallis test showed a statistically significant difference in the number of pregnant ewes during the different mating seasons in the year (p < 0.001). Therefore, we can assume that air temperature, precipitation volume, and sunshine duration during the different seasons could impact the reproductive performance of Romanov sheep in a moderate climate.(AU)

Efficiency of cooling systems in broiler houses during hot days / Eficiência dos sistemas de resfriamento em aviários durante dias quentes

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated: (1) the vulnerability of broiler houses with different cooling systems, and (2) the spatial distribution of environmental variables during hot days. Four potentially vulnerable commercial broiler houses in southern Brazil were selected according to the following parameters: absence or presence of different cooling systems, broilers older than 28 days, and outside air dry-bulb temperature over 30°C. Broiler house vulnerability was classified according to the cooling and mechanical ventilation system: cellulose pad cooling (CPC), sprinkling (SPK), fogging (FOG), and mechanical ventilation without evaporative cooling system (VTL). The air dry-bulb temperature (Tdb, °C) and relative humidity (RH, %) were recorded every 10 min. For each broiler house, we evaluated: (1) relative cooling efficiency (RCE) and (2) inside spatial distribution of microclimate variables using a geostatistical technique. The CPC and SPK did not differ (P<0.05) in RCE (81.6% and 80.7%, respectively), but both differed from FOG (23.8%) and VLT (1.87%) systems. The highest variations in indoor Tdb were recorded in the FOG (7 °C), followed by the SPK (4 °C) and CPC (3 °C). In the CPC, there was an increase in RH from the middle to the end of the broiler house near the exhaust fans. In conclusion, the relative cooling efficiency and the inside spatial distributions of environmental variables in the broiler houses were influenced by the existing cooling system.

RESUMO: Os objetivos deste estudo foram (1) comparar a vulnerabilidade de aviários com diferentes sistemas de resfriamento, e (2) avaliar a distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais durante dias quentes. Quatro aviários comerciais potencialmente vulneráveis no sul do Brasil foram selecionados de acordo com os seguintes parâmetros de elegibilidade: ausência ou presença de diferentes sistemas de resfriamento; frangos de corte com mais de 28 dias de idade; e temperatura de bulbo seco do ar externa acima de 30 °C. A vulnerabilidade do aviário foi classificada de acordo com o sistema de resfriamento e ventilação mecânica, sendo: resfriamento por pad cooling (CPC), aspersão (SPK), nebulização (FOG) e ventilação mecânica sem sistema de resfriamento evaporativo (VTL). A temperatura de bulbo seco do ar (Tbs, °C) e a umidade relativa do ar (UR, %) foram coletadas por registradores de dados autônomos a cada 10 min. Para cada aviário foram avaliados: (1) eficiência relativa de resfriamento (RCE) e (2) distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais por técnica de geoestatística. O CPC e SPK não diferiram (P>0,05) na RCE (81,6% e 80,7% respectivamente), mas ambos diferiram do FOG (23,8%) e VLT (1,87%). As maiores variações na Tbs do ar interno foram registradas no FOG (7 °C), seguido pelo SPK (4 °C) e CPC (3 °C). No CPC, houve um aumento da umidade relativa do meio para o final do aviário, próximo aos exaustores. Em conclusão, a eficiência relativa de resfriamento, assim como a distribuição espacial das variáveis ambientais internas foram influenciadas pelo sistema de resfriamento de cada aviário.

Efficiency of cooling systems in broiler houses during hot days / Eficiência dos sistemas de resfriamento em aviários durante dias quentes

This study evaluated: (1) the vulnerability of broiler houses with different cooling systems, and (2) the spatial distribution of environmental variables during hot days. Four potentially vulnerable commercial broiler houses in southern Brazil were selected according to the following parameters: absence or presence of different cooling systems, broilers older than 28 days, and outside air dry-bulb temperature over 30°C. Broiler house vulnerability was classified according to the cooling and mechanical ventilation system: cellulose pad cooling (CPC), sprinkling (SPK), fogging (FOG), and mechanical ventilation without evaporative cooling system (VTL). The air dry-bulb temperature (Tdb, °C) and relative humidity (RH, %) were recorded every 10 min. For each broiler house, we evaluated: (1) relative cooling efficiency (RCE) and (2) inside spatial distribution of microclimate variables using a geostatistical technique. The CPC and SPK did not differ (P<0.05) in RCE (81.6% and 80.7%, respectively), but both differed from FOG (23.8%) and VLT (1.87%) systems. The highest variations in indoor Tdb were recorded in the FOG (7 °C), followed by the SPK (4 °C) and CPC (3 °C). In the CPC, there was an increase in RH from the middle to the end of the broiler house near the exhaust fans. In conclusion, the relative cooling efficiency and the inside spatial distributions of environmental variables in the broiler houses were influenced by the existing cooling system.

Os objetivos deste estudo foram (1) comparar a vulnerabilidade de aviários com diferentes sistemas de resfriamento, e (2) avaliar a distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais durante dias quentes. Quatro aviários comerciais potencialmente vulneráveis no sul do Brasil foram selecionados de acordo com os seguintes parâmetros de elegibilidade: ausência ou presença de diferentes sistemas de resfriamento; frangos de corte com mais de 28 dias de idade; e temperatura de bulbo seco do ar externa acima de 30 °C. A vulnerabilidade do aviário foi classificada de acordo com o sistema de resfriamento e ventilação mecânica, sendo: resfriamento por pad cooling (CPC), aspersão (SPK), nebulização (FOG) e ventilação mecânica sem sistema de resfriamento evaporativo (VTL). A temperatura de bulbo seco do ar (Tbs, °C) e a umidade relativa do ar (UR, %) foram coletadas por registradores de dados autônomos a cada 10 min. Para cada aviário foram avaliados: (1) eficiência relativa de resfriamento (RCE) e (2) distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais por técnica de geoestatística. O CPC e SPK não diferiram (P>0,05) na RCE (81,6% e 80,7% respectivamente), mas ambos diferiram do FOG (23,8%) e VLT (1,87%). As maiores variações na Tbs do ar interno foram registradas no FOG (7 °C), seguido pelo SPK (4 °C) e CPC (3 °C). No CPC, houve um aumento da umidade relativa do meio para o final do aviário, próximo aos exaustores. Em conclusão, a eficiência relativa de resfriamento, assim como a distribuição espacial das variáveis ambientais internas foram influenciadas pelo sistema de resfriamento de cada aviário.

Efficiency of cooling systems in broiler houses during hot days / Eficiência dos sistemas de resfriamento em aviários durante dias quentes

This study evaluated: (1) the vulnerability of broiler houses with different cooling systems, and (2) the spatial distribution of environmental variables during hot days. Four potentially vulnerable commercial broiler houses in southern Brazil were selected according to the following parameters: absence or presence of different cooling systems, broilers older than 28 days, and outside air dry-bulb temperature over 30°C. Broiler house vulnerability was classified according to the cooling and mechanical ventilation system: cellulose pad cooling (CPC), sprinkling (SPK), fogging (FOG), and mechanical ventilation without evaporative cooling system (VTL). The air dry-bulb temperature (Tdb, °C) and relative humidity (RH, %) were recorded every 10 min. For each broiler house, we evaluated: (1) relative cooling efficiency (RCE) and (2) inside spatial distribution of microclimate variables using a geostatistical technique. The CPC and SPK did not differ (P<0.05) in RCE (81.6% and 80.7%, respectively), but both differed from FOG (23.8%) and VLT (1.87%) systems. The highest variations in indoor Tdb were recorded in the FOG (7 °C), followed by the SPK (4 °C) and CPC (3 °C). In the CPC, there was an increase in RH from the middle to the end of the broiler house near the exhaust fans. In conclusion, the relative cooling efficiency and the inside spatial distributions of environmental variables in the broiler houses were influenced by the existing cooling system.(AU)

Os objetivos deste estudo foram (1) comparar a vulnerabilidade de aviários com diferentes sistemas de resfriamento, e (2) avaliar a distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais durante dias quentes. Quatro aviários comerciais potencialmente vulneráveis no sul do Brasil foram selecionados de acordo com os seguintes parâmetros de elegibilidade: ausência ou presença de diferentes sistemas de resfriamento; frangos de corte com mais de 28 dias de idade; e temperatura de bulbo seco do ar externa acima de 30 °C. A vulnerabilidade do aviário foi classificada de acordo com o sistema de resfriamento e ventilação mecânica, sendo: resfriamento por pad cooling (CPC), aspersão (SPK), nebulização (FOG) e ventilação mecânica sem sistema de resfriamento evaporativo (VTL). A temperatura de bulbo seco do ar (Tbs, °C) e a umidade relativa do ar (UR, %) foram coletadas por registradores de dados autônomos a cada 10 min. Para cada aviário foram avaliados: (1) eficiência relativa de resfriamento (RCE) e (2) distribuição espacial interna das variáveis ambientais por técnica de geoestatística. O CPC e SPK não diferiram (P>0,05) na RCE (81,6% e 80,7% respectivamente), mas ambos diferiram do FOG (23,8%) e VLT (1,87%). As maiores variações na Tbs do ar interno foram registradas no FOG (7 °C), seguido pelo SPK (4 °C) e CPC (3 °C). No CPC, houve um aumento da umidade relativa do meio para o final do aviário, próximo aos exaustores. Em conclusão, a eficiência relativa de resfriamento, assim como a distribuição espacial das variáveis ambientais internas foram influenciadas pelo sistema de resfriamento de cada aviário.(AU)

Reference evapotranspiration during rainy and dry seasons in Mossoró, RN, Brazil / Evapotranspiração de referência nos períodos chuvoso e seco em Mossoró-RN

Mossoró, RN, Brazil, is considered one of the fruit growing centers of the Northeast region. This municipality has a persistent water deficit, with the need to develop irrigated agriculture with efficient water use and rational management of irrigation. The objective of this study was to evaluate estimation methods of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) for different climate conditions of Mossoró, comparing them with the standard Penman-Monteith-FAO 56 method. A daily data series of two distinct years, a rainy (2011) and a dry year (2012), was used. The data were obtained from the weather station of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region (UFERSA). An analysis was performed to identify methods that best fit those of Penman-Monteith-FAO 56, and for this, ten methods were evaluated using statistical indices. The Penman-Original, Radiation-Temperature, and Hargreaves-Original methods stood out and satisfactorily met ETo estimation for the rainy season, while the Jensen-Haise, Radiation-Temperature, and Hargreaves-Original methods achieved satisfactory performance for the dry season. The Hargreaves-Samani method did not demonstrate viability in the use of ETo estimation, as it was the worst method in both studied periods and is not recommended for irrigation management.

O município de Mossoró-RN é considerado uns dos polos fruticultores da região Nordeste. O município apresenta constante déficit hídrico, sendo necessário o desenvolvimento da agricultura irrigada com o uso eficiente da água, sendo fundamental o manejo racional da irrigação. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar para as condições climáticas de Mossoró-RN, diferentes métodos de estimativa da evapotranspiração de referência (ETo), comparando-os com o método padrão de Penman-Monteith-FAO 56. Foi utilizada uma série de dados diários de dois anos distintos, um ano chuvoso (2011) e outro seco (2012). Os dados foram obtidos na estação meteorológica da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA). Foi realizada análise visando identificar os métodos que melhor se ajustam ao de Penman-Monteith-FAO 56, e para isto, foram avaliados 10 métodos mediante índices estatísticos. Destacaram-se os métodos de Penman-Original, Radiação-Temperatura e Hargreaves-Original, os quais atenderam satisfatoriamente a estimativa da ETo para o período chuvoso, enquanto que os métodos de Jensen-Haise, Radiação-Temperatura e Hargreaves-Original obtiveram desempenho satisfatório para o período seco. O método de Hargreaves-Samani não demonstrou viabilidade na utilização de estimativa da ETo, pois foi o pior método em ambos os períodos estudados, não sendo recomendado para o manejo da irrigação.

Reference evapotranspiration during rainy and dry seasons in Mossoró, RN, Brazil / Evapotranspiração de referência nos períodos chuvoso e seco em Mossoró-RN

Mossoró, RN, Brazil, is considered one of the fruit growing centers of the Northeast region. This municipality has a persistent water deficit, with the need to develop irrigated agriculture with efficient water use and rational management of irrigation. The objective of this study was to evaluate estimation methods of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) for different climate conditions of Mossoró, comparing them with the standard Penman-Monteith-FAO 56 method. A daily data series of two distinct years, a rainy (2011) and a dry year (2012), was used. The data were obtained from the weather station of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region (UFERSA). An analysis was performed to identify methods that best fit those of Penman-Monteith-FAO 56, and for this, ten methods were evaluated using statistical indices. The Penman-Original, Radiation-Temperature, and Hargreaves-Original methods stood out and satisfactorily met ETo estimation for the rainy season, while the Jensen-Haise, Radiation-Temperature, and Hargreaves-Original methods achieved satisfactory performance for the dry season. The Hargreaves-Samani method did not demonstrate viability in the use of ETo estimation, as it was the worst method in both studied periods and is not recommended for irrigation management.(AU)

O município de Mossoró-RN é considerado uns dos polos fruticultores da região Nordeste. O município apresenta constante déficit hídrico, sendo necessário o desenvolvimento da agricultura irrigada com o uso eficiente da água, sendo fundamental o manejo racional da irrigação. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar para as condições climáticas de Mossoró-RN, diferentes métodos de estimativa da evapotranspiração de referência (ETo), comparando-os com o método padrão de Penman-Monteith-FAO 56. Foi utilizada uma série de dados diários de dois anos distintos, um ano chuvoso (2011) e outro seco (2012). Os dados foram obtidos na estação meteorológica da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA). Foi realizada análise visando identificar os métodos que melhor se ajustam ao de Penman-Monteith-FAO 56, e para isto, foram avaliados 10 métodos mediante índices estatísticos. Destacaram-se os métodos de Penman-Original, Radiação-Temperatura e Hargreaves-Original, os quais atenderam satisfatoriamente a estimativa da ETo para o período chuvoso, enquanto que os métodos de Jensen-Haise, Radiação-Temperatura e Hargreaves-Original obtiveram desempenho satisfatório para o período seco. O método de Hargreaves-Samani não demonstrou viabilidade na utilização de estimativa da ETo, pois foi o pior método em ambos os períodos estudados, não sendo recomendado para o manejo da irrigação.(AU)

Behavior of buffalo heifers reared in shaded and unshaded pastures during the dry season on Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil

The objective of this research was to evaluate the behavior of twenty buffalo heifers reared during the dry season on Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil. The animals were distributed into two groups, those with shade (WS) and those without shade (WOS). The experimental day was divided into six shifts: morning (6:00 to 9:55 a.m.), intermediate (10:00 a.m. to 1:55 p.m.), afternoon (2:00 to 5:55 p.m.), evening (6:00 to 9:55 p.m.), night (10:00 p.m. to 1:55 a.m.), and early morning (2:00 to 5:55 a.m.). The WS group was kept in silvipastoral system paddocks, while the WOS group was kept in unshaded paddocks. Climatic data were registered and temperature and humidity index (THI) were calculated. Behavior data such as grazing, rumination, idle time, and other activities (walking, defecating, mounting, drinking water, urinating, eating salt) were evaluated. The results showed that the THI was higher in the WOS group. Grazing time was higher in the WOS group than in the WS group in the intermediate shift (p < 0.05), while in the afternoon, evening, and early morning shifts, the WS group spent more time grazing than the WOS group. In the intermediate and early morning shifts, the WS group spent more time ruminating (p < 0.05); the WS group ruminated more than the WOS group. The WOS group had more idle time, especially in the evening and early morning shifts (p < 0.05), while the WS group had more idle time in the intermediate shift (p < 0.05). We conclude that buffaloes graze and ruminate more intensely when they are reared in a shaded system on the island of Marajó.(AU)

Behavior of buffalo heifers reared in shaded and unshaded pastures during the dry season on Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil

The objective of this research was to evaluate the behavior of twenty buffalo heifers reared during the dry season on Marajó Island, Pará, Brazil. The animals were distributed into two groups, those with shade (WS) and those without shade (WOS). The experimental day was divided into six shifts: morning (6:00 to 9:55 a.m.), intermediate (10:00 a.m. to 1:55 p.m.), afternoon (2:00 to 5:55 p.m.), evening (6:00 to 9:55 p.m.), night (10:00 p.m. to 1:55 a.m.), and early morning (2:00 to 5:55 a.m.). The WS group was kept in silvipastoral system paddocks, while the WOS group was kept in unshaded paddocks. Climatic data were registered and temperature and humidity index (THI) were calculated. Behavior data such as grazing, rumination, idle time, and other activities (walking, defecating, mounting, drinking water, urinating, eating salt) were evaluated. The results showed that the THI was higher in the WOS group. Grazing time was higher in the WOS group than in the WS group in the intermediate shift (p < 0.05), while in the afternoon, evening, and early morning shifts, the WS group spent more time grazing than the WOS group. In the intermediate and early morning shifts, the WS group spent more time ruminating (p < 0.05); the WS group ruminated more than the WOS group. The WOS group had more idle time, especially in the evening and early morning shifts (p < 0.05), while the WS group had more idle time in the intermediate shift (p < 0.05). We conclude that buffaloes graze and ruminate more intensely when they are reared in a shaded system on the island of Marajó.

Probability distributions for frequency analysis of rainfall at southwest region of Paraná state, Brazil / Distribuições de probabilidade para análise de frequência de chuva no sudoeste do Paraná

The study of monthly rainfall probabilities is of great importance due to the increasing occurrences of extreme events in different regions of Brazil. However, the rainfall distribution at the southwest region of Paraná State, Brazil, is still unknown. Thus, the aim of this work is to assess the probabilistic distribution of rainfall frequency at Dois Vizinhos, in the southwest of Paraná State, Brazil. A probabilistic analysis was performed using a historic 40-year rainfall dataset (1973-2012). The gamma, Weibull, normal log, and normal probability distributions were compared. The distribution adherence was performed through Akaike Information Criterion, and the R statistical software was used for estimation. The results showed that the gamma and Weibull distributions were most suitable for probabilistic fitting. Based on this, the average annual rainfall for Dois Vizinhos (PR) was found to be 2,010.6 mm. Moreover, we found that throughout the year, October has the highest rainfall occurrence probability, with an 86% rainfall probability of above 150 mm and 64% rainfall probability above 200 mm.

O estudo de probabilidades mensais de precipitação pluvial torna-se importante em virtude do aumento de ocorrências de eventos extremos em diversas regiões do país. Entretanto, poucas informações são conhecidas a respeito da distribuição de chuva na região do sudoeste do Paraná. Com base no exposto objetivou-se por meio desta pesquisa analisar a distribuição probabilística mensal da precipitação pluvial na região de Dois Vizinhos, sudoeste do estado do Paraná. Analisou-se a série histórica de precipitação pluvial de 40 anos (1973-2012). Foram comparadas as seguintes distribuições de probabilidade: gama, Weibull, log normal e normal. A aderência das distribuições aos dados pluviométricos da região foi verificada através do critério de Akaike (AIC). As análises foram realizadas utilizando o software estatístico R. Por meio dos resultados observou-se que as distribuições de gama e Weibull foram as mais adequadas em termos de ajustes probabilísticos. Com base nas distribuições, a média anual de chuva na região de Dois Vizinhos é de 2.010,6 mm e o mês de outubro registra a maior probabilidade de ocorrência de precipitação, sendo 86% de probabilidade de chuvas acima de 150 mm e 64% acima de 200 mm.

Probability distributions for frequency analysis of rainfall at southwest region of Paraná state, Brazil / Distribuições de probabilidade para análise de frequência de chuva no sudoeste do Paraná

The study of monthly rainfall probabilities is of great importance due to the increasing occurrences of extreme events in different regions of Brazil. However, the rainfall distribution at the southwest region of Paraná State, Brazil, is still unknown. Thus, the aim of this work is to assess the probabilistic distribution of rainfall frequency at Dois Vizinhos, in the southwest of Paraná State, Brazil. A probabilistic analysis was performed using a historic 40-year rainfall dataset (1973-2012). The gamma, Weibull, normal log, and normal probability distributions were compared. The distribution adherence was performed through Akaike Information Criterion, and the R statistical software was used for estimation. The results showed that the gamma and Weibull distributions were most suitable for probabilistic fitting. Based on this, the average annual rainfall for Dois Vizinhos (PR) was found to be 2,010.6 mm. Moreover, we found that throughout the year, October has the highest rainfall occurrence probability, with an 86% rainfall probability of above 150 mm and 64% rainfall probability above 200 mm.(AU)

O estudo de probabilidades mensais de precipitação pluvial torna-se importante em virtude do aumento de ocorrências de eventos extremos em diversas regiões do país. Entretanto, poucas informações são conhecidas a respeito da distribuição de chuva na região do sudoeste do Paraná. Com base no exposto objetivou-se por meio desta pesquisa analisar a distribuição probabilística mensal da precipitação pluvial na região de Dois Vizinhos, sudoeste do estado do Paraná. Analisou-se a série histórica de precipitação pluvial de 40 anos (1973-2012). Foram comparadas as seguintes distribuições de probabilidade: gama, Weibull, log normal e normal. A aderência das distribuições aos dados pluviométricos da região foi verificada através do critério de Akaike (AIC). As análises foram realizadas utilizando o software estatístico R. Por meio dos resultados observou-se que as distribuições de gama e Weibull foram as mais adequadas em termos de ajustes probabilísticos. Com base nas distribuições, a média anual de chuva na região de Dois Vizinhos é de 2.010,6 mm e o mês de outubro registra a maior probabilidade de ocorrência de precipitação, sendo 86% de probabilidade de chuvas acima de 150 mm e 64% acima de 200 mm.(AU)

Microclimate in an agro-ecological silvopastoral system with bamboo at different tree-shade projection distances: a case study in Southern Brazil / Microclima em sistema silvipastoril agroecológico com bambu em diferentes distâncias de projeção de sombra: um estudo de caso no Sul do Brasil

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of an agro-ecological silvopastoral system, composed of bamboo and tree species, to promote microclimatic alterations at different projection distances from the canopy of trees. A total of 16 paddocks in an agro-ecological silvopastoral system were evaluated. The paddocks were divided into four separate groups (silvopastoral treatments): a) Bambusa vulgaris L. and planted trees, b) only bamboo, c) only trees, and d) open grassland system. The following microclimate parameters were studied: air temperature, relative humidity, grass temperature and wind speed. All parameters were measured at a height of 20 cm above the soil. The measurements were recorded by different time intervals, in order to examine the effect of three factors: time of day, silvopasture treatment and distance to the row of trees. The results show that there was an increase in relative humidity and a reduction in wind speed close to the tree line. The agro-ecological silvopastoral system acts therefore as a windbreaker and retains humidity close to the trees. Thus, it can be concluded that regardless of the presence of bamboo, due to the limited canopy area at young stage of B. vulgaris, the agro-ecological silvopastoral system promoted microclimatic alterations to the environment, indicating the potential of this integrated system to reduce the heat load for livestock and plants.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a capacidade de um sistema silvipastoril agroecológico, composto por espécies de bambu e árvores, em promover alterações microclimáticas a diferentes distâncias de projeção a partir do dossel das árvores. Um total de 16 piquetes em um sistema silvipastoril agroecológico foram avaliados. Os piquetes foram divididos em quatro grupos separados (tratamentos silvipastoris): a) Bambusa vulgaris L. e árvores plantadas, b) somente bambu, c) somente árvores, e d) sistema de pastagem aberta. Os seguintes parâmetros do microclima foram estudados: temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar, temperatura da grama e velocidade do vento. Todos os parâmetros foram medidos a uma altura de 20 cm acima do solo. As medidas foram registradas por diferentes intervalos de tempo, a fim de examinar o efeito de três fatores: horário do dia, tratamento da silvipastoril e distância até a fileira de árvores. Os resultados mostram que houve aumento na umidade relativa e uma redução na velocidade do vento próximo à linha de árvores. O sistema silvipastoril agroecológico age, portanto, como um quebra-vento e retém a umidade perto das árvores. Assim, pode-se concluir que, independente da presença de bambu, devido à limitada área de copa em estágio jovem de B. vulgaris, o sistema silvipastoril agroecológico promoveu alterações microclimáticas ao ambiente, indicando o potencial deste sistema integrado de reduzir a carga de calor para gado e plantas.(AU)

Microclimate in an agro-ecological silvopastoral system with bamboo at different tree-shade projection distances: a case study in Southern Brazil / Microclima em sistema silvipastoril agroecológico com bambu em diferentes distâncias de projeção de sombra: um estudo de caso no Sul do Brasil

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of an agro-ecological silvopastoral system, composed of bamboo and tree species, to promote microclimatic alterations at different projection distances from the canopy of trees. A total of 16 paddocks in an agro-ecological silvopastoral system were evaluated. The paddocks were divided into four separate groups (silvopastoral treatments): a) Bambusa vulgaris L. and planted trees, b) only bamboo, c) only trees, and d) open grassland system. The following microclimate parameters were studied: air temperature, relative humidity, grass temperature and wind speed. All parameters were measured at a height of 20 cm above the soil. The measurements were recorded by different time intervals, in order to examine the effect of three factors: time of day, silvopasture treatment and distance to the row of trees. The results show that there was an increase in relative humidity and a reduction in wind speed close to the tree line. The agro-ecological silvopastoral system acts therefore as a windbreaker and retains humidity close to the trees. Thus, it can be concluded that regardless of the presence of bamboo, due to the limited canopy area at young stage of B. vulgaris, the agro-ecological silvopastoral system promoted microclimatic alterations to the environment, indicating the potential of this integrated system to reduce the heat load for livestock and plants.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a capacidade de um sistema silvipastoril agroecológico, composto por espécies de bambu e árvores, em promover alterações microclimáticas a diferentes distâncias de projeção a partir do dossel das árvores. Um total de 16 piquetes em um sistema silvipastoril agroecológico foram avaliados. Os piquetes foram divididos em quatro grupos separados (tratamentos silvipastoris): a) Bambusa vulgaris L. e árvores plantadas, b) somente bambu, c) somente árvores, e d) sistema de pastagem aberta. Os seguintes parâmetros do microclima foram estudados: temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar, temperatura da grama e velocidade do vento. Todos os parâmetros foram medidos a uma altura de 20 cm acima do solo. As medidas foram registradas por diferentes intervalos de tempo, a fim de examinar o efeito de três fatores: horário do dia, tratamento da silvipastoril e distância até a fileira de árvores. Os resultados mostram que houve aumento na umidade relativa e uma redução na velocidade do vento próximo à linha de árvores. O sistema silvipastoril agroecológico age, portanto, como um quebra-vento e retém a umidade perto das árvores. Assim, pode-se concluir que, independente da presença de bambu, devido à limitada área de copa em estágio jovem de B. vulgaris, o sistema silvipastoril agroecológico promoveu alterações microclimáticas ao ambiente, indicando o potencial deste sistema integrado de reduzir a carga de calor para gado e plantas.

Physiological responses and animal behavior in Bonsmara-Hereford crosses vs. Hereford purebred on environment stress

Adaptative traits (rectal temperature-RT, respiratory rate-RR) and grazing behavior (Grazing, Ruminating and Rest time, and Sun or Shade time) of Bonsmara-Hereford crossbred-BH, n = 15, and purebred Hereford-HH, n = 18, yearling heifers, in a grazing system of Uruguay. Environment characterization was made using THIadjusted by radiation and wind speed (no, mild, and severe heat weaves), and the comprehensive climatic index-CCI (no, middle, moderate and severe stress). Adaptative traits were measured twice a day, weekly, in two consecutive days in summer and winter at 08h00 and 16h00. Grazing behavior was observed from 07h00 to 21h00 each 600 s twice in summer. The records were analyzed using a mixed model. Significant effect of genotype was observed in mild heat waves for RR and RT in the afternoon (BH lower than HH). For CCI in a.m., the RR was lower than HH in BH in severe stress, while in p.m., the RR was lower in all of CCI levels. RT in p.m. in moderate and severe was lower in BH than in HH. In winter, no differences were found. In grazing behavior, HH rests longer than BH doe; also, HH spends more time in the shade (34 %) than BH does (22 %). BH genotype showed better thermoregulation and grazing behavior at higher temperatures compared to HH.(AU)

Assessment of indices of thermal stress indicators among male buffaloes reared in the Eastern Brazilian Amazon / Variáveis de clima e fisiologia para explicar índices indicadores de estresse térmico de búfalos criados na Amazônia Oriental

This research aimed to determine the most appropriate thermal comfort index for buffaloesreared in the Eastern Amazon, Pará, Brazil. Twenty male Murrah buffaloes were used, and data on climatevariables, rectal temperature (RT), body surface temperature (BST), and respiratory rate (RR) wererecorded. Subsequently, the following indices were calculated: Temperature and Humidity Index (THI),Global Temperature and Humidity Index (GTHI), Benezras Thermal Comfort Index (BTCI), IbériasHeat Tolerance Index (IHTI), the general, effective, and practical Buffalo Comfort Climatic ConditionsIndices (BCCCIg, BCCCIe, and BCCCIp, respectively) and the general, effective, and practical BuffaloEnvironmental Comfort Indices (BECIg, BECIe, and BECIp, respectively) in the morning and afternoon.Higher values for THI, GTHI, RT, BST, RR, BTCI, BCCCIg, BCCCIe, BCCCIp, BECIg, BECIe, andBECIp were observed in the afternoon, and the highest IHTI values were found in the morning. A positivecorrelation was found among the physiological variables and THI, GTHI, BTCI, BCCCIg, BECIg,BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp, BECIp, while a negative correlation was found for RT and BST with IHTI. Theindices THI, GTHI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp, and BECIp were determined to be veryefficient to assess the thermal comfort status of buffaloes under the conditions of the present research.(AU)

A pesquisa objetivou determinar o índice de conforto térmico mais adequado para búfaloscriados na Amazônia Oriental, Pará, Brasil. Foram utilizados vinte búfalos Murrah. Foram registradosdados de variáveis climáticas e temperatura retal (TR), temperatura da superfície corporal (TSC) efrequência respiratória (FR), e foram calculados os índices: Índice de Temperatura e Umidade (ITU),Índice de Temperatura de Globo e Umidade (ITGU), Índice de Conforto Térmico de Benezra (ICB),Índice de Tolerância ao Calor de Ibéria (ITCI), Índice de Condições Climáticas de Conforto para búfalosgeral (BCCCIg), efetivo (BCCCIe) e prático (BCCCIp) e Índice de Conforto Ambiental para búfalos geral(BECIg), efetivo (BECIe) e prático (BECIp), nos períodos da manhã e da tarde. Foram observados valoresde ITU, ITGU, TR, TSC, FR, ICB, BCCCIg, BCCCIe, BCCCIp, BECIg, BECIe e BECIp mais elevados à tarde. Os maiores valores de ITCI foram encontrados de manhã. Houve correlação positiva entre as variáveis fisiológicas e ITU, ITGU, ITCI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIp, enquanto uma correlação negativa foi encontrada para TR e TSC com ITCI. Os índices THI, GTHI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp e BECIp são eficientes para avaliar o estado de conforto térmico dos búfalos na Amazônia Oriental.(AU)

Thermal conditioning in the broiler production: challenges and possibilities

With the introduction of new technologies that lead to the development of new systems of poultry breeding, have been promoted to the animals better thermal comfort conditions. This lessens the great challenge for industrial poultry, with regard to aviary constructions, resulting in increased productivity. It is known that an animal in heat stress condition presents lower productive performance. A lower feed conversion caused by decreased feed intake is the main cause. Multidisciplinary studies have been developed seeking the deepening the needs and possibilities already available about these new systems. With this, this review seeks to approach in a didactic and simplified way the planning and construction of aviary sheds aiming to provide an suitable thermal conditioning for broiler accommodation.(AU)

Assessment of indices of thermal stress indicators among male buffaloes reared in the Eastern Brazilian Amazon / Variáveis de clima e fisiologia para explicar índices indicadores de estresse térmico de búfalos criados na Amazônia Oriental

This research aimed to determine the most appropriate thermal comfort index for buffaloesreared in the Eastern Amazon, Pará, Brazil. Twenty male Murrah buffaloes were used, and data on climatevariables, rectal temperature (RT), body surface temperature (BST), and respiratory rate (RR) wererecorded. Subsequently, the following indices were calculated: Temperature and Humidity Index (THI),Global Temperature and Humidity Index (GTHI), Benezra’s Thermal Comfort Index (BTCI), Ibéria’sHeat Tolerance Index (IHTI), the general, effective, and practical Buffalo Comfort Climatic ConditionsIndices (BCCCIg, BCCCIe, and BCCCIp, respectively) and the general, effective, and practical BuffaloEnvironmental Comfort Indices (BECIg, BECIe, and BECIp, respectively) in the morning and afternoon.Higher values for THI, GTHI, RT, BST, RR, BTCI, BCCCIg, BCCCIe, BCCCIp, BECIg, BECIe, andBECIp were observed in the afternoon, and the highest IHTI values were found in the morning. A positivecorrelation was found among the physiological variables and THI, GTHI, BTCI, BCCCIg, BECIg,BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp, BECIp, while a negative correlation was found for RT and BST with IHTI. Theindices THI, GTHI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp, and BECIp were determined to be veryefficient to assess the thermal comfort status of buffaloes under the conditions of the present research.

A pesquisa objetivou determinar o índice de conforto térmico mais adequado para búfaloscriados na Amazônia Oriental, Pará, Brasil. Foram utilizados vinte búfalos Murrah. Foram registradosdados de variáveis climáticas e temperatura retal (TR), temperatura da superfície corporal (TSC) efrequência respiratória (FR), e foram calculados os índices: Índice de Temperatura e Umidade (ITU),Índice de Temperatura de Globo e Umidade (ITGU), Índice de Conforto Térmico de Benezra (ICB),Índice de Tolerância ao Calor de Ibéria (ITCI), Índice de Condições Climáticas de Conforto para búfalosgeral (BCCCIg), efetivo (BCCCIe) e prático (BCCCIp) e Índice de Conforto Ambiental para búfalos geral(BECIg), efetivo (BECIe) e prático (BECIp), nos períodos da manhã e da tarde. Foram observados valoresde ITU, ITGU, TR, TSC, FR, ICB, BCCCIg, BCCCIe, BCCCIp, BECIg, BECIe e BECIp mais elevados à tarde. Os maiores valores de ITCI foram encontrados de manhã. Houve correlação positiva entre as variáveis fisiológicas e ITU, ITGU, ITCI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIp, enquanto uma correlação negativa foi encontrada para TR e TSC com ITCI. Os índices THI, GTHI, BCCCIg, BECIg, BCCCIe, BECIe, BCCCIp e BECIp são eficientes para avaliar o estado de conforto térmico dos búfalos na Amazônia Oriental.

Thermal conditioning in the broiler production: challenges and possibilities

With the introduction of new technologies that lead to the development of new systems of poultry breeding, have been promoted to the animals better thermal comfort conditions. This lessens the great challenge for industrial poultry, with regard to aviary constructions, resulting in increased productivity. It is known that an animal in heat stress condition presents lower productive performance. A lower feed conversion caused by decreased feed intake is the main cause. Multidisciplinary studies have been developed seeking the deepening the needs and possibilities already available about these new systems. With this, this review seeks to approach in a didactic and simplified way the planning and construction of aviary sheds aiming to provide an suitable thermal conditioning for broiler accommodation.

Thermal comfort indexes and physiological parameters of Santa Inês and crossbreed ewes in the semi-arid

The objective of this study was evaluated the thermal comfort indexes and physiological parameters in Santa Inês and crossbreed ewes in Brazilian semiarid. The research was developed at experimental station Benjamin Maranhão, twenty non pregnant female sheep were used, 10 pure and 10 crossbreed (½ Dorper + ½ Santa Inês), averaging 26.7 ± 2.1 kg and with 150 days of age at the beginning of the study and confined in a covered sheepfold. A completely randomized design in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme (two genotypes and two shifts) with four treatments and five repetitions was used. The interior and exterior thermal comfort indexes were, most of the day, above the thermal comfort zone for sheep. The rectal temperature, superficial temperature, respiratory rate and cardiac rate was more elevated in the afternoon, and the Santa Inês animals showed in the mornings low rectal temperature values, as well as superficial temperature, respiratory and cardiac rate when compared to the crossbreed.(AU)

Thermal comfort indexes and physiological parameters of Santa Inês and crossbreed ewes in the semi-arid

The objective of this study was evaluated the thermal comfort indexes and physiological parameters in Santa Inês and crossbreed ewes in Brazilian semiarid. The research was developed at experimental station Benjamin Maranhão, twenty non pregnant female sheep were used, 10 pure and 10 crossbreed (½ Dorper + ½ Santa Inês), averaging 26.7 ± 2.1 kg and with 150 days of age at the beginning of the study and confined in a covered sheepfold. A completely randomized design in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme (two genotypes and two shifts) with four treatments and five repetitions was used. The interior and exterior thermal comfort indexes were, most of the day, above the thermal comfort zone for sheep. The rectal temperature, superficial temperature, respiratory rate and cardiac rate was more elevated in the afternoon, and the Santa Inês animals showed in the mornings low rectal temperature values, as well as superficial temperature, respiratory and cardiac rate when compared to the crossbreed.