Forage cactus as an additive in corn without the cob silages of feedlot sheep diets.

This study aimed to assess the impact of adding forage cactus as an additive to the production of corn silage without the cob on the performance of feedlot sheep and subsequent silage losses. The experimental design was completely randomized, consisting of three treatments: corn silage without cob; 0% = 100% corn plant without the cob; 10% = 90% corn plant without cob + 10% forage cactus; 20% = 80% corn plant without cob + 20% forage cactus. Significant effects were observed for dry matter intake (P = 0.0201), organic matter (P = 0.0152), ether extract (P = 0.0001), non-fiber carbohydrates (P = 0.0007). Notably, nutrient digestibility showed significant differences in organic matter (P = 0.0187), ether extract (P = 0.0095), neutral detergent fiber (P = 0.0005), non-fiber carbohydrates (P = 0.0001), and metabolizable energy (P = 0.0001). Performance variables, including total weight gain (P = 0.0148), average daily weight gain (P = 0.0148), feeding efficiency, and rumination efficiency of dry matter (P = 0.0113), also exhibited significant effects. Consequently, it is recommended to include 20% forage cactus in corn silage, which, based on natural matter, helps meet animals' water needs through feed. This inclusion is especially vital in semi-arid regions and aids in reducing silage losses during post-opening silo disposal.

Phenotypic characterisation and production system of the Nordestino horse from a multivariate perspective.

Zootechnical data is a big challenge in the extensive rearing system of Brazilian locally adapted breeds once smallholdings with limited resources and funds rear them. So, information on Brazil's breeding system of locally adapted breeds is still scarce; this situation is more challenging for equine breeds. The present study aimed to describe the local rearing systems and the phenotypic profile of the Nordestino horse breed in Paraíba state and contribute to breed conservation. Data from males (entire and castrated) and females from 50 municipalities in Paraíba state were used. Two hundred sixty-nine animals (111 females, 121 castrated males, and 37 entire males) from 129 breeders were analyzed. A questionnaire consisting of direct and objective questions was applied to understand the breeding system adopted. There was a predominance of the extensive breeding system (85%), which reflects the adaptation of the Nordestino Horse to the region's natural conditions. The lower frequency of use of cultivated pastures may be related to issues of economic viability since the maintenance of cultivated pastures may require additional investments compared to the use of natural pastures. Entire males had a minimum withers height (WH) of 135 cm. Of the 11 morphometric measurements, only five were considered discriminating by the stepwise analysis. The remaining Nordestino horses have morphological characteristics within the breed standard.

Heat tolerance, thermal equilibrium and environmental management strategies for dairy cows living in intertropical regions.

This review makes an attempt to characterize the physical attributes of heat tolerance, thermal equilibrium and thermal stress thresholds for dairy cows living in tropical environments, with a particular emphasis on pasture-based systems. Under such circumstances, the radiant heat load is the principal climatic factor that determines rates of heat and mass exchanges between cows and the environment. This fact may explain why simple mechanistic models based on air temperature and humidity are not adequately predicting thermal stress thresholds for cattle in tropical regions. To overcome this limitation, the Index of Thermal Stress for Cows (ITSC) and Index for the time spent in shade (ITS), which account for various sources of thermal radiation, were proposed to predict autonomous and behavioral thermoregulation of cows. Overall, the evolutionary adaptation of cattle in tropics favored animals that have cutaneous surface with a skin well protected against penetration of ultraviolet solar radiation (UV), covered by a coat surface with high thermal conductivity. For Holstein breed, although predominantly black animals absorb greater levels of short-wave solar radiation, they may present better protection of skin than white ones. However, dark-colored cows in tropical pastures have potential to absorb as much as 640 W m-2 of thermal radiation. This amount of heat load would require close to 1,300 g h -1 of cutaneous evaporative water loss through sweating to prevent increases to body temperature, where cows do not have access to shade. Cows are motivated to reduce time spent grazing and to seek shade when solar irradiance exceeds 550 W m-2, levels that in equatorial latitudes are likely to occur between 08:00 and 16:00h. This information may help producers improve the welfare of cows, as they can determine more comfortable hours for them to graze, for example, by employing nocturnal grazing. Over the daytime, cows should have access to areas with shade and this could include shade provided via solar panels, which has the potential to improve thermal comfort and sustainability of dairy production in tropical areas.

Salinity-water levels on productive performance, physiological and behavioral responses of ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês crossbred sheep / Níveis de salinidade da água no desempenho produtivo, respostas fisiológicas e comportamentais de ovelhas mestiças ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of four water salinity levels on productive performance, physiological and behavioral responses of confined sheep. Thus, 24 crossbred sheep, ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês were evaluated while receiving ration and water ad libitum. The experimental design was completely randomized, composed of four treatments (1.5; 3.0; 6.0 and 9.0 dSm-¹) and six replicates. The water supply with salinity of up to 9.0 dSm-¹ did not affect (P > 0.05) the physiological indexes, performance, or ingestive behavior of the animals, which were able to maintain normal physiological conditions even at times when the thermal comfort indexes were above the ideal. For voluntary water consumption, it was observed that there was a significant difference between treatments (P < 0.05), where animals consuming water with a conductivity of 1.5; 3.0 dSm-¹ had lower consumption than those who received six dSm-¹. The supply of water with a salinity of up to 9.0 dSm-1 did not affect the performance or the ingestive behavior of the animals, so waters with this salinity can be a valid alternative for crossbred sheep in the semi-arid region, as long as it is used seasonally and strategically.

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar a influência de quatro níveis de salinidade da água no desempenho produtivo, respostas fisiológicas e comportamentais de ovinos confinados. Assim, foram avaliados 24 ovinos mestiços, ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês, recebendo ração e água ad libitum. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, composto por quatro tratamentos (1,5; 3,0; 6,0 e 9,0 dSm-¹) e seis repetições. O fornecimento de água com salinidade de até 9,0 dSm-1 não afetou (P > 0,05) os índices fisiológicos, desempenho ou comportamento ingestivo dos animais, que foram capazes de manter as condições fisiológicas normais mesmo nos momentos em que os índices de conforto térmico foram acima do ideal. Para o consumo voluntário de água, observou-se que houve diferença significativa entre os tratamentos (P < 0,05), onde os animais consumiram água com condutividade de 1,5; 3,0 dSm-¹ tiveram consumo menor do que aqueles que receberam seis dSm-¹. O fornecimento de água com salinidade de até 9,0 dSm-¹ não afetou o desempenho ou o comportamento ingestivo dos animais, portanto águas com essa salinidade podem ser uma alternativa válida para ovinos mestiços no semi-árido, desde que é usado sazonalmente e estrategicamente.

Effects of replacing Tifton-85 hay by cactus pear (Opuntia stricta Haw) on the carcass traits and meat quality of crossbred Santa Inês lambs / Efeitos da substituição do feno de Tifton-85 por palma forrageira (Opuntia stricta Haw) nas características de carcaça e qualidade da carne de cordeiros mestiços Santa Inês

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass traits of crossbred Santa Inês lambs fed with increasing levels (0, 300, 600, and 900 g kg-1 on a dry matter basis) of cactus pear cv Mexican elephant ear (Opuntia stricta Haw) as a replacement for Tifton-85 hay. Forty-eight male lambs (noncastrated), averaging 21.0 ± 2.93 kg body weight (BW) at the beginning of the study, were used in this trial. Replacement levels of Tifton hay by cactus pear affected the hot carcass and cold carcass weights and the carcass compactness index linearly (P < 0.05), but did not influence the yield of hot carcass and cold carcass, the loin eye area, conformation, finishing, and subcutaneous fat thickness, the yield of commercial cuts and tissue composition of the leg (P > 0.05). The averages of tissue components yields were: muscle 64.94%, bone 16.92%, fat 14.92%, and other tissues 2.71%. There was also no effect (P>0.05) of treatments on other measurements in Longissimus dorsi. However, there was an increasing linear effect on ether extract content (P P<0.05). ). It can be concluded that the Mexican Elephant Ear cactus pear can be used to feed finishing lambs, replacing up to 900 g kg-1 of the dry matter of the roughage, with a consequent increase in carcass weight, loin, shoulder, and leg, as well as, in the percentage of ether extract of the meat. However, it does not alter the other carcass traits and physical-chemical characteristics of the meat.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características de carcaça de ovinos mestiços Santa Inês alimentados com níveis crescentes (0, 300, 600 e 900 g kg-1 na matéria seca) de palma forrageira cv. Orelha de elefante Mexicana (Opuntia stricta Haw) como substituto para o feno de Tifton-85. Quarenta e oito cordeiros machos (não castrados), com média de 21,0 ± 2,93 kg de peso corporal (PC) no início do estudo, foram usados neste ensaio. Os níveis de substituição do feno de Tifton pela palma forrageira afetaram os pesos da carcaça quente e fria e o índice de compacidade da carcaça linearmente, mas não influenciaram o rendimento da carcaça quente e da carcaça fria, área de olho de lombo, conformação, acabamento, espessura de gordura subcutânea, rendimento dos cortes comerciais e composição do tecido da perna. As médias de rendimentos dos componentes do tecido foram: músculo 64,94%, osso 16,92%, gordura 14,92% e outros tecidos 2,71%. Também não houve efeito dos tratamentos nas outras medições no Longissimus dorsi. No entanto, houve um efeito linear crescente no teor de extrato etéreo. Pode-se concluir que a palma forrageira orelha de elefante mexicana pode ser utilizada na alimentação de cordeiros em fase de terminação, substituindo até 90% da matéria seca do volumoso, com consequente aumento do peso de carcaça, lombo, paleta e perna, bem como, na porcentagem de extrato etéreo da carne. No entanto, não altera as demais características de carcaça e as características físico-químicas da carne.(AU)

Salinity-water levels on productive performance, physiological and behavioral responses of ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês crossbred sheep / Níveis de salinidade da água no desempenho produtivo, respostas fisiológicas e comportamentais de ovelhas mestiças ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of four water salinity levels on productive performance, physiological and behavioral responses of confined sheep. Thus, 24 crossbred sheep, ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês were evaluated while receiving ration and water ad libitum. The experimental design was completely randomized, composed of four treatments (1.5; 3.0; 6.0 and 9.0 dSm-¹) and six replicates. The water supply with salinity of up to 9.0 dSm-¹ did not affect (P > 0.05) the physiological indexes, performance, or ingestive behavior of the animals, which were able to maintain normal physiological conditions even at times when the thermal comfort indexes were above the ideal. For voluntary water consumption, it was observed that there was a significant difference between treatments (P < 0.05), where animals consuming water with a conductivity of 1.5; 3.0 dSm-¹ had lower consumption than those who received six dSm-¹. The supply of water with a salinity of up to 9.0 dSm-1 did not affect the performance or the ingestive behavior of the animals, so waters with this salinity can be a valid alternative for crossbred sheep in the semi-arid region, as long as it is used seasonally and strategically.(AU)

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar a influência de quatro níveis de salinidade da água no desempenho produtivo, respostas fisiológicas e comportamentais de ovinos confinados. Assim, foram avaliados 24 ovinos mestiços, ½ Dorper x ½ Santa Inês, recebendo ração e água ad libitum. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, composto por quatro tratamentos (1,5; 3,0; 6,0 e 9,0 dSm-¹) e seis repetições. O fornecimento de água com salinidade de até 9,0 dSm-1 não afetou (P > 0,05) os índices fisiológicos, desempenho ou comportamento ingestivo dos animais, que foram capazes de manter as condições fisiológicas normais mesmo nos momentos em que os índices de conforto térmico foram acima do ideal. Para o consumo voluntário de água, observou-se que houve diferença significativa entre os tratamentos (P < 0,05), onde os animais consumiram água com condutividade de 1,5; 3,0 dSm-¹ tiveram consumo menor do que aqueles que receberam seis dSm-¹. O fornecimento de água com salinidade de até 9,0 dSm-¹ não afetou o desempenho ou o comportamento ingestivo dos animais, portanto águas com essa salinidade podem ser uma alternativa válida para ovinos mestiços no semi-árido, desde que é usado sazonalmente e estrategicamente.(AU)

Nesting behavior of stingless bees / Comportamento da nidificação de abelhas melíponas

Native bees, besides excellent producers of honey, lend a great legacy to humanity through their ability to pollinate plants and the consequent preservation of ecosystems. In this interspecific relation, bees are benefited by plant species by the provision of food (nectar and pollen), besides using their branches and trunks for lodging. However, the anthropogenic action has jeopardized the survival of stingless bees, causing irreversible environmental damage in the preservation of natural resources. This study aimed to identify the nesting habits of native bees under natural conditions. Random trails in the Curimataú micro-region of Paraíba allowed identifying nesting sites of indigenous species in their natural habitat. Sixty honeycomb nests were identified in 12 different plant species, being Commiphora leptophloeos the most preferred host (46.66%), with 55% of the entrance holes pointed to magnetic orientations between the Northeast and Northwest; a greater choice by host trees (85%); preference for nesting in host plants with a circumference of 0.98 m in diameter, entrance hole of nests of 7.77 mm in diameter, and height from the ground of 1.52 m. The obtained data showed little variety of stingless bee species in the Curimataú region of Paraíba, especially Melipona subnitida. The species Melipona asilvae, Melipona scutellaris, Partamona seridoenses, and Plebeia sp. should receive special attention not to become extinct in this region.(AU)

As melíponas, além de excelentes produtoras de mel, prestam um grande serviço à humanidade através da sua capacidade de polinizar plantas e sua consequente preservação de ecossistemas. Nessa relação interespecífica harmônica, as abelhas são beneficiadas pelas espécies vegetais pelo provimento do alimento (néctar e pólen), além de utilizarem seus galhos e troncos para se alojarem. Porém, a ação antrópica predatória tem colocado em risco a sobrevivência das melíponas, causando danos ambientais irreversíveis e comprometendo a preservação dos recursos naturais. Este trabalho objetivou identificar os hábitos de nidificação das abelhas nativas em condições naturais. Por meio de trilhas aleatórias na microrregião do Curimataú paraibano foi possível identificar os pontos de nidificação das espécies de meliponíneos em seu habitat natural. Foram identificados 60 ninhos de melíponas nidificando em 12 espécies vegetais diferentes, sendo a Commiphora leptophloeos a hospedeira de maior preferência (46,66%), com 55% dos orifícios de entrada apontados para orientações magnéticas entre o Nordeste e Noroeste; com maior escolha por hospedeiras (árvores) [85%]; apresentando preferência por nidificação em vegetais hospedeiros com circunferência de 0,98 m de diâmetro, orifício de entrada dos ninhos com 7,77 mm de diâmetro e uma altura do solo de 1,52 m; Os dados obtidos revelam pouca variedade de espécies melíponas na região Curimataú paraibano, com destaque para Melipona subnitida. As espécies Melipona asilvae, Melipona scutellaris, Partomona seridoenses e Plebeia sp. devem ter uma atenção especial para não entrarem em extinção nessa região.(AU)

Nesting behavior of stingless bees / Comportamento da nidificação de abelhas melíponas

Native bees, besides excellent producers of honey, lend a great legacy to humanity through their ability to pollinate plants and the consequent preservation of ecosystems. In this interspecific relation, bees are benefited by plant species by the provision of food (nectar and pollen), besides using their branches and trunks for lodging. However, the anthropogenic action has jeopardized the survival of stingless bees, causing irreversible environmental damage in the preservation of natural resources. This study aimed to identify the nesting habits of native bees under natural conditions. Random trails in the Curimataú micro-region of Paraíba allowed identifying nesting sites of indigenous species in their natural habitat. Sixty honeycomb nests were identified in 12 different plant species, being Commiphora leptophloeos the most preferred host (46.66%), with 55% of the entrance holes pointed to magnetic orientations between the Northeast and Northwest; a greater choice by host trees (85%); preference for nesting in host plants with a circumference of 0.98 m in diameter, entrance hole of nests of 7.77 mm in diameter, and height from the ground of 1.52 m. The obtained data showed little variety of stingless bee species in the Curimataú region of Paraíba, especially Melipona subnitida. The species Melipona asilvae, Melipona scutellaris, Partamona seridoenses, and Plebeia sp. should receive special attention not to become extinct in this region.

As melíponas, além de excelentes produtoras de mel, prestam um grande serviço à humanidade através da sua capacidade de polinizar plantas e sua consequente preservação de ecossistemas. Nessa relação interespecífica harmônica, as abelhas são beneficiadas pelas espécies vegetais pelo provimento do alimento (néctar e pólen), além de utilizarem seus galhos e troncos para se alojarem. Porém, a ação antrópica predatória tem colocado em risco a sobrevivência das melíponas, causando danos ambientais irreversíveis e comprometendo a preservação dos recursos naturais. Este trabalho objetivou identificar os hábitos de nidificação das abelhas nativas em condições naturais. Por meio de trilhas aleatórias na microrregião do Curimataú paraibano foi possível identificar os pontos de nidificação das espécies de meliponíneos em seu habitat natural. Foram identificados 60 ninhos de melíponas nidificando em 12 espécies vegetais diferentes, sendo a Commiphora leptophloeos a hospedeira de maior preferência (46,66%), com 55% dos orifícios de entrada apontados para orientações magnéticas entre o Nordeste e Noroeste; com maior escolha por hospedeiras (árvores) [85%]; apresentando preferência por nidificação em vegetais hospedeiros com circunferência de 0,98 m de diâmetro, orifício de entrada dos ninhos com 7,77 mm de diâmetro e uma altura do solo de 1,52 m; Os dados obtidos revelam pouca variedade de espécies melíponas na região Curimataú paraibano, com destaque para Melipona subnitida. As espécies Melipona asilvae, Melipona scutellaris, Partomona seridoenses e Plebeia sp. devem ter uma atenção especial para não entrarem em extinção nessa região.

Predicting the carcass characteristics of Morada Nova lambs using biometric measurements

The objective of this work was to use biometric measurements to predict carcass characteristics of lambs of the Morada Nova breed. We used 48 lambs with mean initial body weight (BW) of 15.0±0.04 kg and slaughter body weight (SBW) of 26.37±2.43 kg. The animals were weighed weekly and underwent a period of adaptation of 15 days before slaughter. The biometric measurements were obtained the day before slaughter, comprising body length, withers height, rump height, thigh length, breast width, rump width, thigh perimeter, rump perimeter, thorax perimeter, leg length, and body condition score. Additional measurements included slaughter BW and empty BW (EBW). The data recorded at slaughter comprised the weights of the viscera, carcass, and internal fat and offal. The in vivo measurements of body length were present in most of the equations for predicting the SBW, EBW, hot carcass weight (HCW), and cold carcass weight (CCW). The SBW and EBW presented a variation of approximately 9%. The variables that evaluated the carcass, HCW, and CCW demonstrated less data variation than SBW and EBW, which was probably because these measurements were obtained following evisceration and skinning, thus removing factors of more significant variation in vivo . The prediction models found in the present study varied with an R² of 0.49-0.93, indicating high levels of variation. In sum, biometric measurements can be used to predict the carcass characteristics of Morada Nova lambs with different body conditions.(AU)

Optimizing the use of spineless cactus in the finishing diet of lambs: physicochemical properties and sensory characteristics of meat.

BACKGROUND: The use of spineless cactus in finishing diets for lambs improves the carcass quality. However, data about its influence on meat traits is very scarce. The effects of spineless cactus inclusion in the finishing diet of lambs at four levels (0, 150, 300 and 450 g kg-1 of dry matter, DM) in replacement of Tifton hay on the physicochemical and sensory properties of meat were studied. RESULTS: The spineless cactus modified the chemical composition increasing the protein (P < 0.001) and the fat (P < 0.01) contents of meat, presenting the greatest values in lambs fed diets with 150 and 300 g kg-1 (DM) replacing levels, respectively. However, the spineless cactus did not influence the growth performance from 23.7 to 37.3 kg of body weight (on average). In addition, colour parameters of the meat were not affected by the inclusion of spineless cactus in the finishing diet of lambs, resulting in mean values of 37.55, 14.96 and 8.49 for lightness, redness and yellowness, respectively. There were no statistical differences among treatments for cooking loss and shear force, with mean values of 34.8% and 14.8 N, respectively. Finally, the sensorial properties were not affected by the inclusion of spineless cactus in the finishing diet of lambs. CONCLUSION: Spineless cactus could be included up to the level of 300 g kg-1 DM in the finishing diets of lambs to increase the fat content of meat without compromising its sensorial properties. However, further studies about the fatty acid composition of meat from lambs fed diets containing spineless cactus are necessary. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Ruminal and morphometric parameters of the rumen and intestines of sheep fed with increasing levels of spineless cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck).

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ruminal parameters (pH, N-NH3, and microbial protein) and morphometry of the rumen and intestine of sheep fed with a diet containing four different levels of the spineless cactus variety, Baiana. The experiment was conducted at the National Semi-Arid Institute in Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. A total of 40 male sheep submitted to the confinement regime were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0, 15, 30, and 45% dry matter basis) and ten replicates, with an initial body weight of 23.7 ± 3.08 kg. Experimental diets were composed of ground corn, soybean meal, urea, mineral supplement, limestone, Tifton 85 hay, and spineless cactus of the Baiana variety. The pH, ammonia nitrogen, and microbial protein were evaluated in the ruminal fluid, alongside the morphometric characteristics of the rumen and intestine. While the addition of the spineless cactus did not affect N-NH3, it caused a linear reduction in the ruminal pH following 4 h of feeding, and also increased the microbial protein. In addition, it stimulated a reduction in the height of the papillae and the muscle layer of the rumen, and induced the mucosal height in the intestine to increase. The addition of up to 30% of spineless cactus in the diet of sheep without a defined breed did not alter the N-NH3, pH, and ruminal histology, but it did increase the production of microbial protein and intestinal mucosa.

The use of guava byproduct in the production of feedlot sheep in Brazil: impacts on the productive and economic performance

This study evaluated the effects of replacing ground corn with dehydrated guava (Psidium guajava L.) byproduct, at concentrations of 0.0, 8.2, 16.4, and 24.6% on the intake and digestibility of nutrients as well as on productive and economic performance of lambs. The study included 40 uncastrated feedlot Santa Inês sheep with an average age of 120 days and an average initial weight of 17.4±1.27 kg, distributed in individual stalls in a completely randomized design with four treatments and 10 replicates. Santa Inês sheep fed diets containing higher levels (16.4%) of guava byproduct showed lower weight gain and feed conversion and reached slaughter weight later. Replacing corn with guava byproduct at higher levels increased acid detergent fiber and reduced non-fiber carbohydrate intake and nutrient digestibility. The inclusion of up to 16.4% of guava byproduct in the diet of feedlot sheep is appropriate for maintaining good performance and economic viability of the system.(AU)

Determining a model to estimate leaf area in Pornunça (Manihot sp. ) using morphometric measures / Determinação de modelo para estimar área foliar da Pornunça (Manihot sp. ), utilizando medidas morfométricas

Pornunça is a species of the genus Manihot that has been cultivated as an option for animal feeding in the Brazilian semi-arid. Leaf area (LA) is important to determine forage plant growth, whose evaluation model has to meet the following characteristics: practicality, precision and low cost. The objective of this study was to set a model to determine the leaf area in Pornunça (Manihot sp.) from morphometric measurements of the leaf. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with three methods for determination of leaf area, and three blocks, with 144 replicates (leaves). For the determination of LA, the direct method (FAReal), treadmill leaf area meter (Li-Color 3100©) and linear dimensions were used. Data were subjected to regression analysis. There was a relationship between the actual leaf area (FAReal) for small, medium, large and total leaves, and the leaf area determined by the treadmill leaf area meter (FALi-Cor©) with a high coefficient of determination for linear fit. The Pornunça leaf area obtained by the Li-Cor3100© meter is approximately 10% lower compared to the FAReal method. The model that best fit the Ponunça leaf area estimation was the potential.

A Pornunça é uma espécie do gênero Manihot que está sendo cultivada como opção para alimentação animal no semiárido do Brasil. A área foliar (AF) é importante para determinar o crescimento de planta forrageira, e a avaliação tem que reunir as seguintes características: praticidade, precisão e baixo custo. O estudo objetivou estabelecer um modelo para determinar a área foliar da Pornunça (Manihot sp.) a partir de medidas morfométricas da folha. O delineamento experimental foi realizado em blocos ao acaso, com três tratamentos (métodos de determinação de área foliar) e três blocos, com o total de 144 repetições (folhas). Para determinação da AF, utilizou-se o método direto (AFReal), medidor de área foliar tipo esteira (Li-Cor 3100©) por meio das dimensões lineares. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de regressão. Houve uma relação entre a área foliar real (AFReal) para folhas pequenas, médias, grandes e total, e a área foliar determinada pelo medidor de área foliar tipo esteira (AFLi-Cor©) apresentou coeficiente de determinação elevado para o ajuste linear. A área foliar da Pornunça obtida pelo medidor Li-Cor3100© é de aproximadamente 10%, inferior, em comparação ao método AFReal. O modelo que melhor se ajustou para a estimativa da área foliar da Pornunça foi o potencial.

Determining a model to estimate leaf area in Pornunça (Manihot sp. ) using morphometric measures / Determinação de modelo para estimar área foliar da Pornunça (Manihot sp. ), utilizando medidas morfométricas

Pornunça is a species of the genus Manihot that has been cultivated as an option for animal feeding in the Brazilian semi-arid. Leaf area (LA) is important to determine forage plant growth, whose evaluation model has to meet the following characteristics: practicality, precision and low cost. The objective of this study was to set a model to determine the leaf area in Pornunça (Manihot sp.) from morphometric measurements of the leaf. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with three methods for determination of leaf area, and three blocks, with 144 replicates (leaves). For the determination of LA, the direct method (FAReal), treadmill leaf area meter (Li-Color 3100©) and linear dimensions were used. Data were subjected to regression analysis. There was a relationship between the actual leaf area (FAReal) for small, medium, large and total leaves, and the leaf area determined by the treadmill leaf area meter (FALi-Cor©) with a high coefficient of determination for linear fit. The Pornunça leaf area obtained by the Li-Cor3100© meter is approximately 10% lower compared to the FAReal method. The model that best fit the Ponunça leaf area estimation was the potential.(AU)

A Pornunça é uma espécie do gênero Manihot que está sendo cultivada como opção para alimentação animal no semiárido do Brasil. A área foliar (AF) é importante para determinar o crescimento de planta forrageira, e a avaliação tem que reunir as seguintes características: praticidade, precisão e baixo custo. O estudo objetivou estabelecer um modelo para determinar a área foliar da Pornunça (Manihot sp.) a partir de medidas morfométricas da folha. O delineamento experimental foi realizado em blocos ao acaso, com três tratamentos (métodos de determinação de área foliar) e três blocos, com o total de 144 repetições (folhas). Para determinação da AF, utilizou-se o método direto (AFReal), medidor de área foliar tipo esteira (Li-Cor 3100©) por meio das dimensões lineares. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de regressão. Houve uma relação entre a área foliar real (AFReal) para folhas pequenas, médias, grandes e total, e a área foliar determinada pelo medidor de área foliar tipo esteira (AFLi-Cor©) apresentou coeficiente de determinação elevado para o ajuste linear. A área foliar da Pornunça obtida pelo medidor Li-Cor3100© é de aproximadamente 10%, inferior, em comparação ao método AFReal. O modelo que melhor se ajustou para a estimativa da área foliar da Pornunça foi o potencial.(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.(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.

Detoxified castor meal in substitution of soybean meal in sheep diet: growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat yield.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intake, digestibility, performance, and carcass characteristics of lambs fed different levels of replacement (0, 15, 30, and 45 % based on dry matter, DM) of soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor meal (DCM). Twenty-four and 32 intact hair lambs of nondescript breed (21.7 ± 2.6 kg of initial average body weight and approximately 10 months old) were used, respectively, in the intake and digestibility and performance experiments. The diets were composed of buffel grass hay, ground corn grain, and different levels of SM, DCM, and urea, in a roughage-to-concentrate ratio of 40:60. There was no effect of treatments on DM intake. However, crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intakes were higher at 30 and 45 % than at 0 and 15 % of DCM, which in turn showed higher intake of non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) (P < 0.05). The organic matter, CP, and NDF digestibilities were not affected, but the digestibility of NFC was lower at 30 and 45 % than at 0 % of DCM (P < 0.05). The average daily gain, feed conversion, slaughter and carcass weights, chilling losses, ribeye area, and absolute values and yields of neck, ribs, loin, and leg were not affected. However, the carcass yield was lower at 45 % of DCM and the absolute value of shoulder was lower at 30 and 45 % of DCM (P < 0.05). The replacement of SM by DCM up to 45 % in the feed of lambs did not negatively affect the intake, digestibility, performance, and main carcass features.

Measurements in vivo and of carcasses and constituents non-carcasses of sheep fed with different levels of guava agroindustrial by-product / Medidas in vivo e da carcaça e constituintes não carcaça de ovinos alimentados com diferentes níveis do subproduto agroindustrial da goiaba

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar a biometria, morfometria e os órgãos não-componentes da carcaça de ovinos Santa Inês, em confinamento, alimentadas com níveis crescentes (0; 20; 40 e 60% na matéria seca) de subproduto agroindustrial da goiaba como um substituto para o milho. Quarenta ovinos Santa Inês, machos (não castrados), com média de 17,41 ± 1,27kg de peso corporal (PC) e 120 dias de idade no início do estudo, foram utilizados neste experimento. Os animais foram abatidos aos 32kg ou 105 dias de confinamento. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com dez repetições por tratamento. Os animais submetidos a dietas com 60% de substituição apresentaram menor comprimento corporal (63,20cm), menor altura de cernelha (67,30cm) e de garupa (69,50 cm), baixo escore de condição corporal (2,40 pts), carcaças de conformação inferior (2,25 pts), menor perímetro do tórax (65,10cm) e baixos rendimentos de órgãos como coração (0,52%), baço (0,15%), rins (0,25%) e pulmão (0,89%). O milho pode ser substituído pelo subproduto da goiaba em níveis de até 40%, sendo relevante a obtenção de animais com características corporais desejáveis para produção de carne e com rendimento de órgãos não constituintes da carcaça satisfatórios ao mercado.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometrics, morphometry and the organs do non-constituents of the carcass of feedlot Santa Inês sheep fed with increasing levels (0; 20; 40 and 60% dry matter basis) of guava agroindustrial by-products as a replacement for corn. Forty male (noncastrated) Santa Inês sheep, averaging 17.41 ± 1.27 kg body weight (BW) and 120 days of age at the beginning of the study, were used in this trial. The animals were slaughtered at 32 kg or 105 days of confinement. A completely randomized design with ten replicates per treatment was used. The animals submitted to diets with 60% substitution showed lower body length (63.20cm), lower withers height (67.30cm) and hip (69.50cm), low body condition score (2.40 pts), lower carcass of conformation (2.25 pts), lower chest perimeter (65.10cm) and low yields of organs such as heart (0.52%), spleen (0.15%), kidneys (0, 25%) and lung (0.89%). Corn can be replaced by guava agroindustrial by-product at levels up to 40%, being relevant to obtain animals with body characteristics desirable for meat production and yield of organs non-constituents of carcass satisfactory to the market.(AU)

Measurements in vivo and of carcasses and constituents non-carcasses of sheep fed with different levels of guava agroindustrial by-product / Medidas in vivo e da carcaça e constituintes não carcaça de ovinos alimentados com diferentes níveis do subproduto agroindustrial da goiaba

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar a biometria, morfometria e os órgãos não-componentes da carcaça de ovinos Santa Inês, em confinamento, alimentadas com níveis crescentes (0; 20; 40 e 60% na matéria seca) de subproduto agroindustrial da goiaba como um substituto para o milho. Quarenta ovinos Santa Inês, machos (não castrados), com média de 17,41 ± 1,27kg de peso corporal (PC) e 120 dias de idade no início do estudo, foram utilizados neste experimento. Os animais foram abatidos aos 32kg ou 105 dias de confinamento. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com dez repetições por tratamento. Os animais submetidos a dietas com 60% de substituição apresentaram menor comprimento corporal (63,20cm), menor altura de cernelha (67,30cm) e de garupa (69,50 cm), baixo escore de condição corporal (2,40 pts), carcaças de conformação inferior (2,25 pts), menor perímetro do tórax (65,10cm) e baixos rendimentos de órgãos como coração (0,52%), baço (0,15%), rins (0,25%) e pulmão (0,89%). O milho pode ser substituído pelo subproduto da goiaba em níveis de até 40%, sendo relevante a obtenção de animais com características corporais desejáveis para produção de carne e com rendimento de órgãos não constituintes da carcaça satisfatórios ao mercado.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometrics, morphometry and the organs do non-constituents of the carcass of feedlot Santa Inês sheep fed with increasing levels (0; 20; 40 and 60% dry matter basis) of guava agroindustrial by-products as a replacement for corn. Forty male (noncastrated) Santa Inês sheep, averaging 17.41 ± 1.27 kg body weight (BW) and 120 days of age at the beginning of the study, were used in this trial. The animals were slaughtered at 32 kg or 105 days of confinement. A completely randomized design with ten replicates per treatment was used. The animals submitted to diets with 60% substitution showed lower body length (63.20cm), lower withers height (67.30cm) and hip (69.50cm), low body condition score (2.40 pts), lower carcass of conformation (2.25 pts), lower chest perimeter (65.10cm) and low yields of organs such as heart (0.52%), spleen (0.15%), kidneys (0, 25%) and lung (0.89%). Corn can be replaced by guava agroindustrial by-product at levels up to 40%, being relevant to obtain animals with body characteristics desirable for meat production and yield of organs non-constituents of carcass satisfactory to the market.