Articles tagged with Livestock
A study in Kenya found that grassroots dog vaccination campaigns can prevent rabies deaths, but to eliminate the disease, larger efforts are required. The efforts involved vaccinating over 13,000 dogs and raising awareness among children about rabies prevention.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a novel sperm selection technology that uses microfluidic chip technology to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) rates. The technique successfully collects and selects fertile sperm with high viability, resulting in higher fertilization rates.
Researchers warn that SARS-CoV-2 can infect various animals, posing a risk of transmission to humans. Implementing surveillance programmes is crucial to detect infected animals and prevent outbreaks.
A study presents clear opportunities to conserve what remains of Earth's ice-free land without significant human influence. The research aims to inform the upcoming global Convention on Biological Diversity and emphasizes the importance of maintaining natural lands in separating animal and human activity.
A team of experts has conducted a review study on the impact of land-use changes, such as deforestation and urbanization, on the behavior of animals and the risk of disease transmission to humans. The study reveals that there are significant gaps in understanding how these factors affect the spread of diseases from mammals to humans.
Changes in land use, such as deforestation and urbanization, alter animal behavior, leading to increased disease emergence in humans. Research highlights the need for further studies on disease spread and its link to animal ecology, pathogen ecology, and land-use change.
The study analyzed seven Latin American countries and found that widespread adoption of emission-reduction techniques is necessary to meet target. Researchers highlight barriers to adoption, including lack of access to inputs and information, and propose solutions such as formal systems of replication, subsidies, and technical assistance.
A study led by University of California, Berkeley researchers suggests that effectively reducing encounters between domestic prey and wild predators requires knowing the principles governing ecological interactions among these players and their surrounding landscape. By considering the ecology of how predators hunt, how their prey beha...
Scientists found dairy residues in ancient pots from hunter-gatherer sites in Lesotho, dating to the 1st millennium AD, confirming contact with farming communities. The discovery suggests that hunter-gatherers adopted animal husbandry techniques from their lowland counterparts.
A new study reveals a direct link between virus spillover and environmental change, which threatens wildlife populations. The research highlights how human activities such as hunting, trade, and urbanization increase the risk of virus transmission to humans.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE reveals that the people of La Bastida employed an intensive agricultural strategy, combining crops with animal husbandry to boost their food production and economic prosperity. This approach allowed them to feed a large population, increasing their productivity compared to other nearby communities.
Researchers develop a new health tracking sensor that can monitor vital signs like heart and breathing rates through fur or up to four layers of clothing. The sensor could help owners track their pets' health and improve the work of sniffer dogs used to detect bombs and missing persons.
The Himalayan wolf has been found to be a genetically distinct species adapted to harsh high-altitude environments, posing key threats from human activities such as livestock herding and illegal wildlife trade. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these ecosystems and the wolves' populations.
A global study on the impacts of human land-use found that predators and small ectotherms are disproportionately affected, with abundance reductions of 25-50% compared to natural habitats. The researchers analyzed over 1 million records from 80 countries and 25,000 species.
Researchers have identified hundreds of new viral diseases in insects, including those with negative strand RNA genomes that cause Ebola and measles. The discovery expands the database of known viruses, enabling scientists to investigate cases of rare illnesses in humans more effectively.
A fast and inexpensive device to capture and identify various strains of virus has been developed by researchers at Penn State and New York University. The VIRRION device uses arrays of nanotubes engineered to be comparable in size to a wide range of viruses, enabling rapid detection through Raman spectroscopy.
A study found that local people in Nepal's Himalayan regions have mixed views on snow leopard conservation, with some valuing the species' cultural significance and others fearing its impact on livestock. Conservation efforts that benefit both humans and snow leopards are crucial for their coexistence.
The UK veterinary profession is critically low and unprepared for a 'No Deal' Brexit, with concerns over workforce shortages, animal certification, and research. The government's lack of preparedness has been rated as red by Vet Record.
An interdisciplinary group of researchers will investigate antimicrobial use and resistance in Argentinian livestock farms, aiming to develop a complete picture of AMR levels and their environmental impact. The project will inform policy making and potential interventions to reduce antimicrobial use and AMR.
A research project from the University of Otago is developing a ryegrass variety that can be induced to flower for seed production under artificial conditions. This could lead to more productive and efficient farming, increasing productivity and reducing land use while minimizing environmental impact.
A study by Vincent Richards and colleagues found that antibiotic-resistant genes are being transmitted from humans into animal species, including livestock, companion animals, and wildlife. This reverse zoonosis is facilitated by high bacterial genome plasticity, allowing bacteria to adapt quickly to environmental changes.
The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge about underassessed foods, which represent more than half of animal production and over 25% of total food globally. The researchers argue that a more complete global food assessment is necessary to develop sensitive and versatile local solutions to environmental and food security issues.
Researchers at Clemson University examine the effects of feral hogs and elephants on livestock and livelihoods, highlighting the importance of including non-traditional culprits in human-wildlife conflict discussions. They found that these species can cause significant damage to farming infrastructure and affect local communities' perc...
A new study examines the effects of feral hogs and elephants on livestock, finding significant impacts on farming livelihoods. The research highlights the importance of considering non-carnivore species in mitigating wildlife impacts, with potential consequences for conservation efforts.
A new study reveals that despite regulations, over 60,000 exotic animals are abandoned in Spain each year, causing significant harm to the environment. The researchers argue that improving biosafety measures, training buyers, and regulating importation can help reduce this problem.
A study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that rural Amish babies had a more diverse and beneficial gut microbiome than urban babies, which led to a more robust development of the respiratory immune system. The researchers used fecal transplants from Amish babies to colonize the guts of newborn pigs, showing a connection betwe...
A study reconstructs a severe megadrought interval in Australia between 1891 and 1903, revealing widespread ecosystem impacts. The findings suggest that record rainfall deficiencies can lead to mass mortality and ecosystem collapse, with over 60 genera experiencing severe stress.
A legal framework is needed to address human-induced land use change and its impact on disease risk. Patricia Farnese proposes adaptive models and guidelines for land-use planning that consider the intersection of human activities and natural landscapes.
A new article connects future population growth, agricultural development and infectious disease, highlighting the need for balance in agriculture to prevent disease outbreaks. Solutions proposed include improving hygiene, genetic variability, education, and predictive models.
Free-roaming horses in the US West degrade landscapes and shrink biodiversity due to soil compaction, water resource domination, and over-grazing of native plant species. The authors argue that rigorous ecological research is needed to address these issues and promote scientifically sound management.
Scientists found high levels of clinically relevant AMR bacteria in urban wildlife in Nairobi, carrying a significant risk to human health. The study highlights the importance of taking an ecological approach to addressing antimicrobial resistance by improving urban planning and waste management practices.
Wild snow leopards are under threat from emerging infectious diseases, with four pathogens detected in their blood, including Coxiella burnetii and Leptospira species. This study identifies the need to establish surveillance to monitor potential disease impacts on this vulnerable population.
The study explores how humans can coexist with wolves in Europe's fragmented landscapes. Scientists recommend protecting farm animals, strengthening ungulate populations, and influencing wolf behavior through deterrence measures. The research aims to provide a balanced view of wolves' ecological value and minimize conflicts.
Scientists studied Namibian pastoralist attitudes towards human-wildlife conflicts, finding they proposed solutions that suggest tolerance for predators. The findings highlight the complexities of managing human/wildlife coexistence in agricultural areas.
Researchers from Stevens Institute of Technology have mapped the global flow of phosphorus, identifying regions with significant demand and potential for recapturing and recycling. The study highlights opportunities for increasing recycling in developing and developed economies.
International study finds sushi consumers willing to try crickets and beetles, gateway food theory holds true. Edible insect consumption linked to increased openness to new foods.
A study published in Folia Primatologica found that protecting national parks can preserve multiple mammal species, including carnivores and ungulates. Researchers observed a significant increase in species diversity within the protected area of Niokolo-Koba National Park in Senegal.
Researchers discovered a recently evolved, human specialised subspecies of the Cryptosporidium parasite, which can spread more easily between people. This finding will help public health interventions aimed at preventing the spread of diarrheal disease.
Researchers found that dogs and foxes shared similar diets with their owners, indicating domestication. The study analyzed stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in bone collagen, revealing a varied diet among the foxes, but one species showed signs of being a domestic animal.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that the type of pen a pig is shown in significantly affects how it is perceived by consumers. Straw bedding is rated as more natural and animal-friendly than concrete floors. The results suggest that even happy or sad expressions do not change perceptions of well-being.
Researchers found that territorial damselfish are not exclusively herbivores and may even engage in planktivory. These findings demonstrate adaptation to high competition for resources and highlight the importance of considering species-specific partitioning of resources.
A study found that face mask use significantly reduces the likelihood of finding drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in hog farm workers' nasal swabs. Household members of consistent face mask users also showed a significant reduction in bacterial colonization.
A new study proposes a three-step strategy to replace animal proteins with plant-sourced proteins to meet climate targets. The approach aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the risk of overshooting temperature goals.
A new review paper suggests diversifying working lands, including farmland, rangeland and forests, to preserve biodiversity. This approach can extend habitats for wildlife and create more sustainable, productive farming landscapes.
The PPR virus poses a significant threat to conservation efforts, with mass mortality events in critically endangered species like the Mongolian saiga. This highlights the urgent need for explicit inclusion of wildlife protection in the global eradication campaign.
Researchers at MU have successfully produced a litter of pigs genetically resistant to a deadly porcine virus by means of gene editing. The pigs lack the enzyme ANPEP, which is necessary for an infection, and were not infected when exposed to the TGEV virus.
A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals certain nonlethal methods are effective for managing predators in agricultural landscapes. Livestock guardian dogs, livestock enclosures, and fladry were scientifically shown to be effective conflict deterrents.
A new study reveals that while nutrients exceed average requirements, inefficiencies in the supply chain lead to nutrient losses, leaving many people deficient. The research highlights the need for a holistic approach to addressing malnutrition and food security.
Researchers found evidence of captive jaguar and puma in ancient Mesoamerica, used in rituals and trade networks across the region. Stable isotope analysis suggests some animals originated from distant regions, confirming earlier research on animal captivity and trade.
Jessica Metcalf, a microbe scientist at Colorado State University, has been awarded an early-career grant to study the impact of lifestyle changes and antibiotics on the human gut microbiome. Her research aims to understand how these factors shape the microbiome and its role in human health.
A study by Aarhus University found moderate agreement among farmers, veterinarians, and livestock drivers in evaluating cull cow lameness and fitness for transport. The researchers used video sequences to assess cow fitness, with varying levels of agreement within and between groups.
A recent study by WCS and WWF suggests that the decline of Grevy's zebras may be linked to competitive displacement by livestock, rather than lion predation. The population of Grevy's zebras is stabilizing with recruitment tripling since 2004.
A new study found that goats can differentiate between positive and negative human facial expressions and prefer to interact with the former. The researchers observed that goats spent more time approaching images of happy faces than angry ones, suggesting a preference for positive emotions.
Researchers identified specific water areas and air temperatures that can permanently eliminate mosquito populations and reduce Rift Valley fever transmission. Understanding these ecological controls is crucial for informing policy makers and developing effective disease management strategies.
China's livestock population tripled between 1980 and 2010, driven by demand and wealth, but also facilitated by subsidies and weak regulations. The transition has significant domestic and global impacts, including increased animal feed imports, GHG emissions, and nitrogen losses.
The study found that goat domestication was a complex process with genetic exchange between wild and domesticated goats, selection by early farmers, and a mix of different ancestral strands. The analysis revealed distinct patterns of genetic differentiation across the Fertile Crescent and surrounding regions.
Scientists found that microbial proteins could reduce cropland usage by 6% and nitrogen losses by 8% globally. Replacing up to 19% of animal feed with microbial proteins could lower greenhouse gas emissions by 7% by 2050.
Research suggests that smarter animals are more likely to cause conflicts with humans as they learn to exploit resources and evade deterrents. This includes learning to avoid human-made barriers and accessing restricted areas.
The discovery of ancient tetrapod fossils in South Africa suggests that four-limbed animals evolved in environments beyond tropical regions. The presence of these animals near the poles raises questions about the role of high-latitude environments in their evolutionary transition.
A study published in Biological Conservation identified suitable areas for wolf expansion in Sweden, aiming to increase social acceptance and reduce conflicts. The researchers found that expanding the wolf population to southern Sweden and the reindeer husbandry area could decrease densities in high-conflict areas.