Articles tagged with Livestock
A new analysis of over 12,000 outbreaks affecting 44 million people worldwide reveals a rising trend in global infectious disease outbreaks, with 65% caused by zoonoses. Despite this increase, the impact of outbreaks is declining on a per capita basis.
Research from Durham University found that Alpine Chamois have decreased in body size over the past 30 years, with young animals now weighing 25% less than those of the same age in the 1980s. The study suggests that climate change is affecting how chamois behave, leading to reduced body size.
A Washington State University study found that consumers are willing to pay a 10 percent premium for environmentally labeled meat products, leading to significant water savings in livestock production. The research suggests that moderate price premiums can have a greater impact on water conservation than high premiums for niche products.
Researchers at Duke University found that controlled grazing by goats can reduce phragmites stem density by half in three weeks. The approach also restores native plant species diversity and function, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical herbicides.
Researchers identified 230 SNPs associated with climate change and found that gene TBC1D12 became advantageous in colder climates, suggesting a link between sunlight and vegetation availability. The study could inform breeding practices for more resilient livestock breeds.
Researchers found that a muscle, called axochord, runs along the midline of marine worm Platynereis, similar to where the notochord would be in chordates. This discovery suggests that the notochord may have evolved from a muscle-based structure in an ancient ancestor.
The US National Science Foundation, NIH, and USDA have awarded over $12 million in new research grants to study the ecological and biological mechanisms behind human-induced environmental changes and infectious diseases. Researchers will investigate topics such as landscape structure on disease dynamics and host vaccinations' impact on...
A new study reveals that nearly half of hog workers in North Carolina carry livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus, with 46% persistently carrying the bacteria up to four days after exposure. The drug-resistant strains have implications for public health, potentially spreading to family members and communities.
Researchers used GPS technology to study sheepdog behavior, finding that they employ two basic rules: collecting dispersed sheep and driving aggregated ones forward. This model can be applied to various fields like livestock management, environmental cleanup, and robotics.
Researchers found that wild sheep with higher tolerance to nematode infection produced more offspring, while those with lower tolerance left fewer descendants. The study provides groundwork for boosting human and livestock resilience to infection.
A new study suggests that improving food systems on specific regions and crops can boost global food security and protect the environment. The report identifies key leverage points for reducing environmental impacts and increasing food production in six countries: China, India, U.S., Brazil, Indonesia, and Pakistan. Closing the yield g...
Research at Aarhus University found that children raised on farms have lower risk of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The study suggests a correlation between urbanization and rising incidence rates of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Scientists have developed a technique to control the population of the Australian sheep blowfly by genetically modifying female flies to require a common antibiotic to survive. This approach allows for the separation of male and female larvae, enabling the use of male-only genetic control programs to reduce blowfly populations.
Researchers discover protein toxic to nematodes, protecting fungus and plant roots from parasites. The toxin docks on modified sugar structures, paving the way for novel vaccines against parasites and pathogenic germs.
A new study suggests that Tanzanian communities are rejecting the traditional practice of rewarding lion hunters for killing non-threatening lions, which could help conserve endangered species.
The IPCC report highlights the urgent need for actions to adapt to climate change and ensure food production and security. Innovative solutions, such as improved crop varieties and livestock breeds, can significantly lessen negative impacts.
Eight international scientists propose eight sustainable livestock strategies to cut costs while boosting the quantity and quality of food produced. These include feeding animals less human food, raising regionally appropriate animals, and tailoring practices to local culture.
A new study reveals that targeted livestock production systems can lead to a 23% reduction in emissions from land use change within two decades. This shift would make it more profitable for farmers to expand mixed systems with higher-quality feed, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The study highlights the decline of large carnivore species worldwide, with 17 species occupying less than half of their former ranges. The authors call for an international initiative to conserve these species in coexistence with humans, citing the importance of their ecological effects and social benefits.
Research shows that livestock guarding dogs can protect farm animals from predators, resulting in a 91% reduction in livestock losses. This leads to increased tolerance of predators among farmers, allowing for greater coexistence with threatened species like cheetahs.
The University of Illinois has won Grand Challenges Explorations grants to develop a single-dose vaccine for multiple animal diseases and a system to study the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium. This funding aims to address pressing disease problems in developing nations, improving animal health and productivity.
Researchers found that probiotic Enterococcus faecium reduced pathogenic E. coli strains in piglets' intestines, promoting gut balance and reducing antibiotic use. The study suggests probiotics could substitute for antibiotics as growth promoters.
A new textbook sheds light on environmentally friendly technologies that can manage and recycle animal manure effectively and sustainably. The book highlights the need for robust interdisciplinary collaboration among professionals in environmental technology, industrial farm animal production, and agriculture to implement these solutions.
A new study by Neil Carter found that when Nepalese villagers are given control over local land management decisions, it benefits both people and tigers. The researchers showed that tigers prefer grasslands near water, which flow into nearby forests or grassy cover.
Locust swarms threaten food security in Asia, Africa, and Australia, costing billions of dollars in lost harvests. A new ASU-led project studies human behavior, market forces, and ecological systems to minimize locust outbreaks.
A study by Imperial College London finds that EU law could reduce tolerance for brown bears in Croatia, leading to increased conflict between humans and bears. The current system involving hunting ensures local support for the animals' survival, but EU legislation may disrupt this.
A study published in JAMA Network found that high exposure to swine manure in crop fields and proximity to high-density swine livestock operations increase the risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and skin and soft-tissue infections in humans.
Researchers found an association between living near pig farms and manure fertilizers with community-acquired MRSA infections. Approximately 11% of cases could be attributed to crop fields fertilized with swine manure.
Researchers have developed a method to exploit biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) in Brachiaria grasses, which can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions and nitrogen leaching. This approach offers potential for increasing crop yields while keeping global climate change within manageable limits.
A new study suggests that anthropomorphism can be a powerful tool for promoting low-profile species in conservation projects. By understanding how people attribute value and emotions to species, conservationists can create effective programs that speak to people's cultural expectations. The research highlights the importance of conside...
A new study reveals that wolves' re-introduction to Yellowstone National Park has led to a resurgence of berries in the grizzly bear's diet, helping them gain weight before hibernation. The recovery of trees and shrubs has improved the bears' health and ecosystem balance.
A study by University of Illinois economist Peter Goldsmith highlights the need for better communication between the livestock industry and local communities. The research found that more effective communication can help reconcile important issues and build common experiences, leading to a more factual conversation.
A new study suggests that sustainable farming practices can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while improving food security. By increasing crop yields using efficient methods, such as new varieties and precision farming, farmers can cut emissions by 12% per calorie produced.
A recent study reveals that grassland fencing is threatening the survival of wild ungulates in Asia. The fencing has restricted their movement and reduced their habitat, making it harder for them to migrate and find food. This can lead to genetic isolation and increased extinction risk.
A new study found that industrial livestock workers in North Carolina carry drug-resistant bacteria associated with livestock, including Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria are resistant to multiple antibiotics and were more prevalent among workers exposed to industrial operations, which use antibiotics in animal feed and water.
Accelerating species loss threatens human well-being and survival, warns IPBES Chair Zakri Abdul Hamid. Genetic diversity among livestock and crops is declining, with 22% of domesticated breeds at risk of extinction.
A large-scale study of mosquitoes in Kenya found a diverse range of arboviruses, including West Nile, Ndumu, and Ngari viruses. Over 450,000 mosquitoes were screened, revealing previously unknown viruses with similarities to the Chaoyang virus in China.
This study explores the global nature of figs' association with humans, revealing their importance as a food source, animal fodder, and traditional medicine. Fig trees provide barkcloth, handicrafts, and other materials, emphasizing the consistent similarities in human values.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed equations to calculate phosphorus and calcium concentrations in meat and bone meal. The study found that ash content is a reliable indicator of Ca and P concentrations, allowing producers to estimate mineral levels without harming pig growth.
African lion populations face extinction due to human-lion conflicts. Fencing can protect people and wildlife; a global funding agency could fund large-scale fencing projects. The 'Marshall Plan' for African wildlife conservation is proposed by the leading lion researcher.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology successfully cloned mice multiple times using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technique, overcoming previous limitations. The study published in Cell Stem Cell reveals no accumulation of genetic or epigenetic abnormalities after repeated cloning.
Contact with captive sea turtles poses a risk of exposure to toxic contaminants and zoonotic pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The study highlights the importance of awareness among health-care professionals and the public to prevent and control the spreading of sea turtle-related disease.
The global goat population is under threat due to intensive animal husbandry systems that use a limited number of breeds. Poor handling of grazing has led to damaging environmental effects, including overloading ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.
USDA scientists identify urban runoff as a significant source of E. coli bacteria in California's middle Santa Ana River Watershed. The study found that pathogens are more often carried into waterways via urban runoff than animal production facilities, highlighting the need for improved water quality management.
Researchers at PLOS ONE found that caged mink consume fewer food treats when exposed to stimulating environments, such as water for wading. The study also showed that these animals sleep more soundly, contradicting the common notion of boredom leading to increased wakefulness.
Archaeologists uncover unique sacred compound at Tel Beth-Shemesh, shedding light on early power struggles between Philistines and local populations. The site's desecration suggests a deliberate attempt to erase a sacred site by the invading Philistines.
A new study calls for a global system to monitor infectious diseases in companion dogs and cats, which can transmit zoonotic diseases to humans. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association recommends a coordinated global disease monitoring system for veterinarians working with small companion animals.
A national research effort is underway to monitor antibiotic resistance in Australian livestock and companion animals. The study aims to provide a clearer picture of the state of Australian livestock and inform mitigation strategies.
Meat from wild animals like antelope and rodents is increasingly important in African diets due to scarcity of traditional livestock. Researchers highlight the nutritional value of bushmeat, providing protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals.
A UK-based research project is debating the future of Mongolia's rural areas and its impact on herders' livelihoods. Herders face multiple pressures due to climate change, mining and new policies on land, threatening their traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Scientists at the University of Minnesota developed a new genome editing technology called TALENS to genetically modify livestock animals. This technique allows researchers to study human diseases in animal models, potentially leading to cure development.
Sheep and goats can be trained to avoid eating olive leaves and grapevines through conditioned taste aversion, which simulates toxic components found in plants. This method reduces the need for pesticides and farming equipment while providing a nutrient-rich agricultural resource.
A reduced dietary pattern featuring less red and processed meat significantly reduces the risk of coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer by 3-12%. It also leads to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 28 million tonnes of CO2 per year.
A study published in The Veterinary Journal found that horse branding is unreliable for identification due to poor legibility and tissue damage. Researchers examined brand marks on over 250 horses and found that only a small percentage could be clearly read.
Australian scientists have discovered a new bat virus, Cedar, which is closely related to deadly Hendra and Nipah viruses. The virus does not cause illness in several animal species normally susceptible to Hendra and Nipah, providing a surprising key difference.
Researchers studying sloths on a shade-grown cacao farm in Costa Rica are gaining insights into their mating habits, behavior, and ecological parameters. The study reveals that sloths tend to disperse from home range and have multiple partners, and the cacao farm provides an ideal habitat for these animals.
Researchers at Newcastle University used biomechanical motion capture to analyze pigs' gait and identify those at risk of becoming lame. The study aims to develop a farmer-friendly system to predict leg problems and reduce lameness, improving health and welfare on UK farms.
Researchers found that estrogens convert from one form to another in anoxic conditions, stalling biodegradation and complicating detection. The study reveals a reverse transformation process, where estrone reverts to alpha- and beta-estradiols, inhibiting further degradation.
Off-label antibiotic use in farm animals poses a significant risk of promoting antibiotic resistance in humans. Canada should phase out antibiotics used for non-medical purposes in livestock and support producers who improve animal living conditions.
The UK has allocated £250M for five-year strategic investment programmes in bioscience research, including 26 strategic science programmes and 14 key national research capabilities. This funding will focus on addressing global challenges such as sustainable food production, energy security, and healthcare.