Ciência Rural (May 2022)

Key points for the thermal comfort of water buffaloes in Eastern Amazon

  • Alexandre Rossetto Garcia,
  • Lílian Kátia Ximenes Silva,
  • Daniel Vale Barros,
  • José de Brito Lourenço Junior,
  • Lucieta Guerreiro Martorano,
  • Leila Sheila Silva Lisboa,
  • Jamile Andrea Rodrigues da Silva,
  • José Silva de Sousa,
  • Aluízio Otávio Almeida da Silva

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/0103-8478cr20210544
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 53, no. 1

Abstract

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ABSTRACT: This study presented relevant aspects about the Amazonian environment and how it impacts the thermal comfort of domestic buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) raised in the Eastern Amazon. Furthermore, strategies for monitoring and mitigating animal heat stress are presented, based on research results with the species. Although domestic buffaloes are considered adaptable animals, exposure to intense solar radiation causes thermal discomfort. This condition is expressed in biophysical indicators, in metabolic, endocrine, behavioral responses, and in body thermographic patterns. Therefore, the biometeorological monitoring of production is crucial to support decision-making regarding environmental management strategies, genetic selection of thermotolerant individuals, and increase in animal welfare. Lastly, the use of silvopastoral systems can help to provide higher thermal comfort, which is a condition that directly impacts the productivity of milk and meat buffaloes when they are raised in tropical regions, such as in the Eastern Amazon.

Keywords