The impact of the optical radiation spectrum of artificial lighting on the milk producing ability of cows

Abstract

Artificial lighting is of considerable importance in livestock industry. If there is sufficient light flux and optimal spectral composition, it can have a substantial impact on the comfortable condition of cows, and, as a result, on milk producing ability. The sensitivity of the cow’s eye to optical radiation is varied in the range of the visible spectrum, and its visual apparatus is adapted to recognize natural different types of feed. The leaves of plants take up visible radiation in the red and blue regions of the spectrum, while they reflect intensely in the near-infra-red region. Consequently, cows, having the ability to perceive near-infrared radiation, can give favor to higher-quality feed, the consumption of which, among other things, will increase milk producing ability. The findings of the studies demonstrate that the cow’s eye reacts to near-infrared radiation, and the combined lighting contributes to a more adequate behavior of the animals, which in turn has a positive effect on milk producing ability.