Work

Effects of Heat Stress on Goat Production and Mitigating Strategies: A Review

Year: 2024

Type: review

Abstract: Goats, versatile creatures selectively bred for various purposes, have become pivotal in shaping the socioeconomic landscape, particularly in rural and economically challenged areas. Their remarkable ability to withstand and adapt to extreme heat has proven invaluable, allowing them to flourish and reproduce in even the harshest climates on Earth. Goat farming has emerged as a reliable and sustainable solution for securing food resources. However, despite its significance, the goat-producing industry has received less attention than other ruminants. Despite goats' inherent resilience to heat, their productivity and reproductive performance suffer under high ambient temperatures, leading to heat stress. This presents a significant challenge for goat production, necessitating a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to mitigating the adverse effects of heat stress. This review aims to explore the diverse impacts of heat stress on goats and propose effective measures to address the sector's challenges. By understanding and addressing these issues, we can enhance the resilience and sustainability of goat farming, ensuring its continued contribution to food security and socioeconomic development.

Source: Animals

DOI: 10.3390/ani14121793

Authors: Felix Danso, Lukman Iddrisu, Shera Elizabeth Lungu, Guangxian Zhou, Xianghong Ju

Institution: Guangdong Ocean University

Language: English

Topic: Effects of Environmental Stressors on Livestock

Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,728