Search

Abstract Climate change significantly challenges smallholder mixed crop-livestock (MCL) systems in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), affecting food and feed production. This study enhances the SIMPLACE modeling framework by incorporating crop-vegetation-livestock models, which contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices in response to climate change. Applying such a framework in a domain in West Africa (786,500 km2) allowed us to estimate the changes in crop (Maize, Millet, and Sorghum) yield, grass biomass, livestock numbers, and greenhouse gas emission in response to future climate scenarios. We demonstrate that this framework accurately estimated the key components of the domain for the past (1981–2005) and enables us to project their future changes using dynamically downscaled Global Circulation Model (GCM) projections (2020–2050). The results demonstrate that in the future, the northern part of the study area will likely experience a significant decline in crop biomass (up to -56%) and grass biomass (up to -57%) production leading to a decrease in livestock numbers (up to -43%). Consequently, this will impact total emissions (up to -47% CH4) and decrease of -41% in milk production, and − 47% in meat production concentrated in the Sahelian zone. Whereas, in pockets of the Sudanian zone, an increase in livestock population and CH4 emission of about + 24% has been estimated, indicating that variability in climate change impact is amplifying with no consistent pattern evident across the study domain.

BackgroundTo promote gender mainstreaming in future AMR research projects and policy implementation within livestock and other systems, researchers need to embrace gender-responsive research methodologies. Ignoring gender considerations can lead to unsustainable interventions and exacerbate existing equity gaps. Incorporating gender analysis is crucial for identifying data collection needs and opportunities to develop gender-responsive research programs and policies.ObjectivesWe have developed a conceptual framework and a set of research questions designed to enhance the gender-responsiveness of AMR research in livestock systems.MethodsA narrative review previously identified three key entry points for gender dynamic impacting AMR in agricultural systems: gendered antimicrobial resistance exposure, gendered antimicrobial use and gendered outcomes of antimicrobial resistance infections. This information was then analyzed using a health system gender framework. Combining these insights, we developed a comprehensive list of research questions.ResultsWe developed comprehensive list of gender-related questions. Given the limited understanding of how gender dynamics and norms influence AMR, we have primarily proposed qualitative, exploratory questions. These questions are categorized into two types: integrated and strategic. Integrated questions offer a deeper understanding of gender dynamics and norms in livestock systems with the aim of improving them, while strategic questions focus on gender-related issues in livestock as entry points, highlighting some of the mechanisms behind these gender issues to progress towards gender equality.ConclusionAs gender-analysis in livestock research gains prominence, there is an increasing expectation for AMR researchers to integrate gender considerations into their work. This framework provides a starting point for researchers aiming to enhance gender inclusivity and considerations in AMR research within livestock systems. The next phase of our project will involve applying this framework in the field, where a real-life application will enable its validation and further refinement.

Climate change is a contemporary global challenge that requires comprehensive solutions to mitigate its adverse effects. All human activities contribute to climate change, mainly through atmospheric emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as nitrous oxide (N2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4). While most of these emissions are primarily due to fossil fuel use, agriculture and livestock production also contribute to a significant share of approximately 12% of global emissions. Most processes that are implemented within an animal husbandry unit are associated with greenhouse gas emissions, including manure management. This review explores the interconnection between climate change and manure management practices, highlighting the potential for sustainable approaches to mitigating GHG emissions. The key strategies for manure management, such as anaerobic digestion, nutrient management, composting, manure separation and treatment, and improved storage and handling, are discussed, as they are implemented in different livestock production systems (ruminants, poultry, and pigs). Despite the technological progress, there is still a place for further improving manure management approaches, especially in non-ruminant species leading to a higher mitigation potential and a reduction in greenhouse gases emissions. Moreover, policy support and incentives for sustainable practices are crucial for widespread adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change significantly challenges smallholder mixed crop-livestock (MCL) systems in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), affecting food and feed production. This study enhances the SIMPLACE modeling framework by incorporating crop-vegetation-livestock models, which contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices in response to climate change. Applying such a framework in a domain in West Africa (786,500 km2) allowed us to estimate the changes in crop (Maize, Millet, and Sorghum) yield, grass biomass, livestock numbers, and greenhouse gas emission in response to future climate scenarios. We demonstrate that this framework accurately estimated the key components of the domain for the past (1981–2005) and enables us to project their future changes using dynamically downscaled Global Circulation Model (GCM) projections (2020–2050). The results demonstrate that in the future, the northern part of the study area will likely experience a significant decline in crop biomass (up to -56%) and grass biomass (up to -57%) production leading to a decrease in livestock numbers (up to -43%). Consequently, this will impact total emissions (up to -47% CH4) and decrease of -41% in milk production, and − 47% in meat production concentrated in the Sahelian zone. Whereas, in pockets of the Sudanian zone, an increase in livestock population and CH4 emission of about + 24% has been estimated, indicating that variability in climate change impact is amplifying with no consistent pattern evident across the study domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In integrated crop-livestock systems, livestock graze on cover crops and deposit raw manure onto fields to improve soil health and fertility. However, enteric pathogens shed by grazing animals may be associated with foodborne pathogen contamination of produce influenced by fecal-soil microbial interactions. We analyzed 300 fecal samples (148 from sheep and 152 from goats) and 415 soil samples (272 from California and 143 from Minnesota) to investigate the effects of grazing and the presence of non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) or generic E. coli (gEc) in fecal and soil microbiomes. We collected samples from field trials of three treatments (fallow, a cover crop without grazing (non-graze CC), and a cover crop with grazing (graze CC)) grazed by sheep or goats between 2020 and 2022. No significant differences in non-O157 STEC prevalence were found between pre- and post-grazing fecal samples in either sheep or goats. However, gEc was more prevalent in graze CC soils compared to fallow or non-graze CC soils. Alpha diversity was influenced by the species of grazing animals and the region, as sheep fecal samples and soil from the California trials had greater alpha diversity than goat fecal samples and soil from the Minnesota trials. Beta diversity in sheep fecal samples differed by the presence or absence of non-O157 STEC, while in goat fecal samples, it differed between pre- and post-grazing events. Actinobacteria was negatively associated with non-O157 STEC presence in sheep fecal samples and decreased in post-grazing goat fecal samples. Grazing did not significantly affect soil microbial diversity or composition, and no interaction was observed between post-grazing fecal samples and the graze CC soil. The results suggest that soil contamination by foodborne pathogens and microbiome dynamics in ICLS are influenced by grazing animal species and regional factors, with interactions between fecal and soil microbial communities having minimal impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feed availability and accessibility are two of the main challenges for Benin livestock systems, which are currently subject to environmental stress and changing climatic conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the main fodder resources used by livestock in Benin by estimating fodder supply and demand for livestock in Benin's agroecological zones (AEZs) and establishing a fodder balance. A total of 314 agrofarmers were surveyed using simple random sampling. Data were collected through discussions with agropastoralists, structured questionnaires, secondary data and observations. The survey in the eight AEZs of Benin revealed that maize residues are the main crop residues used in livestock feed (53.14%), followed by sorghum residues (8.41%), millet (5.91%), soya (8.1%) and rice (5). It also found that natural grazing areas are the main fodder resources used in Benin, with a dry matter contribution of 74% compared with 26% for crop residues. The study of the availability of fodder resources revealed a positive fodder balance for dry matter (DM) in each agroecological zone, but a negative balance in all AEZs for metabolizable energy (ME) and digestible crude protein (DCP). Thus, with an average annual availability of almost 3.15 million tons of DM across all Benin AEZs, zones 2, 3 and 5 had the highest DM availability rates, while AEZs 1, 7 and 8 had the lowest DM availability. To alleviate this problem of food shortages for livestock, we suggest interventions to improve the productivity of grazing areas; The introduction of fodder crops with the emphasis on legumes and efficient use of available fodder resources, such as the treatment of livestock feed (treatment of poor fodder with urea is one example). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnitude of the current environmental degradation requires an urgent restructuring of food production systems. In this sense, agroecology is considered a sustainable approach, because it provides tools to guide transition toward sustainable production systems and to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Nevertheless, it is imperative to possess evidence regarding the implementation of agroecology and current extent. The goals of this study are to compare two instruments for assessing agroecological transitions, to measure the agroecological performance of extensive livestock systems in slightly disturbed wetlands, identify agroecological elements that differentiate farm categories, and identify relationships among these elements. We evaluated 19 representative extensive livestock production ranches from central-western Argentina. We used the Characterization of Agroecological Transition (CAET) from the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE). Moreover, CAET was modified through interaction with ranchers and technicians (Adapted CAET). The results obtained with both tools revealed that the agroecological performance of extensive livestock systems is currently in transition, with an overall average of 56.9%. This suggests that there is a group of farmers implementing agroecological strategies which have the potential to drive the transition to achieve the SDGs. This research provides valuable knowledge for applying agroecology principles in minimally impacted wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effectiveness of floating covers (FCs) in mitigating ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emissions from lab-scale swine slurry pits. Lab experiments were conducted over 125 days, comparing a treatment setup with FCs covering approximately 51.6% of the slurry surface to a control setup without covers. The results showed a significant reduction in NH3 emissions by 54.4% with FCs (p < 0.05), which was attributed to their ability to limit NH3 volatilization and promote crust formation. Although H2S emissions were also reduced by 22.7%, this decrease was not statistically significant, likely due to the complex factors influencing H2S production. These findings highlight the role of floating covers (FCs) in improving air quality within swine barns and reducing environmental pollution. By minimizing nitrogen loss as ammonia (NH3), FCs enhance nitrogen recycling into agricultural land, supporting sustainable nutrient management. This aligns with broader sustainability goals by addressing air quality concerns, reducing odors, and improving resource efficiency in livestock systems. This study offers an effective method to mitigate air pollution, providing a foundation for practical and sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming has created tipping points across various ecosystems, but few studies have focused on the livestock systems. The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) has been warming at a rate two to three times greater than the global average, potentially leading to a transition from historically prevalent livestock cold stress to heat stress. This study aims to estimate the cold and heat stress exposure of livestock systems on the QTP under climate change, and identify the adaptation tipping points and disproportionate changes of livestock predominant cold-to-heat stress exposure. Livestock cold and heat stress were evaluated based on seasonal distribution and specific thresholds. The Moving- t- test and non-linear analyses were used to identify adaptation tipping points and examine disproportionate changes between the increase in heat stress and the decrease in cold stress. The adaptation tipping points of cold-to-heat stress transition for cattle have already arrived, while that for sheep would also come within this century if warming is not limited to 2 °C. As climate warming becomes more severe, the increased heat stress exposure is greater than decreased cold stress exposure, and the positive disproportionality is increasing with the rise of temperature. This study not only sheds light on the underexplored realm of tipping points within the livestock systems but also offers crucial insights into livestock adapting to the changing dynamics of cold and heat stress on the QTP in the context of global warming. [Display omitted] • Using local thresholds, our study predicts earlier, greater heat stress for Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau than global estimates. • Adaptation tipping points for cattle cold-to-heat stress have arrived; for sheep, they could be avoided if 2 °C warming is achieved. • With global warming, increased heat stress surpasses decreased cold stress, and this disproportionality grows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Recent advances in our understanding of methanogenesis have led to the development of antimethanogenic feed additives (AMFA) that can reduce enteric methane (CH 4) emissions to varying extents, via direct targeting of methanogens, alternative electron acceptors, or altering the rumen environment. Here we examine current and new approaches used for the accounting (i.e., quantification) of enteric CH 4 abatement by the use of AMFA in the livestock sector from the individual animal to the global scale. Along with this process, recommendations are provided on how to account for the mitigation potential at the animal level, as well as in farm-scale models, emissions trading schemes, life cycle assessment, and carbon (C) footprinting tools, and in regional and national inventories. In addition, an assessment of uncertainties and potential trade-offs and off-setting with the use of AMFA (i.e., efficacy vs. effectiveness, upstream and downstream emissions) is provided. The accounting of on-farm enteric CH 4 emissions and benefits from the use of AMFA starts with the ruminant animal (with estimates obtained from a range of approaches, from simple empirical emission factors or equations to complex process-based models) and goes all the way to national and supranational accounting. The choice of methodologies and levels of complexity to account for mitigation of enteric CH 4 (or total GHG) emissions in livestock systems must be tailored to the scale of analysis aimed, the availability of input data to represent contextualized conditions, and the accounting objectives (e.g., academic exercise vs. producer's GHG certification vs. national GHG inventory). The accounting of enteric CH 4 mitigating effects needs to consider the AMFA delivery methods and synergies and trade-offs of GHG emissions at levels before and beyond (upstream and downstream) the animal to fully assess the impact of AMFA use. At large, the accounting of methane abatement by feed additives remains to be fully assessed beyond experimental results (efficacy) to address pragmatism (effectiveness), potential for adoption, and societal acceptance. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conflicts within the tsetse fly belt revealed a strong correlation between the dynamics of bovine trypanosomosis and the insurgency involving farmers and herders in Nigeria and parts of West Africa. This study examined the history, causes and influence of farmers-herdsmen conflicts on banditry, terrorism and food security as it relates to the epidemiology of African animal trypanosomosis (AAT). A combination of literature database searches, semi-structured questionnaires, and mathematical modeling was employed. The study found that transhumance contributes significantly to conflicts between farmers and herdsmen. An average of 6.46 persons per attack were reported between 2005 and 2021. Only 8.4 % (95 % CI: 5.0 - 12.9) of farmers and 18.2 % (95 % CI: 12.4 - 25.4) of herdsmen have engaged in conflict resolution efforts. The study shows that both conflict and the spread of trypanosomosis can be effectively controlled when R 0 < 1 , ensuring that the sub-population remains in the basin of attraction of the trypanosomosis-conflict-free equilibrium ( T 0 c ). The partial derivative of the basic reproduction number, R 0 , with respect to improved conflict resolution, suggests that halting transhumance can prevent a portion of the cattle recruitment rate ( Λ c ) from becoming infected with AAT. Climate change exacerbates these issues, leading to settlement and resettlement strategies within the fly belt regions. The model indicates that the basic reproduction number can only be reduced to less than one ( R 0 < 1 ) to become globally asymptotically stable if there is effective conflict resolution involving both farmers and herders. The study advocates for the establishment of ranching in tsetse-free zones with adequate social amenities, improved marketing strategies for animals and animal products led by government agencies through public-private partnerships, the banning of open grazing, and strict enforcement of policies against violators., Competing Interests: Declarations. Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest. Ethical Approval: All protocols and procedures used in the field work were reviewed and approved by the University of Ibadan Animal Ethics Committtee with approval number (UI-ACUREC/App/12/2016/05)., (© 2025. Prof. Dr. Jan van der Hoeven stichting voor theoretische biologie.)

Climate change and increasing frequency of climatic perturbations could have acute impacts on the management and performances of organic farms in grassland areas. Resilience provides a framework for analyzing livestock systems in this context. The aim of this work was to propose an indicator and a novel approach to assess the resilience of organic-certified cattle and sheep farms to climatic hazards, objectivize the impacts of observed climatic hazards on agricultural practices, and define the main determinants of this resilience. We used technical, and economic data from 36 specialized cattle and sheep organic farms in the Massif Central (a mountain area in the centre of France) monitored between 2014 and 2020 together with meteorological data. Gross value added of the farms was used as a proxy of resilience. We used partial least squares (PLS) path modeling to analyze relationships between agroclimatic indicators, farming practices and gross value added, and then hierarchical clustering to construct a typology of farms with different levels of resilience. The gross value added of the studied farms was strongly positively linked to herd output and negatively linked to feed purchased. Good weather conditions for autumn grazing and grass harvesting had a negative impact on variation in forage production, feed purchases and consumption of preserved forage. Bad weather conditions for crop yields had a positive impact on consumption of preserved forage and/or grazed grass. The feeding strategies were influenced by the on-farm production of preserved forage and by off-farm feed purchases. Farmers who took advantage of good weather conditions for grass by maximizing grazing without increasing production were able to maintain the gross value added of their farm. A strategy to increase the gross value added in years where weather conditions are unfavourable to grass production was to maximize herd output even if it meant increasing forage stocks and feed purchases. Adapting livestock production systems to climate change is a major ongoing challenge for livestock sustainability. There is a dearth of observational studies and a lack of methods and indicators for investigating and assessing the climate resilience of livestock systems. This study adopted a novel original approach to address this gap by pairing technical-economic data from livestock farms with meteorological data from weather stations. [Display omitted] • Organic cattle and sheep farmers prioritize grazing to feed their animals, regardless of climatic conditions. • Purchasing forage is the main adaptation strategy used to cope with a lack of grass due to climate hazards • Maintaining herd production is essential for resilience to climatic hazards of the farms. • Trade-offs have to be found between animal productivity, forage self-sufficiency, and feed purchases. • Purchasing forage is not a viable long-term strategy, as structural adaptations will be needed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pasture acted as a net source of CO 2 to the atmosphere in both years analyzed. • Reco played a substantial role in the pasture's status as an annual source of CO 2. • Air and soil temps., rainfall, and leaf-to-stem ratio mainly drove GPP and Reco. • Pasture was a CO 2 sink during wet periods when its height was within ideal limits. • Pasture was a source of CO 2 during dry periods and when poorly managed. Tropical pastures are one of the main land uses in Brazil, forming the backbone of the country's beef and milk production chain. Adopting sustainable management practices that increase the productivity of pastoral livestock systems is essential to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure food security. However, eddy covariance studies that contribute to understanding the influence of grazing management strategies on the ability of intensively grazed tropical pastures to absorb carbon remain scarce. Therefore, our main objective was to investigate the dynamics of CO 2 and water vapor exchange and biomass production in a tropical C4 grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum. cv. Cameroon) pasture under intermittent stocking management strategies from March 2021 to June 2023. We found that the pasture acted as a net source of CO 2 to the atmosphere in both years studied. The annual NEE was 34 ± 14 g CO 2 -C m−2 yr−1 in 2021–2022 and 21 ± 12 g CO 2 -C m−2 yr−1 in 2022–2023. Reco, influenced by rising air and soil temperatures, increased rainfall, and higher incoming solar radiation levels, especially during spring and summer, played a crucial role in this result. The pasture absorbed more CO 2 , showed higher evapotranspiration, and produced more leaves in the rainy periods when the pasture structure was kept close to the previously established management targets. CO 2 losses to the atmosphere prevailed in the dry periods and in wet periods where the pasture structure was far from the optimal limits for elephant grass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • "Low Carbon Brazilian Beef" was associated with positive perception and environment. • Socio-demographic traits and green consumption values influenced perception. • Regular consumers of beef associated LCBB with the environment. • Occasional consumers of beef highlighted consumption and culinary preparations. • Different identified consumer's niches may help guiding communication strategies. "Low Carbon Brazilian Beef" (LCBB) represents a Brazilian concept brand that certifies livestock systems adopting specific technical guidelines to minimize methane gas emissions from cattle. Understanding consumers' perceptions of this brand concept can help develop strategies to promote its consumption. The objective of this study was to investigate the perception of Brazilian consumers living in the state of Rio de Janeiro regarding the LCBB through free word association and to evaluate the influence of socio-demographic variables, green consumption values and frequency of beef consumption in associations. To this end, an online study was conducted with 851 beef consumers. The LCBB was frequently associated to the dimensions "Consumption and culinary preparations", "Positive perceptions", "Associations with the environment", "Sensory attributes", "Health and nutrition", "Production system" and "Economic aspects". Socio-demographic characteristics, green consumption values and frequency of beef consumption significantly influenced consumer perception (p ≤ 0.05). Associations with the environment were more frequently mentioned by women, individuals aged 46–55, those with higher educational and income levels, regular beef consumers, and individuals with high values of green consumption. On the other hand, individuals aged between 18 and 35 years, with lower levels of education and income, as well as those with occasional beef consumption and lower green consumption values, associated LCBB more frequently with sensory and hedonic attributes of the meat. These results may be relevant for identify different consumer niches for LCBB and for guide the development of communication and marketing strategies that contribute to the adoption of this sustainable technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote sensing has shown potential to provide accurate and real-time information on grassland forage quality, crucial for the management of livestock systems. However, there are still uncertainties that must be considered to make models reliable and practical. A source of discrepancy regards the measurement unit describing forage quality variables, namely either mass-based concentration (%) or mass per surface area content (kg ha−1). Furthermore, phenological patterns largely influence grassland reflectance and have a strong impact on model accuracy. Also, the generalisation of empirical models in heterogeneous grasslands can hinder their applicability. 1) Assess the suitability of retrieving forage quality parameters as concentration (%) versus content (kg ha−1). 2) Investigate the performance of multitemporal compared to phenophase-specific models. 3) Evaluate the generalisation ability of the models. Samples were collected from five farms to determine Dry Matter Yield (DMY) and both, concentration (%) and content (kg ha−1) of forage quality variables including crude protein (CP), neutral and acid detergent fibre (NDF, ADF), and enzyme digestibility of organic matter (EDOM). The relationship between forage quality variables and DMY were analysed by Pearson Correlations and Principal Component Analysis. Reflectance was recorded with a FieldSpec spectroradiometer. Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) was used to explore the relationship between forage variables and reflectance. The forage quality variables were strongly correlated to DMY when expressed as content (kg ha−1) r>0.83 but not when expressed as concentration (%). For the best predicted variables, CP and NDF, the results of the PLSR models indicated better performance in concentration-based estimation. CP% was the best predicted variable (R2 cv =0.8, NRMSE cv =9.8 %). Multitemporal models showed overall higher performance (CP%, R2 cv =0.81) than phenophase-specific models (CP%, R2 cv =0.60 green, R2 cv =0.70 green-senescent and R2 cv <0 senescent grasslands). The generalisation ability was low and varied among farms (R2 test 0–0.60). The use of concentration (%) is more accurate and representative of forage quality than content (kg ha−1), which seemed redundant with DMY and misleading from the true nutritive value for livestock. Multitemporal models performed better than phenophase-specific models due to their larger range of values. The ability to predict forage quality in senescent grasslands is low. The usefulness of the models is context-dependent, and their application requires knowledge of the limitations and status of the grasslands. Efforts must be directed toward improving the generalisation ability through the development of models calibrated with larger and more diverse datasets. • Forage quality expressed as concentration (%) is more representative of the nutritive value than as content (kg ha−1). • Forage quality as content (kg ha−1) is redundant with dry matter yield. • Multitemporal models have better performance than phenophase-specific models. • Generalisation ability of empirical models in Mediterranean grasslands is poor. • The usefulness of the models to predict forage quality is context-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper combines theoretical insights from vulnerability literature and interpretive paradigm using a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to examine smallholder farmers' climate perception, adaptation strategies, and challenges under the rural enterprise programme interventions in the Kintampo South district of Ghana. The farmers reported rainfall variability and rising temperatures as their key observed changes. The study revealed that climate impacts on farmers and their agricultural systems are multidimensional, which affect their productive capacity and livelihoods. These impacts have pushed them to adopt adaptation strategies with the support of the programme interventions. The farmers benefitted from material and non-material resources, minimizing climate impacts and reducing vulnerabilities. The paper provides critical insights into how future agricultural development interventions could develop effective interventions to build sustainable agricultural systems and livelihoods that are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable communities and obviate smallholder farmers' vulnerability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few strategies have been developed to effectively delineate management zones (MZs) in crop-pasture rotation (CPR) systems that accommodate site-specific management for multiple crops using a single map. This study aimed to propose and evaluate several feature selection approaches that account for multiple crops in CPR systems and propose a framework for MZ delineation in CPR systems that results in a single MZ map. The feature selection approaches were based on the spatial correlation between attributes (soil, crops, and terrain attributes) and yield variables (grain and pasture yield, spatial trend of yield, and yield temporal stability). This study was conducted in an area with an integrated crop-livestock system, featuring the CPR of soybean and pasture. The results showed that the approach based on yield temporal stability was the most effective for selecting relevant attributes used in the MZ delineation in CPR systems, resulting in greater differentiation among MZs. A higher number of MZs was needed (four zones), emphasizing the importance of carefully selecting the number based on variance reduction and yield differences to ensure that the final MZ map reflects the variability across all crops and guides their integrated management. The proposed framework is one of the first to use yield temporal stability for feature selection specifically aimed at delineating MZs in CPR systems. This approach improves the ability to select significant attributes used in the MZs delineation process, providing a better solution for improving input use efficiency and maximizing grain and pasture yield in integrated farming systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmer-herder conflicts are an enduring theme in agrarian studies. Several prominent studies suggest that competition over natural resources leads to the breakdown of cooperative relationships, which in turn promotes conflict between these two groups. Few works, however, provide empirical environmental evidence to support these claims. We present a case study of Fulbe pastoralists and Mossi farmers in Burkina Faso who interact in an area that was once empty and is now saturated. Combining ethnographic fieldwork with the spatial analysis of archival maps we describe a pattern of Mossi agricultural encroachment and enclosure of a Fulbe pastoral zone. Contrary to conventional wisdom, this has not resulted in increased conflict but instead fostered cooperation between the two groups. This is due to a unique process of pastoral intensification that occurred over time. A processual approach describes the history of settlement, intensification, and land-use/land-cover change (LULCC) surrounding the pastoral zone and how this has led to greater symbiosis. This spatial model of isolation, encroachment, and saturation has the potential to productively explain similar environmental patterns of farmer-herder dynamics while this framework of pastoral intensification productively explains the process behind enhanced cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legume crops, the production of which is related to their use in animal nutrition (referred to in this study as "legumes for livestock—LL" and include species such as bean, lupin, pea, vetch and clover), have positive effects on the economic performance of farms and environmental outcomes, although their relation to sustainable weed management practices (SWMP) has received limited attention. The expansion of LL in Europe is limited due to market constraints, despite important policy incentives. This study was designed to investigate whether a policy-oriented Scenario (S1) or a market-based Scenario (S2) could induce the expansion of the cultivation of LL as well as to examine the possible impact on the economic performance of farming systems, including cost savings related to pest management. A farm typology was developed according to the level of expenses of farms for crop protection and their implemented SWMP. Using technical and economic data from 45 farms that cultivate annual arable crops in Greece, with special emphasis on LL, a Linear Programming model was constructed to examine the potential role of each one of the three identified farm types in the expansion of LL in Central Greece (Baseline Solution—BS). Following the BS, the effects of the two Scenarios were examined through a Price Parametric Programming approach. The solutions revealed that the valorization of LL had a significant economic potential for all farm types. In addition, it was found that a substantial policy incentive of increasing the coupled payments of LL by 128% (S1) can have an equivalent impact on the expansion of LL as modest levels of market interventions—through the achievement of higher yields or/and higher selling prices—to increase the revenues of LL by 59% (S2). Farms that relied more on chemical pesticides could play a more decisive role in expanding LL. The novel aspect is related to the investigation of the economic performance of different farm types cultivating LL with a specific focus on potentially higher profitability related to SWMP. Furthermore, this study contributed to the "policy versus market solutions" debate toward the expansion of LL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE), particularly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, have been consistently associated with treatment failure, high mortality and morbidity. The emergence of carbapenem resistance among ESBL-PE strains exacerbates the antimicrobial resistance. However, data are very limited in developing countries as Burkina Faso. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of carbapenemase and AmpC-β-lactamase production among ESBL-producing E. coli (ESBL-Ec) and Klebsiella spp. (ESBL-K) isolated from patients' stool in Burkina Faso. Materials and methods: From January 2020 to June 2022, we isolated 277 ESBL-PE from patients' stool in five hospitals in Burkina Faso. The strains were isolated on ESBL-selective chromogenic media and identified using API20E. The isolates were tested against 15 antimicrobial agents using the disc-diffusion method on Mueller–Hinton (MH) agar. ESBL production was confirmed by double disc synergy method. Carbapenemase and AmpC-β-lactamase production and phenotypic co-resistance were determined. Results: Among the 277 ESBL-PE strains isolated, 203 were E. coli, and 74 were Klebsiella spp. Of these bacteria, 2.9% were carbapenemase producers and 6.5% were AmpC-β-lactamase producers. The carbapenemase producers were detected at tertiary and secondary hospitals, mainly in hospitalized patients and females, whereas AmpC-β-lactamase producers were detected at all levels of healthcare, predominantly in non-hospitalized patients, male, and under 15 years of age. The co-resistance rates were as high as 82% for fluoroquinolones, 91% for aminoglycosides, and 94% for sulfonamides. Fosfomycin resistance was 2.5% for ESBL-Ec and 50% for ESBL-K. Conclusion: This study showed that ESBL-PEs co-produce carbapenemase and/or AmpC-β-lactamase. High co-resistances were reported for commonly used antibiotic agents. Therefore, screening for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) carriage is necessary to limit its spread within hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the conventional soybean (Glycine max L.) cultivation method with integrated systems in an Latossolo Vermelho Acriférrico típico and how these systems affect soil cover biomass production, initial nutrient concentration in plant residues, soil respiration and microclimate, as well as soybean growth, physiology and productivity. A comparative analysis of microclimate and soil respiration, plant physiology, and growth was conducted between a conventional soybean monoculture (soybean grown without plant residues on the soil from the previous crop) and soybean grown in soil containing maize residues. Additionally, experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of monocultures and previous integration between maize, three cultivars of Panicum maximum (Zuri, Tamani, and Quênia guinea grass) and Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan cv. BRS Mandarim) on soil health, physiological aspects, and soybean production. Our results indicated that all cultivars of Panicum maximum can be used in integrated systems. The triple consortium resulted in greater production of ground cover biomass and a higher concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur, which contributed to lower soil temperature and greater humidity, without a concomitant increase in soil respiration. Consequently, soybeans grown in the resulting integrated systems cover biomass showed a higher net photosynthesis rate and increased leaf chlorophyll index, resulting in taller plants, with higher above-ground biomass production and 21.0% and a 36.8% increase in grain yield when compared to soybean cultivated on maize biomass and on soil without cover residue, respectively. The data presented in this study demonstrated that integrated systems, with the presence of grasses and legumes, improve soil climatic conditions and nutrient availability, enhancing soybean physiology and productivity characteristics, thus contributing to the sustainability of agricultural production, even in the short term. Further long-term research is strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conceptual framework of socio-ecological systems (SES) has been used to redirect resource management practices towards more sustainable scenarios. Utilizing surveys conducted with 350 producers of a silvopastoral cattle network in southern Mexico, the structure and interactions of cattle SES were characterized. Furthermore, based on information derived from a workshop with producers, the framework was operationalized through variables representing action situations and generating outcomes in terms of management, organizational issues, and ecosystem services. This participatory exercise allowed for the identification of locally relevant sustainability components and ranges that can be generalized to other similar SES in Latin America, specific socio-ecological challenges, and potential actions leading to maximizing the sustainability of silvopastoral ranches in the tropics. Challenges include an excessive number of intermediaries, labor conditions accentuating poverty, marketing chains inaccessible to small scale producers, and low diversification. These issues can be addressed within the cattle SES through technical and financial support from involved governmental institutions and strengthening the local governance system. This work bridges gaps in cattle research by highlighting that sustainable intensification through the establishment of silvopastoral systems is possible within specific ranges, and sustainability can be defined, understood, and built by producers from the territories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The issue of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration is a significant concern in animal health facilities globally. The existence of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration can be mainly associated with inadequate inventory control, store management, and a lack of effective pharmaceutical regulatory policies and guidelines. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate expired veterinary pharmaceuticals' scope, economic impact, and contributing factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, explanatory sequential study design involving a mixed quantitative and qualitative approach was employed among 13 animal health facilities from March 2022 to December 2023 in and around Dessie town, South Wollo, Ethiopia. A key informant interview guide was used to retrieve the qualitative data that were analyzed through thematic content analysis. Then, the collected data were coded and analyzed using SPSS version 25. A mean score was used to determine the critical factors associated with veterinary pharmaceutical expiration. Results: The study found that the magnitude of expired veterinary pharmaceuticals in the fourth fiscal year was 7%. This wastage rate of veterinary pharmaceuticals led to a loss of approximately 69,564.54 USD. From expired veterinary pharmaceutical unit pack perspectives, approximately 403-unit packs (66%) expired in veterinary clinics, resulting in a loss of approximately 38,229.33 USD, and 209-unit packs (34%) expired in private veterinary pharmacies, incurring a loss of approximately 31,335.22 USD. From Anatomical Therapeutic Classification (ATC), antibiotics accounted for 14.8% of the total financial loss. Additionally, approximately 53% of liquid dosage forms were expired. The quantitative study identifies the lack of an information system and necessary software, poor store management, and lack of strict accountability as critical contributors to veterinary pharmaceutical expiration. Additionally, inadequate inventory management systems and a lack of adherence to established policies and guidelines for managing veterinary pharmaceutical expiration were the most vital contributors as key informants cited. Conclusion: The financial burden associated with expired veterinary pharmaceuticals exceeded the permissible threshold of 2%, indicating a significant concern for animal health budgets and the aquatic environment. This study underlines that the issue of veterinary pharmaceutical expiration is a critical problem that necessitates policy implications. To mitigate the expiration rate of veterinary pharmaceuticals, collaboration among multidisciplinary veterinary professionals, the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority, pharmaceutical supply chain agency, and researchers is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In ruminants, a symbiotic rumen microbiota is responsible for supporting the digestion of dietary fiber and contributes to health traits closely associated with meat and milk quality. A holistic view of the physicochemical profiles of mixed rumen microbiota (MRM) is not well-illustrated. Methods: The experiment was performed with a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement of the specific surface area (SSA: 3.37, 3.73, and 4.44 m2/g) of NDF extracted from rice straw and the surface tension (ST: 54, 46, 43, and 36 dyn/cm) of a fermented medium in a fermentation time series of 6, 12, 24, 48 h with three experimental units. Here, we used three rumen-fistulated adult Liuyang black goats as the rumen liquid donors for this experiment. Results: It was found that increasing SSA decreased the average acetate/propionate ratio (A/P, p < 0.05) and increased the molarity of propionate (p < 0.05). Increasing ST decreased total volatile fatty acid (tVFA) concentration (p < 0.01). Greater SSA increased (p < 0.01) MRM hydrophobicity, whereas increasing ST increased MRM cell membrane permeability (p < 0.01). The neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD, r = 0.937) and tVFA (r = 0.809) were positively correlated with the membrane permeability of MRM. Discussion: The surface tension of the artificial medium and substrate-specific surface area had a significant influence on MRM's fermentation profiles, hydrophobicity, and permeability. The results suggest that physical environmental properties are key in regulating rumen fermentation function and homeostasis in the gastrointestinal tract ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study came to life through a collaboration between researchers and the service and food industries, aiming for nuanced consumer insights that may inform future sustainability interventions in workplace canteens. The study applied a mixed-methods approach to evaluate consumers' attitudes, motives, and preferences within the canteen setting and with respect to the sustainability of food choices. Analyses of the quantitative data identified three distinct consumer segments that demonstrate the variability of consumers in food preferences and sustainability orientations. One segment was motivated by personal benefits, a second by both benefits and consideration for animal welfare, and a third was more markedly oriented toward sustainability. The qualitative analyses contributed additional viewpoints on feasible and desirable changes to canteen menus and operations. Combined, the findings highlight the necessity for canteens to consider the diversity of their clients and adopt versatile strategies tailored to distinct motives and preferences. This can in turn transform the canteen into an arena for testing sustainability interventions, yielding further insight into the efficacy of a range of means. The ambition is to extend outcomes of canteen interventions to other arenas, commencing with the household and culminating with society at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of information on mineral interactions that take place during a heifer's pregnancy when nutrient demand is high. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the interactions between the macro minerals calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), sulphur (S), sodium (Na) and potassium (K) and the trace elements copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn) and cobalt (Co) in pregnant heifers. Twenty-four pregnant heifers (age 18.2 ± 0.14 months; 87.5 ± 4.74 days in gestation; 497 ± 8.5 kg of body weight) were used in a 7 d digestibility trial (indirect method using lignin as a marker) during which they were fed a diet that provided minerals in accordance with NASEM requirements for gestating beef cattle. At the end of the digestibility trial, blood (jugular venipuncture) and liver (biopsy) samples were collected from each heifer. Multiple linear regression models were developed based on the main correlations and by considering collinearity effects between variables. Iron intake positively affected Mo concentration in serum, which was >10 µg/dL for most of the animals. Apparent absorption of Fe was negatively affected by Mo intake and Ca to P ratio in feed, whereas Se absorption was negatively affected by Fe intake and positively by Mo intake. The absorption coefficients of Mo and Fe were inversely related, emphasizing the interactions between these elements. Serum Fe and Cu in the liver were positively correlated, while liver Fe was inversely related to liver Mn. Fewer interactions were observed between the macro minerals. In conclusion, within the interactions observed, those between Fe and Mo deserve special attention, as high dietary Fe is commonly found in typical ruminant diets, and high serum Mo may indicate molybdenosis. Furthermore, high Fe intake appears to impact Se and Mn utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyses the impacts of the Russia–Ukraine conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic on the supply chain and logistics related to the management of agro-food production based on a comprehensive review of the scientific literature. The challenges and lessons posed by market dependence in a scenario of globalization through monopolies and oligopolies in the production and export of agro-food are assessed, highlighting the vulnerability and uncertainty faced when an international conflict occurs. The review examines the format of globalization versus glocalization, analyzing their respective advantages and disadvantages in supply chains and management in the context of two major crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Likewise, the resilience of agro-food and agro-industrial systems that were negatively affected by food insecurity and food price inflation in parts of Europe, Africa, and other regions of the planet is analyzed. By identifying opportunities arising from these challenges, the research offers insights into fostering a more robust agro-food supply chain that is more adaptable to global crises based on the geographic location and regional development of agribusinesses capable of responding to demand in the event of a global crisis such as a pandemic or armed conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of precision agriculture (PA) in forage and grassland management should be more extensively exploited to meet the increasing global food demand on a sustainable basis. Monitoring biomass yield and quality traits directly impacts the fertilization and irrigation practises and frequency of utilization (cuts) in grasslands. Therefore, the main goal of the review is to examine the techniques for using PA applications to monitor productivity and quality in forage and grasslands. To achieve this, the authors discuss several monitoring technologies for biomass and plant stand characteristics (including quality) that make it possible to adopt digital farming in forages and grassland management. The review provides an overview about mass flow and impact sensors, moisture sensors, remote sensing-based approaches, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, and mapping field heterogeneity and promotes decision support systems (DSSs) in this field. At a small scale, advanced sensors such as optical, thermal, and radar sensors mountable on drones; LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging); and hyperspectral imaging techniques can be used for assessing plant and soil characteristics. At a larger scale, we discuss coupling of remote sensing with weather data (synergistic grassland yield modelling), Sentinel-2 data with radiative transfer modelling (RTM), Sentinel-1 backscatter, and Catboost–machine learning methods for digital mapping in terms of precision harvesting and site-specific farming decisions. It is known that the delineation of sward heterogeneity is more difficult in mixed grasslands due to spectral similarity among species. Thanks to Diversity-Interactions models, jointly assessing various species interactions under mixed grasslands is allowed. Further, understanding such complex sward heterogeneity might be feasible by integrating spectral un-mixing techniques such as the super-pixel segmentation technique, multi-level fusion procedure, and combined NIR spectroscopy with neural network models. This review offers a digital option for enhancing yield monitoring systems and implementing PA applications in forages and grassland management. The authors recommend a future research direction for the inclusion of costs and economic returns of digital technologies for precision grasslands and fodder production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumers are increasingly seeking ecological, organic, minimally processed food from certified organic farms. Consumer purchasing decisions in the organic food market are determined by various factors. The main objective of the article is to identify the range and direction of multidimensional relationships between the frequency of purchasing organic food and the factors that determine purchasing decisions. For this purpose, a canonical analysis was performed. Statistical data were obtained from survey research conducted in Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary (600 questionnaires filled in each country) from December 2023 to March 2024. Research shows that the key factor that influences purchasing decisions with respect to organic food is its high quality. In countries such as Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia, this feature received the highest percentage of indications as very important, 53%, 44%, and 54%, respectively. In the second place, respondents indicated production without agricultural chemicals and food additives (in Hungary, this factor was considered the most important, with a percentage of indications at the level of 77%). In all the countries of the Visegrad Group, the influence of famous people, celebrities, and bloggers seems to be the least important—40.7% of respondents in Slovakia considered them completely unimportant, and as many as 73% in Hungary. Fashion was similarly rated low. In the case of this factor, the percentage of indications as unimportant ranged from 31% (Slovakia) to 76% (Hungary). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study develops a toolkit of sustainability indicators to analyze the economic, environmental, and social performance of various pasture-based production systems rearing Karagkouniko sheep (both specialized and mixed), and compares it with the intensive Lacaune production system in the same region. The analysis showed that despite the lower milk productivity, the group of specialized livestock Karagkouniko farms was more profitable compared to the Lacaune (35% higher net profit) production system, mainly due to savings in purchased feedstuff (64% lower expenses). This implies that grazing—if properly managed—can indeed enhance the profitability of farms. The group of mixed Karagkouniko farms—cultivating crops for both feedstuff and markets—was the least profitable group (−144.76 per ewe) as well as the least efficient in terms of use of energy (EUR 4.66 of output per EUR 1 of energy cost) and agrochemical inputs (537.2 kg of fertilizers and 3.3 liters of pesticides per ha). This suggests that strong organizational skills are required to effectively manage both crop and livestock production. Trade-offs were also observed between the sustainability dimensions. To address these trade-offs and ensure a transition to more sustainable agriculture, a comprehensive framework should be developed, integrating a mix of socioeconomic and agro-environmental schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review evaluates China's Rural Revitalization Policy, focusing on sustainable agriculture, food security, and poverty alleviation initiatives from 2010 to 2024. The study addresses critical gaps in understanding how these combined efforts impact long-term food security and ecological sustainability in impoverished areas, moving beyond the short-term outcomes often emphasized in existing literature. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we reviewed 33 peer-reviewed publications from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, employing bibliometric analyses in RStudio to assess citation patterns, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. Our analysis reveals significant progress across three interconnected domains. First, poverty alleviation initiatives achieved a 12.3% reduction in rural poverty through integrated agricultural modernization and targeted support programs. Second, agricultural productivity increased by 9.8% through technological integration and sustainable farming practices, strengthening food security outcomes. Third, environmental sustainability improved notably, with a 15.7% increase in clean water access, demonstrating a successful balance between economic growth and ecological protection. China emerged as the largest contributor (15.2%) to research in this field, with substantial international collaboration (42.4% of publications involving cross-border co-authorship). Despite these achievements, significant regional disparities persist, particularly between eastern and western regions, where targeted interventions are needed. The findings highlight the need for regionally tailored approaches: eastern regions require focus on sustainable intensification, western regions need fundamental infrastructure development, and central regions would benefit from strengthened urban–rural linkages. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and researchers working on rural development initiatives while identifying areas requiring further research, particularly in long-term sustainability assessments and climate resilience strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient access to high-quality feed in sufficient amounts is hindering the sustainable growth of the Indian cattle sector. The feed supply is negatively impacted by increased cropping intensity, limited grazing land, and the effects of climate change. Therefore, developing cost-effective methods to improve feed availability year-round is crucial. Improved planted forages, such as Napier grass, are recommended to address feed shortages in semi-arid agroecological regions in India. The study, using the PSM approach, investigates the socioeconomic factors that impact Napier adoption, its influence on enhanced milk output, time saved in livestock farming, farmers' well-being, and livestock health. This study employed a multistage sampling method to choose 309 participants for the questionnaire survey. Our analysis shows that Napier adoption resulted in a 24.6% rise in daily milk output/cow and a 61.2% overall improvement in total milk production/year/cow when compared with baseline data. Napier's adoption decreased livestock farming times by 30 min/cow. Additionally, women's involvement in livestock farming improved with Napier farming, and farmers who have switched to Napier have seen a remarkable increase in their net income, with a monthly boost of Rs. 2044–2555 per cow. Additionally, daily milk consumption has also skyrocketed, with a remarkable enhancement of 143–153 mL per person daily. Our study highlights that the farmer's age, education level, livestock unit, and land holding play a crucial role. Additionally, the availability of extension services and farmer group participation can further impact the adoption process. Furthermore, our study explores how these factors shape the decision-making process and drive the successful integration of Napier grass into farming practices. However, considering the spatial limitations and reliance on self-reported data in this study, we suggest future research examining the long-term effects of Napier grass adoption on climate-smart agricultural practices, soil moisture, and socioeconomic benefits, involving field experiments, modeling, and farmer participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the potential of novel feed ingredients for monogastric animals, such as pigs and poultry, to enhance meat quality and nutritional value while reducing the environmental footprint of production. Innovative feed options like black soldier fly larvae, Schizochytrium microalga, Laminaria seaweed, fermented soybean hulls, fortified flaxseed and grape pomace have significantly improved meat quality and nutritional traits. Results indicate that these ingredients enrich meat with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, enhancing nutritional value while improving sensory traits such as flavour, tenderness and colour. For instance, including Laminaria seaweed increased iodine content by up to 45%, while Schizochytrium microalga improved omega-3 deposition by over 70%. The inclusion of grape pomace enhanced oxidative stability and extended meat shelf life. This review also discusses the influence of ingredient composition, inclusion levels and processing techniques, alongside challenges such as regulatory constraints, ingredient cost and palatability. The alignment of these alternative feeds with circular economy principles and sustainability goals further emphasizes their role in reducing environmental impact. By summarising recent advancements, this paper underscores the transformative potential of novel feed ingredients in advancing monogastric meat production towards greater nutritional quality, sustainability and consumer acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Genomic applications in beef cattle disease prevention are revolutionizing how cattle health is managed, offering tools to enhance resistance to common infectious diseases. Through techniques like whole-genome sequencing and genotyping, researchers can identify genetic markers associated with disease resistance, such as to bovine respiratory disease and Johne's disease. These insights enable more evidence-based breeding programs that select for cattle with superior immune function, reducing reliance on antibiotics and improving animal welfare. Genomic data also support early disease detection and tailored health management strategies, such as customized vaccination programs. Genomic tools can be used to proactively manage herd health, minimize disease outbreaks, and improve biosecurity. Despite challenges of cost and data integration, the potential of genomics to improve disease resistance, reduce economic losses, and enhance sustainability in beef cattle production is substantial. As technologies advance, genomic applications are expected to have increasingly vital roles in livestock management. Genomic applications in beef cattle disease prevention have gained traction in recent years, offering new strategies for improving herd health and reducing economic losses in the livestock industry. Advances in genomics, including identification of genetic markers linked to disease resistance, provide powerful tools for early detection, selection, and management of cattle resistant to infectious diseases. By incorporating genomic technologies such as whole-genome sequencing, genotyping, and transcriptomics, researchers can identify specific genetic variants associated with resistance to pathogens like bovine respiratory disease and Johne's disease. These genomic insights allow for more accurate breeding programs aimed at enhancing disease resistance and overall herd resilience. Genomic selection, in particular, enables identification of individuals with superior genetic traits for immune function, reducing the need for antibiotic treatments and improving animal welfare. Moreover, precision medicine, powered by genomic data, supports development of tailored health management strategies, including targeted vaccination plans and antimicrobial stewardship. Incorporation of genomic tools in beef cattle management also offers the potential for early disease detection, facilitating proactive interventions that reduce the spread of infections. Despite challenges like cost, data interpretation and integration into current management systems, the potential advantages of genomic applications in disease prevention are substantial. As these technologies advance, they are anticipated to have crucial roles in improving sustainability (by enhancing herd performance), profitability (by improving overall herd longevity), and biosecurity (by decreasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks) of beef cattle production systems worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]