Acta fytotechnica et zootechnica :: ISSN 1336-9245
Important notice for authors: new version guides for authors and article template from June 30, 2025 are available. Please, see section Submissions. Acta fytotechnica et zootechnica is an open access, a peer-reviewed scientific journal of the Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra. First published in 1957 as Proceedings of the University of Agriculture in Nitra. From 2013 is the Journal published online only. Aims & scope Journal focuses on presentation of regional, national and international current science results in plant and animal nutrition, genetics, breeding, animal health and welfare, agronomy and soil science, in particular: agrochemistry and plant nutrition botany, plant physiology, genetics, breeding, protection crop production, grass ecosystems and forages soil and environmental scienes sustainable agriculture zoology, animal genetics and breeding biology animal husbandry, nutrition and special husbandry animal health and veterinary sciences human nutrition Journal Legacy Issues/articles published from 2011 to 2021 Issues/articles published from 2009 to 2011 Issues/articles published from 1998 to 2003 Indexing The journal is indexed by Scopus (Elsevier) | DOAJ Charges & Fees Articles are published without article submission and article processing charges. For end-users are published papers free of charge. Peer review policy Editorial evaluation: first step, submitted manuscripts are assessed from the formal / technical points of view (comply with the editorial requirements, resp. guidelines for authors, main aims and scopes and policies) and from the point of view of plagiarism. Manuscripts which are not comply with editorial requirements will be returned for technical corrections. In case general/base incompliance of article with requirements will be rejected, rejected will be also articles with critical similarity score. When the technical/formal evaluation is completed, the manuscript proceeds to the stage of scientific evaluation. Scientific evaluation Evaluation from the point of view of scientific quality is provided by the executive editors of subject/thematic sections. Based on the result of the preliminary evaluation from the point of view of scientific quality, the manuscript is either rejected, returned for corrections or moved to the review process. If the requested changes are made, the text returns to the executive editors. When the scientific evaluation is completed manuscript, the peer-review process is following. Peer-review process The Acta fytotechnica et zootechnica peer-review model: blind review, two independent reviewers. If necessary (in case there are any differencies between review reports) a third reviewer will be invited. The results of reviewing can be acceptance, acceptance with minor or major modifications or rejected. Once the requested changes/corrections are made, the text returns to the executive editors. Post peer-review process Editing and preparing accepted manuscripts for publication. Online publishing. Copyright & Licenses Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) that allows others to share (copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format) and adapt (remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, even commercially) the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. The Journal is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License Deposit Policy Sherpa/Romeo Screening of plagiarism All manuscripts are checked by the Crossref service Similarity Check (iThenticate software). eISSN 1336-9245 / pISSN 1335-258X (until to 2013) Journal website: http://www.acta.fapz.uniag.sk Journal periodicity: 4 issues per year Abbreviation: Acta fytotechn zootechn Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra
Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra
Pharmacological Evaluation and Prediction of Pharmaceutical Potential of Lasiococca comberi Haines: A Threatened Medicinal Tree
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical health issue that requires the exploration of unexplored plants for the identification of new therapeutic agents. This study examined the leaves of Lasiococca comberi, a threatened Indian tree species, focusing on its phytochemical content, toxicity, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant potential. Aqueous extract of the leaves showed the highest presence of secondary metabolites, while the methanol and ethanol extracts demonstrated the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis of the ethanol extract revealed seven distinct spots and confirmed its antioxidant activity. The quantification of secondary metabolites highlights the potential of L. comberi leaves as a valuable source of bioactive compounds to combat AMR. These findings suggest that L. comberi leaves could be a promising source of new antimicrobial agents, warranting further pharmacological investigation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jeline Rani J, Kadambini Das, Jaydeep Kumar Sahu, Shikha Thakur, Sandhya Sharma, Sanjeet Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Physiological indicators of workload in horses: Analysis of heart rate and energy expenditure during riding
Objective monitoring of physiological parameters, such as heart rate (HR), energy metabolism, and the temporal structure of exercise, forms the basis for optimizing the overall training process of sport horses. Determining the threshold between effective stimulation and overloading is crucial for preventing overtraining and performance decline. Training programs based on these indicators take into account the adaptive capacity of the horse, thereby maximizing performance while supporting health and welfare.The aim of this study was to analyze physiological parameters, particularly heart rate and energy expenditure, during riding training and its duration. Sixteen horses of different ages and sexes were included in the study and divided into two groups based on sporting experience. The first group (n = 8) comprised horses in the preparatory phase of their sporting careers with a maximum of one year of competition experience, while the second group (n = 8) consisted of more experienced horses with at least two years of sporting seasons. Horses were housed in two riding centers and fed high-quality meadow hay (10–12 kg depending on body weight), supplemented with a complete feed mixture (2–5 kg depending on workload), with ad libitum access to water. All horses were stabled in individual boxes. Heart rate and energy expenditure were measured using the CEEFIT Pulse & ECG system by Seaver. Analysis revealed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) in HR between groups: less experienced horses had an average HR of 93.92 beats/min, whereas experienced horses exhibited values approximately 9.81 beats/min higher. This difference may be attributed to more intense interaction between rider and horse in the experienced group, while the lower HR in less experienced horses likely reflects reduced exercise intensity. Significant correlations were observed between exercise duration and HR (p < 0.001), as well as between exercise duration and energy expenditure (p < 0.001). In less experienced horses, a strong correlation between HR and energy expenditure was also detected (p < 0.0005), whereas in experienced horses, only a correlation between HR and energy expenditure was confirmed (p < 0.0001). The results confirm substantial differences in physiological parameters between groups and highlight the impact of training intensity on the horse’s organism. These findings emphasize the necessity of a differentiated approach to training program design to optimize the overall training process.
Heart rate, energy, workload, performance, horse
Copyright (c) 2025 Monika Šmondrková, Marko Halo, Stanislav Zaťko, Eva Mlyneková, Marko Halo Jr. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PCR-Based Profiling of Genetic Variability in Domesticated Capsicum spp.: Implications for Biodiversity
The original tropical genus Capsicum spp. is an important crop worldwide, particularly the species C. chinense and C. annuum. Like many crops subjected to long-term domestication and breeding, and under the continuous influence of human activity on the environment, the Capsicum genus faces a significant loss of biodiversity and a gradual reduction in the availability of its genetic resources. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of existing PCR marker techniques for both interspecific and intraspecific analysis, and to examine the extent of genetic similarity or diversity among the genomes of the cultivated Capsicum spp. Five varieties of C. chinense and C. annuum were used in PCRs to detect genetic variability by four DNA-based dominant marker techniques: CDDP, iPBS, PBA and BBAP. The number of loci for all methods was 310 and it varied from 34 (PBA), 62 (BBAP) and 96 (iPBS) to 117 (CDDP), P% for all methods was 79.68% (45.71% PBA, 82.26% BBAP, 84.38% iPBS and 86.32% CDDP). The CDDP primers had the maximum discriminating power at 0.718, whilst the PBA primers displayed the lowest value at 0.379 among the applied approaches. The pair Ohnivec – Jalahot had the highest genetic similarity across all approaches, evaluated at 0.335. The lowest genetic similarity was detected between the pairings H. chocolate and Ohnivec, reported at 0.629. All used DNA-based marker techniques were evaluated as applicable and informative in the genus Capsicum spp., from moderately informative PBA, through highly informative iPBS and BBAP to very highly informative CDDP.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lucia Urbanová, Silvia Farkasová, Jana Žiarovská https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Chitin and Carbohydrate Composition of Eight Insect Species Used as Feed and Food
Edible insects represent a sustainable source of protein and bioactive compounds, however their carbohydrate composition, particularly structural polysaccharides like chitin, substantially affects nutritional quality. This study provides a comparative analysis of chitin and carbohydrate composition of eight insect species across larval (Tenebrio molitor, Alphitobius diaperinus, Hermetia illucens, Musca domestica), pupal (Bombyx mori), and adult (Gryllodes sigillatus, Acheta domesticus, Gryllus assimilis) stages. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), and chitin content varied significantly with species and developmental stage, reflecting differences in cuticular structure and physiological adaptations. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content varied considerably across species, with the lowest value in Bombyx mori pupae (92.02 ± 2.44 g.kg⁻¹ DM) and the highest in Tenebrio molitor larvae (290.40 ± 6.14 g.kg⁻¹ DM). Acid detergent fiber (ADF) showed a minimum of 72.90±8.68 g.kg⁻¹ DM (B. mori pupae) and a maximum of 133.16±0.97 g.kg⁻¹ DM (Gryllus assimilis adults). Chitin content (ADF-ADL) was lowest in B. mori pupae (64.32±9.65 g.kg⁻¹ DM) and highest in G. assimilis adults (123.45±1.28 g.kg⁻¹ DM); alternative estimation via ADF-CPADF ranged from 37.95±4.52 to 78.78±2.00 g.kg⁻¹ DM, highlighting methodological sensitivity. Soluble sugars were highest in larvae, whereas polyols, accumulated predominantly in pupae (glycerol in B. mori 11.43±0.43 g.kg⁻¹ DM) and adults (glycerol in A. domesticus 7.20±0.04 g.kg⁻¹ DM). These results emphasize the importance of standardized chitin quantification and targeted processing strategies for optimizing the nutritional value of insect-derived feed and food. This integrative approach advances the understanding of insect carbohydrate composition and supports efforts to valorize edible insects in sustainable nutrition systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Matúš Džima, Miroslav Juráček, Daniel Bíro, Milan Šimko, Branislav Gálik, Michal Rolinec, Ondrej Hanušovský, Mária Kapusniaková, Kristína Kolbaská, Ester Vargová https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Weed Control in the Maize Stand in Dry Agroecology Conditions
The most common active ingredients of herbicides used in maize are, for example: dicamba, rimsulfuron, nicosulfuron, dimethenamid. The experiment was carried out at the PPD Inovec Volkovce farm. The aim of this work was to utilize the possibilities of chemical weed control and analyze them on plots with sown maize. The control of weed species were monitored and the effectiveness of the herbicides used with specific active ingredients applied according to variants: early post-emergent and post-emergent were also evaluated. The partial objectives of the work were: 1. evaluation of the current weed infestation using numerous methods on control and treated variants 2. evaluation of the effectiveness of regulatory intervention on variants treated with herbicides 3. evaluation of the phytotoxicity. The experiment was carried out on their standard plots with maize sown according to the sowing plan. Experimental area was set aside each year that has only been sown and has not been further treated. Chemical treatments in the experiment were carried out in accordance with the EPPO PP1/181(5) methodology. Untreated control area was covered with foil during the application of herbicides. Based on the use of available herbicides, the variants were divided into early post-emergence treatment up to the 3rd leaf of maize and post-emergence treatment up to the 6th leaf of maize. The best result had variant with active ingredients dicamba and prosulfuron in early post-emergence treatment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Denis Onufer, Štefan Týr https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Possibilities for Increasing Biodiversity of Natural Ecosystems and Agroecosystems
The presented study addresses the issue of biodiversity, which is a fundamental element of all ecosystems. Since the reduction or loss occurs as a result of many factors, such as habitat degradation, rapidly increasing environmental pollution, worsening climate crisis, monoculture cultivation, urbanisation, and the expansion of non-native species, among others, which have serious consequences for the existence of life on Earth. For this reason, biodiversity protection is necessary, as any change threatens the existing flora, fauna, habitats and the entire society, since all of these factors lead to a deterioration in the functioning of not only natural ecosystems, but also agro-ecosystems. Especially in agricultural landscapes, it is necessary to solve the above problem with measures that would support wild organisms. One of the measures is modern biobelts, which serve to slow down or stop the reduction of biodiversity, as they address the agro-environmental-climatic aspect. The present vegetation of biobelts improves the trophic supply and increases the spatial and temporal availability of food sources for the present organisms. On the other hand, biobelts pose a risk of enriching the soil seed bank with weeds, which may later be manifested in increased weeding of cultivated crops, and the proliferation of pests also appears to be a problem. Another highly effective measure in providing multiple ecosystem services, ensuring water regulation and quality, pest and disease control, while supporting biodiversity, long-term productivity and soil quality, is the use of agroforestry. The results show that increasing diversity in natural ecosystems and agroecosystems through planned measures represents an important strategy, which leads to improved biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jana Ivanič-Porhajášová, Ing. Mária Babošová, PhD., doc. Ing. Eva Mlyneková, PhD. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Carbon Sequestration Dynamics on Reclaimed Land: A Coupled Ecological-Economic Assessment in Indonesia
Land degradation due to coal mining causes loss of vegetation and soil degradation, thus greatly reducing carbon stocks. This loss inhibits carbon sequestration and reduces organic carbon storage, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, exacerbating greenhouse gas levels and climate change. Reclamation of post-mining land by replanting and soil improvement is essential to restore carbon stocks and mitigate the adverse impacts of coal mining on the environment. This study aims to analyze carbon stocks in post-mining land that has been reclaimed by PT Inti Bara Perdana. The study was conducted in January 2024 on the post-mining land of PT Inti Bara Perdana, Central Bengkulu Regency, Bengkulu Province. This study uses a method of measuring the potential for vegetation carbon storage at several sampling points on post-mining reclamation land aged 4 years, 7 years, and 11 years. The research method used is to create a 20x20 m plot to measure tree biomass and wood necromass. Measurement of understory biomass and litter necromass using a 1x1 m sub-plot. The results of the study showed that carbon sequestration on post-coal mining land increases significantly with reclamation age, rising from 99.71 tons/ha at 4 years to 234.66 tons/ha at 11 years. Correspondingly, the economic valuation based on the carbon market grew from IDR 5.68 million/ha to IDR 13.38 million/ha. These findings highlight the effectiveness of long-term land reclamation in restoring ecosystem functions and contributing to climate change mitigation through carbon market integration. The study also provides valuable
Copyright (c) 2025 Zainal Arifin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Extracting Polyphenols from Saccharina angustata by Two Methods
The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of two non-thermal extraction techniques, specifically ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and dynamic maceration (DM), for recovering polyphenols from brown seaweed, Saccharina (S.) angustata. Given the thermolabile nature of many phenolic compounds, both methods were chosen for their ability to operate at low temperatures while preserving bioactivity. Moreover, two different solid-to-solvent ratios were tested (1:5 and 1:10, plant material to ethanol, w/v) to assess their influence on extraction efficiency. Total polyphenol content (TPC; Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric method) and antioxidant activity (AA; DPPH assay) of the resulting extracts were analyzed to compare the effectiveness of these techniques. Importantly, the study is the first quantification of TPC and AA in S. angustata, highlighting a pioneering effort in the scientific investigation of this species. Our results revealed that the extract obtained using DM at a 1:10 solid-to solvent ratio exhibited the highest values for extraction efficiency (42.20±1.60 %), TPC (2.61±0.73 mg GAE/g DW), and AA (11.69±2.48 %). In contrast, the highest AA expressed as Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (0.61±0.01 mg TEAC/g DW) was observed in the extract obtained using DM at a 1:5 solid-to-solvent ratio. However, statistical analysis showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) in either TPC or AA between the extracts produced by UAE and DM, regardless of the solid-to-solvent ratio applied. Despite similar yields, UAE proved more time-efficient, requiring only 30 minutes compared to the 24-hour duration of DM. Nevertheless, DM remains a cost-effective and accessible option when ultrasonic equipment is unavailable.
Copyright (c) 2025 Martina Lukáčová, Mária Adamkovičová, Eva Kováčiková, Hana Ďúranová https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of encapsulated rosemary extract on turkey semen quality characteristics during short-term low temperature storage
The use of fresh semen stored at low temperatures for artificial insemination is common in avian and especially turkey commercial farms due to its more practicality and compromised sperm structural integrity and functional activity of cryopreserved semen. Various natural compounds have been used to preserve the sperm quality and fertility during short term storage. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effects of rosemary extract, in both un-encapsulated and encapsulated forms, on turkey spermatozoa during short-term low-temperature storage. Semen samples collected from mature male turkeys were treated with different concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 25 µg/mL) of either form of rosemary extract. The effects on sperm motility, progressive motility, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity and membrane potential, apoptosis, necrosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide production, lipid and protein oxidation, DNA fragmentation, and bacterial load were evaluated at 0, 2, and 24 hours of storage. Supplementation with 5 and 10 µg/mL rosemary extract improved sperm motility, mitochondrial activity, and membrane potential (P ≤ 0.0001). However, 25 µg/mL had a detrimental effect. Encapsulated rosemary extract yielded better sperm quality outcomes than the un-encapsulated form, especially at the 25 µg/mL dose and after 24 hours of storage. These findings suggest that rosemary extract in semen extender can enhance sperm quality. Moreover, encapsulation may mitigate the toxicity of high extract doses and support prolonged preservation of sperm fertility.
Turkey semen, Oxidative stress, Rosemary extract, Encapsulation
Copyright (c) 2025 Sara Ataei-Nazari, Filip Benko, Michal Ďuračka, Tomáš Slanina, Miroslava Kačániová, Nenad Vukovic, Eva Tvrdá https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Gender, Growth rate and Sire Line on Live Pigs Performance
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of gender, growth rate and different sire lines on live weight, average daily gain (ADG), back fat thickness and lean meat content in the breed Large White. The study evaluated 232 pigs, of which 201 were gilts and 31 were boars. Data were collected using a Piglog 105 apparatus, which was used to measure lean meat content, back fat thickness and average daily gain. Back fat thickness was significantly higher in gilts (0.933±0.01 cm) than in boars (0.806±0.02 cm), (P <0.001). Pigs with the highest growth rate - average daily gains had significantly lower back fat thickness (0.847±0.01 cm) and a higher lean meat content (62.702±0.11%, P <0.001) than pigs with lower gains. The results showed that sire line had a significant effect on ADG of the pigs evaluated (P <0.001), with the highest ADG recorded in sire line A (669.6±10.34 g.day-1) and the lowest in sire line C (612.77±4.24 g.day-1). There were no significant differences (P >0.05) in back fat thickness and lean meat content between the lines. The results of the study indicate that for increasing the lean meat content in pigs, breeding animals with high growth intensity should be selected.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ivan Imrich, Daniel Rajčok, Eva Mlyneková, Tomáš Kanka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of Moringa and Garlic addition to Broiler’s Diet on Growth, Internal Organs, and Gut Microbes
It has been found that some bioactive compounds discovered in herbs and spices can increase the number and quality of poultry products. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of adding Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) and garlic bulb meal (GBM) to broiler diets on growth, internal organs, and gut microbes. In a completely randomized design, 240 broiler chickens, that were 8 days old, were divided into 5 nutritional regimens. Each treatment had 12 birds and 4 replicates. The treatments were T1: Control diet; T2: 1% MLM substitution for soybean meal; T3: 3% MLM substitution for soybean meal; T4: 1% MLM substitution for soybean meal along with 0.1% GBM; and T5: 3 % MLM substitution for soybean meal along with 0.3% GBM correspondingly. Total phenols and flavonoids were high in both meals. On day 28, dietary treatment’s (T2, T3, T4, and T5) final weights, average body weight gain, and total feed intake were all similar to those of T1 (Control). The liver in dietary treatments (T2, T3, T4, and T5) were smaller (P<0.05) to those in T1, while the spleen in T3 was larger (P<0.05). The lactic acid bacteria in T2, T3, T4, and T5 were found to be similar (P>0.05) to those in T1, while T1 had a higher value of coilforms (P<0.05) than T2, T3, T4, and T5. On the 56th day, T5’s total feed intake and T3, T4, and T5 feed conversion ratio were lower (P<0.05) than T1. T1 and T4, kidneys were smaller in weight (P<0.05) than T3 kidneys. The total microbial count, lactic acid bacteria and coilforms in T3, T4, and T5 were considerably (P<0.05) lowered than those in T1 and T2. These results imply that because of the potential contribution of their phyto-supplements, MLM and GBM can be employed as feed additives in the formulation of broiler diets.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Oluwafemi Abel Agbetuyi , Dr. Anthony Henry Ekeocha , Professor Ademiju Adeolu Aganga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Structural parameters and quality of maize silage
The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional, fermentative, and structural quality of maize silage treated with a microbial inoculant and to assess how varying particle sizes influence the content of basic nutrients, fiber fractions, and fermentation parameters. Maize silage was prepared using a two-line hybrid (FAO 480) and ensiled with an inoculant containing Lactobacillus buchneri, Pediococcus pentosaceus, and Lactobacillus plantarum. After two months of storage, average samples of silage were collected, mixed, and subsampled for particle size distribution and chemical analysis. The particle size of maize silage was assessed using the Penn State Particle Separator with sieves: >19 mm, 8.1–19 mm, 4.1–8 mm, and <4 mm. Maize silage (n=3) and each particle fraction (n=3) underwent chemical analysis. The results revealed that 73.33% of particles were retained on the first two sieves (8.1–19.0 mm and >19.0 mm), considered optimal for dairy cow feeding. Particle size had impact on silage composition. Finer particles (<4 mm) contained significantly higher levels of dry matter, crude fat, starch, organic matter, non-structural carbohydrates, and nitrogen-free extract, and lower contents of crude ash, crude protein, crude fiber, and fiber fractions. Similarly, fermentation quality was affected by particle size: finer fractions had significantly lower levels of lactic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, ethanol, fermentation products, acidity of water extract, pH, and proteolysis. Based on neutral detergent fiber and starch content, the silage met the criteria for first quality class, while its higher acetic acid concentration-linked to the use of L. buchneri-classified it as third quality class according to fermentation criteria. The results of this study confirmed that particle size distribution significantly affects the nutritional profile and fermentation dynamics of maize silage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ondrej Hanušovský, Miroslav Juráček, Daniel Bíro, Petr Doležal, Milan Šimko, Branislav Gálik, Michal Rolinec, Matúš Džima, Mária Kapusniaková, Michal Radošovský https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Effects of Annona Muricata: Health Benefits and Potential Uses
Annona muricata, commonly known as soursop or graviola, is a tropical evergreen tree belonging to the Annonaceae family, widely recognized for its diverse medicinal and nutritional properties. This plant is native to Central and South America but is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It thrives in warm, humid climates, requiring well-drained soils with moderate rainfall to grow optimally. The tree produces large, green, spiny fruits with soft white pulp, which are widely consumed as fresh fruit or used in beverages, desserts, and traditional cuisines due to their unique flavour and nutritional benefits. Traditionally, A. muricata has been utilized in folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes, hypertension, cancer, inflammation, bacterial infections, and much more. Nearly every part of the plant (leaves, bark, roots, fruit) contains bioactive compounds such as acetogenins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. In vivo and in vitro studies have highlighted its pharmacological activities, including anti-cancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-hypertensive properties, etc. However, recent research has raised concerns about the potential neurotoxic effects of certain compounds in A. muricata, particularly annonacin, which has been associated with neurodegenerative conditions in high doses. While the plant holds promise for therapeutic applications, further research is needed to clarify its mechanisms of action, evaluate its safety profile, and determine appropriate dosage levels to balance efficacy and toxicity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of A. muricata, including its botanical description, growing environment, traditional and food uses, pharmacological studies, and considerations regarding potential neurotoxicity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Radovan Reisenauer, Michal Lenický, Lucia Dianová, Marko Halo, Tomáš Slanina, Filip Tirpák, Shubhadeep Roychoudhury, Robert Stawarz, Eric Rendón Schneir, Peter Massányi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Organic Carbon Sequestration Across Soil Aggregates of Morphologically Different Soils
Soil organic matter (SOM) and its incorporation into soil aggregates play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, which is essential for sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. This study focuses on the influence of different soil types on soil structure and the capacity of soil aggregates to retain carbon. The objectives were: (1) to compare soil structure across different soil types, (2) to quantify the content of SOM in size-fractions of aggregates, and (3) to identify relationships between SOM and individual size-fractions of aggregates. The research was conducted in a field at Dražovce near Nitra city (western Slovakia). Samples from the Ap and A horizons of four soil profiles were analyzed for aggregate size-distribution, carbon contents (C), and the carbon sequestration index (KSC). The results indicated that Cambisol exhibited the highest aggregate stability, while Chernozems showed the highest SOM content but the lowest KSC. Calcisol demonstrated the greatest sequestration potential. Aggregate stability was positively correlated with the content of labile carbon, particularly in medium-sized macroaggregates (1–5 mm). These findings highlight the complex interactions between aggregate size, structural stability, and their capacity to sequester carbon.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vladimír Šimanský, Martin Juriga Juriga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Selection Footprints Reflecting Population Stratification of Local Sheep Breeds in the Danube Region
This study investigated genetic diversity, population structure, and selection footprints across 16 local sheep breeds from the Danube region using high-density SNP data. The diversity status was derived from the overall heterozygosity and genomic-based inbreeding coefficients (FHOM and FIS). Population stratification was assessed using principal component analysis, phylogenetic networks, and admixture estimation. Selection footprints were identified based on the genome-wide Wright's fixation index (FST) distribution. Moderate observed and expected heterozygosity levels were found, with the highest values in the Improved Valachian breed (Ho = 0.44±0.10, He = 0.44±0.08) and the lowest in the East Friesian (Ho = 0.37±0.16) breed. Inbreeding coefficients aligned with heterozygosity patterns, indicating an increase in inbreeding in geographically or historically separated breeds and reduced inbreeding in recently developed composite breeds, particularly the Improved Valachian and Slovak Dairy sheep. All approaches testing population structure confirmed breed stratification corresponding to geographic and phylogenetic backgrounds, while admixture analysis revealed the highest proportion of genetic admixture in the composite breeds. A genome-wide scan revealed 24 candidate regions under selection pressure across 15 autosomes, encompassing 48 protein-coding genes, including those related to reproduction (TNP1, AMHR2) and immune response (SLC11A1, IL9, JAK3). Functional enrichment analysis identified overrepresented GO terms related to protein binding, spermatogenesis, hypoxia response, and KEGG pathways such as TGF-beta and VEGF signalling. This study provides insights into breed-specific selection pressures driven by diverse breeding goals and environmental adaptation in sheep breeds in the Danube region. The study also highlights the importance of genomic tools for preserving genetic diversity and supporting sustainable breeding strategies in local populations.
selection effect, genetic diversity, high-density SNP data, local breeds
Copyright (c) 2025 Nina Moravčíková, Karolína Pálešová, Adrián Halvoník, Monika Chalupková, Ivan Pavlík, Ján Tomka, Luboš Vostrý, Hana Vostrá-Vydrová, Gábor Mészáros, Tijesunimi Ojo, Birgit Fuerst-Waltl, Johann Sölkner, Božidarka Marković, Milena Djokić, Dušica Radonjic, Vladan Bogdanović, Dragan Stanojević, Radovan Kasarda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Involvement of Remote Monitoring for Ethological Observations of Swines
A behavioural study of Mangalitsa swines was carried out by recording on ethogram forms, as well as remote monitoring by an unmanned aerial vehicle, which allowed to shorten the time between readings. The animals were divided into two age categories, up to 12 months of age, and fattening pigs over 1 year old. The monitoring period covered the months of March, April, and May 2024 from 08:00h to 20:00h. As a result of this first study using a drone of this breed in Bulgaria, it was found that the frequency of eating, rooting and resting was 14.74%, 12.08% and 58.31%, respectively. The measured frequency of eating was 16.9% and 12.6%, and of rooting 14.3% and 9.9%, respectively, in animals up to 12 months of age and the fattened pigs. In both groups, resting frequency was a major part of the day with a difference of 14% between the groups in favour of the older animals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ivelina Zapryanova, Teodora Pashova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of Different Concentrations of White Tea Extract on the Quality of Awassi Ram Semen on Chilled Storage
The white tea extract (WTE) has compounds that act as antioxidants, which enhance sperm characteristics during storage. The present study was aimed at investigating the effect of adding different concentrations of WTE stored at 4 °C for 24, 48 and 72 h on semen quality. Semen samples were collected from three Awassi rams, and the ejaculates were combined. Semen were divided into four equal parts, and it was diluted with Tris; beside the extender, the control group was (A0, without WTE), the second group A1 (0.05 mg WTE), the third group was A2 (0.10 mg WTE), and the fourth group was A3 (0.15 mg WTE). Results revealed the percentages of individual motility, live, and sperm membrane integrity were enhanced significantly (P <0.05) throughout storage in the A2 group compared to other groups. The A1, A2 and A3 groups decreased significantly (P <0.05) in total sperm abnormality percent at 48 and 72 h. Abnormal head sperm decreased significantly (P <0.05) at 24, 48 and 72 h in the A2 and A3 groups. While the A2 group decreased significantly (P <0.05) in abnormal middle sperm throughout storage. In conclusion, WTE has compounds in it that function as antioxidants. Especially when 0.10 mg of WTE was added to extenders, there was an improvement in individual motility, live sperm, and sperm membrane integrity, as well as a decrease in total sperm abnormality and types of abnormal sperm (head, middle, and tail).
white tea, antioxidants, ram semen, extender, chilling
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Maad Hasani Al-Ameri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Response of Young Maize Plants to Rational and Above-Limit Doses of Vermicompost
In a two-year pot experiment carried out in a vegetation cage located on the premises of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, the effect of vermicompost (Vc) used at a dose 8.3 to 16.6 times higher than permitted by the Nitrates Directive on young maize plants on their phytomass was investigated. The results showed that excessive amounts of vermicompost did not have a depressing effect on the growth of young maize plants. On the contrary, they increased the production of phytomass. The legislatively determined nutrient doses should take into account the type of organic fertilizer and the different abilities of plants to convert nutrients into phytomass formation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Peter Kováčik, Jakub Neupauer, Zafarjon Jabbarov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
rbST Effects on In Vitro Embryo Production in Andean Cattle
The efficiency of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in cattle depends on various factors, including the quality and quantity of oocytes collected. Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) has been suggested to improve ovarian follicular development and oocyte recovery by enhancing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) receptor activity. However, its effects on metabolic parameters and in vitro embryo production remain unclear, especially in high-altitude systems like the Andean region of Peru. This study aimed to determine the effects of rbST administration, in two different doses, within a hormonal protocol for follicular wave synchronization and in vitro embryo production in Brown Swiss cows in Andean region. Twenty-four cows were randomly assigned to three groups: T1 (500 mg rbST), T2 (250 mg rbST), and T3 (control, no rbST). Oocyte collection sessions were performed every 14 days, and variables such as follicle size, oocyte recovery, oocyte viability, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucose, total proteins, urea, oocyte maturation, and blastocyst rates were evaluated. Results showed that 500 mg rbST significantly increased (P≤0.05) the number of 2–4 mm follicles, as well as total and viable oocyte recovery. rbST also reduced BHB levels and increased circulating glucose (P≤0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in oocyte maturation or blastocyst rates across the treatments. In conclusion, 500 mg of rbST enhances the recovery of viable oocytes but does not significantly affect final embryo production in vitro. Further studies are needed to explore the long-term effects of rbST on reproductive performance in high-altitude cattle systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ide Unchupaico-Payano, Fernando Arauco-Villar, Jordan Ninahuanca-Carhuas, Carlos Quispe-Eulogio, Edith Ancco-Gomez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluating the Effects of Including Vitamin C and Parquetina nigrescens Leaf Powder in the Diets of Broiler Chicks Exposed to Aflatoxin B1
In this study, we evaluated the effects of dietary vitamin C and Parquetina nigrescens leaf powder (PLP) in broiler chicks exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). The treatments consisted of CONT (receiving a diet without AFB1 contamination and without PLP supplementation); AFLB (fed a diet containing 0.2 mg of AFB1 per kg of feed); AFVC (fed a diet containing 0.2 mg of AFB1 per kg of feed along with 200 mg of vitamin C per kg of feed); and AFLP (fed a diet containing 0.2 mg of AFB1 per kg of feed along with 500 mg of PLP per kg of feed). Our findings demonstrate the rich bioactive profile of PLP, including significant antioxidant capacity and various beneficial compounds. When it comes to broiler chicken performance, we observed that the groups supplemented with vitamin C and PLP (AFVC and AFLP) outperformed those with AFB1 alone (AFLB). These supplemented groups exhibited improved body weight gain, feed intake, and reduced mortality rates, suggesting the potential of these natural additives to counteract mycotoxin challenges in poultry production, especially in tropical conditions. Moreover, our results indicated that vitamin C and PLP supplementation ameliorated the adverse effects of AFB1 contamination on dressing percentage and liver weight. Notably, Haematological parameters were significantly impacted by AFB1 exposure, with lower values in the AFLB group, while serum chemistry indices reflected liver and kidney dysfunction. In contrast, supplemented groups showed improved profiles. Overall, our study highlights the potential of PLP, and vitamin C dietary supplementation in enhancing poultry health and production under aflatoxin-B1 exposure, contributing to sustainable poultry farming strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Olugbenga David Oloruntola, Samuel Adebowale Adeyeye, Deborah Adebukola Oloruntola, Emmanuel Oluwafemi Adeyeye https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Lactic Acid Bacteria on Pork Meat Maturation
To process the purpose of reduction of the maturation process of pork meat, the bio-preservation of meat products, and the prevention of microbial contamination, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus plantarum strains were used. The application of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains proved to impact the duration of the maturation process of salt-cured pork by shortening the process, as opposed to samples of pork salt-cured in a traditional way and containing a commercial BactoFlavor® culture used in production. The maturation process of pork was accompanied by decreased glycogen levels and increased lactic acid, dominant in samples containing L. plantarum and L. rhamnosus strains. The maturation also triggered a shift in pH, making it more acidic. The tendency towards glycogenolysis in samples containing LAB strains, prior to the formation of lactic acid, is determined by LAB strains producing lactic acid too, which helps explain the low level of pyruvate. The application of LAB strains as protective starter cultures with bactericidal activity during the in situ fermentation of meat demonstrates that the use of strains leads to the decrease of total contamination by 2 Log CFU·ml⁻¹, while using a commercial starter brings about a decrease of 1 Log CFU·ml⁻¹. After 4 days of meat maturation, L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum inhibited the growth of E. coli by 2 Log CFU·ml⁻¹; after 8 days, the use of LAB and BactoFlavor® led to the absence of E. coli. The broad antimicrobial and bacteriocin spectrum of LAB stimulated their application in the food industry as natural preservatives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Martin Fik, Hasmik Grigoryan, Gayane Marmaryan, Anna Dashtoyan, Kristina Karapetyan, Ani Paloyan, Yuri Marmaryan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analysis of miR-29a and miR-34a Expression During Various Reproductive Stages in Iraqi Awassi Ewes and Their Correlation with Litter Size, Offspring Sex, and Blood Attributes
This study was investigated the correlation between miR-29a and miR-34a expression in Iraqi Awassi ewes during different reproductive stages and their potential as biomarkers for assessing pregnancy health, birth type, sex as well as blood parameters. Blood samples were obtained from five Iraqi Awassi ewes (3.5–4.5 years with 45–50 kg body weight), pre-mating (0), 14, and 45 day post-mating (PM), along with 75 and 135 days of pregnancy. miRNAs (miR-29a and miR-34a) were detected by using RT-qPCR. The relative expression of miR-29a was significantly increased (P ≤0.05) within different day as 45 (16.25 ±5.194), 75 (14.32 ±4.09), and 135 (13.29 ±6.52) of pregnancy compared to 0 and 14 day respectively. Additionally, a higher relative expression of miR-34a (P ≤0.05) was observed on day 135 of pregnancy (2.3 ±1.05) when compared to the other reproductive periods. Both miR-29a and miR-34a showed no differences in terms of birth type and sex. Regression coefficient analysis identified a significant relationship between miR-29a expression and various metabolic and biochemical parameters, such as serum amino acids, fatty acids, and estrogen levels. The analysis indicated that miR-29a exhibited an inverse correlation with amino acids while demonstrating a direct correlation with fatty acids and estrogen. In conclusion, miR-29a and miR-34a could serve as valuable biomarkers for monitoring the health of pregnancy in Awassi ewes. This study provides new insights into the function of miRNA in reproductive physiology, paving the way for improved management of sheep reproduction.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rwaida A. Ali, Talal A. Abdulkareem https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Temporal Changes in Surface Properties of Sandy Haplic Podzol and Aging Biochars During Growing Season in North-Western Region of Russia
Aging of biochar in soils can result in some changes in its surface properties. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the temporal changes in: (1): the content of film water during adsorption-desorption processes on the surfaces of aging biochars and samples from topsoil of a sandy Haplic Podzol; (2) the distribution of areas of adsorption bands for oxygen-containing functional groups (OFGs) such as hydroxyl, carboxyl and phenolic on the surfaces of aging biochars. Samples of the soil and the biochar were collected from the topsoil (0-10 cm layer) in May, June and September of 2022, six years after the initial biochar application into the 0-10 cm soil layer (20 t ha-1) in 2016. A WP4-T dewpoint potentiometer was used to measure the relationships between potentials of the adsorbed film water and its content in the soil and biochar samples. An IR Fourier FSM 2202 spectrometer was applied to determine the areas of adsorption bands of OFGs on the biochar surfaces. The obtained results showed that there were non-significant differences in the mean content of adsorbed film water between the soil with and without biochars. The mean content of adsorbed film water was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in the initial biochar than in the aged biochars. The aged biochars collected at different dates of the growing season did not demonstrate any significant differences in the mean content of the adsorbed film water. According to the results obtained using IR Fourier spectroscopy, the surface of the initial biochar was characterized with the highest areas of adsorption bands of OFGs. The aged biochars showed a decrease in the areas of adsorption bands of OFGs compared to them of the initial biochar.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Eugene Balashov, MSc. Dmitry Fetisov, MSc. Anna Burova, Dr. Yury Khomyakov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of Water Quality of Reservoirs by a Comprehensive Study of Hydrobiological and Hydrochemical Indicators Using the Example of the Hrazdan Reservoir (Armenia)
The water quality of the Razdan reservoir was assessed using hydrobiological, hydrochemical and microbiological methods in different seasons of the year. As a result of studies at three observation stations, it was found that at the outlet of the reservoir, in almost all the seasons under study, the quality of water does not meet the accepted standards used for agricultural irrigation. This is a consequence of the increase in organic pollution of the reservoir due to seasonal fluctuations in its water level in different seasons, leading to significant changes in temperature and concentration of biogenic substances. PCA analysis of bacterial counts, algal cell counts, and water chemistry showed that a total of 65.4% of the data variance was explained by the two principal components. In total, only two different groups showed factor loadings >0.1. The highest abundance of S_20 and Bacillariophyta species may be related to the typical August environmental conditions. In contrast, the high abundance of S_37 and E. coli may depend on the nitrogen availability in autumn (October and November). Such comprehensive studies of reservoirs allow for a more accurate assessment of the quality of their water. At the same time, not all water quality indicators may exceed the accepted standards. However, the appearance of even some indicators exceeding these standards may become a significant argument for developing recommendations for reviewing the possibilities of using reservoirs for agricultural needs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hripsime Kobelyan, Lusine Hambaryan, Lilit Stepanyan, Suren Sargsyan, Hermine Yepremyan, Zhanna Mkrtchyan, Bardukh Gabrielyan, Hranush Melkonyan, Jaroslav Andreji https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Proso Millet Seedlings
Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) from the family Poaceae is one of the six major cereals cultivated in the world. An important characteristic is its resistance to heat and drought, which makes hot, dry and semi-arid areas optimal for its cultivation. Due to the climatic changes and the associated lack of water in some areas of the world, proso millet represents a good alternative or supplement to cereal cultivation. The main agricultural value of proso millet is its use as animal feed, which underlines its key role in agriculture. The modern trend in agriculture involves the application of nanoparticle-based products as micronutrients or growth promoters. The aim of our research was to investigate the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on the initial growth stages of proso millet. We evaluated the length of the plant, length of aerial parts and the root system of plants. In experiments Slovak variety 'Unikum' was used. ZnO-NPs were applied at four different concentrations (1 mg.l-1, 10 mg.l-1, 100 mg.l-1 and 300 mg.l-1) and compared with the control sample. We found that the concentration of 100 mg.l-1 might be suitable for future considerations and the highest concentration of 300 mg.l-1 had an inhibitory effect on plant growth in length of the whole plant, aerial parts and most of the monitored root parameters.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lenka Tomovičová, Ľuba Ďurišová, Samuel Kšiňan, Marek Kolenčík, Dávid Ernst, Ján Gažo, Pavol Eliáš, Nikola Kotlárová, Ivan Ravza, Viktor Straka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of Ovarian Follicle Size on the Follicular Fluid’s Hormones in Local Iraqi Bovine
Bovine reproductive physiology is a complex process that is closely linked to the cattle industry‘s effective production. Follicle diameter and thehormonal content offollicular fluid play an important role in determining ovum quality, overall embryo production, and bovine fertility. This study investigates the hormonal profile of follicular fluid in ovarian follicles of varying sizes in Iraqi cows. A total of 22 samples were collected from sexually mature, disease-free, and non-pregnant cows over a two-month period (July and August). Three of the follicle groups were classified: (2–5 mm), (6–9 mm), and (10–15 mm). Following visual measurement, follicular fluid was extracted, and concentrations of progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were analyzed. The results showed a significant difference (p <0.0001) in progesterone levels 6–9 mm. Also, estrogen concentration was higher in 10–15 mm compared to the other groups. Testosterone concentration was higher in follicles (2–5 mm) compared to follicles (10–15 mm and 6–9 mm), respectively. Thyroid-stimulating hormone was higher in 2–5 mm compared to 10–15 mm follicles. The current outcomes participate to the thoughtful of known mechanisms of hormonal function in ovarian follicle growth in bovine species, showing that progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and TSH are critical factors in these mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hayder Mohammed Hassan Habeeb, Amal Faisal Lafta Alabedi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Combined Effects of Vertical Agriphotovoltaics and Sown Vegetation Strips: A Simulation Study
Agriphotovoltaics (APV) represents a promising option for combining food and electricity production. Furthermore, flowering strips can be additionally implemented along with APV to support farmland biodiversity and associated ecosystem services. However, these two concepts have never been investigated in one study. In this work, we investigated a combination of two types of sown strips (“Fodder strip” and “Nectareous strip” as defined in Czech legislation) and simulations of vertical APVs affect invertebrate and plant communities in strips and in winter wheat crop. Following a multitaxonomic approach, sampling was conducted in 2023 and 2024 using pitfall traps, pan traps, sweep netting and phytocoenological relevés. In most cases, the catches of the studied taxonomic groups were positively affected by the sown strips, nonetheless some of the more mobile groups were unaffected or negatively affected. The strip type affected aphid catch only, and the presence of APV simulation affected the abundance of aphids and sap beetles. The plant communities differed between modalities, but the effect of the simulation was rather weak. We also discuss the relevance of using simulations instead of real solar panels. Our study suggests that vertical APVs in combination with sown strips of flowering vegetation can be a viable option for sustainable agroecosystem management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jan Štrobach, Hana Vašková, David Hájek, Ladislav Jílek, Petr Novák, Přemysl Štranc, Daniel Štranc, Jiří Skuhrovec, Pavel Saska https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Methodological Advances in the Analysis of Genetic Population Structure: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation
This paper provides an overview of advances in the analysis of the genetic structure of populations, focusing on the evolution of statistical approaches and their applications in conservation genetics. Understanding genetic relationships among populations is crucial for assessing evolutionary processes such as gene flow, genetic drift, and selection, which fundamentally affect genetic diversity over time. Traditionally, studies relied on a limited number of genetic markers and summary statistics; however, the advent of high-throughput genomic technologies has dramatically enhanced both the resolution and accuracy of these analyses. Whole-genome sequencing and dense SNP arrays now provide unprecedented insights into neutral and adaptive variations, enabling fine-scale detection of population subdivisions and historical demographic trends. In parallel, the development of advanced statistical models has refined genetic analyses, allowing for more precise estimations of genetic differentiation, admixture, and ancestral relationships. These innovations are particularly valuable in conservation genetics, where robust assessments are essential for optimising strategies to maintain genetic diversity, identify populations at risk, and mitigate the effects of inbreeding and effective population size decline. Despite these improvements, challenges remain, including computational demands and the need to account for complex demographic histories and selection pressures. Given the continuous evolution of analytical techniques, selecting appropriate methods tailored to specific research questions is critical for producing reliable insights into population structure and effectively guiding conservation efforts. In conclusion, the continuous advancement of genomic analysis tools enhances the ability to study population dynamics in greater detail and supports more effective conservation planning.
population structure, biodiversity, genomics, conservation
Copyright (c) 2025 Karolína Pálešová, Nina Moravčíková, Radovan Kasarda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Quality and Composition of Rapeseed and Sunflower Honey Originating from the Territory of the Slovak Republic
The aim of the study was to compare the chemical composition of two types of floral honey (rapeseed and sunflower) obtained from sites in Dohňany and Tekovský Hrádok with honey from other locations. Rapeseed and sunflower honey are the most common honey types associated with agricultural production. Among the physicochemical properties, the honey samples were analyzed and evaluated for parameters such as glucose and fructose content, sucrose, percentage of water mass, content of water insoluble substances, free acid and heavy metal content. By comparing the obtained results with the analyses of honey from other Slovak and international locations, we found that our honey samples met the criteria set by Decree No. 41/2012 on honey in all monitored indicators. Based on this, it can be concluded that the impact of intensive agricultural production in these sites did not result in a deterioration in the quality of either rapeseed or sunflower honey.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mária Babošová, Jana Ivanič Porhajašová, Mária Rišková https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Factors Influencing the Production and Quality of Sheep‘s Milk
To maintain adequate dairy productivity in sheep, it is important to focus on establishing appropriate husbandry conditions. Currently, breeders are increasingly confronted with extreme weather fluctuations during the grazing season, which significantly impact pasture quality and the milk produced. Therefore, it is crucial to seek suitable breeding systems with breed representation tailored to various climatic and geographical conditions in order to exploit their productive potential fully. This study compares the dairy productivity and milk quality of three sheep farms in the vicinity of Banská Bystrica, Slovakia, which employ different farming systems and feature different breed compositions under changing climatic conditions with increased heat stress during the summer months. Farm 1, located at 1,200 m above sea level (ASL), follows an extensive grazing system with 350 Tsigai ewes. Farm 2, situated at 500 m ASL, houses 456 Lacaune ewes in a semi-intensive system. Farm 3, at 400 m ASL, manages 470 mixed dairy and combined-breed ewes under a semi-extensive system. The results indicate that Farm 2, employing a semi-intensive system, recorded the highest milk yield (246.7 kg·ewe-1); however, it also exhibited the most pronounced decline in the lactation curve, with lower average milk production and qualitative parameters (fat, not fat solids) for the Lacaune breed during the warm months (June – August) compared to Farms 1 and 3, which focus on raising combined breeds. In conclusion, the most suitable breeding method for the climatic and geographical conditions of the observed region appears to be a semi-extensive system with combined sheep breeds, as the variability in dairy productivity parameters during the hottest months with reduced pasture quality is not as marked as it is in specialized dairy breeds.
Copyright (c) 2025 František Zigo, Zuzana Kubišová, Tomáš Mihok, Jana Záhumenská https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0