Tropical Animal Science Journal (Trop. Anim. Sci. J.), previously Media Peternakan, is a scientific journal covering broad aspects of tropical animal sciences. Starting in 2018, the title was changed from Media Peternakan to develop and expand the distribution as well as increase the visibility of the journal. The journal is published SIX times a year in January, March, May, July, September, and November, starting in the year 2025 by the Faculty of Animal Science, IPB University, associated with the Animal Scientist's Society of Indonesia (Himpunan Ilmuwan Peternakan Indonesia). The first edition with the new title was published in April 2018 edition (Vol 41 No 1 2018), while the previous edition (up to the 2017 edition) will still use Media Peternakan as the title and can be accessed on the old website (https://journal.ipb.ac.id/index.php/mediapeternakan). This journal has been accredited by the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, Republic of Indonesia, with First Grade (Sinta 1) from the year 2022 to 2026 according to decree No. 225/E/KPT/2022. Tropical Animal Science Journal has been indexed and abstracted in Elsevier products (Scopus, Reaxys), Clarivate Analytics products (Emerging Sources Citation Index), Scimago Journal Rank, DOAJ, Dimensions-Digital Science, CABI, EBSCO, Science and Technology Index (SINTA), Google Scholar, and other scientific databases. The journal also used Similarity Check to prevent any suspected plagiarism in the manuscripts. Tropical Animal Science Journal receives manuscripts encompassing a broad range of research topics in tropical animal sciences: breeding and genetics, reproduction and physiology, nutrition, feed sciences, agrostology, animal products, biotechnology, behaviour, welfare, health and veterinary, livestock farming system, socio-economic, and policy.
Faculty of Animal Science, IPB University
Authors submitting manuscripts should understand and agree that copyright of manuscripts of the article shall be assigned/transferred to Tropical Animal Science Journal. The statement to release the copyright to Tropical Animal Science Journal is stated in Form A. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-SA) where Authors and Readers can copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format, as well as remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, but they must give appropriate credit (cite to the article or content), provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. If you remix, transform, or build upon the material, you must distribute your contributions under the same license as the original.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tropical Animal Science Journal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Copyright (c) 2025 Tropical Animal Science Journal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
High-Concentrate Diets Improve Performance but Challenge Thermoregulation in Sheep
High-concentrate diets improve body performance and alter diet digestion rates, potentially affecting thermoregulation and well-being in sheep. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of increasing concentrate on intake, digestibility of nutrients, ingestive behavior, and physiological parameters in sheep. Twenty-four male Dorper lambs with an initial weight of 16.8 ± 3.5 kg and an age of 60 ± 4.5 days were randomly assigned to diets with increasing levels of concentrate: 45%, 59%, 73%, and 87%. Tifton 85 hay was used as a fiber source. The data were analyzed as a completely randomized design and subjected to orthogonal contrast analysis for linear and quadratic effects for dietary concentrate levels as a fixed effect, at a significance level of p≤0.05. The increase in concentrate increased daily weight gain (0.094 to 0.233 kg/day), dry matter intake, number of meals, and physiological parameters, while reducing neutral detergent fiber intake, digestibility of nutrients, rumination time, and meal duration. The heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature were positively correlated with concentrate level and negatively correlated with meal duration and total chewing time. Increasing concentrate improves the intake of nutrients and the performance of lambs, but it also increases thermoregulatory rates. Diets with 73% concentrate allow for higher performance with a slight increase in rectal temperature. Physiological parameters are more affected by concentrate levels than by fiber levels.
Chelated Minerals, Vitamins, and Electrolytes Improve Early Production Performance and Profitability of Broiler Chickens
Feed costs account for over half of total production costs in broiler farming; thus, minimizing them without compromising performance is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary feed additives containing zinc and manganese chelates, vitamins C and D, and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) on growth performance, carcass traits, and footpad dermatitis, and to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. A total of 144 male day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments, each replicated four times with nine birds per replicate. The dietary treatments consist of a basal diet without any additive (T1) and the basal diet supplemented with the feed additive at three inclusion levels: 0.5 g/kg (T2), 1 g/kg (T3), and 2 g/kg (T4). These inclusion levels supplied with 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of chelated Zn and Mn; 424.5, 849, and 1,698 mg/kg of sodium bicarbonate; 4, 8, and 16 mg/kg of vitamin C; and up to 325, 650, and 1,300 IU/kg of vitamin D, respectively. The results showed that supplementing the basal diet with 2 g of Zn and Mn chelates, vitamins C and D, and a NaHCO₃ mixture per kg significantly enhanced broiler performance, especially in body weight, feed intake, and weight gain during the second week. Clear linear effects appeared in the early production stages. Additionally, a cost-benefit analysis indicated that higher supplementation was economically beneficial. Furthermore, no adverse effects were observed on carcass characteristics, skin tearing, or footpad dermatitis. In conclusion, increased supplementation with these nutrients improved broiler chicken performance during the early production phase.
Comparative Analysis of Semen Quality and Kinematics in Sexed andNon-Sexed Sperm of Limousin Bulls
The application of spermatozoa sexing technology offers benefits in determining the desired sex in cattle. However, this technology requires particular attention to quality, DNA fragmentation, and kinematics of spermatozoa. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sexed and non-sexed semen on spermatozoa quality, DNA fragmentation, and kinematics in Limousin bulls. Four Limousin bulls between the ages of four and seven years and weighing between 610 and 814 kg were used in this study. The sexing method followed the bovine serum albumin (BSA) protocol. The upper fraction (5% BSA) was used for X-spermatozoa, and the lower fraction (10% BSA) was used for Y-spermatozoa. The observed variables included the percentage of progressive motility, viability, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, DNA fragmentation, and spermatozoa kinematics. One-way ANOVA was used to analyse differences in semen quality among bulls. The results showed no significant differences (p<0.05) in spermatozoa quality or DNA fragmentation between sexed and non-sexed frozen semen. However, significant differences (p<0.05) were found in the kinematic parameters ALH and BCF among non-sexed, sexed-X, and sexed-Y semen. Overall, the BSA sexing method did not reveal notable differences in semen quality and DNA fragmentation between sexed and non-sexed spermatozoa.
Fermentation Profile and Nutrient Composition of Rehydrated Dry Mesquite Pod (Prosopis spp.) Silage with Increasing Moisture Levels
Mesquite pods are traditionally used to feed livestock in arid regions. However, they are highly susceptible to beetle and other insect spoilage, so they must be preserved as silage for use during critical periods of feed scarcity. This study aims to assess the effects of increasing moisture levels from dry ground mesquite pods on fermentation parameters and nutrient composition of the silage as a method of preservation. The treatments consisted of adding 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% water (w/w). Each treatment received four PVC mini silos under a completely randomized design. On average, each mini silo was filled with 1,325 g of ground mesquite pods for ensiling. All mini silos were stored at room temperature (17-22.5 °C) and opened after 40 days of fermentation. The treatments were compared by polynomial orthogonal contrasts. Fermentation results indicated that increasing the amount of added water reduced the pH (p = 0.003) and linearly increased lactic acid (p = 0.0002) in silage. Ammonia-N and the concentration of acetic and propionic acids had a quadratic effect (p = 0.004). Silage with 20-30% water had an intermediate pH (4.65-4.53) and lower ammonia-N levels (5.59-6.51). Losses of gas, effluent, and dry matter exhibited linear and quadratic effects (p<0.0001) as water content increased, but after the 40% water treatment, these losses increased considerably. Results of nutritive value showed that crude protein was not significantly affected by the treatments (p>0.05). However, neutral and acid detergent fiber increased both linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.0001), while non-fiber carbohydrates decreased linearly (p = 0.007) and quadratically (p<0.0001) as the water content increased. These changes resulted in a quadratic decline in metabolizable energy (p = 0.05) and net energy for gain (p = 0.008), along with a negative linear response to dry matter digestibility. Overall, adding 20%–30% water to dry mesquite pods during silage production appears optimal for preserving mesquite pods as a feed resource for ruminants. This range allows favorable nutrient concentrations and appropriate fermentation variables, while maintaining intermediate levels of gas, effluent, and dry matter losses.
Reproductive Disorders and Subsequent Fertility in Primiparous and Multiparous Holstein–Friesian Cows
Reproductive disorders, including abortion, retained placenta, and dystocia, are significant challenges in dairy cows which can negatively affect reproductive efficiency, particularly in tropical smallholder farming systems. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of abortion, retained placenta, and dystocia on subsequent reproductive performance in Holstein-Friesian cows and compare the effects between primiparous and multiparous animals raised under smallholder conditions. Data were collected from 415 cows, namely 40 healthy primiparous, 68 healthy multiparous, 18 primiparous and 32 multiparous with abortion, 47 primiparous and 67 multiparous with dystocia, and 71 primiparous and 72 multiparous with retained placenta. Reproductive parameters included first service conception rate (FSCR), pregnancy rate (PR), overall pregnancy rate (OPR), services per conception (S/C), days to first service (DFS), and open days (DO). Two-way binary logistic regression was applied to categorical variables, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) in a General Linear Model (GLM) was used for continuous variables. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to compare DFS and DO among disorder groups. Cows with reproductive disorders showed numerically lower FSCR, PR, and OPR, as well as higher S/C, compared with healthy counterparts, and these differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Kaplan–Meier analysis detected shorter mean DFS and DO among affected cows despite the reduced hazard for pregnancy. Although the effects were not statistically significant, the numerical patterns suggested potential biological relevance. The results showed the importance of effective postpartum management to maintain optimal reproductive performance in smallholder dairy systems.
Katsuwonus pelamis Liver Powder Supplementation in Broilers: Small Intestinal and Skeletal Muscle Histology in Relation to Growth Performance
Significant skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) by-products are generated from Indonesia’s abundant marine resources, and utilizing nutrient-rich materials such as discarded liver for animal feed offers a sustainable alternative to environmentally harmful waste disposal. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with K. pelamis liver powder (KPP) on the histological structure of the small intestine and skeletal muscles, and growth performance in broilers. A total of 300 mixed-sex Cobb 500 day-old chicks were raised for 17 days and randomly assigned to four dietary treatments containing 0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% KPP. Growth performance was evaluated, and samples of the small intestine, skeletal muscles, and bone were collected on day 18 after an 8-hour fasting period and processed using standard histological procedures. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s post hoc test. The results demonstrated that KPP supplementation enhanced multiple physiological variables in a concentration-dependent manner. Broilers receiving 3%–5% KPP showed significantly increased villus length, crypt depth, and goblet cell number and area across all small intestinal segments, along with higher skeletal muscle weight, fasciculus area, myofiber size, and myofiber number. Thoracic bone measurements were higher in KPP-fed groups. These improvements were accompanied by greater body weight gain and reduced feed conversion ratio (FCR), indicating enhanced growth performance, while hepatic histology showed no evidence of fatty liver. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of 3%–5% KPP supported broiler intestinal and skeletal muscle histology, improved growth performance, and promoted sustainable utilization of fishery by-products.
Growth Curve Patterns in Broilers and KU-Phuphan and Pradu Hang Dam Chickens Using Nonlinear Models
The growth performance of poultry is an important economic indicator and is crucial for the accurate modeling of growth curves, particularly for indigenous chicken breeds. Therefore, the optimal nonlinear growth model was investigated for commercial broilers and for two indigenous chicken breeds (KU-Phuphan and Pradu Hang Dam), breed-specific characteristics were delineated, and the influence was examined of sex on growth patterns. Chickens were weighed every 2 weeks. The broilers were followed for 6 weeks (fast-growing chickens) and the indigenous chickens (KU-Phuphan and Pradu Hang Dam) for 12 weeks (slow-growing chickens), with all groups analyzed for growth pattern using five nonlinear models. All models were evaluated for performance using R², RMSE, MAE, AIC, and BIC. The Gompertz model provided a better fit for the broilers, while the Hossfeld model was best for both indigenous breeds, with the models providing very good levels of prediction. The best-fitting models showed that growth parameters were different between breeds and between sexes. For example, in the indigenous breeds, the males had higher maximum body weight, cumulative weight gain, and growth rate than the females. However, there were no consistent sex differences in the broilers during their 6-week production period. There were only significant impacts of breed × sex interaction at ages 2 and 4 weeks. Overall, the optimal models for predicting chicken growth were specific to each breed. This finding should be useful for making decisions about breeding, feeding, and managing native poultry production systems.
Kedu Chickens Exhibit Better Resilience to Thermal Stress During the Two Weeks Prior to Market Age Compared to Broiler Chickens
Information about resilience to thermal stress is important for establishing the optimum rearing temperature for chickens. This study investigated the effects of heat stress on the physiological and hematological responses of Kedu and broiler chickens. Based on a 2×2 factorial arrangement, 192 male Kedu and broiler chickens were raised at temperatures of 23.83 ± 0.23°C or 35.33 ± 1.78°C. Sampling and data measurement were conducted after two weeks of rearing. Heat stress had no effect on the weight gain of the Kedu chickens, whereas the broiler weight gain fell (p≤0.05). Heat stress reduced feed consumption, while increasing water intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), rectal temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate (p≤0.05). The heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio of the Kedu chickens was higher than that of broilers (p≤0.05), while heat stress increased glucose and uric acid levels in the broilers (p≤0.05), but not in the Kedu chickens. Heat stress also increased heterophils. In addition, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin levels were higher in the Kedu chickens than in the broilers, while platelet counts were higher in the broilers (p≤0.05). Erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels decreased during heat stress (p≤0.05), while platelet distribution width (PDW) in the broilers increased (p≤0.05). Blood proportion to live chicken body weight was higher in the Kedu chickens than in the broilers, while heat stress reduced the blood and feather proportions in the broilers (p≤0.05). Heat stress also reduced the liver weight of the Kedu chickens, as well as that of the thymus and Bursa of Fabricius in both types of chicken (p≤0.05). The Kedu chickens had higher gizzard, spleen, and Bursa of Fabricius weights than the broilers (p≤0.05). In conclusion, compared to the broilers, the Kedu chickens demonstrated greater tolerance to heat stress, as indicated by their unaffected weight gain, blood glucose levels, PDW, and feather proportion.
Performance, Lipid, and Omega Fatty Acids Composition of Village Chickens Fed Diet Supplemented with Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is a rich source of omega fatty acids and has gained attention as a functional feed additive in the poultry industry. While the use of flaxseed oil in poultry has been widely reported, its application in village chickens remains limited, particularly regarding its physiological and metabolic effects. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of flaxseed oil (FO) supplementation on growth performance, carcass yields, and omega fatty acid levels in village chickens. A total of 120 village chickens (with average body weight 606.80 g) were randomly divided into four treatment groups with five replicates. Three levels of FO inclusion were experimented to replace palm oil used in the control treatment, where T0-basal diet with no FO, T1-2.5% FO inclusion, T2-3.0% FO inclusion, and T3-4.0% FO inclusion. Chickens were fed these experimental diets for five weeks, after which they were slaughtered. Breast and thigh muscles were collected for lipid and fatty acid analysis. Weight gain was slightly compromised as higher incorporation of FO was added to the diet of this village chicken (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed in carcass yield (p>0.05) between the treatments. Lipid composition in breast muscle increased with increasing addition of FO (p>0.05), but all FO treatments were found to be lower than control (p<0.05). However, in the thigh muscle, chickens in treatment T2 (3.0% FO inclusion) had the highest composition among FO diets but much lower compared to the control (p<0.05). Alpha-linolenic acids (ALA) in both breast and thigh muscles showed an increasing trend as a higher inclusion of FO was added (p<0.05) compared to the control and slightly reduced at 4.0% inclusion. In conclusion, the supplementation of flaxseed oil had no negative impact on the growth performance and carcass yields of village chickens while significantly enhancing the omega-3 fatty acid content in both breast and thigh muscles.
Synergistic Impact of Cholesterol-Loaded Cyclodextrin and Moringa Leaf Extract on Post-Thaw Boar Sperm Kinematics
Structural and functional damage during cryopreservation usually impairs the quality of boar sperm, especially post-thaw motility and kinematic performance, which restricts its use in artificial insemination programs. Cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin (CLC) and moringa leaf extract (MLE) are considered possible cryoprotective additives because they are membrane-stabilizing and antioxidants. The study investigated the possible synergistic effect of the Tris-egg yolk (TY) extender in combination with CLC and MLE on the motility and kinematics properties of thawed boar sperm, as identified in a Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system. Ejaculates of four healthy boars were diluted with Tris-based extender without or with CLC (1 or 2 mg/mL), MLE (1 or 1.5 mg/mL), or both, and frozen with a conventional protocol. Kinematic variables alongside progressive and fast motility were included as post-thaw tests. The findings showed that combination treatment of 2 mg/mL CLC and 1 mg/mL MLE (T7) resulted in a significant increase in all sperm motility and kinematic variables compared to the control group (T0) (p<0.05). In particular, T7 had better progressive motility (38.04%), fast motility (22.42%), and higher kinematic variables, especially VCL (106.34 µm/s), VSL (36.28 µm/s), and VAP (45.41 µm/s), and better displacement and trajectory indices. T7 was always better than the single supplementation and other combinations. Finally, the addition of CLC (2 mg/mL) and MLE (1 mg/mL) into the Tris egg yolk extender could be a successful approach towards optimizing semen cryopreservation in boars.
In Vivo Embryo Production in Horse: First Successful Case in Indonesia
In Indonesia, equine breeding has been largely limited to natural mating and artificial insemination (AI). Embryo transfer (ET) offers a more efficient reproductive approach by enabling the production of multiple offspring per year from genetically superior mares. This study evaluated the potential of in vivo embryo production in horses in Indonesia by examining the effects of embryo collection timing, oxytocin administration, and the duration of dominant follicle development on embryo recovery rates. Donor mares were selected based on physical examination and ovarian activity. Estrous cycles were synchronized using hormonal manipulation, and the estrous period was monitored by assessing ovarian follicular development and ovulation timing. AI was performed, and embryos were collected by uterine flushing on days 5, 6, and 7 after ovulation. No embryos were recovered on day 5, suggesting that embryos had not yet entered the uterus. In contrast, collections on days 6 and 7 resulted in recovery rates of 66.7% on both days, yielding embryos at the early blastocyst and blastocyst stages, respectively. Improved outcomes were observed in mares with dominant follicle development of ≤4 days and those receiving oxytocin. However, mares with mild reproductive disorders, such as endometritis, failed to produce embryos regardless of treatment. These results indicate that successful embryo recovery in horses depends on accurate collection timing, optimal follicular dynamics, and good uterine health of donor mares.
Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Beef Cattle at Baluran National Park Interface Area: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Beef cattle are commonly infected by gastrointestinal parasites, which impact productivity and cause economic losses. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites in beef cattle at Baluran National Park (BNP). A cross-sectional design was used from June to December 2024, with random sampling in five areas of the BNP interface, namely Air Karang, Lempuyang, Merak, Sirondo, and Simacan. In this context, 166 feces samples were collected from 25 farms and analyzed using flotation and sedimentation methods. A survey was applied to collect information about farmers, management, environment, sanitation, and biosecurity. The results showed that 51.2% (85/166) of the sample were positive for eggs or oocysts of one or more species of gastrointestinal parasites. Furthermore, this research identified nine genera, namely Bunostomum spp. (7.2%), Cooperia spp. (15.6%), Haemonchus spp. (4.8%), Oesophagostomum spp. (9%), Ostertagia spp. (3.6%), Strongylus spp. (2.4%), Trichostrongylus spp. (12.6%), Fasciola spp. (4.8%), and Eimeria spp. (4.2%). The samples were infected with a single infection (78,82%), while the multiple infection rate was 21,18%. Chi-square and odds ratio test suggested that pen area (p = 0.001), grazing area (p = 0.010), BCS (0.034), contact with wild ruminants (p = 0.030; OR = 2.033), infrequent pen cleaning (p = 0.004; OR = 2.581), the presence of blood in feces (p = 0.005; OR = 4.084), and pen near from house (p = 0.049; OR = 0.488) were associated with infection risk. Gastrointestinal parasites in beef cattle at the Baluran National Park interface exhibit high diversity of parasite species and are closely associated with geographic location, forest-based grazing practices, and poor body condition of the cattle.
Risk Factors for Second Litter Syndrome in Landrace × Yorkshire Sows in Tropical Conditions
Second litter syndrome (SLS), defined as an equal or lower number of piglets born alive (NBA) in the second parity compared to that in the first, is a major reproductive concern in commercial sow herds worldwide. This study aimed to identify factors associated with SLS under tropical conditions in Vietnam. Data from 3,957 Landrace × Yorkshire sows farrowing the second litter between 2024 and 2025 were analyzed using logistic regression. The overall incidence of SLS was 56.8%, with mean NBA of 12.7 in both parities. In the multivariable model 1, NBA in the first parity (NBA1) was the strongest predictor, accounting for 50.3% of the explained variation (OR=2.3, 95% CI: 2.2-2.4, p<0.001). Age at insemination after weaning between 344 and 440 days increased the odds of SLS by 1.4-1.8 times compared with the value >470 days. Model 2, excluding NBA1, identified additional risk factors, including litter size at weaning (LSW), weaning-to-service interval (WSI), and month of insemination after the first weaning. Sows that weaned >14 piglets had threefold higher odds of SLS compared to those weaning fewer than 11 piglets (p<0.001). A shorter WSI (0-10 days) increased the risk of SLS by 1.3-1.4 times compared to a WSI>17 days (p<0.009). Compared with the sows inseminated in May-August, the sows inseminated in September-April had 1.7-2.1 times higher odds of SLS (p<0.001). This study showed a high prevalence of SLS and its association with several factors under tropical conditions. To maintain overall herd productivity while lowering the risk of SLS, farm management should focus on sows with a large NBA1, sows’ recovery before insemination, and the mitigation of metabolic stress.
Morphology, Biomass, and Forage Quality of Sorghum bicolor cv. Bioguma-2 Treated with Soil Ameliorants on Post-Coal Mining Land
Reclamation of post-coal mining land is a valuable opportunity for transforming the land into agricultural cultivation of forage crops for livestock feed production. We conducted an experiment in the Asamasam coal mining spot, Tanah Laut Regency, South Kalimantan, to investigate the effect of some soil ameliorant materials, and Sorghum bicolor cv. Bioguma-2 (Bioguma-2 sorghum) on morphological characteristics and biomass production. Seven soil ameliorant treatments were tested: control (P0), single applications of humic acid (P1, 28 L ha⁻¹), dolomite (P2, 5.8 t ha⁻¹), and organic compost (P3, 15 t ha⁻¹), and treatment combinations of humic acid + compost (P4), dolomite + compost (P5), and humic acid + dolomite + compost (P6) with the same doses of P1, P2, and P3. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, and any significances between treatments were analyzed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. The results indicated that the combined ameliorant materials improved morphological characteristics and biomass production. Treatment P6 showed the highest effectiveness on soil quality, plant survival rate, most morphological traits, and all yield parameters, followed by other treatments with comparatively lower performance. P6 produced the highest crude protein content across treatments. The combination of multi-ameliorants (humic acid, dolomite, and organic compost) is more effective than single ameliorants in improving soil quality, plant survival, morphological traits, and biomass yield of Sorghum bicolor cv. Bioguma-2 on post-coal mining land. These results indicate that using combined soil ameliorants is a promising strategy to enhance forage crop production on degraded mining soils. However, natural declines in plant performance during later harvest stages suggest the need for further nutrient management to sustain productivity over time.
Endoparasite and Microbial Burden in Quail Farm Systems: A Biosecurity and Water Quality Assessment in Central Java, Indonesia
Quail farming is vital for smallholder farmers in Central Java, Indonesia; however, productivity often declines due to poor biosecurity, inadequate water quality, and parasitic infections. This study aims to examine biosecurity practices, water quality, and endoparasite loads in ten quail farms (L1-L10) located in Semarang City and nearby regencies. Data were collected through observations, interviews, water sampling, and analysis of quail droppings. Biosecurity scores (maximum 18) were categorized into three groups: Group-1 (scores 13-18), Group-2 (scores 7-12), and Group-3 (scores 1-6). Water quality was assessed based on pH, E. coli, and coliform counts using triplicate samples from each site. The biosecurity score showed that three farms are in Group-1 (L1, L7, L9), five are in Group-2, and two are in Group-3 (L8, L10). The water pH ranged from 4.8 to 8.0; the highest E. coli count was 19.33 CFU/mL (L9), and the highest Coliform count was 89.67 CFU/mL (L5). L1 had the highest parasite load, with Coccidia, Strongyloides, and Ascaridia sp. at 1000 oocysts/g (OPG), 100 OPG, and 33.33 OPG, respectively. Meanwhile, L7 showed no endoparasites or water contamination. Egg production ranged from 64.29% to 90.00%. Although no significant differences in endoparasite prevalence were found among biosecurity groups or water quality (p>0.05), Coliform levels differed significantly (p<0.05), with the highest levels in conventional well-water. This study revealed that only about one-third of smallholder quail farms in Semarang and its surrounding regencies adhere to proper biosecurity measures. It was also the first to document quail endoparasite burdens as well as E. coli and coliform contamination in drinking water.
Integrated Metabolomic and Functional Assessment of Sexed Frozen Semen in Holstein Friesian Bulls
This study examined the differences in sperm quality and metabolite profiles among X and Y sperm in Friesian Holstein bulls. It also tried to find specific metabolites that can help improve the accuracy of sexed semen use in humid tropical dairy farms. Semen samples from five bulls were separated by sex and tested for movement, live sperm count, shape, and membrane and acrosome health. The tests used Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) and regular microscope checks. Metabolite analysis was performed using LC-HRMS, followed by various statistical tests, pathway checks, and ROC curve analysis. The outcomes showed that X sperm had better movement and acrosome health, while Y sperm had stronger membranes, fewer shape problems, and moved faster. The untargeted metabolite study showed clear differences between the two groups. X sperm had more identified metabolites and greater average levels. The crucial metabolites found more in X sperm were D-(−)-fructose, L-(+)-lactic acid, and sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. Meanwhile, Y sperm had greater levels of acetyl-L-carnitine. The pathway analysis showed that X sperm primarily utilized carbohydrate and fat processing through glycolysis and phosphocholine pathways to maintain their movement and membrane integrity. On the other hand, Y sperm mainly use a carnitine-based energy pathway to support their faster and straighter movement. The identified metabolites can serve as reliable biomarkers to aid in laboratory quality control checks and enhance the quality of semen extenders. This outcome gives a good way to make sexed semen more stable and reliable in tropical dairy farming conditions.
Animal Welfare Claims in Indonesia: Comparative Study of EU Standards and Proposed Regulatory Framework
Animal welfare regulations in Indonesia have undergone recent developments, particularly with the proposed umbrella regulation for animal welfare under ministerial regulations. This development is intended to provide legal clarity and serve as a foundation for future welfare-related policies. However, a clear and harmonized animal welfare claims framework is still missing. In contrast, the European Union (EU), as a pioneer and frontrunner in animal welfare governance, has established a comprehensive standards and labelling framework. Taking from the 2009 European Commission’s animal welfare claims classification, this study aims to evaluate how Indonesia’s existing and proposed certifications related to animal welfare schemes, including Veterinary Control Number, organic, geographical indication, and halal, could be restructured to fit within a welfare claim framework. Through a comparative legal analysis, the study identifies regulatory gaps and opportunities to improve animal welfare policies in Indonesia. Particularly, the adoption of selected practices that have already been implemented in the EU could help Indonesia improve regulatory coherence, support food safety, and enhance its competitiveness in global trade.
In Vitro Anthelmintic Evaluation of Acanthophora spicifera Macroalgal Extract Against Haemonchus contortus in Sheep
This study investigated the chemical composition and anthelmintic activity of Acanthophora spicifera against Haemonchus contortus from sheep in vitro. Fresh macroalgae were collected from Sepanjang Beach, Gunungkidul, Indonesia. Proximate analysis, fiber fractions, mineral composition, and color profile analysis were conducted to determine chemical profile of the macroalga. It was extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol (1:5) and ultrasonication. Secondary metabolites analyzed from the extract included total flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and saponins. The anthelmintic activity was tested in vitro through H. contortus adult worm motility and egg hatch inhibition tests. Extract treatments included P0: 0.9% physiological NaCl (negative control); P1: 0.5 mg/mL macroalgal extract; P2: 1 mg/mL macroalgal extract; P3: 1.5 mg/mL macroalgal extract; and Palb: 0.5 mg/mL albendazole (positive control). Motility test results showed that the use of macroalgae at levels of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mg/mL significantly reduced H. contortus motility (p<0.05). However, effective LD₅₀ was reached in 1 and 1.5 mg/mL within the first 10 hours, and LD₁₀₀ after 21 hours (p<0.05). None of the extract levels matched the efficacy of albendazole (p<0.05). The egg hatch inhibition test revealed that the use of macroalgae at levels of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mg/mL significantly inhibited H. contortus egg hatching by more than 85.73% after 24 hours (p<0.01), demonstrating comparable efficacy to albendazole. Based on these findings, A. spicifera extract contains various secondary metabolites with anthelmintic activity, inhibiting both H. contortus adult worm motility and egg hatching. This suggests that A. spicifera has potential for further development as a bioanthelmintic for ruminant parasite control, although further in vivo studies are needed.
Encapsulated Cardamom Waste Extract (Amomum compactum) Supplementation Improves Health and Performance of Broiler Chickens
Encapsulated cardamom waste extract (ECWE) contains flavonoids with antibacterial and antioxidant properties that may enhance broiler health and performance. This study evaluated the effects of ECWE as a phytobiotic on broiler intestinal microbiota, pH, H/L ratio, lymphoid organs, and performance. A total of 200 unsexed Ross broilers (8 days old) with an average body weight of 215.08±5.1 g/bird were assigned to five dietary treatments: T0 (control), T1 (0.02% ECWE), T2 (0.04% ECWE), T3 (0.06% ECWE), and T4 (0.08% ECWE). Results showed that 0.08% ECWE significantly increased lactic acid bacteria (LAB) populations, lymphoid organ, and broiler performance. The increase in LAB given 0.08% ECWE is more effective in helping to reduce intestinal pH and to minimize the growth of pathogenic bacteria that can interfere with chicken digestion. In addition, the antioxidant properties in ECWE had a positive effect on the development of lymphoid organs, especially the thymus. It is concluded that ECWE supplementation at 0.08% was the most effective in improving digestive tract health and optimizing broiler performance.
Trends in Measurement Techniques in Laying Hen Farm Welfare: A Review
Animal welfare is a crucial issue in animal production, and researchers are seeking optimal methods to evaluate animal welfare in the field. In poultry farming, laying hen health and welfare are critical to consumer perception of product quality. The aim of the review was to examine traditional and advanced measurement trends of animal welfare in laying hens’ farms. Emerging technologies have facilitated a more profound comprehension of animal responses to diverse scenarios encountered in livestock production systems. Currently, conventional methods, such as behavioral observations, are time-consuming and highly dependent on the experienced observer’s expertise; likewise, other valuable indicators, including physiological parameters, hormonal levels, thermographic changes in the body, and hematological parameters, are widely used but are being re-evaluated. Currently, technological advances are developing comparatively non-invasive methods for multiple and long-term monitoring, such as machine vision and deep learning algorithms to track bird behavior. In addition, molecular techniques have emerged as promising tools to understand the cellular responses under internal or external stressful conditions and improve farm animal welfare. However, several challenges exist in terms of standardization and implementation of the new technologies, especially in developing countries. These challenges include limited access to advanced tools, costs, among others, and hinder implementation. In this review, we conclude that welfare research requires a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, utilizing both conventional measurements and new technologies to enable a more comprehensive assessment of animal welfare.
Tiny Circular Economy Practices in the Cagayan Valley Region, Philippines: A Case Study of Native Chicken Farmers
This study investigated the adoption of tiny circular economy (TCE) practices among native chicken farmers in the Cagayan Valley region of the Philippines, examining the influence of farmers’ perceptions and motivations on TCE practices. Using a purposive sample of 400 farmers, the research explored how farmers’ perceptions of support from government and non-government organizations, alongside their motivations (existence, relatedness, and growth), impact the implementation of TCE in native chicken production. Data were analyzed by using multiple linear regression to quantify these effects. The findings reveal that a significant majority (68.25%) of farmers in the region have adopted sustainable TCE practices, which form a circular system encompassing food production, consumption, and waste management. These practices include utilizing leftover food as chicken feed, allowing chickens to forage naturally, employing organic fertilizers derived from animal manure and plant waste, and selling chickens and eggs for income. Moreover, the results indicated that farmers’ perception of the support from government and NGOs had a significant impact on TCE adoption (p<0.05), whereas motivation exerted a stronger influence (p<0.01). Additionally, TCE adoption leads to reduced production costs (particularly feed and fertilizer), increased income from premium-priced organic products, waste reduction, and overall environmental sustainability. The findings suggest that farmers’ perception and motivation have a positive influence on the adoption of smallholder TCE practices, contributing to reducing production costs, increasing income, and promoting sustainable development in native chicken farming.
Growth, Physiological, and Intestinal Responses of Low-Weight Day-Old Broiler Chicks to Dietary Infertile Egg Powder
The present study examined the consequences of supplementing the diets of low-weight day-old broiler chicks (DOC) with 4% infertile egg powder (IEP). The chicks were categorized into three groups namely; normal-weight DOC, low-weight DOC on a basal diet, and low-weight DOC on a diet that contained 4% IEP (T2). In hematological analysis, there was increase in hemoglobin levels, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) compared to T2, but the MCV was less than T0 (p<0.05). There was improvement in the lipid metabolism, whereby triglyceride and HDL levels reduced and increased, respectively (p<0.05). T2 showed an improved antioxidant status; it had an increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and a decreased level of malondialdehyde (MDA) (p<0.05). Ileal lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and coliform counts were also substantially reduced in T2 vs. T0 (p<0.05), whereas both caecal coliform counts and LNE counts and the LAB-to-coliform ratio were significantly worse in T1 and T2 than T0 (p<0.05). Histological findings expressed the aspect of villus height-to-crypt depth (VH/CD) ratio that was greater in duodenum and ileum of T2 than T1, and deeper crypt in the jejunum in T0 than T1 (p<0.05). There was significant reduction in lesion score in duodenum and the jejunum as seen in T2 group (p<0.05). T2 also had much higher weight gain (p<0.05). per day, feed consumption and body weight at the end when compared to T1. To summarize the findings, the supplement of 4% IEP via the diet improved the physiological functioning and intestinal health status, causing the rise in body weights in low-weight broiler chicks.