Bioclimatology and the Adaptation of Livestock

This volume focuses on the effects of bioclimates on the adaptability of livestock and poultry. Each chapter reviews and integrates in one volume the more recent research findings on bioclimates. Basic physiological, metabolic, thermoregulatory and applied growth production and lactation data are discussed. Fundamental and applied information on a wide variety of livestock provides data essential to the understanding of relative adaptability and performance potential of various livestock and poultry types in the hot and cold bioclimates of the world. Problem areas are highlighted and specific need for further scientific research is indicated where necessary. These data will enhance future decision making processes necessary for the improvement of productivity of livestock in various world bioclimates. The book is intended for use worldwide by, specialists, extension workers, consultants, policy makers, research scientists and graduate students involved in all aspects of animal production.

Part I. Climate, Bioclimate and Animals. Bioclimates and Livestock (H.D. Johnson). Principles of Bioclimatology and Adaptation (M.K. Yousef). Part II. Bioclimate Effects on Growth, Reproduction and Milk Production of Livestock. Bioclimate Effects on Growth, Reproduction and Milk Production (H.D. Johnson). Pre- and Post-weaning Growth of Different Breeds of Beef Cattle in the Tropics (J.E. Vercoe, J.E. Frisch). Reproduction of Dairy Cattle in Humid Tropical Environments (H. Roman-Ponce). Lactation of Dairy Cattle in Humid Tropical Environments (H. Roman-Ponce). Part III. Hot Bioclimates and Selected Livestock Species and Breeds. Special Cattle Groups in the Tropics (J. De Alba). Water Buffalo (P. Loypetjra et al.). Wild and Domestic Ungulates (M.H. Butterworth). N'Dama and Fulani Cattle (S.F. Amakiri, S.K. Onwuka). Goats (C. Devendra). Sheep (J.J. Hernandez Ledezma). Swine. Effects of the Tropical Climate on the Physiology and Productivity of the Pig (J. Steinbach). Poultry (M.A. Elaroussi). IV. Cold Bioclimates and Selected Livestock Species and Breeds. Adaptations of Ungulates Evolved in Cold Environments (M.K. Yousef). 16. Sheep (J. Slee). Swine (M.W.A. Verstegen). Poultry and Birds (M. van Kampen). List of Contributors. Subject Index.