Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Pecuarias

Tropical grasses used in haylage production: An integrative review

Ana Beatriz de-AlmeidaDuarte — 2024-09-26

Background: Haylage is a way of preserving forage with good nutritional value, consisting of the partial removal of water from the plant through the wilting technique. Objective: To identify the main tropical grasses used in haylage production, we developed an integrative review. Methods: Through the PVO mnemonic strategy, which consists of population (P): tropical forage grasses, variables (V): haylage production, and outcome (O): qualitative parameters, we raised the following question: “What are the main tropical forage grasses used in haylage production?” Papers were selected from three different databases: SCOPUS (Elsevier), Web of Science, and Science Direct. Results: The search identified 1,049 articles, but only 10 were considered suitable and included for data extraction. Among the grasses used, 50% were of Cynodon spp., 30% of Panicum maximum, 10% of Festuca rubr, 10% of Dactylis glomerata, and 10% of Trisetum flavescens. Conclusion: We conclude that the main forage grasses used in pre-dried silage production belong to the genera Cynodon spp. and Panicum spp., highlighting Tifton-85 grass and Tanzania grass, respectively.

Efficacy of Contoya plant (Lobelia decurrens Cav.) to control coccidiosis in calves

Teófilo Torrel — 2025-03-26

Background: Cattle are susceptible to infections by parasitic protozoa, which often require chemical treatments. However, using these products can contaminate the soil and negatively affect ecosystems (flora, fauna and microbiota), affecting the food chain and safety by leaving residues in milk and meat and posing risks to consumers. Therefore, it is crucial to seek sustainable alternatives, such as using bioactive plants and their extracts. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of contoya plant (Lobelia decurrens Cav.) at single doses of 1 g.kg-1 and 2 g.kg-1 of body weight for controlling coccidiosis in naturally infected calves under extensive rearing conditions. Methods: Groups of calves with similar parasitic loads (ANOVA p>0.05) were formed and orally administered pulverized leaves and flowers of contoya plant. Efficacy was calculated as the percentage reduction of oocysts per gram of feces using a McMaster chamber. Results: The 2 g.kg-1 dose significantly reduced the parasitic load compared to the 1 g.kg-1 dose (p<0.05). With a dose of 1 g.kg-1, a minimum efficacy of 38.04% was observed on the third day and a maximum efficacy of 86.93% on the fifteenth day. With the 2 g.kg-1 dose, a minimum efficacy of 73.91% was achieved on the third day and a maximum efficacy of 95.45% on the fifteenth day. Conclusion: Our results indicate that contoya at a dose of 2 g.kg-1 body weight can control coccidiosis in calves. This could be advantageous for cattle producers, providing a superior alternative to conventional drugs in terms of costs, environmental impact, as well as food safety and quality.

Effect of tourist transport work on physiological parameters and muscle stress markers in horses in Cartagena de Indias

Francisco Guzman — 2025-06-20

Background: Cartagena de Indias is recognized as a tourist city, where coach horses become one of the main means of transportation for visitors. However, overexploitation has led to horses being exposed to long work hours, and inadequate health management conditions, causing deleterious effects on the animal. Objective: determine the effect that the work performed by coach horses has on physiology, hematology, blood biochemistry and muscle stress indicators. Methods: 60 coach horses were studied under normal working conditions. The evaluation of muscle stress indicators was carried out in a group of 12 animals (6 with prolonged rest and 6 with loading activity) with similar age, weight, sex, body condition and clinical diagnosis. Results: 8% of the animals presented morphometric measurements within normal ranges. The average values of total, direct bilirubin, GOT, GPT and ALT in 100% of the animals evaluated were within the reference values except for FAS, while 84% presented values of leukocytes and erythrocytes outside the values. reference. When comparing between groups, there were significant changes in serum values (P ≤ 0.05). The difference in plasma concentrations of CK and LDH peaked between 8 to 10 hours after carrying out the activities; However, 28 hours after work (rest period) these plasma values did not differ statistically. On the other hand, a correlation of total CK with AST and ALT and between AST and ALT was found (P ≤ 0.05, r = 0.44 and P ≤ 0.05, r = 0.43, P ≤ 0.01, R=0.60). Conclusion: The physiological and biochemical variables showed a possible adaptation to the work of coach horses, although were not sufficient to diagnose a welfare problem in most of the animals.

Relationship between cholesterol and sperm quality in ChinoSantandereano (Bos taurus) bulls

Norberto Villa-Duque — 2025-06-06

Background: The assessment of seminal quality parameters is often the initial step in bull selection for siring or conservation purposes. While these parameters provide insights into fertility, delving into the molecular dynamics occurring within sperm cells can complement this primary reproductive evaluation. Cholesterol, one of the most active molecules on the sperm membrane surface, has been linked to critical processes that confer functional features required for reaching the oocyte and achieving fertilization. The complexity of cholesterol dynamics in the sperm surface, including membrane lipid remodeling, is relevant to numerous processes that precede fertilization. Objective: To elucidate the correlation between sperm quality parameters and cholesterol levels in sperm cells from Chino-Santandereano bulls, a Colombian creole breed renowned for its high sperm quality, yet unfortunately facing imminent extinction. Methods: Semen samples were collected from ten Chino-Santandereano bulls to evaluate sperm motility, viability, and sperm functional competence (SFC) immediately after collection. Simultaneously, cholesterol was extracted from sperm membranes using a methanol-chloroform solution, and cholesterol levels were measured by spectrophotometry using a specific commercial kit. A Pearson's correlation test was used to determine the relationship between cholesterol concentration and seminal quality parameters. Results: Our results revealed a strong negative correlation between cholesterol quantity and the average SFC. Additionally, cholesterol levels were also negatively associated with sperm motility. This suggests that cholesterol dynamics, particularly cholesterol output, play a more significant role in sperm functionality than cholesterol content. Conclusions: Monitoring cholesterol output from the sperm membrane appears to be an interesting alternative to complement the initial reproductive evaluation in bulls. The intricate nature of these relationships deserves further experimental work to fully comprehend the implications of cholesterol for the reproductive potential of Chino-Santandereano bulls’ semen and offer insights for enhancing sperm quality in other breeds.

Morphological description of Chaetostoma thomsoni, an endemic fish from Colombia

Julieth Ayala-Combariza — 2025-03-26

Background: The Porce River basin, where the Porce II and Porce III reservoirs are located, harbors a wide diversity of endemic ichthyofauna, many of which lack detailed anatomical and histological descriptions. Chaetostoma thomsoni Regan, 1904 (Siluriformes: Loricariidae), commonly referred to as striped rubbernose plecostomus, cucha, or carachama in South America, is a teleost fish that inhabits fast-flowing rivers and streams with moderate slopes. This species is abundant in the Magdalena and Cauca River basins in Colombia. Objective: To characterize the anatomical and histological features of the skin and internal organs of C. thomsoni from the Porce River basin. Methods: Thirty-seven specimens of C. thomsoni were collected from streams using electrofishing and cast nets. Fish were euthanized with Eugenol solution (300 mg/L), preserved in 10% buffered formalin, labeled, and stored individually in Falcon tubes. Samples were processed at the Animal Anatomy Laboratory of the University of Antioquia, Colombia, where biometric measurements, dissections, and tissue sampling were performed. Results: A complete morphometric analysis was carried out, together with a comprehensive description of the skin and internal anatomy, including macro- and microscopic characterization of the intestine, hepatopancreas, spleen, kidney, urinary bladder, and gonads, among other organs. The findings provide reference data on the health status and applied anatomy of the species, including the identification of an optimal cardiopuncture site for blood sampling. A notable observation was the cephalic kidney, exhibiting a cranially bifurcated morphology partially surrounding the brain. Both cephalic and caudal regions of the kidney contained interstitial hematopoietic tissue and displayed endocrine and immunological functions. In addition, Stannius corpuscles were observed as two distinct nodules in the caudal kidney. Conclusion: This anatomical and histological characterization provides a baseline for future studies aimed at advancing the knowledge and conservation of endemic Colombian ichthyofauna.

Effect of four surgical antisepsis protocols on bacteria counts in felines undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy

Roger González-Vatteone — 2025-06-20

Background: Endogenous microbial flora is the most frequent cause of contamination of the surgical wound and its subsequent infection. Surgical antisepsis is the control of infection of surgical wounds by reducing microbial contamination. Objective: The main objective of this research was to determine the effect of four surgical antisepsis protocols on bacterial count in felines undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy at different moments: the moment 1 (M₁) after trichotomy and before antisepsis, moment 2 (M₂) after antisepsis and moment 3 (M₃) at the end of the surgical procedure. Methods: Sixty felines, mixed breed, from 5 to 12 months of age, were randomly subjected to 4 surgical antisepsis protocols: 7.5% povidone-iodine soap and rinsing with alcohol 70°, 7.5% povidone-iodine soap and rinsing with saline solution, 2% chlorhexidine soap and rinsing with alcohol 70°, and chlorhexidine soap 2% and rinsing with saline solution. Results: it was demonstrated a mathematical reduction in the number of bacteria in all groups. Regarding the comparison of bacteria growth by protocols evaluated, using the Kruskal Wallis test, no statistically significant differences were found between the protocols studied (p˃0.05). Regarding the comparison of bacteria growth by moments in each protocol (same individuals evaluated at different moments), using the Friedman and Holm test, statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were found between the studied moments: M₁M₂ p=4.9 ^-11; M₁M₃p=4.9 ^-11 and M₂M₃ p=0.039. Conclusions: under the conditions of the present study, any of the 4 protocols have a similar effect on the antisepsis protocol in felines undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Regarding the moments studied, there were differences between the 3 moments studied, with M₁ being dissimilar to M₂, M₁ to M₃ and M₂ to M₃.

Correlation between body condition and ultrasound-measured backfat in lactating Holstein cows

Rıdvan Kocyiğit — 2025-03-26

Background: Ultrasonography has been developed to reduce the subjectivity inherent in body condition scoring and to provide more accurate and objective assessments. Objective: To examine the relationship between body condition score (BCS) and backfat thickness measured by ultrasound in Holstein dairy cows raised on the high plateaus of eastern Türkiye. Methods: Ultrasound measurements were obtained from two sites on the right side of the body, specifically the thurl and the lumbar regions, for a total of 112 measurements. Results: A decrease in mean backfat thicknesses was observed in both regions from the close-up period to early
lactation, followed by an increase in mid lactation. The lowest value of backfat thickness was also observed during early lactation. Overall, backfat thickness showed the same temporal trend. Pearson correlation coefficients between both regions ranged from 0.73 to 0.99, indicating a significant relationship (p < 0.01). A strong positive correlation was found between BCS and the measurements of thurl and lumbar backfat, with values of 0.79 and 0.83, respectively (p< 0.01). The linear regression coefficients between BCS and fat
thickness in the thurl, lumbar regions, as well as the average of thurl and lumbar measurements were also statistically significant (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Ultrasound measurements are a reliable and adequate method for determining the nutritional status and body energy reserves of cows across different lactation stages, given the strong correlation between BCS and ultrasound backfat thicknesss.
This method reduces the likelihood of errors inherent in visual assessment methods.

Development of an electronic device for automatic and individualized monitoring of enteric methane emissions in dairy cows

John-Fredy Ramirez-Agudelo — 2025-01-31

Background: Monitoring enteric methane (CH₄) emissions is crucial for identifying animals with lower emissions in selection programs and to measure the effectiveness of emission reduction strategies. Current methods are often expensive and complex, limiting their widespread application. Objective: This study aimed to develop and test a low-cost, automated [1]system for individualized monitoring of CH₄ emissions in dairy cows. Methods: The system comprises a CH₄ concentration measurement device based on the MQ-4 gas sensor, complemented by a 2 L/min airflow system, and an animal identification module utilizing artificial intelligence. The CH₄ data were wirelessly transmitted via an ESP8266 module to a laptop for storage. CH₄ concentrations were recorded three times per second, and precise timestamps were used to document cow entry and exit from the milking stall. For the animal identification module, video frames of 26 cows during milking were extracted and organized into individual folders for each cow. Four versions (s, n, m, and l) of the Yolov8 and Yolov10 models were fine-tuned and evaluated using a dataset divided into training, validation, and testing sets. Performance metrics included Precision, Recall, F1-Score, and Accuracy. The CH₄ concentration system was tested with 10 Holstein cows during their milking sessions. Results: The prototypes successfully measured and recorded CH₄ emissions from individual cows. Continuous recording allowed for detailed time-series graphs, showing fluctuations in emissions. Some cows exhibited highest average CH₄ emission level, demonstrating the device's ability to identify high-emitting individuals. Baseline CH₄ concentrations in the feeder area were stable across cows, ensuring accurate emission measurements. The identification module's comparative analysis highlighted the Yolov8s model as the optimal choice due to its balance between low latency (16.4 ms) and high performance, achieving perfect scores in precision, recall, F1-score, and accuracy. Conclusions: The developed system effectively monitors CH₄ emissions in dairy cows, offering a practical and economical alternative to traditional methods. The use of low-cost sensors and advanced artificial intelligence enhances its potential for genetic improvement programs and sustainable livestock management practices.

Avian influenza in Colombia: A One Health perspective on surveillance, intervention, and policy integration

Karl A Ciuoderis — 2025-03-11

Background: Avian influenza remains a significant global health issue, threatening animal and human populations. The natural reservoirs of influenza A viruses (IAVs) are wild birds, and their transmission dynamics can influence disease outbreaks in domestic poultry and humans. Colombia, due to its geographic location and diverse ecosystems, faces unique challenges in the surveillance and control of avian influenza. Objective: This work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of avian influenza in Colombia from a One Health perspective, highlighting surveillance, intervention strategies, and policy integration to mitigate disease spread. Methods: A literature review was conducted to consolidate data on avian influenza cases in Colombia, including reports of outbreaks in poultry and wild birds. Risk factors, transmission routes, and prevention strategies were analyzed, emphasizing the role of migratory birds and ecological influences. Results: Colombia has experienced highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks, primarily affecting backyard poultry and wild birds. The review identifies key risk areas influenced by migratory bird pathways, poultry farming practices, and biosecurity measures. Effective surveillance systems and rapid response protocols are essential to prevent further spread. Conclusions: Adopting a One Health approach that integrates veterinary, public health, and environmental efforts is critical to mitigating avian influenza in Colombia. Strengthening surveillance, improving vaccination strategies, and enhancing biosecurity measures can reduce transmission risks. International cooperation is also necessary to monitor migratory bird movements and implement preventive measures against potential outbreaks.