Influence of silvopastoral systems on gastrointestinal nematode infection and immune response of Nellore heifers under tropical conditions.

Among the strategies for integrating crops, livestock, and forestry, silvopastoral systems must be highlighted due to their inherent microclimatic conditions, mainly in tropical countries such as Brazil, where cattle are frequently subjected to unfavorable thermal conditions. However, according to some studies, shading can potentially worsen herds´ parasitism due to better microclimatic condition for the parasites. This study aimed to assess fecal egg count in Nellore heifers reared in two silvopastoral arrangements (pasture with single or triple tree rows), in a crop-livestock system, and open pasture.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in dairy herds in the central region of Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

Neospora caninum is one of the parasites that frequently causes reproductive loses in cattle herds all over the world. Surveys have shown a high prevalence of the parasite in herds; in certain locations, 90% to 100% of dairy holdings are positives according serological tests. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with the increased number of seropositive dairy cattle in the central region of Minas Gerais, the largest milk producer state in Brazil.

The influence of trees on the thermal environment and behaviour of grazing heifers in Brazilian Midwest.

The intensification of the livestock production system has gained prominence over the last decades. In addition to the reduction of grazing areas and increased productivity per hectare, the intercropping involving forest tree species and ruminants has been established as a sustainable production model, generating income and valuation of natural capital. Besides the social, economic, and environmental aspects, the animal welfare is a noteworthy factor.

Prevalence and risk factors for bovine tuberculosis in Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence and regional spread of bovine tuberculosis in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, to identify herd-level risk factors, and to provide guidance for disease control and mitigation of its impact in public health. The study comprised a large-scale random sample survey of 22,990 animals and 1586 herds, distributed in seven regions. A questionnaire was applied on each farm to collect epidemiological and herd management data.