Publications by authors named "Rachid Bouraoui"

Article Synopsis
  • The study aimed to analyze how heat stress (measured by the temperature-humidity index, or THI) affects milk production and lactation parameters in Holstein cows by looking at data from 947 cows over several years.
  • Results indicated that increased THI negatively impacted milk yield, fat, and protein content, with the highest heat stress (THI > 72) associated with lower production metrics compared to moderate heat stress (THI 68-72).
  • The findings revealed a significant correlation between higher THI values and decreased milk quality and quantity, with cows experiencing peak yields at moderate THI levels (68-72).
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This study aimed to assess the welfare of Tunisian sheep in extensive sheep production systems using animal-based measures of ewe welfare. This study encompasses the first national survey of sheep welfare in which animal-based outcomes were tested. Animal-based welfare measures were derived from previous welfare protocols.

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This work aims to study the relationship between variations of the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) and the parameters of reproduction especially the first conception rate (FCR) and to determine the threshold THI value where cows' fertility rate dropped in 12 Holstein dairy herds raised in the arid climatic conditions of Tunisia. THI values were calculated over 22 years (1996-2018), and the mean monthly temperature and relative humidity data were obtained from the Meteorological Institute of Tunisia. A total of 20,396 individual records (Insemination and calving dates) were extracted from the Livestock and Pasturing Office (OEP, Tunisia) with regard to the highest THI before breeding, on the breeding day, and after breeding.

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