Animals

18 pages, 2000 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of In Ovo Injection of Mannan-Oligosaccharides on Early Growth Performance, Intestinal Morphology, and Cecal Microbiota in Broilers

by Chentong Wang, Manyang Jin, Yufan Li, Yilong Lv, Ju Chai, Haitao Shi, Xue Bai, Yanling Huang and Xi Wang

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2802; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172802 (registering DOI) - 6 Sep 2026

Abstract

Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) are functional prebiotics that selectively promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the chicken intestinal tract. This study evaluated the effects of in ovo MOS injection on early growth, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbiota of broilers at 7, 14, and [...] Read more.

Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) are functional prebiotics that selectively promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the chicken intestinal tract. This study evaluated the effects of in ovo MOS injection on early growth, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbiota of broilers at 7, 14, and 21 days post-hatch (dph). In total, 700 Cobb 500 fertilized eggs received either no injection or 200 μL of PBS diluent, low (0.5 mg/egg), medium (5 mg/egg), or high (10 mg/egg) doses of MOS in the amnion. At hatch, approximately 280 male hatchlings from injection groups were distributed into 28 cages and raised until 21 dph. Our results indicated that MOS injection linearly increased feed intake and body weight during 0–7 dph and improved duodenal villus height and width, with no persistent improvements observed at older age. Moreover, microbiota shifts triggered by MOS were only observed at 7 dph. The MOS injection at 0.5 mg/egg reduced genus-level Sobs, and PCoA coupled with ADONIS analysis confirmed microbial separation across treatments (p = 0.017). MOS selectively enriched obligate anaerobic taxa, including Lachnospiraceae, Pseudoflavonifractor, and Collidextribactor (0.5 mg/egg), and Ruminococcus gauvreauii (5 mg/egg). Conversely, control-enriched genera (Enterococcus and Litchfieldia) were negatively correlated with body weight gain. In conclusion, in ovo administration of MOS at 0.5 mg/chick transiently improved the abundance of beneficial anaerobes, and injecting 10 mg MOS could improve villus morphology and growth performance in chicks in the first week, suggesting a potential role for MOS in shaping early microbial establishment in broilers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 601 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Chlorogenic Acid-Rich Green Coffee Bean Extract Improves Laying Performance and Antioxidant Status in Heat-Stressed Laying Hens

by Yuqing Mu, Xuezheng Shang, Jie Yang and Xuezhuang Wu

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172801 (registering DOI) - 6 Sep 2026

Abstract

Cyclic heat stress compromises egg production and antioxidant defenses in laying hens. The present study employed a short-term, 14-day cyclic heat-stress model to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with a chlorogenic acid-rich green coffee bean extract could mitigate these effects. Before initiation of the [...] Read more.

Cyclic heat stress compromises egg production and antioxidant defenses in laying hens. The present study employed a short-term, 14-day cyclic heat-stress model to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with a chlorogenic acid-rich green coffee bean extract could mitigate these effects. Before initiation of the heat-stress experiment, all hens were maintained under thermoneutral conditions and received the basal diet without the extract. Following 1 week of adaptation and 4 weeks of thermoneutral feeding, 240 approximately 50-week-old Jingfen No. 8 hens were allocated to a thermoneutral control, a heat-stress control, or heat-stressed groups receiving 100 or 200 mg/kg extract containing 70% chlorogenic acid, with four independent replicates of 15 hens each (60 hens per treatment). Heat-stressed hens were subjected to a 14-day cyclic heat-stress challenge at 32–35 °C for 9 h/day. Heat stress decreased average egg weight and laying rate, increased serum malondialdehyde, and reduced total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). Both supplemented groups improved average egg weight and laying rate, reduced malondialdehyde and total cholesterol, and increased total antioxidant capacity relative to heat-stressed controls (p < 0.05). Supplementation altered hepatic expression of genes associated with proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. Exploratory metabolomics detected changes in the 100 mg/kg group but not the 200 mg/kg group relative to heat-stressed controls. The extract partially mitigated production and antioxidant impairments during cyclic heat stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic, Health, and Productivity Challenges in Poultry Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 3575 KB

Open AccessArticle

Determining the Optimal Dietary Barley-to-Corn Ratio for Arbas White Cashmere Goats: Insights from Rumen Fermentation, Meat Metabolomics, and Gastrointestinal Microbiota

by Lu Jin, Chunhua Zhang, Shengli Li, Chula Sa, Min Nuo, Ding Yang, Wenting Li, Le Fu, Panliang Chen, Yaxing Zhao, Bo Wang and Haizhou Sun

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2800; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172800 (registering DOI) - 6 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of graded dietary barley replacement for corn on growth performance, rumen fermentation, carcass traits, meat quality, fatty acid profiles, and the rumen microbiome in Arbas White Cashmere goats, and further applied untargeted muscle metabolomics to elucidate the metabolic [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of graded dietary barley replacement for corn on growth performance, rumen fermentation, carcass traits, meat quality, fatty acid profiles, and the rumen microbiome in Arbas White Cashmere goats, and further applied untargeted muscle metabolomics to elucidate the metabolic mechanisms underlying meat quality alterations. Growth performance was monitored for all goats (n = 10 per group); rumen fermentation, carcass traits, serum biochemistry and meat quality were determined in six randomly selected goats per group (n = 6); and rumen microbiota profiling and muscle metabolomics were performed on three selected goats per group (n = 3). Partial barley substitution (33% and 67% of starch from barley) significantly improved final body weight and average daily gain (p < 0.05), whereas total replacement (100% barley starch) did not confer additional growth advantages. Moderate barley inclusion increased ruminal propionate concentration (p = 0.001) and enriched the fiber-degrading bacterium Prevotella, while total barley replacement markedly reduced rumen microbial diversity (Sobs, Chao1, ACE, and Shannon indices; p < 0.01) and depleted multiple fibrolytic and hydrogenotrophic genera, including Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, NK4A214_group, and Methanobrevibacter. The 33% barley group exhibited elevated serum total bile acids, FGF-19, and CYP27A1 levels (p < 0.05), suggestive of modulated bile acid metabolism, along with decreased glucose-6-phosphatase (p < 0.05), pointing to suppressed hepatic gluconeogenesis. Muscle metabolomics revealed that moderate barley substitution predominantly affected glycerophospholipid metabolism, with upregulation of PE(P-18:1/20:4) and PC(16:0/16:0), whereas total replacement induced extensive metabolic reprogramming characterized by downregulation of glycine and glutathione-related metabolites, indicative of compromised antioxidant defense. The 33% barley group also exhibited the highest muscular C18:3n-3 content (p < 0.01), while the 67% and total replacement groups showed increased C22:6n-3 deposition (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis confirmed that PE(P-18:1/20:4) and PC(16:0/16:0) were significantly positively correlated with ruminal propionate and ADG (r = 0.841–0.986; p < 0.05), and Prevotella abundance showed a strong negative trend with G-6-Pase (r = −0.771). Collectively, these findings demonstrate that replacing one-third of dietary corn starch with barley starch optimally balances productivity, rumen health, and meat quality through enrichment of Prevotella, enhanced propionate production, and modulation of bile acid metabolism, while excessive barley inclusion destabilizes the rumen ecosystem and triggers muscle oxidative stress, providing a theoretical basis for precision grain formulation in intensive cashmere goat production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

27 pages, 2846 KB

Open AccessReview

Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) Feeding Along Migration Routes and Within Breeding Grounds—A Review

by Sarah McCulloch, Jan-Olaf Meynecke, Jasper de Bie and Madeleine J. Brasier

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2799; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172799 (registering DOI) - 6 Sep 2026

Abstract

Humpback whales traditionally fast during migration and on breeding grounds, relying on reserved energy within blubber to sustain them. However, occurrences of feeding along migration routes and within breeding grounds have been documented for several populations, suggesting an intrinsic ability to adapt to [...] Read more.

Humpback whales traditionally fast during migration and on breeding grounds, relying on reserved energy within blubber to sustain them. However, occurrences of feeding along migration routes and within breeding grounds have been documented for several populations, suggesting an intrinsic ability to adapt to changing conditions and prey variability. This systematic quantitative literature review yielded 77 publications, demonstrating that humpback whales feed outside their polar and sub-polar feeding grounds globally. We identified that the feeding documented within this review could generally be attributed to either opportunistic/supplementary feeding, or the identification of new or expansion of current feeding grounds. Key findings included substantial feeding behaviour in productive regions with high prey availability, including off eastern Australia, South Africa, and along the coasts of North and South America. Ontogenetic drivers may also encourage younger whales to forego migration to breeding grounds and remain along migratory routes during winter to exploit seasonally available prey. The definition of this feeding behaviour lacks specificity and may lead to underrepresentation in the literature, underscoring the need to investigate its prevalence and contribution to the behavioural budgets of these populations. Our study improves current understanding of the scope of feeding away from polar and sub-polar regions and encourages future work to further understand the drivers of the behaviour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1148 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Cryopreservation of Animal Genetic Resources: Principles, Influencing Factors, and Material-Specific Challenges

by Tian Hua, Simin Zhao, Hao Bai, Yulin Bi, Wenming Zhao and Guobin Chang

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2798; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172798 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Cryopreservation plays a critical role in the long-term preservation of biological materials and has become an indispensable technology in biomedicine, agriculture, animal breeding, and biodiversity conservation. Despite substantial advances in cryobiology, the preservation of cells and tissues at ultra-low temperatures remains limited by [...] Read more.

Cryopreservation plays a critical role in the long-term preservation of biological materials and has become an indispensable technology in biomedicine, agriculture, animal breeding, and biodiversity conservation. Despite substantial advances in cryobiology, the preservation of cells and tissues at ultra-low temperatures remains limited by cryoinjuries associated with ice crystal formation, osmotic stress, oxidative damage, and cellular dehydration. This review provides an overview of the historical development and fundamental principles of cryopreservation and critically summarizes the key factors affecting cryopreservation efficiency, including cryoprotective agents, antioxidants, osmotic balance, freezing and thawing protocols, and emerging ice-controlling materials. In addition, recent advances in the cryopreservation of diverse biological materials—such as sperm, oocytes, embryos, stem cells, and gonadal tissues from different animal species—are critically discussed, with particular attention to species-specific differences and the distinction between post-thaw survival and functional recovery. Finally, the current limitations of existing cryopreservation technologies and future research directions are highlighted to facilitate the development of safer and more effective preservation strategies for animal genetic resource conservation and biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)

8 pages, 1176 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

High Seropositivity to Coxiella burnetii Among Goats Sampled in Southwestern Jeonnam Province, South Korea: A Pilot Study

by Eun-Yeong Bok, Chae-Rim Kwak, Han Gyu Lee, Duhyun Kim, Eun-Do Lee, Kwan-Woo Kim, Ara Cho, Younghun Jung, Seog-Jin Kang and Bock-Gie Jung

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2797; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172797 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q fever, a zoonotic disease of public health concern. Despite the recent expansion of the domestic goat industry in Korea, epidemiological data regarding C. burnetii exposure in Korean goat populations remain limited. This pilot study aimed [...] Read more.

Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q fever, a zoonotic disease of public health concern. Despite the recent expansion of the domestic goat industry in Korea, epidemiological data regarding C. burnetii exposure in Korean goat populations remain limited. This pilot study aimed to assess the serological distribution of C. burnetii exposure in the southwestern region of Jeonnam Province, the major goat-breeding region of Korea. Goat serum samples were originally collected for routine Foot-and-Mouth Disease monitoring in 2025. Using a two-stage random sampling approach, 92 samples were selected from 16 farms across five southwestern counties of Jeonnam Province. Specific antibodies against C. burnetii were detected using a commercial ELISA. The overall unadjusted apparent seropositivity was 44.6% (41/92). By county, seropositivity was 61.1% in both Haenam and Wando, 38.9% in Gangjin, 36.8% in Yeongam, and 26.3% in Jangheung. Furthermore, the overall herd-level apparent seropositivity was 68.8% (11/16). At the herd level within the surveyed farms, intra-herd seropositivity ranged from 0.0% to 100.0%, showing wide variation among the tested farms. The results indicate high serological exposure to C. burnetii within the surveyed southwestern counties. While constrained by a small sample size, these findings show that targeted longitudinal surveillance is required in this region. Expanding systematic monitoring efforts nationwide is recommended to establish effective veterinary and public health control measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)

36 pages, 4401 KB

Open AccessArticle

Early In Ovo Sex Identification of Chicken Embryos Using a Dual-Stage Difference-Enhanced Spectral Fusion Network Based on Visible–Near-Infrared Transmission Spectroscopy

by Keqiang Li, Teng Chen, Dianzuo Yue, Chuanlong Guo, Sifeng Deng and Xianglong Li

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172796 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Early in ovo sex identification is important for improving hatchery resource utilization; however, sex-related optical differences are weak during early embryonic development and exhibit clear stage dependence. In this study, longitudinal visible–near-infrared transmission spectra were acquired from 1600 fertilized pink-shelled eggs of Bashang [...] Read more.

Early in ovo sex identification is important for improving hatchery resource utilization; however, sex-related optical differences are weak during early embryonic development and exhibit clear stage dependence. In this study, longitudinal visible–near-infrared transmission spectra were acquired from 1600 fertilized pink-shelled eggs of Bashang Long-tailed chickens across four independent incubation batches during incubation days 1–7. Before model development, 200 eggs were reserved as a fixed internal hold-out test set, while the remaining 1400 eggs were used for exploratory incubation-day and feature screening, five-fold cross-validation, and model comparison. Among all 21 dual-day combinations, D2 + D5 achieved the highest exploratory validation AUC of 0.951. The selected scheme required separate measurements on D2 and D5, with the final sex classification completed on D5. Further incorporation of the signed difference spectrum ΔS and relative change rate R increased the AUC to 0.965, demonstrating the incremental discriminative value of longitudinal developmental-change information. After the input scheme had been fixed, DSSF-Net achieved the numerically highest performance among the evaluated models under unified egg-level stratified five-fold cross-validation, with an accuracy of 0.915 ± 0.015, an AUC of 0.974 ± 0.012, and an F1-score of 0.915 ± 0.014. The final model achieved an accuracy of 0.915 and an empirical AUC of 0.966 (95% CI: 0.940–0.987) on the fixed internal hold-out test set. Complete four-round leave-one-batch-out validation yielded mean accuracy and AUC values of 0.846 ± 0.014 and 0.926 ± 0.012, respectively, indicating that the longitudinal spectral information from D2 + D5 maintained relatively stable discriminative performance across incubation batches within the investigated population. These results demonstrate the feasibility of longitudinal spectral modeling for early sex identification in fertilized pink-shelled eggs of Bashang Long-tailed chickens. Systematic offline validation was completed under laboratory conditions, including evaluation on the fixed internal hold-out test set and four-round leave-one-batch-out validation, supporting the effectiveness and batch-level stability of D2 + D5 longitudinal developmental spectra. Post hoc wavelength-level interpretation further identified 594–620 nm and 660–675 nm as two candidate spectral regions with relatively high predictive value. Collectively, these findings provide a reliable longitudinal spectral modeling framework for early non-destructive in ovo sex identification and establish an experimental and methodological foundation for wavelength selection, device development, and subsequent engineering validation of multispectral detection systems under hatchery conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic AI-Driven Innovations in Animal Farming and Disease Control)

21 pages, 7175 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Omics Analysis of Hepatopancreatic Responses to Ammonia Nitrogen Stress in Diploid Pacific Oysters (Magallana gigas)

by Daowen Qiu, Yuwei Zhang, Lirong Chang, Yanchun Wang, Zan Li, Xiaokai Bao, Xuebo Cui, Cuiju Cui, Guohua Sun, Yanwei Feng, Qiang Wang, Xiaohui Xu, Jianmin Yang and Weijun Wang

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2795; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172795 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Ammonia nitrogen represents a critical environmental stressor in aquaculture and exerts adverse impacts on the growth, reproduction and survival of shellfish. In the present study, diploid Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas) were exposed to ammonia nitrogen stress for 0, 6, and 48 [...] Read more.

Ammonia nitrogen represents a critical environmental stressor in aquaculture and exerts adverse impacts on the growth, reproduction and survival of shellfish. In the present study, diploid Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas) were exposed to ammonia nitrogen stress for 0, 6, and 48 h. We combined histopathological examination, antioxidant enzyme measurements, transcriptome profiling, and metabolome profiling to characterize time-dependent hepatopancreatic responses. Tissue injury became progressively more severe with prolonged exposure. Superoxide dismutase activity increased throughout the experiment, whereas catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities and malondialdehyde content showed an increase followed by a decrease, with no statistically significant differences in malondialdehyde content among the three time points. Transcriptome data revealed alterations in genes associated with ATP-binding cassette transporters, lysosomal function, endocytosis, and autophagy. Metabolic alterations were mainly associated with nucleotide, purine, pyrimidine, and sphingolipid metabolism. Cross-omics integration linked these molecular shifts to transmembrane transport, glutathione metabolism, sulfur-containing amino acid metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. The consistency between transcriptomic and metabolomic signals further highlights the central roles of transport processes, antioxidant defense, and metabolic adjustment under ammonia nitrogen exposure. These findings indicate that diploid Pacific oysters respond to ammonia nitrogen stress through coordinated regulation of oxidative stress responses, transmembrane transport, intracellular degradation and clearance, and metabolic reorganization. These findings provide insights into the adaptive mechanisms of bivalves exposed to ammonia nitrogen stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)

31 pages, 1961 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Integrated Welfare Monitoring in Laying Hens: A Systematic Literature Review, Expert Insights and a Camera Proof-of-Concept

by Sam Willems, Amélie Canon, Hanne Coppens, Niels Demaître, Nathalie Sleeckx and Tomas Norton

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2794; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172794 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Effective welfare monitoring in laying hens is increasingly challenged by growing flock sizes, declining farm numbers, and the practical limitations of assessor-based protocols under commercial conditions. Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) technologies offer opportunities to support large-scale welfare assessment, yet their application in laying [...] Read more.

Effective welfare monitoring in laying hens is increasingly challenged by growing flock sizes, declining farm numbers, and the practical limitations of assessor-based protocols under commercial conditions. Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) technologies offer opportunities to support large-scale welfare assessment, yet their application in laying hens remains predominantly limited to small-scale or prototype systems. This study addresses three complementary objectives aimed at informing future computer-vision-based PLF research and development in commercially housed laying hens. First, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify welfare-related categories monitored in laying hens between 2005 and 2025, the methods used to assess them, and the extent to which automated monitoring approaches have been applied. Second, outcomes of a TransRegional Expert Panel (TREP) within the OMELETTE project were synthesised to rank priority welfare challenges, evaluate the feasibility of different monitoring approaches, and compare expert perspectives with trends identified in the literature. Third, two pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera setups implemented in semi-commercial aviary systems were described as proof-of-concept examples illustrating how multiple welfare challenges can be monitored using a single, multipurpose camera system. The literature review revealed a pronounced imbalance in monitoring frequency, with feather pecking dominating the literature while several other welfare challenges, including piling, disturbed sleep, and toe-pecking, remain comparatively underrepresented. TREP outcomes confirmed feather pecking as the highest-priority welfare challenge but also highlighted the importance of integrated monitoring approaches that combine time-intensive assessments, shorter checklists, and automated systems rather than relying on single indicators. Experts further considered the use of digital devices during routine barn inspections to be practically feasible. The PTZ proof-of-concept demonstrates how priority welfare challenges identified through both literature and expert input can be operationalised through automated, scheduled, and location-specific monitoring under commercial conditions. Together, these findings highlight the need for future PLF research to move beyond isolated measurements and small-scale trials towards integrated, cost-effective, and farm-specific welfare-monitoring systems that support adaptive, data-informed management strategies—for example, within a Plan–Do–Check–Act framework—and enable the development of digital standard operating procedures that generate actionable insights under real-world commercial constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

20 pages, 3398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Population Structure, Genetic Diversity, and Selection Signatures in Kazakh Dromedary and Bactrian Camels

by Zhannur Niyazbekova, Cai-Yue Gao, Nursultan Makhanbetuly, Kuanysh Kassen, Yuan Xu, Bekzat Baimirzayev, Huanhuan Zhang, Zhadyra Muslimova, Kanat Orynkhanov, Yessengali Ussenbekov, Fengting Bai, Junyan Wang, Hasan Baneh, Yelaman Serikov, Pilong Liu and Yu Jiang

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172793 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Understanding the genomic basis of environmental adaptation is essential for the conservation and genetic improvement of domestic camels. In this study, we investigated the population structure, genetic diversity, and genomic variation potentially associated with environmental adaptation of Kazakh dromedary and Bactrian camels using [...] Read more.

Understanding the genomic basis of environmental adaptation is essential for the conservation and genetic improvement of domestic camels. In this study, we investigated the population structure, genetic diversity, and genomic variation potentially associated with environmental adaptation of Kazakh dromedary and Bactrian camels using whole-genome sequencing. Whole-genome sequencing data were generated for Kazakh camels (15 dromedaries and 16 Bactrian camels) and integrated with 131 publicly available genomes representing camel populations from the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Mongolian wild camels. Population structure, genetic diversity, and genome-wide selection were evaluated using principal component analysis, ADMIXTURE, nucleotide diversity, linkage disequilibrium, runs of homozygosity, genomic inbreeding (FROH), and selection scans based on F_ST, θπ ratio, and XP-EHH. Population genomic analyses revealed clear differentiation between dromedary and Bactrian camels, whereas Kazakh camel populations exhibited higher nucleotide diversity (θπ = 1.307–1.551 × 10⁻³), and lower genomic inbreeding (median FROH: 0.037–0.056) than Arabian populations. Genome-wide selection analyses identified MC4R as the prominent candidate gene in Kazakh dromedaries and RYR1 as a prominent candidate gene in Kazakh Bactrian camels. Functional enrichment analyses highlighted pathways related to energy metabolism, thermogenesis, calcium signaling, skeletal muscle function, mitochondrial activity, and oxidative stress response. These findings provide new insights into genomic variation potentially associated with environmental adaptation in Kazakh camels and offer valuable genomic resources for future conservation, breeding, and evolutionary studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics for Camelid Biodiversity Management and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1636 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Trametes versicolor-Pseudostellaria heterophylla Fermented Substrate on Growth Performance, Rumen Function and Meat Quality of Kazakh Lambs

by Changzhao Jin, Ayiguli Abudoukelimu, Zainafuguli Aishanjiang, Yong Chen and Jiancheng Liu

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2792; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172792 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Trametes versicolor-Pseudostellaria heterophylla fermented substrate (TV-PHFS) on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, rumen function, and meat quality of Kazakh ram lambs. Twenty-four Kazakh ram lambs (32.54 ± 5.23 [...] Read more.

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Trametes versicolor-Pseudostellaria heterophylla fermented substrate (TV-PHFS) on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, rumen function, and meat quality of Kazakh ram lambs. Twenty-four Kazakh ram lambs (32.54 ± 5.23 kg) were randomly allocated into four groups, with six replicates per group and one lamb per replicate. The control group was fed a basal diet, while the experimental groups received the basal diet supplemented with 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 kg/d of TV-PHFS, respectively, for a total duration of 140 days. The findings indicated that basal diet supplementation with TV-PHFS did not exert a statistically significant effect on the growth performance, serum antioxidant indices, and immune indices of Kazakh ram lambs (p > 0.05). However, compared with the control group, supplementation with 0.2 kg/d of TV-PHFS significantly elevated the 45 min postmortem yellowness (b*) value of the longissimus dorsi muscle and the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae_UCG_003 in the rumen (p < 0.05). Similarly, supplementation with 0.3 kg/d of TV-PHFS significantly increased the 24 h postmortem lightness (L*) value and crude fat content of the longissimus dorsi muscle, as well as the relative abundances of Treponema and Veillonellaceae_UCG_001 in the rumen (p < 0.05). In conclusion, basal diet supplementation with 0.3 kg/d of TV-PHFS modulated the rumen microbial community structure, promoted intramuscular fat deposition, improved muscle coloration, and augmented meat quality in Kazakh ram lambs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Regulation of the Rumen Microbiome and Fermentation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 718 KB

Open AccessCommentary

The Potential of Selective COX-2 Inhibitor Mavacoxib for Extended Analgesia in Sheep Husbandry

by Oliver Fioretto, Lee Metcalf and Sabrina Lomax

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172791 (registering DOI) - 5 Sep 2026

Abstract

Routine husbandry procedures in sheep induce significant and prolonged pain and inflammation, which often exceeds the duration of action of current commercially available analgesics. Mavacoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor approved for canine osteoarthritis treatment. With a half-life exceeding two weeks in [...] Read more.

Routine husbandry procedures in sheep induce significant and prolonged pain and inflammation, which often exceeds the duration of action of current commercially available analgesics. Mavacoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor approved for canine osteoarthritis treatment. With a half-life exceeding two weeks in dogs, mavacoxib may represent a candidate for investigating whether extended-duration analgesia can be achieved in sheep and more closely aligned with the duration of post-procedural inflammation and pain. This article examines the physiological and behavioural indicators of sheep pain, the limitations of current analgesic strategies, and the pharmacological rationale for mavacoxib as a candidate for pain management in sheep. Further research into its pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety in sheep is essential to improve welfare and overcome practical barriers to analgesia in extensive grazing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Welfare in Extensive Production System)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 1167 KB

Open AccessReview

Soil–Plant–Animal Mineral Dynamics in Extensive Goat Production Systems: A Critical Review of Geochemical Availability, Soil–Plant Transfer, and Ruminal Bioavailability

by Jesús E. Rivera-Larraga, Fabian E. Olazaran-Santibañez, Arturo Mora-Olivo, Ana G. Reyes, Víctor M. Díaz-Sánchez, Daniel López-Aguirre, Gabriel Aguirre-Guzmán and Cecilia C. Zapata-Campos

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172790 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

Mineral imbalances in extensive goat production are frequently viewed as isolated deficiencies; however, they arise from complex interactions within the soil–plant–animal continuum. This review critically synthesizes evidence on mineral dynamics in goats raised under extensive, arid, and semiarid conditions, with emphasis on geochemical [...] Read more.

Mineral imbalances in extensive goat production are frequently viewed as isolated deficiencies; however, they arise from complex interactions within the soil–plant–animal continuum. This review critically synthesizes evidence on mineral dynamics in goats raised under extensive, arid, and semiarid conditions, with emphasis on geochemical availability, soil–plant transfer, digestive mineral processes, and animal biomarkers. Soil mineral concentrations do not necessarily predict plant uptake or animal mineral status, particularly in alkaline and drought-prone soils where physicochemical factors constrain mineral solubility and availability. Forage plant species play a crucial role in linking soil to goats, although their mineral contributions vary by species, plant part, and season. Furthermore, ruminal physicochemical transformations and mineral antagonisms can alter the amount and chemical form of minerals reaching the intestine, thereby influencing subsequent intestinal absorption and whole-animal utilization, with Cu–Mo–S interactions being particularly relevant. Assessing mineral status in goats requires an integrated approach that considers soil, plant, selected diet, water, supplementation, animal biomarkers, and health outcomes. Future research should prioritize goat-specific predictive studies to improve supplementation strategies and enhance sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal System and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 15957 KB

Open AccessReview

Harnessing Phytobiotics for Gut Protection: A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Cangzhu (Atractylodes lancea) in Sustainable Animal Husbandry

by Mahmoud Soliman, Cheng Du, Xinyu Liu, Liangwenyao Zhao, Hejian Song and Linli Cheng

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172789 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

The global transition to antibiotic-free livestock production, accelerated by antimicrobial-resistance concerns, has intensified the search for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters, and phytobiotics have emerged as key candidates. Cangzhu, the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC, is a crude drug of traditional [...] Read more.

The global transition to antibiotic-free livestock production, accelerated by antimicrobial-resistance concerns, has intensified the search for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters, and phytobiotics have emerged as key candidates. Cangzhu, the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC, is a crude drug of traditional Chinese medicine that has attracted substantial attention as a multipurpose phytobiotic. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the phytochemistry, gut-protective mechanisms, and practical application of Cangzhu in sustainable livestock production. Its principal bioactive constituents are sesquiterpenoids (atractylone, β-eudesmol, hinesol, atractylenolides I–III), polyacetylenes (including atractylodin), polysaccharides, and flavonoids. Reported gut-protective mechanisms comprise upregulation of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1); dual suppression of the NF-κB and MAPK-signaling pathways; activation of the Nrf2–Keap1 antioxidant axis; modulation of the gut microbiota; and TLR4-mediated stimulation of mucosal immunity. In swine, poultry, and ruminant studies, Atractylodes-based supplementation has been associated with improved growth performance, a lower incidence of diarrhea, favorable intestinal morphology, downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), beneficial microbiota shifts, and inhibited pathogens. However, much of the mechanistic evidence derives from rodent and in vitro models, and much of the in vivo livestock evidence from the related species A. macrocephala (Baizhu) or multi-herb formulations; direct livestock trials with pure A. lancea remain limited for several endpoints, and the responses observed in these heterogeneous studies depend on the formulation, dose, and animal species used, as indicated by the explicit evidence-tier and source-species tags applied throughout the text, tables, and figures. The reported effective inclusion levels should be read as experimental study ranges and not as standardized dose recommendations. Framed within the One Health paradigm, Cangzhu is therefore best characterized as a mechanistically substantiated candidate alternative to antibiotic growth promoters whose adoption requires species-specific dose validation, quality standardization, and commercial-scale economic confirmation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 830 KB

Open AccessReview

Towards the Establishment of a Sea Urchin Sperm Biobank: Key Challenges and Opportunities for the Conservation and Sustainable Aquaculture of Paracentrotus lividus

by Emanuele Antenucci, Michele Di Iorio, Celeste Santoianni, Amedea Mastronardi, Martina Cofelice, Francesco Lopez, Sebastiano Rosati, Lucia Maiuro, Elena Sorrentino, Giulia Carone, Nicola Zizzo, Yusuf Bozkurt, Alessandra Roncarati and Nicolaia Iaffaldano

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2788; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172788 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

The Mediterranean Sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus is a key benthic herbivore and a valuable fishery resource because of the high commercial and gastronomic value of its edible gonads. Increasing market demand, overharvesting, climate change, habitat degradation, and pollution have contributed to the decline [...] Read more.

The Mediterranean Sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus is a key benthic herbivore and a valuable fishery resource because of the high commercial and gastronomic value of its edible gonads. Increasing market demand, overharvesting, climate change, habitat degradation, and pollution have contributed to the decline of wild populations in several Mediterranean areas. This narrative review, including a preliminary case study, provides an integrated perspective on the role of P. lividus in conservation-oriented aquaculture, with particular attention to Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), microbiological quality, sperm quality assessment, cryopreservation, and germplasm biobanking. IMTA may improve nutrient recycling and resource-use efficiency, whereas cryopreservation and biobanking can support genetic resource conservation, selective breeding, hatchery production, and future restocking programs. Within this framework, the ongoing AVATIM project (“Virtuous Aquaculture in Integrated Marine Multitrophic Aquaculture”) is presented as an operational case study illustrating how reproductive biotechnology may be integrated into sustainable multitrophic aquaculture and germplasm conservation strategies. Baseline sperm quality parameters of sexually mature males collected from the southern Adriatic Sea were assessed using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis and flow cytometry, providing baseline values for future cryopreservation studies and biobanking applications. Overall, AVATIM illustrates how IMTA, reproductive biotechnology, and genetic resource conservation may jointly support sustainable Mediterranean Sea urchin management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnological Applications for Sustainable Aquatic Animal Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4757 KB

Open AccessArticle

First Report and Integrated Characterization of Aeromonas veronii Associated with the Protected Fish Diptychus maculatus in Xinjiang, China

by Syeda Maira Hamid, Huale Lu, Huimin Hao, Kaipeng Zhang, Wentao Zhu, Jie Wei and Zhulan Nie

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172787 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

Aeromonas veronii is a widely distributed opportunistic aquatic pathogen associated with diseases in freshwater fish. Despite the ecological and conservation significance of Diptychus maculatus, a protected cold-water fish inhabiting high-altitude ecosystems, information regarding its associated bacterial communities remains limited. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Aeromonas veronii is a widely distributed opportunistic aquatic pathogen associated with diseases in freshwater fish. Despite the ecological and conservation significance of Diptychus maculatus, a protected cold-water fish inhabiting high-altitude ecosystems, information regarding its associated bacterial communities remains limited. This study aimed to isolate and characterize A. veronii recovered from D. maculatus and provide baseline information on its occurrence and phenotypic characteristics. Eight bacterial isolates were recovered from various tissues, including skin, gills, eye, intestine, dorsal fin, body kidney, gonad, and spleen of randomly sampled fish individuals from Xinjiang, China. Phenotypic and biochemical characterization, together with 16S rRNA sequencing, supported their identification as A. veronii, while gyrB analysis of a representative isolate provided additional species-level confirmation. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed a consistent multidrug-resistance phenotype among all isolates. The isolates were susceptible to enrofloxacin, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and florfenicol. Intermediate responses were observed for ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, doxycycline, oxytetracycline, and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, whereas resistance was detected against norfloxacin, neomycin, penicillin, amoxicillin, tetracycline, and erythromycin. In vitro biofilm assays demonstrated weak to moderate biofilm-forming capacity among isolates. These findings provide baseline data for wildlife microbial surveillance and conservation-oriented monitoring of protected fish populations, supporting future investigations into environmental monitoring, genomic characterization, and host–microbe interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surveillance of Microbial and Parasitic Agents in Wildlife: Second Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2573 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Temporal Dynamics of Clinical Response Following Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Dogs with Chronic Enteropathy

by Maria Chiara Sabetti, Rachel Pilla, Francesca Fidanzio, Carla Giuditta Vecchiato, Giorgia Galiazzo, Alessandro Tirolo, Michela Ablondi, Silvia Scorza, Mariangela Colosini, Jan S. Suchodolski and Andrea Corsini

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2786; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172786 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a promising adjunctive treatment for dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE), but response is usually assessed at scheduled follow-up visits, potentially overlooking day-to-day fluctuations. This prospective observational study evaluated temporal response after a single FMT administered by retention enema [...] Read more.

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a promising adjunctive treatment for dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE), but response is usually assessed at scheduled follow-up visits, potentially overlooking day-to-day fluctuations. This prospective observational study evaluated temporal response after a single FMT administered by retention enema using daily owner-completed Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index (CIBDAI) monitoring. Fourteen dogs with CE refractory or incompletely responsive to dietary management were enrolled. CIBDAI scores were assigned by a veterinarian at baseline and on days 7 and 30, while owners completed a daily clinical diary for 30 days. Changes over time were assessed using the Friedman test, longitudinal trends using a generalized additive mixed model, and agreement between owner and veterinarian-assigned scores using quadratic-weighted Cohen’s kappa and Bland–Altman analysis. Clinician-assigned CIBDAI scores showed a significant overall effect of time (p < 0.01), but no pairwise comparison remained significant after correction. Daily monitoring showed a significant nonlinear pattern in the primary diary-only model, although no interval of significant change was identified. In the secondary baseline-inclusive model, the derivative was significantly negative between Days 2 and 5. In within-dog descriptive comparisons, dogs experienced a median of 3.5 days (range: 0–14) with daily CIBDAI scores at or above their individual T0 value. Weighted kappa was 0.680 (95% CI: 0.266–1.000) at T7 and 0.821 (95% CI: 0.690–0.952) at T30. Bland–Altman analysis identified no proportional bias at T7, whereas significant proportional bias was observed at T30, indicating greater divergence between owner and veterinarian-assigned scores at higher CIBDAI values. Daily owner-reported monitoring captured day-to-day fluctuations that would likely have been missed by conventional outpatient assessments performed only at predefined follow-up time points and may therefore support more individualized post-FMT follow-up in dogs with CE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Small Animal Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Diseases)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1416 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Feed Intake and Body Fat Deposition on Reproductive Performance and Placental Function of Shaziling Sows: A Pilot Study

by Luyao Gao, Huadi Mei, Fuxuan Xiong, Liang Chen, Yulian Li, Hong Tan, Shusong Wu and Jianhua He

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2785; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172785 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

Excessive body fat deposition during pregnancy is believed to have an adverse effect on the reproductive performance of sows. Feed intake regulation (REG) is an effective method to modulate energy intake and fat deposition. This study aimed to explore the impact of feed [...] Read more.

Excessive body fat deposition during pregnancy is believed to have an adverse effect on the reproductive performance of sows. Feed intake regulation (REG) is an effective method to modulate energy intake and fat deposition. This study aimed to explore the impact of feed intake and body fat deposition on reproductive performance. A total of 24 Shaziling sows (parity 3–6) were divided into two groups based on their BF on day 30 of gestation, and subsequently randomly assigned to control (CON) and REG groups: (1) BF between 12 and 16 mm (LB-CON, n = 6), (2) BF between 12 and 16 mm (LB-IF, n = 6), (3) BF between 18 and 22 mm (HB-CON, n = 6), and (4) BF between 18 and 22 mm (HB-RF, n = 6). Sows in the LB-CON and HB-CON groups were fed a basic diet at a dosage of 1.88 kg/d. The LB-IF and HB-RF groups received REG and were fed a basic diet at dosages of 2.07 kg/d and 1.69 kg/d, respectively. Higher total litter weight and live litter weight were observed in HB-RF sows (p < 0.05). In addition, HB-CON sows displayed higher serum levels of IL-6, TG, and GLU when compared with LB-CON sows (p < 0.05), whereas HB-RF sows exhibited lower levels of these markers than HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). The lipid droplet area fraction was higher in HB-CON sows than in LB-CON sows (p < 0.05), and this fraction was reduced in HB-RF sows compared with HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). The placental level of TC increased in HB-CON sows when compared with LB-CON sows (p < 0.05). The placental levels of T-AOC and GPX increased in HB-RF sows when compared with HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). Moreover, the mRNA expression of FABP3 was higher in HB-CON sows when compared with LB-CON sows (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of GLUT3 and PlGF increased in HB-RF sows when compared with HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). In addition, HB-RF sows exhibited increased Shannon, Simpson, and ACE indices when compared with HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). The characterization of the fecal microbiota revealed that HB-RF sows displayed a lower ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidota and an increased relative abundance of Limosilactobacillus when compared with HB-CON sows (p < 0.05). Collectively, these observations suggested that reduced feed intake in Shaziling sows with high backfat thickness improved reproductive indices, alleviated placental oxidative stress and inflammatory status, elevated placental nutrient transport and angiogenesis-related gene expression, and reshaped fecal microbiota. These results provide valuable reference for pig production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3377 KB

Open AccessReview

The Polish Konik Horse: A Multidisciplinary Review of Its Origin, Genetics, Ecology, Health, Behaviour and Reproductive Biology

by Marta Siemieniuch-Tartanus

Animals 2026, 16(17), 2784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16172784 - 4 Sep 2026

Abstract

The Polish Konik horse (PKH) is one of Europe’s best-known native conservation breeds. Traditionally associated with the extinct Eurasian tarpan and conservation grazing, the breed has recently become the subject of multidisciplinary research encompassing genetics, ecology, health, behaviour and reproduction. This narrative review [...] Read more.

The Polish Konik horse (PKH) is one of Europe’s best-known native conservation breeds. Traditionally associated with the extinct Eurasian tarpan and conservation grazing, the breed has recently become the subject of multidisciplinary research encompassing genetics, ecology, health, behaviour and reproduction. This narrative review summarises current knowledge on the biological characteristics and contemporary scientific significance of the PKH. Literature published between 2005 and 2026 was identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar and narratively synthesised. Available evidence suggests that, despite severe historical bottlenecks, the PKH has retained considerable genetic diversity and its characteristic maternal and paternal founder-line structure. Recent molecular studies have revised traditional concepts of the breed’s origin, while ecological research supports its important role in conservation grazing and wetland restoration. Behavioural and reproductive studies indicate stable temperament, high reproductive efficiency and adaptation to extensive management systems. However, current knowledge is derived predominantly from observational studies, with relatively few comparative investigations and limited genomic and longitudinal data. The PKH represents a valuable model for research on conservation genetics, environmental adaptation, animal welfare, reproductive biology and ecosystem management. Further interdisciplinary studies are needed to strengthen the evidence base for conservation and breeding strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Equids)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Animals

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI