Editor’s Choice Articles

With the growing use of crossbred cattle in Brazilian feedlots and increasing pressure to reduce antibiotic use as growth promoters, this study examines the impact of three feed additives—monensin (MON), monensin with Lithothamnium calcareum (LCM), and a blend of essential oils (BEO)—on the performance of Nellore (NEL) and crossbred (CROSS) cattle. A total of 90 Nellore and 90 crossbred bulls were assigned to a completely randomized block design with a 2 × 3 factorial design for 112 days, and all received the same diet with varying additives. Their methane (CH₄) emissions were estimated. All data were analyzed using the emmeans package of R software (version 4.4.1). Crossbred cattle outperformed Nellore in average daily gain (ADG), hot carcass weight (HCW), and dry matter intake (DMI), though feed efficiency remained unaffected. Across additives, no significant differences were observed in ADG, HCW, or dressing percentage. However, LCM had a lower DMI than the BEO, while MON showed better feed efficiency than the BEO. A breed-by-additive interaction trend was noted for DMI as a percentage of body weight (DMI%BW), with Nellore bulls on LCM diets showing the lowest DMI%BW. Crossbreeds had greater net energy (NE) requirements for maintenance (NEm) and gain (NEg), and MON-fed animals had greater NEm and NEg than the BEO. Crossbred bulls had greater daily methane (CH₄) emissions than Nellore bulls. Animals on the BEO had greater daily CH₄ emissions and greater g CH₄/kg metabolic BW than LCM bulls. In conclusion, the addition of Lithothamnium calcareum to monensin did not enhance performance compared to monensin alone. Monensin outperformed the BEO in feed efficiency and nutrient utilization. Full article

Smart livestock farming utilizes technology to enhance production and meet food demand sustainably. This study employs surveys and case studies to gather data and information, subsequently analyzing it to identify opportunities and challenges. The proposed solutions encompass remote sensing, technology integration, farmer education, and stakeholder engagement. The research delves into smart technologies in animal production, addressing opportunities, challenges, and potential solutions. Smart agriculture employs modern technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and animal welfare in livestock farming. This includes remote monitoring, GPS-based animal care, robotic milking, smart health collars, predictive disease control, and other innovations. Despite the great promise of smart animal production, there are existing challenges such as cost, data management, and connectivity. To overcome these challenges, potential solutions involve remote sensing, technology integration, and farmer education. Smart agriculture provides opportunities for increased efficiency, improved animal welfare, and enhanced environmental conservation. A well-planned approach is crucial to maximize the benefits of smart livestock production while ensuring its long-term sustainability. This study confirms the growing adoption of smart agriculture in livestock production, with the potential to support the sustainable development goals and deliver benefits such as increased productivity and resource efficiency. To fully realize these benefits and ensure the sustainability of livestock farming, addressing cost and education challenges is essential. Therefore, this study recommends promoting a positive outlook among livestock stakeholders and embracing smart agriculture to enhance farm performance. Full article