Assessing the Impact of Environmental Factors (Temperature and Humidity) On Nutrient Requirements and Metabolism in Animals

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of temperature and humidity, as key environmental factors, on nutrient requirements and metabolism in animals, with a focus on cows.

Methods: A randomized complete block design was employed, and twenty-five cows were assigned to different treatment groups representing varying temperature and humidity conditions. Feed intake remained constant across all groups.

Results: The results indicated that temperature and humidity significantly influenced feed intake, with variations observed among the groups. Protein digestibility showed a significant decrease with higher temperatures and lower humidity levels. Fat digestibility was also negatively affected by elevated temperature and lower humidity. Conversely, fiber digestibility increased under higher temperature conditions.

Conclusion: These findings highlighted the importance of considering environmental factors when formulating diets and managing animal husbandry practices, with implications for optimizing nutrient utilization and animal health. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying physiological mechanisms and generalize the findings to other animal species and geographical locations.