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Food, fibre and pharmaceuticals from animals
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Animal Production Science

Animal Production Science

Animal Production Science is an international journal publishing original research and reviews on the production of food, fibre and pharmaceuticals from animals. Read more about the journalMore

Editor-in-Chief: Wayne Bryden

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Animal Production Science is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 11 September 2025

AN25022The sources and impact of microplastic intake on livestock and poultry performance and meat products: a review

Luisa Olmo 0000-0001-8175-8216 and Benjamin W. B. Holman 0000-0002-8458-4511
 

Worldwide microplastics have become widespread in the environment and are infiltrating food supply chains. Understanding and eliminating microplastics in food systems is one strategy to combat microplastics ingested by humans – livestock being one of the food supply chains deserving inquiry. This review finds that microplastics are present in livestock production systems, but there are several knowledge gaps that must be overcome to understand the effects on animal health, and the strategies to mitigate risks.

This article belongs to the collection: Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition – Australia 2025.

AN25022 Abstract  |  AN25022 Full Text  | AN25022PDF (887 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 09 September 2025

AN25002Effects of microRNA-21-5p treatment of porcine sperm before and after capacitation on in vitro oocyte fertilization and embryo development

Shao-Yu Peng, Kai-Xuan Liu, Chun-Chih Chang, Yu-Chen Huang, Chen-Yu Wang, Xiu-An Tang, Perng-Chih Shen, Shen-Chang Chang, Chih-Jen Chou, Chao-Wei Huang, Min-Jung Lin and Yu-Hsiang Yu 0000-0001-9629-8478
 

Polyspermy is a major problem during in vitro fertilization of pigs, and microRNAs (miRNAs) derived from female reproductive cells may have a beneficial role on sperm function and embryo development. The role of miRNA-21-5p on the in vitro fertilization and embryo development of pigs is still unclear. Our findings found that miRNA-21-5p inhibitor could enhance the development of porcine embryos.

AN25002 Abstract  | PDF (1.3 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 02 September 2025

AN24297Genetic parameters and response in conception, litter size and ewe rearing ability following 35 years of divergent selection for number of lambs weaned

C. L. Nel 0000-0002-3329-4928, A. A. Swan 0000-0002-9648-3697, K. Dzama and S. W. P. Cloete 0000-0002-4548-5633
 

A high reproduction rate in ewes depends on successful conception, giving birth to multiples and successfully rearing them to weaning. Genetic selection is often based on the sum of these components by counting the number of lambs weaned. This study shows that this approach can be viable, but argues for the use of the individual components, so that a measure of lamb mortality is directly defined.

AN24297 Abstract  | PDF (2.1 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 01 September 2025

AN25096Influence of temperature–humidity index and seasonal variations on semen quality, scrotal circumference, and hormones in Kail rams raised under subtropical climate

Nasir Hameed 0000-0002-1964-3650, Muhammad Zubair, Nasim Ahmad, Aneela Zameer Durrani and Muhammad Irfan-ur-Rehman Khan 0000-0002-2432-5753
 

Reproductive seasonality in small ruminants significantly influences fertility rates and farm profitability, especially in tropical and subtropical climates. This study examined seasonal variations in reproductive traits of ram, showing critical patterns that affect their breeding efficiency. By identifying peak fertile periods and potential reproductive challenges, the findings offer actionable insights for farmers to optimize breeding strategies and enhance overall productivity.

AN25096 Abstract  |  AN25096 Full Text  | AN25096PDF (1.5 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 28 August 2025

AN25192Grazing behaviour and nutrient intake of dairy cows is affected by milking order and daily time at pasture

M. L. Douglas 0000-0002-4709-4572, M. M. Wright 0000-0001-9910-2784, J. W. Heard, V. M. Russo, G. L. Morris, P. S. Alvarez-Hess, M. C. Hannah, K. Giri, W. J. Wales and M. J. Auldist
 

Milking order on pasture-based dairy farms is consistent within herds and can negatively affect the quantity and nutritive characteristics of the pasture available to cows that return to the paddock later. This, in turn, influences grazing behaviour and milk production. This research highlights that cows that arrive back to the paddock later spent less time ruminating and had lower milk yields than early-milked cows, resulting in lower farm profit. Quantifying these data allows for future research investigating potential mitigation strategies.

AN25192 Abstract  | PDF (855 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 28 August 2025

AN25206Quantitative methodologies to assess sleep, wellbeing and physical health in dairy farm workplaces

C. R. Eastwood 0000-0002-1072-5078, J. P. Edwards 0000-0003-4220-7408, K. Dale, B. Kuhn-Sherlock and L. S. Hall 0000-0002-8338-0795
 

Studies on farm workplace practices often focus on qualitative rather than quantitative measures of change. We developed methodologies to measure changes in sleep, wellbeing and health among farmers implementing different milking schedules, and provide insights to aid in the future assessment of farm workplace changes. Results from this study provide unique quantitative measures of farmer sleep patterns and wellbeing factors, as well as an example of the methodologies that can be applied in evaluating farm workplace initiatives or interventions.

This article belongs to the collection: Australasian Dairy Science Symposium 2024.

AN25206 Abstract  |  AN25206 Full Text  | AN25206PDF (1.6 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 19 August 2025

AN25184Feeding concentrate pellets to early-lactation cows consuming spring ryegrass pasture did not reduce methane emissions

K. Garrett 0000-0003-4282-3614, E. Stubbs, E. Minnee, K. Verhoek and J. Kay
 

This study evaluated the impact of offering supplementary concentrate feed at 4 kg DM per day to early-lactation cows consuming spring pasture. Supplementation increased dry-matter intake and milk solids, with a tendency for 5% higher daily methane emissions, but no reduction in methane yield or intensity. The role of supplementary feed in GHG mitigation requires further evaluation across diets, feed types and amounts, and whole-farm emissions and profitability.

This article belongs to the collection: Australasian Dairy Science Symposium 2024.

AN25184 Abstract  |  AN25184 Full Text  | AN25184PDF (560 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 18 August 2025

AN25090Analysis of adoption of genetic tools in the northern Australia beef industry

Patricia Menchon 0000-0001-9312-6507, Jaime K. Manning 0000-0003-4785-4313, Dave L. Swain and Amy Cosby 0000-0003-2199-7607
 

Genetic improvement of beef production systems is a development priority for the northern Australia beef industry, which could be achieved through the adoption of genetic tools. Technical understanding, on-farm data collection, age of farmers, and the economic and productive benefits observed in beef enterprises are factors that affect decision-making by farmers regarding the adoption of genetic tools. This knowledge will allow the development of extension strategies to improve adoption of genetic tools by northern Australian beef producers.

AN25090 Abstract  |  AN25090 Full Text  | AN25090PDF (610 KB)  | AN25090Supplementary Material (509 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 15 August 2025

AN24268Access to Emission Control Blocks for improved productivity and mitigation of enteric methane in smallholder cattle in Cambodia

James R. Young 0000-0001-5398-5219, Socheat Sieng, Peter C. Thomson 0000-0003-4428-444X, Julian Hill and Peter A. Windsor 0000-0001-5629-3517
 

Emission control blocks were evaluated in smallholder cattle (n = 80) in Cambodia. The average change in body weight and estimated daily production of methane over the study period for treatment cattle was a 5.31 kg liveweight gain and 88.0 g CH4/day, compared to 2.97 kg liveweight gain and 106.0 g CH4/day for control cattle. Modelling of emissions intensity indicated a 29.1% reduction in total CH4.

This article belongs to the collection: Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

AN24268 Abstract  |  AN24268 Full Text  | AN24268PDF (875 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 11 August 2025

AN25051Enhancing predictions of nitrogen excretion in beef cattle in the tropics

S. C. Valadares Filho, A. S. Brito Neto 0000-0002-2190-3239, S. S. Moreira 0000-0003-4253-0440, L. F. Prados, F. H. M. Chizzotti 0000-0002-5903-8172 and L. N. Rennó
 

Nitrogen excretion in feces and urine of beef cattle is a potential environmental contaminant. This impact is minimized by adjusting dietary protein levels according to nutritional requirements. However, measuring nitrogen excretion on farms is unfeasible. Therefore, nitrogen excretion prediction equations will be useful to understand the environmental impact of production systems.

AN25051 Abstract  | PDF (2.2 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 11 August 2025

AN25003Environmental trade-offs of livestock intensification in the Northwest Highlands of Vietnam

Emmanuel Mwema 0000-0002-8292-2230, Thi Thu Hang Dao 0009-0004-0380-8272, An Notenbaert and Mary Atieno
 

This study investigated the environmental impacts of livestock intensification (integrating improved feeding, breeding, and biosecurity measures in beef–pork production systems) in Vietnam’s Northwest Highlands. It identified pathways to sustainable practices that enhance productivity while mitigating greenhouse-gas emissions and promoting regenerative practices at multiple scales (farm and landscape).

This article belongs to the collection: Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

AN25003 Abstract  |  AN25003 Full Text  | AN25003PDF (981 KB)  | AN25003Supplementary Material (583 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 07 August 2025

AN25089Production of Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck hybrid hens under conditions of the family poultry production systems in a warm environment

Adrián Hernández 0000-0002-2780-4362, Gerardo Ordaz 0000-0003-4502-3727, Ernestina Gutiérrez 0009-0003-8983-2689, Aureliano Juárez 0000-0003-2372-1209 and Ruy Ortiz
 

Naked Neck hens offer key advantages for family poultry farming, especially in warm climates. Their higher heat tolerance helps maintain stable feed intake and consistent egg production, unlike fully feathered breeds. They also exhibit better feed conversion efficiency, lowering feeding costs and improving resource use. With reduced metabolic heat production, they achieve better thermal balance, supporting growth and reproduction. These traits make them a sustainable and profitable choice for small-scale poultry systems facing challenging environmental conditions.

AN25089 Abstract  | PDF (689 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 07 August 2025

AN25104Additives used as stimulative and cryoprotective agents in bovine semen cryopreservation: a systematic review

K. C. Moagi, T. Chitura 0009-0002-3818-6755 and A. M. Raseona
 

This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of cryoprotective and stimulative additives in enhancing the quality of post-thaw bovine semen. A thorough literature search was conducted using three databases, to identify studies on stimulative and cryoprotective additives used in the cryopreservation of bull semen. Natural additives, including moringa extract and honey, showed similar effectiveness to synthetic additives, with cost and sustainability advantages. Therefore, this review emphasizes optimizing additive selection and concentrations based on their specific roles and interactions.

AN25104 Abstract  | PDF (779 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 August 2025

AN25087Optimizing drinking water temperature for water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) during winter: implications for productivity under subtropical climate

Neelam Purohit, Indu Devi 0000-0001-8346-9020, Divyanshu Singh Tomar and Kuldeep Dudi
 

During winters in subtropical climates, the temperature of drinking water in troughs falls below 10°C. Increasing drinking water temperature to 20–24°C improves buffalo productivity by increasing milk yield and feed intake during winter. Warm water helps buffaloes maintain body temperature, reduce respiration rate, and alleviate cold stress, ensuring better physiological stability. Improved hydration and nutrient absorption contribute to better overall health and efficiency in dairy buffalo management. The study identified a cost-effective strategy for dairy farmers; heating water beyond 20–24°C provides no additional benefits.

AN25087 Abstract  | PDF (566 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 04 August 2025

AN25020Investigation of the relationship between meat fatty acids and the expression levels of genes associated with lipid metabolism in Kivircik and Hungarian Merino sheep

Fadime Daldaban 0000-0001-5795-8859, Hulya Yalcintan, Pembe Dilara Kecici, Bekir Ozturk, Bulent Ekiz, Bilal Akyuz and Korhan Arslan
 

Fats are essential to our health, but many of us struggle to maintain a healthy balance between harmful and helpful types. Our research shows that certain genes govern the creation of beneficial fats like omega-3 and omega-6, paving the way for reducing unhealthy saturated fats in livestock products. This discovery could lead to healthier foods for everyone and open new doors to treatments that tap into the power of these vital fats.

AN25020 Abstract  |  AN25020 Full Text  | AN25020PDF (345 KB)   Open Access Article

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

Most Read

The Most Read ranking is based on the number of downloads in the last 60 days from papers published on the CSIRO PUBLISHING website within the last 12 months. Usage statistics are updated daily.

Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Australasian Dairy Science Symposium 2024

This collection brings together selected research and review papers presented at the 2024 Australasian Dairy Science Symposium, Christchurch, NZ. The 2024 symposium was a special occasion, marking 20 years since the first ADSS conference in Shepparton, Victoria.

Collection Editors
Callum Eastwood (DairyNZ)
James Hills (Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania)
Arjan Jonker (AgResearch NZ)
Samuel Wilson (Massey University)
Omar Al-Marashdeh (Lincoln University)

Last Updated: 28 Aug 2025

Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023

The papers in this Collection of Animal Production Science were presented at the 9th biennial conference of Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries (SAADC23), held in Vientiane, Laos in 2023. The meeting created a forum for collaboration among animal scientists, producers, and policy makers from developing countries, fostering the exchange of experiences and the development of sustainable animal agriculture practices.

Collection Editors
Kris Angkanaporn (Chulalongkorn University)
Russell Bush (University of Sydney)
Kapil Chousalkar (University of Adelaide)
Tech Loh (Universiti Putra Malaysia)
Stephen Walkden-Brown (University of New England)
Peter Windsor (University of Sydney)
Peter Wynn (Charles Sturt University)

Last Updated: 15 Aug 2025

Equine Science in Australasia II

This Collection follows the first Equine Science special issue of Animal Production Science published in 2020. Since the first Australian Equine Science Symposium (AESS) in 2006, there have been six biennial symposia that have provided a platform for equine researchers to enjoy a collegial atmosphere dedicated to the horse. The papers in this collection reflect the strength and diversity of Australasian Equine Science.

Collection Editors
Chris W. Rogers (Massey University)
Wayne L. Bryden (University of Queensland)

Last Updated: 13 Jun 2024

ADSS 2022: A Changing Climate for Dairy Science

Animal Production Science brings together a Collection of research and review papers presented at the 2022 Australasian Dairy Science Symposium. The theme of the 2022 symposium was ‘A Changing Climate for Dairy Science’ so while this special issue includes papers on a range of topics, a common theme throughout the papers is addressing the challenges faced by the Australian and New Zealand dairy sectors.

Collection Editors
Keith Pembleton (University of Southern Queensland)
Callum Eastwood (DairyNZ Ltd)
James Hills (University of Tasmania)

Last Updated: 23 May 2024

Animal Production Science in the 21st Century

Animal Production Science celebrated 60 years of publication in 2021 and to celebrate, we marked this milestone with this selection of key review papers published in the journal over the last decade, highlighting research breakthroughs, social and economic issues that have influenced primary producers, and the practice of animal production.

Last Updated: 30 Jul 2021

Animal Breeding and Genomics

New genomic technologies have revolutionised our approach to animal breeding and increased the rate of genetic change. This Collection brings together a selection of research articles that review research progress and updates our knowledge of the delivery of livestock genomics research applications, specifically for the beef and dairy cattle and sheep industries globally.

Last Updated: 19 Aug 2013

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