Factors associated with increased productivity in tropical dairy systems
Keywords:
animal welfare, dairy cattle, dairy productivity, livestock management, tropical systemsAbstract
The productivity of tropical dairy systems is determined by the interaction of multiple environmental, health, welfare, and management factors that influence cattle’s ability to maintain adequate health conditions and express their productive potential. This article aimed to analyse, through a narrative review of the literature, the main factors associated with increased productivity in tropical dairy systems, identifying their interactions, implications, and opportunities for improvement within production units. Twenty scientific publications, specialised books, protocols, and technical documents related to animal welfare, health, environment, management practices, and indicators applicable to cattle production systems were analysed. The information was organised into thematic categories focusing on heat stress, health problems, locomotor disorders, housing conditions, animal welfare, management practices, and the use of assessment protocols. The findings showed that productivity does not depend exclusively on the individual potential of animals but also on the interaction between environmental conditions and the decisions made within production units. Heat stress, mastitis, and locomotor disorders were identified as important limiting factors, whereas appropriate management, health monitoring, and systematic assessment of cattle conditions offered opportunities to improve productive performance. It is concluded that sustainably increasing productivity in tropical dairy systems requires comprehensive strategies capable of integrating welfare, health, environment, and management. The use of indicators and assessment protocols can facilitate the identification of problems, guide interventions, and strengthen continuous improvement processes within production systems.
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Conflicto de Intereses: Los autores declaran que no tienen conflictos de intereses relacionados con este estudio y que todos los procedimientos seguidos cumplen con los estándares éticos establecidos por la revista. Asimismo, confirman que este trabajo es inédito y no ha sido publicado, ni parcial ni totalmente, en ninguna otra publicación.
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