Update of nutritional requirements of goats for growth and pregnancy in hot environments

By: I.A.M.A. Teixeira, C.J. Härter, J.A.C. Vargas, A.P. Souza, and M.H.M.R. Fernandes

Goats serve as a valuable source of income in agriculture, supplying both milk and meat. Their adaptability to diverse environments makes them a viable choice among rural households for livestock, especially in harsh environments. Research has been dedicated to refining goat feeding systems and determining their nutritional requirements. Teixeira's presentation highlighted recent insights into the energy and nutrient requirements of growing and pregnant goats, particularly in hot environments. These insights carry significant implications for sustainable goat farming. By tailoring diets to the specific needs of different goat groups based on factors such as sex, genotype, and pregnancy stage, precision nutrition strategies can enhance performance and productivity. Additionally, the findings of goats' comparatively lower energy losses in comparison to other livestock underscores their potential integration into farming systems, promoting environmentally friendly practices.

Applying these findings to agricultural practices can promote more productive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable goat farming systems. Moreover, it encourages further exploration of interactions between genotype, diet, and environment to fine-tune feeding strategies.