Bioclimatic zoning for dairy cows in Brazil by statistical modeling

BACKGROUND Climate conditions affect animal welfare directly, influencing milk production. The Midwest region is the largest cattle-producing region in Brazil. The objective of this study was to elaborate on bioclimatic zoning for dairy cattle in the Midwest region of Brazil. Air temperature (Ta, degrees C) and relative humidity (%, RH) data from a 30-year historical series (1989-2019) collected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (NASA/POWER) platform were used. The Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) was determined for the hottest and coldest months. Milk production losses due to climate factors in the Midwest of Brazil for two daily production levels, 10 kg Milk (PL10) and 25 kg Milk (PL25), were estimated. RESULTS The Midwest presented three THI classifications throughout the year: 'normal', 'alert', and 'critical alert'. The entire Midwest region was classified as 'normal' (THI < 70) between autumn and winter. The decrease in milk production (DMP) during the autumn and winter presented no loss for both production levels (PL10 and PL25). CONCLUSION On the other hand, a 1 to 2 kg reduction in milk production was observed for cows with a PL25 production level between spring and summer in the southern Midwest region, while cows with a PL10 production level showed no reduction in milk production. Only the cities of Sinop and Cuiaba did not present a 'critical alert' during spring/summer for the risk of heat stress. (c) 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Automated summary

In this study, a bioclimatic zoning for dairy cattle in the Midwest region of Brazil was established using meteorological data. The impact of climate factors on milk production was estimated. The results showed three Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) classifications in the Midwest region throughout the year: 'normal', 'alert', and 'critical alert'. During spring and summer, a reduction in milk production of 1 to 2 kg was observed for cows with a daily production level of 25 kg, while cows with a daily production level of 10 kg showed no reduction in milk production.