Efeito das condições climática do semiárido sob o estresse térmico de caprinos sprd e boer

Abstract

Goat farming in Brazil is predominant in the northeast, where climatic challenges, such as irregular rains and high temperatures, affect goat productivity. This study evaluated the environmental conditions and physiological responses of Boer females and goats without a defined breed standard (SPRD) in the Paulistana-Pi region, during the transition period from rainy to dry. Two daily collections were made to measure respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT) and body surface temperature (TSC). Relative humidity was very low in the afternoon, reaching 16.20%, which was uncomfortable for the animals. The average rectal temperature in the morning was 38.98°C for the Boer breed and 39.29°C for the SPRD, increasing in the afternoon to 39.49°C and 39.63°C, respectively, with peaks of 41. 16°C for Boer. SPRD had the highest mean RR in the morning, while Boer had the highest mean and maximum respiratory rates in the afternoon. SPRD females had lower mean body temperatures. It is concluded that the Boer breed suffers more from thermal stress, indicating the need for management strategies to improve thermal comfort and productivity, adjusting to climatic variations.