Animals

20 pages, 2557 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Invasive Blue Crab Callinectes sapidus from the Northern Adriatic Sea: Feeding Behaviour and Fecundity Data

by Antonio Casalini, Laura Gentile, Dario Lombardi, Riccardo Brusa, Pietro Emmanuele and Oliviero Mordenti

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111576 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

The population of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus is rapidly expanding in the Mediterranean Sea, where it is causing increasing ecological and economic impacts. However, biological information from recently colonised areas remains limited. This study combined controlled experiments and reproductive analyses to investigate [...] Read more.

The population of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus is rapidly expanding in the Mediterranean Sea, where it is causing increasing ecological and economic impacts. However, biological information from recently colonised areas remains limited. This study combined controlled experiments and reproductive analyses to investigate the key biological traits of C. sapidus in the northern Adriatic Sea. Feeding trials were conducted under controlled conditions to assess prey consumption and feeding behaviours using Manila clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) and Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis), offered as monospecific and mixed diets. The results showed that, while the number of prey items consumed did not differ markedly between species, mussels provided a significantly higher edible biomass, indicating greater energetic profitability. Handling and consumption times were comparable between prey types, suggesting compensatory differences between opening and feeding phases. Food intake was strongly influenced by temperature, with peak consumption observed between 25 and 28 °C and reduced feeding at both lower and higher temperatures. Reproductive analysis of ovigerous females revealed high fecundity, with a mean of 1.63 ± 0.53 million eggs per individual and a positive relationship between fecundity and body size. Overall, the results confirm that C. sapidus combines trophic flexibility with high reproductive output—traits that support its invasive success. These findings improve the understanding of the blue crab’s ecological role in the northern Adriatic, providing useful insights for assessing its impact on shellfish aquaculture and developing management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Invasive Blue Crab: Implications for Fisheries, Aquaculture and One Health Perspective)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 9718 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Glycerol Monolaurate on Growth Performance, Bile Acid Metabolism, and Intestinal Health in Asian Swamp Eel (Monopterus albus)

by Haiyan Liu, Hang Yang, Xiaogang Guo, Menghui Lin, Minjie Zhao, Wenzong Zhou and Haiying Cai

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111575 - 22 May 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of dietary glycerol monolaurate (GML) supplementation on the growth performance, bile acid metabolism, and intestinal health of Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus). A total of 225 healthy eels with an initial body weight of 25.0 [...] Read more.

This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of dietary glycerol monolaurate (GML) supplementation on the growth performance, bile acid metabolism, and intestinal health of Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus). A total of 225 healthy eels with an initial body weight of 25.0 ± 2.0 g were randomly divided into three groups and fed a basal diet (control), 0.5 g/kg GML, or 1.0 g/kg GML for 60 days, respectively. The results showed that dietary GML supplementation increased the weight gain rate by 8.75% and decreased the feed conversion ratio by 8.16% in the GML1 group compared with the control. Dietary GML significantly reduced the contents of TP and ALB (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the MDA content in the GML0.5 and GML1 groups decreased significantly by 24.80% and 38.15%, respectively. The contents of total bile acids and secondary bile acids were significantly elevated in the GML1 group (p < 0.05). In addition, GML supplementation optimized the intestinal microbial community and significantly reduced the relative abundance of potentially harmful bacteria such as Nocardia and Stenotrophomonas (p < 0.05). In conclusion, under the conditions of this study, dietary GML could effectively the improve growth performance, bile acid metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of M. albus. Among the tested concentrations, 1.0 g/kg GML showed the optimal beneficial effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1852 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resveratrol Alleviates Corticosterone-Induced Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Disorder and Oxidative Stress by Regulating the Nrf2 and AMPK/Sirt1 Signaling Pathways in AA Broilers

by Chendi Fu, Jiawei Ma, Xiaoxuan Zong, Jin Sun and Xingjun Feng

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111574 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Excessive glucocorticoids induced by stress trigger hepatic lipid metabolism disorder and oxidative stress in poultry, impairing growth performance and welfare. At the same time, resveratrol (RSV) has antioxidant and lipid-regulating properties, but the protective mechanisms in corticosterone (CORT)-challenged broilers remain unclear. This study [...] Read more.

Excessive glucocorticoids induced by stress trigger hepatic lipid metabolism disorder and oxidative stress in poultry, impairing growth performance and welfare. At the same time, resveratrol (RSV) has antioxidant and lipid-regulating properties, but the protective mechanisms in corticosterone (CORT)-challenged broilers remain unclear. This study investigated RSV’s effects on CORT-induced hepatic damage in AA broilers, with 240 one-day-old broilers randomized into three groups: control (basal diet), CORT (basal diet + 4 mg/kg BW CORT intraperitoneal injection), and RSV (400 mg/kg RSV-supplemented diet + CORT injection). Growth performance, hepatic redox status, serum biochemistry, liver histopathology, and gene/protein expression related to antioxidant/lipid metabolism were determined. The growth performance of AA broilers injected with CORT was significantly affected, showing reduced body weight gain (p < 0.05), increased abdominal fat content (p < 0.05), and hepatomegaly (p < 0.05). The addition of RSV in the diet significantly reduced abdominal fat accumulation and hepatomegaly (p < 0.05), improving the growth performance of broilers; Effects of RSV on liver function and lipid metabolism of CORT-treated AA broilers: After CORT injection, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and total bile acid (TBA) content significantly increased (p < 0.05). Hepatic total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) increased after CORT injection (p < 0.05), causing severe liver damage. RSV supplementation could reverse the increases in serum ALP, ALT, and AST activity (p < 0.05) and reduce TBA content in stressed broilers (p < 0.05). TC and TG levels in the liver decreased under the alleviation of RSV (p < 0.05), and serum TG levels declined (p < 0.05). Microscopic and ultrastructural observations showed that after CORT injection, hepatic tissue cells were swollen, scattered fat vacuoles were present, pores were enlarged, and intracellular lipid droplets appeared. The RSV group significantly alleviated hepatocyte damage, reduced vacuolation, showed uniform chromatin, and decreased lipid droplets. RSV significantly mitigated the CORT-induced increase in SREBP-1 mRNA and protein expression and the decrease in PPARα protein expression; CORT caused a decline in the antioxidant function of AA broiler livers, with significant decreases in SOD and GSH-PX (p < 0.05), and the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes also showed a decreasing trend. Compared to the CORT group, the RSV group exhibited significant increases in liver CAT, SOD, and GSH-PX (p < 0.05), and Nrf2 protein expression was elevated (p < 0.05). In summary, resveratrol can alleviate the decline in growth performance, liver steatosis, and hepatic oxidative stress in AA broilers induced by CORT, downregulate lipogenic genes such as SREBP-1c, regulate liver lipid metabolism, and mitigate CORT-induced hepatic oxidative stress in broilers by upregulating the Nrf2 pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metabolic, Health, and Productivity Challenges in Poultry Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 267 KB

Open AccessArticle

Advantages of Increasing Histidine to Lysine Ratios on Growth Performance, Blood Parameters and Histidine-Containing Dipeptides for Weaning Piglets

by Diana Siebert, Katharina Schuh-von Graevenitz and Georg Dusel

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1573; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111573 - 22 May 2026

Abstract

A total of 192 weaned piglets (Topigs TN70), 26 days of age, with an initial body weight of 7.2 ± 0.5 kg, were used to determine the standardized ileal digestible (SID) histidine (His) to lysine (Lys) ratio required to maximize growth performance. Six [...] Read more.

A total of 192 weaned piglets (Topigs TN70), 26 days of age, with an initial body weight of 7.2 ± 0.5 kg, were used to determine the standardized ileal digestible (SID) histidine (His) to lysine (Lys) ratio required to maximize growth performance. Six dietary treatments with graded SID His to Lys ratios ranging from 0.2 to 0.38 were generated with the supplementation of L-His to a grain-based basal diet deficient in His. At the end of the trial (day 41 post weaning), 72 male piglets were euthanized for the analysis of histidine-containing dipeptides, particularly carnosine, in the M. longissimus dorsi. In addition, blood samples were collected from 72 piglets to determine plasma urea-nitrogen and hematological parameters. Piglets fed low dietary His (SID His to Lys < 0.27) exhibited hemoglobin concentrations below the reference value, indicating anemia. Muscle carnosine content increased linearly with increasing dietary His and did not reach a plateau within the tested range. Based on growth performance responses, the SID His to Lys ratio required to achieve maximum growth performance in fast-growing piglets is 0.34. These findings emphasize the importance of supervising the SID His to Lys ratio, particularly in practical piglet feed formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

5 pages, 184 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Physiological Responses of Fishes to Nutrition Management and Environmental Stresses

by László Ardó and Janka Nagyné Biró

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111572 - 22 May 2026

Abstract

The goal of this Special Issue was to collect the latest research results on the topics of (1) the physiological response of fish to various stressful situations and nutritional changes, (2) the replacement of fish meal and fish oil with sustainable, alternative protein [...] Read more.

The goal of this Special Issue was to collect the latest research results on the topics of (1) the physiological response of fish to various stressful situations and nutritional changes, (2) the replacement of fish meal and fish oil with sustainable, alternative protein and lipid sources in fish feeds, and (3) supplementing fish feeds with various additives in order to enhance the immune response and increase the stress and disease resistance of fish reared in intensive systems. These topics are very important for the development of a more effective and sustainable intensive aquaculture, as fish farming systems are becoming more intensive and industrialized, which results in a more stressful environment for farmed fish. Another important challenge is providing enough high-quality fish feed to fulfill the increasing demand of intensive aquaculture. There are 14 original research articles published in this Special Issue. The authors come from a wide array of countries, and they worked with a wide variety of freshwater and marine fish species, which are important for intensive aquaculture. These articles represent only a modest contribution to the overall literature of stress and nutritional physiology of farmed fish. However, each of these papers contain interesting new information regarding the solution of the two major problems of intensifying aquaculture: environmental stresses and nutrition management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological Responses of Fishes to Nutrition Management and Environmental Stresses)

14 pages, 448 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Meal on the Performance, Digestibility and Blood Parameters of Weaned Piglets

by Mara Parreiras, Victor Pinheiro, Olga Moreira, Maria Soares, Daniel Murta, Ana Novo Barros and Divanildo Outor-Monteiro

Animals 2026, 16(11), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16111571 - 22 May 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of different inclusion levels of defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens: BSF) larval meal on growth performance, haematological and biochemical blood parameters, and nutrient digestibility in piglets. Forty-eight male piglets weaned at 28 days of age [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of different inclusion levels of defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens: BSF) larval meal on growth performance, haematological and biochemical blood parameters, and nutrient digestibility in piglets. Forty-eight male piglets weaned at 28 days of age ((Landrace × Large White) × (Piétrain)) were randomly assigned to three experimental treatments. Each treatment included eight pens with two piglets per pen. Diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isoproteic, containing defatted BSF meal as a partial replacement for fishmeal and soybean meal: Control (0% BSF), BSF3% (3% inclusion), and BSF6% (6% inclusion). Over the whole experimental period, dietary treatment did not significantly affect final body weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, or feed conversion ratio, although feed intake differed during the 7–28-day period. Red and white blood cell parameters were not influenced by diet. Apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter and organic matter increased at the 6% inclusion level, while crude protein and crude fat digestibility were not affected. These results indicate that defatted BSF meal can be used as a sustainable alternative protein source in piglet diets, maintaining growth performance and health status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1503 KB

Open AccessArticle

Disease-Group-Specific Antimicrobial Use Patterns and Farm-Level Stewardship Features in Large-Scale Hungarian Swine Herds: A Multi-Farm Survey

by Ádám Kerek, László Gombos, Marietta Máté and László Ózsvári

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101570 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Farm-level antimicrobial stewardship in swine production requires indication-specific knowledge of treatment patterns and the herd-level features associated with them. Methods: We analyzed questionnaire-based data collected in 2015 from 13 Hungarian swine farms covering 15,725 sows and their progeny. The survey [...] Read more.

Background: Farm-level antimicrobial stewardship in swine production requires indication-specific knowledge of treatment patterns and the herd-level features associated with them. Methods: We analyzed questionnaire-based data collected in 2015 from 13 Hungarian swine farms covering 15,725 sows and their progeny. The survey captured production indicators, pathogen occurrence, vaccination, resistance-testing practices, drug costs, and disease-group-specific antimicrobial use. As a separate, non-mergeable descriptive temporal comparator, we also considered independent digital farm-monitoring data from three large-scale swine herds from 2022 to 2024. Results: The most frequently reported pathogens were Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (13/13 farms), Lawsonia intracellularis (12/13), Escherichia coli (12/13), swine influenza virus (11/13), and Streptococcus suis (10/13). S. suis ranked as the leading damaging pathogen on 69% of farms. Among farms with antibiotic cost data (9/13), antibiotics accounted for a mean of 31.8% of veterinary drug expenditures. Among farms with treatment-by-indication data (8/13), the highest relative frequency of reported treatment events was linked to porcine respiratory disease complex, where doxycycline represented 38% of reported PRDC treatment events. Colistin dominated E. coli-associated diarrhea control, whereas beta-lactams were central for S. suis-related disease. In the 2022–2024 comparator dataset, enteric and respiratory disorders and arthritis remained the main recorded health problems, but corrected antimicrobial use was markedly lower in the later dataset. Conclusions: Antimicrobial use showed clear disease-group-specific patterns, supporting syndrome-focused stewardship rather than generic reduction targets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance in Food-Animal Production: Impact on Public Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 901 KB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Genetic Parameters of Body Weight and Body Size in Different Stages of Pishan Red Sheep

by Nuerabudula Wujiwaili, Younusi Huojiaabudula, Bijiguli Sataer, Ayiguzili Rouzimaimaiti, Gao Gong, Aladaer Qi and Yiming Sulaiman

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101569 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

As a dual-purpose (meat and fat) coarse-wool sheep breed in Xinjiang, the Pishan Red sheep exhibits year-round estrus and excellent reproductive performance. The aim of this study was to systematically estimate the genetic parameters of growth traits in Pishan Red sheep at each [...] Read more.

As a dual-purpose (meat and fat) coarse-wool sheep breed in Xinjiang, the Pishan Red sheep exhibits year-round estrus and excellent reproductive performance. The aim of this study was to systematically estimate the genetic parameters of growth traits in Pishan Red sheep at each stage from 0 to 12 months of age, and to provide a scientific basis for optimizing early selection indices for this breed. Year of birth, type of birth, and sex were included as fixed effects, while maternal genetic effects and individual additive genetic effects were treated as random effects. A multi-trait animal model was constructed using DMU 6.0 software to analyze the genetic parameters. The results showed that for growth traits at 0 months of age, heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.64, genetic correlations from –0.03 to 0.84, and phenotypic correlations from 8.2 × 10⁻³ to 0.32. Among these, the direct heritability of body weight was 0.18, and the maternal heritability was 0.21, while cannon circumference was identified as a high-heritability trait. At 2 months of age, heritability ranged from 0.04 to 0.69, genetic correlations from −0.78 to 0.96, and phenotypic correlations from 0.036 to 0.44. Body weight, body length, and cannon circumference were high-heritability traits. At 6 months of age, heritability ranged from 0.04 to 0.71, genetic correlations from −0.32 to 0.70, and phenotypic correlations from −0.13 to 0.54. Body weight was a medium-heritability trait, while chest width and cannon circumference were high-heritability traits. At 12 months of age, heritability ranged from 0.07 to 0.48, genetic correlations from −0.04 to 0.87, and phenotypic correlations from 0.28 to 0.72. Body weight was a medium-heritability trait, whereas body height, body length, cannon circumference, and heart girth were high-heritability traits. Both body weight and cannon circumference exhibited high heritability throughout the 0–12 month period and can therefore serve as key selection indices for early breeding in this breed. The findings of this study provide essential local baseline data for the genetic improvement, breeding program design, and genetic evaluation of Pishan Red sheep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1795 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Zinc Cysteamine Supplementation on Growth Performance, Physiological Responses, and Fecal Microbiota in Weaned Foals

by Jie Ren, Chaoyu Ma, Kailun Yang, Xiaobin Li, Fan Yang, Xinsheng Guo, Xinkui Yao and Caidie Wang

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101568 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Zn-CS chelate has shown beneficial effects on gut health and growth in piglets, but its impact on weaned foals remains largely unknown. This study evaluated the effects of dietary Zn-CS supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, physiological status, and fecal microbiota in weaned [...] Read more.

Zn-CS chelate has shown beneficial effects on gut health and growth in piglets, but its impact on weaned foals remains largely unknown. This study evaluated the effects of dietary Zn-CS supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, physiological status, and fecal microbiota in weaned Ili foals. Thirty-two six-month-old foals were randomly assigned to four treatment groups receiving 0, 2, 4, or 6 mg Zn-CS/kg body weight per day for 90 days. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, plasma biochemical parameters, liver function enzymes, serum hormones, antioxidant indices, fecal pH, volatile fatty acids, and fecal microbial composition were measured. Dietary Zn-CS supplementation significantly increased final body weight, total weight gain, and average daily gain (p < 0.05), while linearly improving body size indicators. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, digestible energy, metabolizable energy, and acid detergent fiber was markedly enhanced (p < 0.05). Zn-CS supplementation also effectively regulated plasma albumin and total cholesterol levels and hepatic enzyme activities, and strongly enhanced antioxidant function by increasing superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activities, and total antioxidant capacity, while reducing malondialdehyde content (p < 0.01). Additionally, Zn-CS upregulated plasma growth hormone, insulin, and triiodothyronine concentrations, decreased somatostatin secretion (p < 0.05), reduced fecal pH, and increased VFA contents. Notably, Zn-CS reshaped the fecal microbial structure by increasing beneficial bacteria and inhibiting potential pathogens. In conclusion, dietary Zn-CS supplementation effectively promotes growth and health in weaned Ili foals, with 6 mg/kg BW/day being the optimal supplemental dose under experimental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Sustainable Animal Nutrition: From Feed Evaluation to Precision Feeding)

21 pages, 11226 KB

Open AccessArticle

Population Structure Analysis and Candidate Gene Screening for Twinning Trait in Simmental Cattle

by Kailun Ma, Xiaoyun Liang, Lei Xu, Xue Li, Hongkun Zhao, Jiajie Huang, Jingjing Wen, Menghua Zhang, Dan Wang, Xixia Huang and Qiuming Chen

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101567 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Chinese Simmental cattle are a high-quality breed developed through long-term crossbreeding and selection after their introduction into China and have become the main dual-purpose cattle population in the Xinjiang region. To deeply dissect the population structure, characteristics of the population structure, and the [...] Read more.

Chinese Simmental cattle are a high-quality breed developed through long-term crossbreeding and selection after their introduction into China and have become the main dual-purpose cattle population in the Xinjiang region. To deeply dissect the population structure, characteristics of the population structure, and the genetic basis of the twinning trait, this study focused on Xinjiang Chinese Simmental cattle as the main research subject. It integrated genomic data from global public databases to systematically conduct population structure analysis, genetic relationship analysis, and genome-wide selection signature analysis. Population genetic analysis revealed that the IBS matrix and G matrix indicated that some individuals from different geographical origins exhibited distant genetic relationships; the Xinjiang population showed the fastest LD decay, suggesting abundant genetic diversity; the inbreeding coefficient based on Runs of Homozygosity (ROH) across populations ranged from 0.036 to 0.063; principal component analysis and phylogenetic tree showed that some individuals from different geographical origins had certain genetic interconnections; admixture analysis indicated that K = 5 was the optimal model, with each population exhibiting clear genetic differentiation and admixture characteristics. Furthermore, by combining F_st and θπ analysis (comparing the Xinjiang population with other geographical populations), a total of 89 candidate genes associated with the twinning trait in Xinjiang Chinese Simmental cattle were screened, including CYP19A1, HORMAD1, GRB14, CADM2, CXCR4, and others that have been reported to be closely related to oogenesis and reproductive function. In summary, this study explores genome-wide genetic differences among Simmental cattle populations from different regions, deepens our understanding of their population structures, and offers new candidate genes and molecular markers for high-fecundity breeding in Simmental cattle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5822 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Accuracy of Computed Tomography in Diagnosing Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis Relative to Histopathological Findings—An Ex Vivo Study of 41 Horses

by Tomasz Jasiński, Łukasz Zdrojkowski, Bernard Turek, Michał Kaczorowski, Bartosz Pawliński, Walter Brehm and Małgorzata Domino

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1566; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101566 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) is used to support the diagnosis of equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease; however, its diagnostic accuracy remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between CT findings and histopathological manifestations of osteoarthritis (OA) in equine TMJs. A total of [...] Read more.

Computed tomography (CT) is used to support the diagnosis of equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease; however, its diagnostic accuracy remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between CT findings and histopathological manifestations of osteoarthritis (OA) in equine TMJs. A total of 82 TMJs were CT-imaged, sampled, grouped into age-related and OA-related groups, and analyzed for frequency distributions, correlations, and CT-based TMJ OA diagnosis. CT findings were observed in 79% of joints, including ‘CT anatomical variations’ considering to reflect age-related remodeling. Only 50% of joints showed co-occurrence of CT findings and histopathological manifestations of OA, confirming that not all CT findings are indicative of disease. Including all CT findings in the CT-based diagnosis of TMJ OA yielded a specificity of 0.41 (95% CI: 0.26–0.58), suggesting a high rate of false-positive diagnoses. Excluding all ‘CT anatomical variations’ resulted in a sensitivity of 0.56 (95% CI: 0.40–0.72), indicating a substantial number of false-negative diagnoses. However, inclusion of specific ‘CT anatomical variation’—subchondral bone cysts—into the studied CT-based diagnosis increased sensitivity to 0.79 (95% CI: 0.62 to 0.89) while maintaining high specificity of 0.92 (95% CI: 0.80–0.98). Including this subset of CT findings in the diagnosis of equine TMJ OA may improve the accuracy of disease detection; however, the clinical relevance of the present cadaver investigation needs to be confirmed in in vivo studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Radiology and Imaging in Farm Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1701 KB

Open AccessArticle

Replacing Dietary Roughage with Barley Hay Affects Rumen Fermentation, Microbial Community, Serum Immune and Antioxidant Status in Sheep

by Xiaoyuan Wang, Xinyi Liu, Lahan Hai, Guoli Han, Khas Erdene, Chen Bai, Qina Cao, Yankai Zheng, Zhiping Liu and Changjin Ao

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101565 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Barley hay (BH), characterized by high crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and various bioactive compounds, is hypothesized to optimize ruminal microbiota and enhance systemic immune responses in sheep. This study assessed how the graded substitution of traditional forage with BH impacts [...] Read more.

Barley hay (BH), characterized by high crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and various bioactive compounds, is hypothesized to optimize ruminal microbiota and enhance systemic immune responses in sheep. This study assessed how the graded substitution of traditional forage with BH impacts ruminal fermentation, microbiota composition, and blood immune and antioxidant status in sheep. Forty-five male Dorper × Small-tailed Han crossbred lambs (aged 110 ± 10 days, BW 33.93 ± 1.11 kg) were stratified into five cohorts (n = 9 each), including a control (CON) and four experimental groups (BH25, BH50, BH75, and BH100), where BH replaced 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of their forage mixture, respectively. Results showed that BH supplementation consistently increased ruminal acetate concentrations. Specifically, BH75 and BH100 significantly enhanced the acetate-to-propionate ratio (p < 0.05) and concurrently reduced NH₃-N concentrations in BH50 and BH100 (p < 0.05). Regarding ruminal microbiota, BH treatment did not alter alpha diversity but significantly enriched fiber-degrading bacteria, including Clostridia, Bacteroidales, and Prevotella, whereas the CON group favored Eubacterium. Blood analysis indicated a time-dependent modulation of immune and antioxidant markers. At day 30, BH treatment resulted in elevated immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p < 0.05), whereas catalase (CAT) concentrations were markedly reduced (p < 0.05). By day 60, BH continued to enhance IgA, IgG, and IL-6 levels; meanwhile, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) levels were up-regulated by BH25-BH75 (p < 0.05), while supplementation with BH75 and BH100 led to a decline in interleukin-4 (IL-4), CAT, and interleukin-10 (IL-10) (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that a positive correlation was observed between total volatile fatty acids and Prevotella UCG-003/001, which conversely displayed a negative relationship with IgM. The norank f Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group showed an inverse association with valerate and IgG, but a positive correlation with interleukin-1β (IL-1β). In parallel, the norank f Bacteroidales RF16 group exhibited an inverse association with NH₃-N and CAT, while unclassified c Clostridia was positively correlated with IL-1β. In conclusion, BH substitution modulates ruminal fermentation and immune responses by enriching fiber-degrading bacteria, though it may trigger oxidative stress. Given that BH100 maximized acetate and immunoglobulin production while minimizing MDA levels, complete replacement appears superior to partial substitution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 866 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rotational Stability in a Feline Sacroiliac Luxation Model: Biomechanical Comparison of Cannulated Compression Headless Screws and Cortical Screws Applied in Positional or Lag Fashion

by Jana Klement, Josef Wieser, Christoph Thorwächter, Yury Zablotski, Nina Dorothee Lorenz, Susanne Lauer and Matthias Kornmayer

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101564 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the rotational stability of cannulated compression headless screws (CCHSs) with cortical positional and lag screws in a simulated cadaveric feline sacroiliac luxation (SIL) model. Thirty-six cadavers of domestic short-haired cats were assigned to three groups. [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to compare the rotational stability of cannulated compression headless screws (CCHSs) with cortical positional and lag screws in a simulated cadaveric feline sacroiliac luxation (SIL) model. Thirty-six cadavers of domestic short-haired cats were assigned to three groups. A unilateral SIL model was stabilized using either a single 2.5 mm CCHS, a 2.4 mm cortical positional screw (PS) or lag screw (LS), each engaging 60% of the sacral width. The pelves were mounted in a mechanical testing machine and loaded through the acetabulum to simulate ground reaction forces. Constant displacement was applied at 0.5 mm/s until maximal failure occurred. Yield load, ultimate load, stiffness, and failure modes were compared among the three groups. At the yield load, a statistical trend was observed among the groups, and pairwise comparison showed a significant difference between CCHS and PS. However, no significant differences were identified among the groups for yield load, ultimate load, or stiffness. All specimens failed due to screw loosening, and failure modes differed between CCHSs and cortical screws. Overall, CCHSs and cortical screws placed in a positional or lag fashion showed comparable rotational stability under the single load-to-failure conditions used in this feline SIL model. These findings question the biomechanical advantage of compression screws regarding rotational strength in unilateral feline SIL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Causes, Symptoms and Treatments of Musculoskeletal Diseases in Dogs and Cats)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 323 KB

Open AccessReview

Near-Infrared Imaging in Small Animal Surgical Oncology: Current Applications and Future Directions

by Maureen A. Griffin

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101563 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

The use of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging has become increasingly widespread in the intraoperative management of human cancer patients, with diverse applications that enhance the visualization of tumors, metastatic lesions, draining lymph nodes, and critical anatomy. In recent years, the adoption of NIR [...] Read more.

The use of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging has become increasingly widespread in the intraoperative management of human cancer patients, with diverse applications that enhance the visualization of tumors, metastatic lesions, draining lymph nodes, and critical anatomy. In recent years, the adoption of NIR imaging in small animal surgical oncology has grown, with reported applications including nonselective and selective tumor imaging as well as sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping for staging and surgical guidance. Despite these advances, clinical use in veterinary patients remains in its early stages, and further work is needed to define indications, optimize protocols, and determine its impact on outcomes. This review summarizes the current applications of NIR imaging in companion animal oncologic surgery, including techniques for dye administration, imaging agents, and reported clinical uses across tumor types. Key limitations are discussed, including limited tissue penetration, lack of tumor specificity with commonly used agents such as indocyanine green, variability in protocols, and limited data in certain species. Emerging technologies, including targeted fluorescent agents and advanced imaging approaches, are also highlighted. Overall, NIR imaging represents a promising adjunct in small animal surgical oncology, though further study and standardization are needed to support broader clinical integration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Small Animal Surgical Oncology)

23 pages, 2430 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing the Environmental Impact of Growing-Finishing Pig Production Through Daily Feed Adjustment: A Comparative Life Cycle Assessment

by Yann Malini, Rayna S. V. Amaral, Blandina G. V. Silva, Leila C. S. Moura, Diana A. Oliveira, Luciano Hauschild, Ines Andretta, Eduarda B. Xavier, Luis C. V. Itavo and Luan S. Santos

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101562 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

This study comprehensively explores the environmental implications of two feeding strategies in pig farming, focusing on three scenarios: Brazilian tables (BT-2017), NRC (NRC-2012), and AGPIC (AGPIC-2021). The comparison involves conventional phase-feeding (CON) and the daily fit model (DFM). The five-phase system provided the [...] Read more.

This study comprehensively explores the environmental implications of two feeding strategies in pig farming, focusing on three scenarios: Brazilian tables (BT-2017), NRC (NRC-2012), and AGPIC (AGPIC-2021). The comparison involves conventional phase-feeding (CON) and the daily fit model (DFM). The five-phase system provided the same diet to all pigs within a group during each proposed phase. In contrast, the DFM adjusted the diet based on the nutritional requirements of pigs, anticipating subsequent diets through daily adjustments. We employed a cradle-to-gate approach, with the functional unit defined as one barrow with an initial body weight of 20.61 ± 0.85 kg, raised to 138.94 ± 0.90 kg over a 120-day growing-finishing period. Input data were sourced from observed commercial records from pig farms in Brazil, including over 1,000,000 data points from pigs raised under standard industry conditions. We evaluated the impact of the life cycle by considering factors such as acidification, climate change, ecotoxicity, eutrophication, land use, resource use, and water use. The OpenLCA software (version 1.11.0) and the Environmental Footprint 3.0 impact assessment method were used. Our results indicate that the DFM consistently outperforms the CON strategy in terms of reducing environmental impacts. Among the three scenarios, BT-2017 results in higher environmental impact reductions compared with NRC-2012 and AGPIC-2021. This is due to the higher concentration of corn and soybean meal in diets. Notable reductions include in relation to land use-related climate change impacts (12.55%), freshwater eutrophication (6.21%), mineral and metal resource depletion (6.11%), and fossil resource use (4.88%). These findings highlight that even modest adjustments to feeding strategies can effectively reduce the environmental footprint of pig farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Precision Feeding and Management of Farm Animals, 3rd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 9782 KB

Open AccessArticle

Weak Phd2-Hif-1α Affinity Coupled with High Basal Expression Is Predicted to Enhance HIF Pathway Flexibility in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

by Junli Yan, Xianzong Wang, Dan Liu, Jing Song, Shaozhen Liu, Qing Liu and Zhongbao Guo

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101561 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

To explore the molecular basis of hypoxia tolerance variation within euteleosts, we compared the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathways of the highly tolerant Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and the hypoxia-sensitive rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Evolutionary analysis revealed that Nile tilapia [...] Read more.

To explore the molecular basis of hypoxia tolerance variation within euteleosts, we compared the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathways of the highly tolerant Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and the hypoxia-sensitive rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Evolutionary analysis revealed that Nile tilapia possesses single copies of Hif-1α and prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 2 (Phd2), whereas rainbow trout retains two and three copies, respectively. The Leu-X-X-Leu-Ala-Pro (LXXLAP) motifs in the oxygen-dependent degradation (ODD) domain of Hif-1α and the interacting loop region of Phd2 are highly conserved, indicating a conserved core mechanism for regulating Hif-1α stability. However, differences in charged residue composition flanking the Phd2 loop (e.g., fewer positively charged residues in Nile tilapia) were identified. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the complex formed by Nile tilapia Phd2 and the Hif-1α LXXLAP motif was unstable across physiological temperatures, suggesting potential impairment of the catalytic geometry compatible with hydroxylation and elevated normoxic Hif-1α stability. In contrast, the corresponding complexes in rainbow trout were more stable, particularly at low temperatures. Expression profiling revealed that Nile tilapia tissues, including the heart, maintain higher basal expression of glycolytic genes, may help support energy production during hypoxia. Our findings indicate that a weakened protein interaction and high constitutive expression is predicted to enhance HIF pathway responsiveness, potentially priming vital tissues for glycolytic energy production and may contribute to this species’ hypoxia tolerance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 15223 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Genomics in Equine MEED: Whole-Genome Sequencing and Target Mutation Identification

by Kayden Tanner, Marshall Mays, Thu Annelise Nguyen and Tomas Lugo

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101560 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Multisystemic eosinophilic epitheliotropic disease (MEED) is a rare and severe equine disorder characterized by chronic eosinophilic inflammation, epithelial disruption, and multi-organ involvement, with an undefined genetic basis. We performed the high-depth (~40×) whole-genome sequencing of an affected horse and compared it to 40 [...] Read more.

Multisystemic eosinophilic epitheliotropic disease (MEED) is a rare and severe equine disorder characterized by chronic eosinophilic inflammation, epithelial disruption, and multi-organ involvement, with an undefined genetic basis. We performed the high-depth (~40×) whole-genome sequencing of an affected horse and compared it to 40 control genomes. Over 6.3 million variants were identified, with moderate- and high-impact variants enriched in low-frequency categories, including rare and private variants absent from the controls. The affected horse was dominated by missense mutations, with relatively few high-impact variants, consistent with the distributed protein-altering effects rather than a single highly penetrant mutation. Gene prioritization and pathway analyses highlighted the disruption of cytoskeletal organization, microtubule dynamics, epithelial integrity, and immune regulation. The network analysis further revealed the interconnected structural and inflammatory pathways, suggesting a link between an impaired epithelial barrier function and immune homeostasis. Together, these findings provide the first population genomic insight into MEED and support a model in which cumulative mutations contribute to the epithelial instability and persistent inflammation characteristic of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Equine Genetics, Evolution, and Breeds)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 906 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Allium mongolicum Essential Oil on Meat Quality and Flavor-Related Free Amino Acids in Finishing Lambs

by Khas Erdene, Xiaoyuan Wang, Yaxing Zhao, Qina Cao, Yankai Zheng, Changjin Ao and Chen Bai

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1559; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101559 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary Allium mongolicum Regel essential oil (AMO) supplementation on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and muscle amino acid profile in finishing lambs. A total of twenty male Dorper × Han crossbred [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary Allium mongolicum Regel essential oil (AMO) supplementation on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and muscle amino acid profile in finishing lambs. A total of twenty male Dorper × Han crossbred lambs (body weight = 32.5 ± 2.5 kg, 4–4.5 months old) were randomly allocated into two dietary treatments (n = 10 per group): a control group fed a basal diet (roughage to concentrate ratio of 45:55) or an AMO group supplemented with 56 mg/d of AMO per lamb. The trial consisted of a 15-day adaptation period followed by a 60-day experimental period. At the end of the trial, six lambs were randomly selected from each group for slaughter. Samples of the longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle were collected to determine meat quality traits, proximate composition, and amino acid profiles. Supplementation increased average daily gain by 6.6% and improved feed conversion ratio by 4.6% (p < 0.05), whereas feed intake and final body weight were not affected (p > 0.05). In LT, GR tissue depth and loin muscle area were increased (p < 0.05). Drip loss was reduced (p < 0.05), whereas proximate composition, cooking loss, and shear force remained unchanged (p > 0.05). The hydrolyzed amino acid composition and protein nutritional value of LT were not affected (p > 0.05). However, total free amino acid (FAA), total essential FAA, and the concentrations of free leucine, isoleucine, lysine, valine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, alanine, glutamic acid, glycine, and cysteine were increased by supplementation (p < 0.05). Moreover, flavor-related FAA, including umami-, sweet-, and bitter/sweet/sulfurous-related FAA were also increased by supplementation (p < 0.05). These results indicate that AMO improves growth efficiency and enhances LT meat quality, particularly by increasing flavor-related FAA, without altering protein nutritional characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 882 KB

Open AccessArticle

N-Carbamylglutamate Improves Production Performance and Muscle Growth by Regulating Protein Digestive Function and Muscle Protein Synthesis in Broiler Chickens

by Lingping Zhao, Shitu Tan, Wanqiao Zhang, Pei Mao and Xiaohong Wu

Animals 2026, 16(10), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101558 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) is a structural analog of N-acetylglutamate and has multifunctional roles in animal production. However, few studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of NCG on protein digestive function and muscle growth in broiler chickens. This study investigated whether NCG could [...] Read more.

N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) is a structural analog of N-acetylglutamate and has multifunctional roles in animal production. However, few studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of NCG on protein digestive function and muscle growth in broiler chickens. This study investigated whether NCG could improve muscle growth via protein digestive ability and amino acid metabolism in broiler chickens. A total of 144 one-day-old male broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four treatments with six replicates of 6 broiler chickens each. The treatments were a basal diet and a basal diet with NCG supplementation at three graded levels (150 g/t, 300 g/t, and 450 g/t of NCG). The results showed that NCG supplementation significantly improved the average daily weight gain (ADG) and decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group (p < 0.05) and increased the weight of leg muscle and breast muscle. Furthermore, NCG supplementation significantly increased protein digestibility, the activities of amylase, trypsin and lipase, and villus height in the ileum (p < 0.05), which demonstrated that digestibility and absorption were improved by NCG in broiler chickens. Analysis of plasma amino acids, hormone levels and the gene expression of breast muscle revealed that NCG increased the concentration of GABA, glutamate, glutamine, leucine, threonine, valine, branched-chain amino acids and essential amino acids and the levels of testosterone and IGF-1 in plasma (p < 0.05). Additionally, NCG increased the expression of mTOR and P70S6K in breast muscle tissue. Therefore, NCG supplementation could be an important nutritional strategy to improve product performance, muscle growth and development, and meat yield. The 300 g/t supplementation level was found to be the practical optimum dose, as it produced effects comparable to the highest dose (450 g/t) on most parameters while offering better cost-effectiveness. This study provides new insights into the application of NCG for meat production improvement in broiler chickens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Paradigm Shift—Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Management, and Alternative Poultry Feed Ingredients Using Novel Feed Processing Methods: Second Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Animals

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI