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Published on: July 11, 2016
Review: Ruminant heat-stress terminology.
A K Shirley1, P C Thomson2, A Chlingaryan1
1Livestock Production and Welfare Group, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia.
Clarifying terminology for ruminant heat stress (HS) is vital for research progress. This review proposes consistent definitions for resistance, tolerance, resilience, and susceptibility to improve understanding and management of HS in livestock.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Environmental Science
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Climate variability is increasing ruminant heat stress (HS) incidence.
- Inconsistent definitions of key terms (resistance, tolerance, resilience, susceptibility) hinder research and practice.
- Precise terminology is crucial for effective communication and knowledge advancement in HS research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the historical and contemporary use of key terms related to HS.
- To propose clear, consistent definitions for 'resistance', 'tolerance', 'resilience', and 'susceptibility' in ruminant production.
- To provide a framework for future research and application in heat stress amelioration.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of term usage across disciplines.
- Analysis of historical and current definitions.
- Synthesis of findings to propose new, aligned definitions.
Main Results:
- Significant ambiguities identified in the current use of 'resistance', 'tolerance', 'resilience', and 'susceptibility'.
- Proposed definitions align with current scientific understanding of HS in ruminants.
- A framework for consistent terminology in heat abatement is established.
Conclusions:
- Clear definitions are essential for advancing ruminant heat stress research and management.
- The proposed definitions provide a foundation for consistent communication and application.
- Future research should focus on incorporating quantitative measures to refine these classifications.
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