Impact of temperature-humidity index and microclimatic modifications on behavioral responses and buffalo comfort...

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of microclimatic modifications on the behavior of Murrah buffaloes under summer conditions in order to mitigate these effects. The research was carried out at the buffalo farm of the Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, India, between August and October 2024. Eighteen lactating Murrah buffaloes were allocated into three treatment groups, each consisting of six animals, within a loose housing system: (T₁) Concrete flooring with corrugated asbestos roofing (control); (T₂) Concrete flooring with 50 mm thick glass wool on the false ceiling and white paint on the upper side of the roof; (T₃) Concrete flooring with 70 mm thick expanded polyethylene sheet on the ceiling and white paint on the upper side of the roof. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of microclimatic changes on the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) and behavioral responses of Murrah buffaloes. THI levels were significantly reduced in both T₂ and T₃ treatment groups. Behavioral observations indicated an increase in lying time, sitting time, and time spent in covered areas during T₂, whereas standing time, time in open areas, and aggressive behaviors were diminished in treatments with microclimatic modifications. The Buffalo Comfort Index (BCI) was highest in the T₂ group, followed by the T₃ group. THI exhibited a strong positive correlation with time spent in open areas, while showing a negative correlation with time spent in covered areas and the buffalo comfort index (BCI). In summary, the implementation of microclimatic modifications, specifically the use of glass wool and expanded polyethylene sheets, in conjunction with white paint on the roof, effectively mitigated heat stress, enhanced thermal comfort, and improved the overall behavioral response of lactating Murrah buffaloes. Based on these findings, we recommend the adoption of glass wool insulation (50 mm thickness) combined with white-painted roofing as an effective heat stress mitigation strategy for dairy buffaloes in tropical loose housing systems, particularly during summer months.