Effect of climate change on reproduction and milk production performance of livestock: A review

Abstract

Climate change is a long-term shift in the statistics of the environmental variables of a particular region. Various climate model projections suggest that by the year 2100, mean global temperature may be 1.1–6.4°C warmer than in 2010. Livestock production is adversely affected by detrimental effects of extreme climatic conditions. Reproductive processes are affected by thermal stress. Low estradiol level during summer season in buffaloes may be responsible for silent heat. 80% of estrus remains unnoticed during summer. When the body temperature exceeds 40°C developed follicles suffer damage and become non-viable. Conception rates of dairy cows may drop up to 20–27% in summer. Seasonal variations affect testicular volume, hormonal profiles, sexual behavior and semen quality that affect the reproductive performance of males. Summer heat stress declined semen quality parameters. Up to 50% drop in milk production in dairy animals is due to reduced feed intake and rest due to metabolic adaptations to heat stress as heat stress. Hot and humid climate not only affects quantity but also effects quality of milk too.