Diagnóstico bioclimático para a criação de zebuínos no município de Imperatriz - MA

Abstract

The objective of this study is to evaluate the bioclimatic conditions of the municipality of Imperatriz–MA, identifying the impacts of climatic variables on the thermal comfort and productive performance of Zebu cattle. Meteorological data from 1991 to 2021 were analysed, obtained from models of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Based on this information, the Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) and Black Globe Temperature and Humidity Index (BGTHI) were calculated to characterise the level of thermal stress in two physiological phases: newborns and adults. The results showed that, during most of the year, the average and maximum temperature values exceeded the thermal comfort zone for cattle, and the ITU and ITGU indices indicated a prevalence of moderate to severe heat stress, especially between June and November. These findings show that the climatic environment of Imperatriz poses challenges to maintaining animal thermal comfort, requiring the adoption of management strategies such as shading, ventilation, and constant availability of water to minimise the negative effects of heat on herd performance and welfare.