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Around 10.5 million tonnes of sheep milk are produced worldwide, and around 3.1 million tonnes in Europe. In Europe, sheep milk production has stagnated slightly in recent years and currently accounts for around 1/3 of the global production. Due to its high content of dry matter, milk fat, total protein and casein, sheep milk is an excellent raw material for cheese production. Milk processing and cheese making are not only economically important, but also part of the cultural heritage based on a long tradition, often taking place in rural and less developed areas. Milk production and quality are very complex and are influenced by numerous factors, the most important of which are breed, feeding and body condition, parity and stage of lactation, milking and udder health, and environmental factors. In addition, different types of stress such as heat stress, nutritional stress, weaning stress, shearing stress, stress of regrouping, etc. have a significant impact on the welfare and health of the sheep as well as on the quantity of milk produced, its chemical composition, processing characteristics and the economic efficiency of the flock. In recent years, due to climate change, there has been an increasing number of studies on the effects of heat stress on the reproductive and production characteristics of sheep, as well as on their welfare and health. In addition, heat stress is often associated to the feed and the lack of water. The effects of stress are particularly pronounced in extensive sheep farming and milk production, which are prevalent in sheep farming. The aim of this paper is to describe the effects of the main types of stress on the quantity and chemical composition of sheep milk and on animal welfare.

The research objective was to examine the influence of the first third of the lactation stage on 18 mineral elements in Alpine goat milk. The research was carried out on 20 goats of the French-Alpine breed, which were on average 5 years old and in the fourth lactation. The goats were monitored on the 30th and the 90th day of lactation. Their milk was analysed for chemical composition by the infrared spectroscopy. By means of inductively coupled plasma (ICP), a total of 18 minerals were analysed (Ca, P, K, Na, K, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Se, Mn, Mo, Co, Cr, Ni, Cd, Pb, As and Hg). The period of milk sampling in the first third of lactation significantly influenced the changes in concentrations of Na, Se, Mo, Cr, Ni and As. Significantly higher concentrations of Na and As were determined in milk sampled on the 90th day, while lower concentrations of Se, Mo, Cr and Ni were determined in milk sampled on the 30th day of the first third of lactation. Analysis of the correlation coefficients between the investigated trace elements and the selected toxic elements in Alpine goat milk showed a significantly positive correlation between Ca:Mg, Ca:P, Ca:Co, Ca:Ni, Ca:Mo; Mg:P, Fe:As, Pb:Cd and P:Ni. In the first third of lactation, Alpine goat milk contained a very low concentration of heavy metals. The described changes indicate that Alpine goat milk is rich in essential elements, while the concentration of toxic elements is very low in the first third of lactation.

Recently, many feedstuffs have been introduced to animal diets to increase the content of beneficial fatty acids in dairy products. Therefore, this study aimed to research the effect of including hempseed cake in dairy goats concentrate mixtures on the chemical composition and fatty acid profile of semi-hard goat cheese that is traditionally produced on family farm. The feeding of goats was based on meadow hay ad libitum and 1200 g/day/head of concentrate mixture. In the first experimental group, 60 g/kg DM of hempseed cake (HSC-60) was administered; meanwhile, in the second experimental group, 120 g/kg DM of hempseed cake (HSC-120) was included in the diet. The chemical composition of cheese was mostly unaffected by enriching the goats’ nutrition with hempseed cakes. Dietary HSC-120 increased C18:1 n-9 and C18:3 n-6 compared to the control, and increased C22:6 n-3 in cheese compared to HSC- 60, although both HSC-120 and HSC-60 lowered n-6/n-3 ratios in cheese. Feeding goats with HSC-120 may have contributed to the development of the functional properties of semi-hard goat cheese made on family farm, as compared to the cheese produced by goats fed with commercial concentrate mixtures.

The objective of this study was to assess the impact that diets supplemented with grape seed cake rich in polyphenols had on lactating goats. The study investigated the quantity and quality of goat milk, the metabolic profile of blood, and the antioxidative status. The study involved 24 French Alpine dairy goats throughout their lactation period. The goats were, on average, 5 years old (±three months) and in the fourth lactation. The experiment lasted for 58 days. The control group (CON) had a diet without grape seed cake (GSC). The experimental groups were given a diet containing 5% and 10% GSC on a dry matter basis (GSC5 and GSC10, respectively). A slightly higher milk production, as well as protein and fat milk content, were found in GSC5 and GSC10, but the differences were not significant. Goat milk in the GSC10 group exhibited significantly higher activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase, as well as decreased concentrations of GUK and SCC. The feeding treatments did not affect significant differences in hematological and biochemical indicators, except for the BHB content, which can be associated with a higher energy value of feed containing GSC. There was an observed elevation in the activity of SOD within the blood of GSC5, and GSC10 was measured as well. The determined changes justify the supplementation of GSC rich in polyphenols to goat feed, especially in the amount of 10%, as it can reduce stress caused by lactation, which is known as a very stressful production period for animals.

The aim of this study was to determine the quality of corn silage as the dominant component in the diet of dairy cows in three counties of Eastern Croatia; Brod-Posavina, Osijek-Baranja, and Vukovar-Srijem. The practical part of the research included 25 dairy farms in each County in which corn silage was sampled and then analyzed. The monitored nutritional, fermentative, and physical indicators expressed as average values were satisfactory. Indicators of chemical composition: dry matter (DM) = 349 g/kg, crude protein = 71 g/kg DM, crude ash = 39 g/kg DM, crude fiber = 186 g/kg DM, acidic detergent fiber (ADF) = 212 g/kg DM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) = 393 g/kg DM, acidic detergent lignin (ADL) = 17 g/kg DM, starch = 325 g kg DM, energy value expressed in net energy for lactation (NEL, MJ/kg DM) = 6.78, average digestibility of organic matter (dOM) = 75.8% and digestible neutral detergent fibers (dNDF)= 53.7%. Indicators of silage fermentation included the measurement of an average pH of 3.86, a concentration of lactic acid = 56.37 g/kg DM, and acetic acid of 20.68 g/kg DM. Physical indicator, determination of silage particle size distribution (three sieve system) recorded following values: sieve 1 = 7.1%; sieve 2 = 56.3%; sieve 3 = 24.8% and box at the bottom = 11.7%. Given the established statistical significance of the tested differences in average values for nine indicators of nutritional and energy value of corn silage between counties, it is possible to confirm that the quality of silage was better in Osijek-Baranja and Brod-Posavina counties than in Vukovar-Srijem County. Based on significant deviations in the minimum and maximum, and by determining a larger number of non-compliant samples in some indicators than the average values, it leads to the conclusion of uneven quality of silage in some producers.

This study investigated the effect of red corn in the feed mixture of dairy goats on production traits, blood metabolic profile, and antioxidative status. The study was conducted on 30 French Alpine dairy goats. The feed mixture for the goats in the control group (CC) contained yellow corn (100%). In the first experimental group (RC50), yellow corn was partially (50%) replaced by red corn (RC), and in the second experimental group (RC100), yellow corn was completely (100%) replaced by red corn. No significance variations (p > 0.05) were determined in production traits of dairy goats between dietary treatments. A significant increase in hemoglobin (84.43, 100.00 and 106.55 g/L), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (7.98, 9.70 and 12.54 pg), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (293.57, 357.50 and 462.78 g/L) was found in the RC groups, and a decrease in erythrocytes in the RC100 compared with the RC50 group of goats (from 8.71 to 10.45 × 1012 L). A significant increase in blood superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the RC groups was found (0.29, 0.53, and 0.44 U/mL). The results indicate maintaining production traits and a moderate effect on blood metabolic profile (most hematologic parameters) as well as a positive antioxidative effect RC.

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of essential trace and toxic elements in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation in intensive rearing systems. This research was conducted with 30 Lacaune sheep that were monitored in the early (60 days of lactation), medium (120 days of lactation), and late (180 days of lactation) stages of lactation. The sheep were fed a pelleted feed mixture (1 kg/day), a cereal mixture (600 g/day), and alfalfa hay (ad libitum). The essential (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Mo, Se, Cr, and Ni) and toxic element (heavy metals: Cd, Pb, As, and Hg) concentrations in the feed and milk were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Significant variations in the main essential trace and toxic elements, except for the Mo, Se, Ni, As, and Hg concentrations, were found in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation. As lactation progressed, in the late stage of lactation, significantly higher concentrations of Co, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Pb were found, while Zn and Cu in the milk of Lacaune sheep decreased significantly (4.15 and 0.21 mg/kg) compared to their concentrations in the early stage of lactation (5.66 and 0.43 mg/kg). Significantly lower concentrations of Fe and higher concentrations of Cd were found in the medium stage (0.23 mg/kg and 1.08 µg/kg) of lactation compared to both the early and late stages of lactation. An analysis of the correlation coefficients between the essential trace and toxic elements in Lacaune sheep milk during lactation determined a significantly positive correlation between Fe:Cr, Fe:Mn, Fe:Co, Fe:Se, Zn:Ni, Zn:Se, Cr:Mn, Cr:Co, Cr:Se, Cr:Mo, Mn:Co, Mn:Pb, Co:Ni, Co:Se, Ni:Se, Se:Mo, Se:Pb, and Cd:Pb. A significantly negative correlation was also found between Cu:Mn, Zn:Mo, Cg:Hg, and Hg:Pb. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended that the influence of the stage of lactation, as well as the breed of sheep, should be included when designing experiments. In general, sheep milk is rich in essential trace elements, but it also contains a very low content of toxic elements, which provides justification for increasing the breeding of Lacaune sheep and indicates the convenience of consuming their milk without risking the consumer’s health.

The research objective was to determine haematological and biochemical parameters in blood of 30 Lacaune dairy sheep during different stages of lactation (early: 60th, medium: 120th and late: 180th days). The sheep were on average 4 years old, in 3rd lactation. Haematological parameters were determined in whole blood (white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin (HGB) concentration, haematocrit (HCT) value, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and platelet (PLT) count), and a blood smear was used for determination of differential blood cell count. Determined biochemical parameters in blood serum were: concentration of minerals (Ca, P-inorganic, Mg and Fe), concentration of total proteins (TP), albumin (ALB), globulins (GLOB), urea, glucose (GUK), cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TGC), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), enzyme activities (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), creatine kinase (CK), activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total superoxide dismutase (SOD). With progression of lactation stages, sheep blood tests proved significant increase in WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, monocytes, Fe, urea, TP, ALB, CHOL, HDL, LDL, BHB, AST, GGT and ALT as well as a decrease in lymphocytes, Mg, GUK and SOD. Determined changes in haematological and biochemical blood parameters of Lacaune dairy sheep during different lactation stages proved good quality nutrition of sheep and indicate the need to include this dairy breed/genotype in prospective schemes for definition of referential values for these indicators in sheep.

The aim of the present study was to determine the acid-base balance in the blood of the Lacaune sheep during different lactation stages. Thirty lactating Lacaune sheep were involved in the research, and were monitored in the early (day 60), medium (day 120), and late lactation stages (day 180). The following parameters were determined in the blood plasma: pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide – pCO2, partial pressure of oxygen – pO2, total pressure of carbon dioxide – tCO2, oxygen saturation – sO2, actual base excess Cbase – B, standard base excess Cbase – Ecf and electrolytes (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Cl- and HCO3- – bicarbonate), while total proteins – TP and albumin ALB were determined in the serum. Also, strong ion difference - SID, z value, anion gap - AG, weak anions, and cations - ATOTtp and ATOTalb, strong ion gap - SIG, unmeasured anions – XA and globulin concentrations were calculated. A significant effect of the lactation stage on most of the acid-base parameters in the blood of the Lacaune sheep was determined, except for pCO2, Cl-, z values and the SID. A significant increase of pO2, sO2, ATOTtp, ATOTalb, AG, SIGalb, SIGtp, XA, Na+, total proteins and albumins, as well as the decreased concentrations of K+ and Ca2+, were determined in the blood of the Lacaune sheep during lactation. During the medium stage of lactation, significant changes were determined in most of the acid-base parameters in the blood of the Lacaune sheep when compared to the other stages. A lactation stage may significantly affect the acid-base balance parameters in the blood of the Lacaune sheep, although the calculations of SIG, base excess (BE), and unmeasured anion (XA) values should also be included for the obtainment of a more comprehensive picture of the acid-base balance.

The objective of this study was to research correlations between milk composition and selected blood indicators of liver function in ewes during lactation. The research was conducted with samples of milk and blood from Travnik Pramenka ewes (n = 99). Samples were collected in the area of western Slavonia in Croatia from lactating sheep grazing on natural pastures. Chemical composition of sheep milk was analysed as well as biochemical parameters in serum. Positive correlation between ALB: TGC, ALB: ALT, GUK: GGT, CHOL: ALT and AST: GGT was determined, while significant negative correlation was determined between GUK: ALB, GUK: TGC, GUK: ALT, ALB: GGT as well as ALT: GGT. Significant positive correlation was determined between blood and milk indicators, like ALB protein (r = 0.243), ALB: DMNF (r = 0.309) and ALB: SCC (r = 0.249), as well as negative correlation between TGC: MY (r = -0.264), ALT: protein (r = -0.258), lactose: TGC (r = -0.274) and ALT: DMNF (r = -0.234). The relations between indicators of milk composition, milk production and ewes blood indicators as well as their mutual connections indicate the justification of using the analysis of liver status indicators. Accordingly, by using these relations metabolic pathways of liver status indicators could be better monitored, which is important for practice regarding prevention of possible feeding errors and prevention of major production losses while maintaining the health of lactating sheep.

The objective of this study was to research correlations between milk composition and selected blood indicators of liver function in ewes during lactation. The research was conducted with samples of milk and blood from Travnik Pramenka ewes (n = 99). Samples were collected in the area of western Slavonia in Croatia from lactating sheep grazing on natural pastures. Chemical composition of sheep milk was analysed as well as biochemical parameters in serum. Positive correlation between ALB : TGC, ALB : ALT, GUK : GGT, CHOL : ALT and AST : GGT was determined, while significant negative correlation was determined between GUK : ALB, GUK : TGC, GUK : ALT, ALB : GGT as well as ALT : GGT. Significant positive correlation was determined between blood and milk indicators, like ALB protein (r = 0.243), ALB : DMNF (r = 0.309) and ALB : SCC (r = 0.249), as well as negative correlation between TGC : MY (r = -0.264), ALT : protein (r = -0.258), lactose : TGC (r = -0.274) and ALT : DMNF (r = -0.234). The relations between indicators of milk composition, milk production and ewes blood indicators as well as their mutual connections indicate the justification of using the analysis of liver status indicators. Accordingly, by using these relations metabolic pathways of liver status indicators could be better monitored, which is important for practice regarding prevention of possible feeding errors and prevention of major production losses while maintaining the health of lactating sheep.

The aim of the present research was to determine the changes in macromineral and trace element concentrations in ewes' blood during the lactation period. Thirty-six Travnik pramenka ewes at the average age of 3-5 years were included in research and they were evaluated at three stages of lactation: early stage (40 ± 5 days of lactation), medium stage (80 ± 5 days of lactation) and late stage (120 ± 5 days of lactation). In ewes' blood concentrations of macroelements (Ca, P, K, Na, Mg) and trace elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mo, Co, Se, Cd, As) were determined. The average concentrations of macroelements and trace elements in the blood of ewes during lactation were mostly within the reference values. Se concentrations in blood were close to the deficient ones, while concentrations of Cd and As were negligible. Concentration of Ca in blood was the lowest in the early lactation stage, higher in the late stage, and the highest in the medium stage (88.25 mg/l, 96.43 mg/l and 103.43 mg/l, respectively). A significant increase in the concentrations of Mg, Co and Cd and a significant decrease in the concentrations of Na, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mo and Se were found in blood with lactation progress. Significant correlations between the studied parameters were found, especially between macroelements (Ca : K, P : Na, K : Na, K : Mg). Positive correlations were found between some macroelements and trace elements (Ca : Co, Ca : Cd, K : Co, Na : Zn, Na : Se) and between trace elements (Fe

Due to the high content of crude protein and high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, pumpkin seed cake (PSC) could be a good quality feedstuff for ruminants, while extruded linseed (ELS) has already shown some beneficial effect on fatty acids proportion of goat milk. Besides, lactation is the most demanding period when monitoring the metabolic condition of animal. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of PSC and ELS replacing soybean meal in diets of dairy goats on blood haemato-chemical parameters and milk quality. A 28 lactating French Alpine dairy goats were monitored within 20 days in early lactation. Diet of each groups had a balanced content of energy and crude protein, and a slight difference in lipid content. Goats in control group (n = 9) received soybean meal and extruded soybean. In experimental groups soybean was partially replaced with ELS (n = 10) or completely with PSC (n = 9). Dietary treatments had no effect on haemato-chemical parameters, although PSC increased concentration of globulins in serum. PSC lowered linoleic acid compared to control. ELS increased proportion of α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and total n-3 fatty acids in milk. Positive correlations were found between non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and ratio C18:1/C15:0, NEFA and ratio C17:0/C15:0, as well as β-hydroxybutyrate and ratio C17:0/C15:0. The replacement of soybean meal with PSC or partially with ELS is feasible with respect to haemato-chemical parameters of early lactating dairy goats, while ELS had much beneficial effect on fatty acids compared to PSC.

The aim of present research was to establish the relationship between live body weight and some body measurements in Travnik sheep as a step towards establishing prediction equations to estimate live body weight of sheep under field conditions without using weighing scales. The research was conducted on the family farm "Aščić" from Velika Peratovica in the Bilogora area. The body measures from which the indices of physical development were calculated were taken from 39 sheep. The sheep in the present research had more modest body measurements and body weight than the desirable measures and weights listed in the Sheep Breeding Program in the Republic of Croatia, which is most likely due to the way they were kept, nutrition and their production status. Correlation analysis between individual body measures and sheep weights revealed the strongest and significantly positive correlation (P

This study investigated the effect of dietary selenium supplementation (organic and inorganic) of late-gestation ewes on blood selenium concentrations and metabolic and antioxidant status indicators in ewes and their lambs. In addition, the efficacy of selenium transfer from ewes to lambs during the suckling period was determined. The study was conducted on 30 Merinolandschaf ewes and their lambs and lasted four months. The feed mixture of the control group (group I) contained no added selenium, while the feed mixture of group II was enriched with 0.3 mg/kg of organic selenium sources and the third group with 0.3 mg/kg of inorganic selenium sources. In ewes and their lambs, selenium supplementation significantly (p < 0.01; p < 0.05) increased selenium concentration, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activity and decreased malondialdehyde concentration compared to the control group. Selenium supplementation had a positive effect on metabolism and hematological indicators in lambs. A positive correlation was found between antioxidant indicators in the whole blood of ewes and lambs. The good transfer of selenium from ewes to lambs was complemented by higher correlation coefficients when the feed mixture was supplemented with organic compared to inorganic selenium.

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of parity and litter size on dairy traits in Istrian ewes. The following traits were analysed: lactation milk yield (LMY), daily milk yield (DMY), fat yield (FY), fat content (FC), protein yield (PY), protein content (PC), lactose yield (LY), and lactose content (LC). Lactation records (n=6481) collected on 2786 ewes were analyzed using a statistical model adjusted for unbalanced data structure accounting for all the available sources of phenotypic variability. Parity had a statistically significant effect on all the investigated traits (P

The aim of the paper was to research the possibility of using hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) in animal nutrition. In animal nutrition, hemp seeds can be used, as well as hempseed cake, and hemp oil as supplement in feed mixtures. Hemp seeds are rich in crude protein and crude fat with adequate proportions of linoleic (LA, C18:2 n-6) and linolenic (ALA, C18:3 n-3) acid. The addition of hemp oil in diets of dairy goats increased milk fat with increasing conjugated fatty acid (CLA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) proportions. When feeding ewes with addition of hemp seeds (180 g/day) or hempseed cake (480 g/day), higher milk fat content was observed with higher proportions of LA, CLA and ALA. Addition of hempseed cake (143 g/ kg DM) in diets of cows increased milk yield, compared to the control group and the group with higher levels of hempseed cake (233 or 318 g/kg DM). Nutrition of laying hens with hemp seeds in diet (10 and 20%) provided enrichment of yolk fat with ALA, and did not negatively influence laying performance. The aforementioned indicated possibility of using hemp in diets of animals without major changes in production, and with possible increase of desirable fatty acids in animal products.

A total of 96 Black Slavonian pigs were subjected to the research, in which they were split into 6 groups. Three groups (100, 120, and 130 kg) were fed a higher level (HL) of crude protein in fodder mixtures (CPFM), and three groups (100, 120, and 130 kg) were fed a lower level (LL) of CPFM. After the pigs were slaughtered, pig carcasses were dissected and the meat and halves quality indicators were determined. According to the influence of the final body weight (BW) and nutrition of pigs on the quality of their halves, meat, and dry fermented sausages (kulens), it was concluded that feeding an HL of CPFM increased the proportion of loin, belly rib part, and chin and increased the muscle tissue in the ham, loin, shoulder, neck, and belly rib parts. However, the chemical composition of the meat and the sensory properties of the kulen were not significantly affected by feeding the pigs an HL of CPFM. It was concluded that, by selecting the final BW and adjusting the feeding strategies for pigs, it is possible to modify the conformation and composition of pig carcasses and the quality of meat and kulens produced from the Black Slavonian pig, which is important because consumers prefer products with certain characteristics and of a standard quality and are ready to pay for them.

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of different proportions of red corn rich in anthocyanins on the diet of fattening lambs considering their productive traits, blood metabolic profile, and antioxidative status. The research was carried out with 30 Merinolandschaf lambs, 90 days old and weaned. The feed mixture for lambs (n = 10) of the control group contained yellow corn, while in the feed mixture of experimental group I (n = 10), yellow corn was replaced with red corn at 50% (RC50), and in experimental group II (n = 10), yellow corn was 100% replaced with red corn (RC100). An automatic three-part differential haematology analyser was used to determine haematological parameters in whole blood, and biochemical parameters were determined in blood serum using a biochemical analyser. A diet containing red corn did not affect productive traits or the majority of the examined parameters. However, higher blood haemoglobin content, increased aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase activity, and decreased glucose and non-esterified fatty acids concentrations were found in the serum of RC100 lambs. These results indicate a positive effect of red corn rich in anthocyanins on the metabolic profile without any changes in the productive traits of lambs.

ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of pea and sunflower cake as partial replacement for soybean meal in diet, as well as to assess their effect on milk quality during lactation and on blood parameters of ewes kept in organic farming. The research was carried out with 30 ewes of Merinolandschaf breed during 75 days. Ewes were given mixtures based on soybean meal as a protein source in control group (SBM), while in experimental groups, soybean meal was partially replaced with pea grain (P) and sunflower cake (SFC). Biochemical parameters (urea, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulins, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglyceride, β-hydroxybutyrate, and non-esterified fatty acids), as well as enzyme activity (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, and CK) were determined in blood of ewes. Milk composition and concentration of fatty acids in milk fat were also determined. In comparison with control, sunflower cake as a protein source affected the increase of fat content in milk. When compared with pea grain and SBM, it decreased the urea concentration in milk. Oleic acid, total monounsaturated fatty acids, and n-6 increased, while saturated fatty acids, atherogenic, and thrombogenic indices decreased in SFC. Feeding ewes with peas increased the content of n-3 fatty acids in their milk. If compared to SFC, it also improved the n-6:n-3 ratio. Partial replacement of soybean meal with SFC reduced the blood concentration of total protein, globulin, and AST, and GGT enzyme activities and increased the β-hydroxybutyrate. Inclusion of pea grain and SFC can be adequately used as partial replacement of soybean meal in feeding of ewes kept in organic farming.

The aim of this study was to determine influence of sex on slaughter traits, carcass measures and pH value and muscle tissue colour as important indicators of lamb meat quality. For that purpose a total of 52 Merinolandschaf lambs (24 male and 28 female) at average age of about 100 days were slaughtered. The average lambs live weight at slaughter was 37.09 kg, considering that male lambs had statistically significant (P

Lamb meat represents an important source of nutrients for humans worldwide. However, nutritional value of lamb meat, and particularly that obtained from suckling lambs, has been scarcely investigated in comparison to other categories of meat. The study aimed to provide some basic insights into proximate and mineral composition of lamb meat and to disclose some important sources of its variability. Three Croatian indigenous insular sheep breeds were included in the study: Rab sheep, Cres sheep, and Krk. The lambs were reared in outdoor insular environment where lambs were fed exclusively by suckling their mothers and by grazing wild grown vegetation. It has been determined that gender significantly affected fat (p

Continuous growth of human population, combined with the changes in eating habits, calls for an intensification of agricultural production. However, apart from the increase in food production, its nutritional composition is important as well, particularly in terms of microelements. In diets of over two thirds of the world’s population, there is a lack of more than one microelement. Insufficient concentrations of microelements, which are important for proper growth, development and health of humans and domestic animals, can be eliminated with diverse nutrition, microelement supplementation and by increasing the concentration and bioavailability of microelements in feeds used in animal nutrition, or biofortification. By reviewing the literature, the factors that influence the increase in microelement concentration in fodder crops are presented. Agronomic and genetic approach to biofortification is advocated as an immediate strategy to eliminate the lack of microelements most commonly lacking in diets: iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iodine (I), selenium (Se). The nutrition of animals containing biofortified fodder aims to increase the concentration of the aforementioned microelements in blood and improve their growth, development and health. By increasing the concentrations of microelements in tissues and milk of domestic animals, the ultimate goal is to meet the microelement needs in humans.

The addition of oilseeds and their cakes to the diets of lactating dairy goats is an alternative to supplemental feeding, which improves the lipid profile of goat cheeses. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a diet containing extruded linseed or pumpkin seed cake on the fatty acid profile of semi-hard cheese made from goat milk. The research was carried out with 28 French Alpine goats fed the following diets: 1—basal diet based on extruded soybean and soybean meal; 2—basal diet with 90 g/kg DM extruded linseed (ELS); and 3—basal diet with 160 g/kg DM pumpkin seed cake (PSC). Bulk milk from three separated milk tanks at three samplings was used for the manufacture of four traditional semi-hard cheeses from each milk tank at each sampling on the family farm. The ELS and PSC diets increased fat content in the cheese. The ELS feeding increased the proportion of C18:1 c9, C18:2 c9t11, and C18:3 n-3 in cheese and lowered C8:0, C6:0, and C16:0, while PSC resulted in the highest C18:2 n-6 proportions in the cheese. The health-promoting index was the highest in the cheese of ELS. The ELS had a contribution to higher nutritional and health quality of semi-hard traditional goat cheeses, thus representing a food with health-promoting properties.

The aim of this research was to determine the influence of sex on slaughter traits and carcass characteristics of Travnik pramenka sheep lambs. For that purpose, in April 2017, a total of 70 lambs of Travnik pramenka sheep were slaughtered, of which 48 male and 22 female. The lambs of Travnik pramenka sheep were raised on a family farm in Velika Peratovica, Bjelovar-Bilogora County. At age between 90 and 100 days lambs were individually weighed and slaughtered. After slaughter and standard procedures of processing, the carcasses and investigated organs were measured. The average slaughter weight of lambs measured immediately before slaughter was 21.85 kg, considering that male lambs had statistically significant (P

The aim of this research was to monitor the metabolic profile of blood and the quality of ewes’ milk during lactation in organic farming. Biological investigations were carried out on 32 clinically healthy Merinolandschaf ewes during the 3th lactation on the 20th, 60th and 100th day of lactation. Ewes’ milk was analyzed for the non fat dry matter, milk fat, protein, lactose, urea, the somatic cells count (SCC) and te total viable cell number (CFU), as well as for the concentration of fatty acids, atherogenic (AI), thrombogenic (TI) and Δ9-desaturase activity index. Concentrations of minerals (Ca-calcium, P-phosphorus-inorganic, Mg-magnesium, and Fe-iron), biochemical parameters (urea, glucose, cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, globulin, NEFA-non-esterified fatty acids, BHBA-beta-hydroxybutyrate) and enzyme activity (ALT-alanine aminotransferase, AST-aspartate aminotransferase, ALP-alkaline phosphatase, CK-creatine kinase and GGT-γ-glutamyl transferase) were analyzed in blood serum. Chemical composition of milk differed among different stages of lactation, which was marked by the increased content of milk fat, the decreased urea concentration, as well as by numeorus changes of fatty acid concentration observed along with lactation progression. Number of SCC and CFU in milk increased during lactation. AT and TI were appropriate in all stages of lactation, which resulted in satisfactory quality of ewes’ milk from organic farming. Determined concentrations of certain biochemical parameters (NEFA, triglycerides, VLDL-cholesterol, Ca and Fe) in blood of ewes originating from organic farming indicated lower deficit of energy during the 20th day of lactation, as well as a lack of Ca and Fe concentrations in blood, which most likely occurred due to higher loss through milk. Accordingly, the blood metabolic profile can be considered as an indicator for feeding and health status of ewes during lactation in organic farming.

The aim of this investigation is to determine haematological parameters of ewes during lactation in organic farming. Research was carried out with 32 Merinolandschaf ewes in age of 4 years and in third lactation. Sampling of blood from the same ewes was conducted on 20th, 60th and 100th day of lactation. Feeding was based on feed mixture and meadow hay from organic farming. Haematological parameters (number of leukocyte-WBC, erythrocytes-RBC, and platelet-PLT, as well as content of haemoglobin-HGB, haematocrit-HCT, mean corpuscular volume-MCV, the average haemoglobin content in erythrocytes-MCH and mean haemoglobin concentration in erythrocytes-MCHC) in whole blood of ewes and differential blood test (segmented neutrophils-SEG, band cells-NESEG, lymphocytes-LYM, eosinophils- EOS, monocytes-MON and basophils-BAS) were determined. During the lactation significant decrease of RBC (9.36-8.62×1012 L-1), HGB (92.59-86.25 g L-1) and number of BAS (0.41-0.03%) was determined, while MON (0.53-0.06%) decreased until 60th day of lactation. Significant correlations were determined between most of the haematological parameters in blood of ewes in lactation. Significant positive total correlation was determined between RBC and HGB (0.96), very strong correlation between HCT:HGB, RBC:HCT and MON:MCH (0.82, 0.76 and 0.80), as well as strong negative correlation between MCH:MCHC (-0.63). The abovementioned indicated significant interdependence of the most of haematological parameters in ewes during lactation in organic farming.

The aim of the present study was to determine the lactation stage effect on the concentration of essential and selected toxic elements in the sheep’s milk of Dubrovačka ruda. The research was conducted with 23 sheep, average age of 4 years, of 3rd lactation, while the milk samples were taken during the early (60th day), middle (90th day) and late (120th day) lactation stage. The sheep were selected according to uniformed body development, adequate health status, body condition, equable age (4 years), parity (3rd lactation), stage of lactation (±7 days) and litter size (single). Sheep were reared on the extensive Mediterranean pastures, reared indoors afterwards, fed with hay ad libitum and feed mixtures in average 0.5 kg/day. Milk sample was collected during morning milking from each sheep. The digested samples were analyzed with continuous flow hydride generation technique using inductively coupled plasma for Ca, Mg, K, P, Na, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Ni, Mo, Co, Cr, Cd and Pb concentrations. Significant increase of Mg, Na, Se, Mn, Mo and Cd concentrations were found in milk as well as decrease of K concentration during the lactation. Although the concentration of Ca, Cu, Cr and As in milk during the lactation is increased, the differences between the lactation stages were not observed. Concentrations of P, Fe, Ni, Pb and Hg in milk of Dubrovačka ruda did not differ during the lactation. The low concentrations of Cr, Cd, Pb, As, Hg in milk indicate the safety for consumers and preserved environment of Dubrovnik-Neretva County.

The aim of this research was to investigate the slaughter indicators, carcass measures, and meat quality of lambs fattened with spelt. Lambs consumed various feed mixtures (1000 g day−1 lamb−1): I—control group; II—group with 10% dehulled spelt; III—group with 20% dehulled spelt. In the blood, the concentrations of minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron), biochemical parameters (urea, glucose, total proteins, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, ß-hydroxybutyrate, non-esterified fatty acids, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase), and hepatic enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and creatine kinase) were determined. After slaughter, carcass development was measured. Samples of musculus semimembranosus were taken, of which the physical properties were analyzed. By analyzing the production properties of the lambs, we found that the slaughter characteristics of the lamb carcasses and the physical properties of the lamb meat as well as most biochemical indicators and enzymes did not significantly differ. The concentrations of albumin were increased in the groups with 10% and 20% spelt, as was the activity of alkaline phosphatase in the group with 20% spelt. The presented results indicate that spelt is an appropriate ingredient in the diet for weaned lambs.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of sex and slaughter weight of Istrian sheep lambs on pH value and meat colour. The study included 118 lambs of both sexes (64 male and 54 female) which were, prior slaughter, divided into two groups: light (17.76 kg; 28 male and 32 female) and heavy (20.17 kg; 3 male and 22 female). Carcass weight was determined immediately after carcass processing and after 24 hours, while the pH value and meat colour were determined 45 minutes and 24 hours after slaughter. Average hot and cold carcass weights in light lambs were 9.76 and 9.47 kg, and in heavy lambs 11.80 and 11.49 kg, with chilling loss of 2.96 and 2.60% respectively. Istrian sheep lambs carcasses are quite uniform in relation to sex in terms of all the investigated traits, except value of L* and a* colour parameters. For the production of larger lamb meat quantities it might be recommended to increase lambs slaughter weight since the higher slaughter weight has the positive effect on carcass weight and chilling loss while retaining the desirable values of meat quality parameters.

Two groups of weaned piglets (N=46), crossbreed (SLxLW) x Pietrain, the same sex proportions, aged 28 days were involved in the investigation. Piglets from all groups were fed mixture for weaned piglets with 22% of crude protein and 13.84 MJ ME/kg until 21st day of the trial and with 19% of crude protein and 13.74 MJ ME/kg until 35th day of the experiment. The experimental group was added 0.2% nProgut® in the feed mixture, during the whole experimental period. Body weight,haematological and some biochemical parameters were determined on the 7th, 21st and 35th day of the trial. No significant differences were determined in average body mass and biochemical parameters (glucose, creatinine, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, globulin, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein) concerned. Total leukocytes count was higher (P>0.05) in the experimental group (E) 21st and 35th day, and significantly higher (P

The aim of this paper is to present haematological parameters in the Alpine goats during lactation. The study included 15 goats average age of 5 years in the 4th lactation. The blood sampling of goats was conducted on the 30th, 60th, 90th and 120th days of lactation. In the blood of goats, significant decrease in the number of red blood cells was determined, as lactation progressed, and their growth in the latter measure, but with no significant difference. Also, a significant decrease was found in the number of leukocytes as lactation progressed, whereas the 120th day of lactation showed their increase compared to the 90th day. A similar trend was found out for the content of hemoglobin and hematocrit. The mean volume of red blood cells and a significant proportion of monocytes were declining as lactation advance, while the mean concentration of hemoglobin significantly increased, and in the end of the study significantly decreased, compared to the measurement of 90th day. The above mentioned changes in hematological parameters indicate the quality of recovery and adjustment of goats in lactation.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the possibility of modeling the content of fatty acids of milk fat, in order to increase the contents of desirable n-3 unsaturated fatty acids and decrease saturated fatty acid with adequate nutrition of goats. Previous studies showed that the milk of goats on pasture increased content of caproic (C6:0), caprylic (C8:0), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA, rumenic acid, cis-9, trans-11 C18:2), linolenic (C18:3), eicosapentaenoic (C20:5) and docosahexaenoic (C22:6) and total content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). In the same group of goats lower content of palmitoleic (C16:1), linoleic (C18:2) and total n-6 unsaturated fatty acids was found, as well as lower n-6/n-3 ratio compared with group of goats kept indoors and fed with alfalfa hay. In milk of goats fed with diets supplemented with safflower oil, content of CLA significantly increased, while goats fed with diets supplement with linseed oil had significantly higher content of C18:3 in milk, compared with group of goats fed without addition of these oils. Goats fed with addition of protected fish oil had significant transfer of eicosapentaenoic-EPA and docosahexaenoic-DHA fatty acids in milk. Protected fish oil reduced the negative impact of long chain fatty acids on the activity of ruminal microorganisms, consumption and digestibility of fiber, as well as inhibition of synthesis of fatty acids in milk gland. When adding unprotected fish oil, increase of stearic (C18:0) and oleic (C18:1) fatty acids occurred, because of the biohydrogenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in rumen.

The aim of this paper is to determine the concentration of blood metabolic hormones and leptin levels in growing lambs. The research was carried out on Tsigai lambs in two periods (suckling and fattening) during the winter feeding season. Lambs were suckling and ate a food mixture and alfalfa hay ad libitum, while during the fattening period they were fed only with the above mentioned mixture and alfalfa hay ad libitum. Their blood was analyzed on 35th and 75th day of age. Concentrations of minsulin, leptin and thyroid hormones were determined in the blood serum of lambs during both periods. In the blood of fattening lambs significantly higher (P0.05) insulin concentrations (1.05 and 0.54 μU/mL), were determined, compared to suckling lambs. A significant strong positive correlation between serum leptin and insulin (r = 0.85, P0.05). The concentration of thyroid hormones did not significantly differ depending on the period of measurement. These changes indicate that the measurement concentrations of metabolic hormones and leptin in blood are very important in order to understand the changes of metabolism and nutrient supply in growing lambs.

Determination of correct feeding regimes for calves is very important as it directly influences calves’ productive and reproductive traits, as well as duration of adult animal exploitation period. As the liquid feed is the most expensive component, its importance also has an economic aspect in calves rearing. The experiment was carried out on 30 Holstein calves with the aim to determine productive, economic and health effects of feeding calves with whole milk in different periods. Calves were divided into three equal groups (10 calves in each group). Experiment was carried out in the period from calving up to the 60th day of calf ’s age. All groups were given whole milk, however, duration of whole milk feeding differed among groups. Group 1 consumed whole milk from birth up to the 30th day of age, group 2 from birth up to the 20th day of age and group 3 from birth up to the 10th day of age. Afterwards, all groups were fed with milk replacement formula up to the 60th day of age. Suggested technological solutions in calves feeding within this experiment were analyzed through evaluation of basic fattening characteristics, monitoring of diarrhea occurrences and calculating costs per kg of weight gain per each group. Statistical analysis referring to calves body weight, daily gain and liquid feed conversion during the 1st month of experiment proved the best values for group 1, which were statistically highly significant (P

The objective of this study was to establish the impact of crossing the indigenous Cres sheep with Awassi and, respectively, Awassi and East Friesian sheep on the milk yield and quality. For this purpose, through regular monthly milk yield recordings a total of 824individual milk samples from 139 sheep in the second lactation of the same flock were collected, of which: 46 purebred Cres sheep, CS; 33 crosses with 50 % Cres sheep and 50 % Awassi, CA; 60 crosses with 50 % Cres sheep, 25 % Awassi and 25 % East Friesian, CAEF. The obtained results show a significant (P

Black Slavonian pig is an autochtonuous Croatian breed derived by crossing Mangulitza, Berkshire and Polandchina at the end of 19th century. It belongs to the group of endangered breeds. Because of its pronounced resistance, pigmented skin and ability of consuming high amounts of roughage (pasture), it is very convenient for keeping it outdoors, especially for organic production within low-input traditional technology. The investigation was conducted on 10 Black Slavonian pigs and 10 crossbreds between Black Slavonian pig (BS) and Swedish Landrace boars (SL). The pigs were fed until weighed approx. 135 kg. They were slaughtered at 12 months age and Black Slavonian pigs at 18 months. The pigs were kept outdoors in a natural low-lying pasture. The pasture area per animal was 0.05 ha. A traditional low- input technology was applied. Apart from pasture. the pigs consumed food found on stubbles after cereals had been harvested (wheat, barley, corn) and were given small amount of corn (0.15 kg/head/day). Dissection of cooled (+4oC ) right pig carcasses was done by the modified method (Weniger et.al., 1963). The meat quality was investigated on a sample of long back muscle (Muscullus longissimus dorsi – MLD) taken between 13th and 14th rib. Outdoor keeping system and low inputs technology resulted in trunks of very significantly (P0.05) were determined between analyzed pig genotypes. Crossbreds meat, compared to Black Slavonian pig meat, was known for very significantly (P

The offspring’s development especially in the first months after foaling is crucial for further development. If favourable conditions of feeding, keeping and fancying as well as other important conditions are ensured, a homogenous growth and development of the offspring is obtained. Research was conducted on 44 male and 42 female Lipizzaner breed foals in the first six months after foaling. The measuring of the withers height, chest girth and cannon bone circumference were done seven days after foaling and at the age of six months. Measuring data were processed by the statistical program SPSS/PC (Nie et al., 1975). The processed data of the obtained measurings indicate homogeneity for both male and female foals. The male foals had a little higher values than the female in both measurings, but the differences between sexes were highly significant only in the cannon bone circumference. Correlations among obtained values were positive and ranged between low and very high, with correlation coefficients between r= 0.379 and r=0.843 for male and r=0.338 and r=0.723 for female foals. The differences between the obtained values were significant and highly significant and a little more marked in male foals.

A comparison of the Lipizzaner and Holstein breed offspring shows the growth intensity and the development of body measurements at specific age until turning three. 57 Lipizzaner and 25 Holstein breed foals were included by the research. The withers height, the chest girth and the cannon bone circumference were measured seven days after birth, and at the age of 6, 12, 24, 36 months. The collected values show that the most intensive growth was noticed in the first six months of the researched foals, being decreased by age. The withers height increase in the first six months in relation to total increase with the 3 years old Lipizzaner foals was 56.89%; on the other hand the Holstein breed foals showed an increase of 48.82%. The chest girth increased in the first six months by 55.96% with the Lipizzaner foals and 47.28% with the Holstein foals in relation to total triennial growth. The cannon bone circumference with the Lipizzaner foals increased in the first six months by 53.22%, and with the Holstein breed foals by 49.55% in relation to total triennial growth. The above mentioned results show a more intensive growth of the Lipizzaner than of the Holstein breed foals.

The proximate composition and mineral content of light lambs muscle (derived from Istrian and Dalmatian Pramenka breeds) were studied. The M. Longissimus dorsi (MLD) samples of 30 carcasses were analysed and the effects of breed and sex were studied. Although lambs of investigated breeds were similar for slaughter age (2.5 months), Dalmatian Pramenka had significantly higher carcass weights (CW; P

An investigation was conducted to evaluate the bioavailability of different Se sources on fattening lambs. Forty-eight lambs, divided in 3 groups, were ad libitum fed the same diet without Se addition (control, C), or with a supply of 0.03% sodium selenite (IS) or 0.03% of organic selenium (OS; Sel-PlexTM). Growth performances were not affected by treatment. With respect to C, OS significantly increased Se content of blood (P

Investigations of the admission maturity in young Lipizzaner breed yearling mares were conducted on 59 heads from the stud breeding. The investigations referred to age determination of the first fertilization, first foaling and first pregnancy duration. It was determined that young Lipizzaner breed yearling mares were fertilized at the age of 1157 days or 3.17 years. First foaling took place when they aged 1489 days or 4.08 years. First pregnancy duration of the investigated yearling mares was 332.28 days. Results of the conducted investigations indicate earlier first fertilization thereby earlier foaling compared to the investigation values obtained by Rastija et al. (1988, 1989,1996, 1998 and 2000), Baban Mirjana et al. (1998 and 2005), Rimanić et al. (1990) and Telalbašić et al (1987). The first pregnancy lasted for 332.28 days and is mainly in accordance with values from the quoted literature (± 1 – 2 days).

This paper aims to investigate feeding season effect (winter and summer) on reproductive and productive traits of the ewes and suckling lambs. Biological investigations were conducted on 60 Merinolandschaf breed ewes aged 4 years on the average and their lambs (123) in the suckling-ablactation period. In the winter feeding season ewes were fed grain mixture (300 g daily) containing 60% oats, 30% maize and 10% soybean meal as well as hay (ad libitum). The lambs were suckling and they received forage mixture, quality hay and fresh water ad libitum. During the summer feeding season ewes grazed on the pastures. The lambs were suckling and received forage mixture, quality hay ad libitum and pasture green mass in smaller portions. While comparing winter to summer feeding season the ewes had longer gravidity period (150.76 and 150.40 days), more lambs at parturition (1.21 and 1.11) and ablactation (1.10 and 1.07), more twins (12 and 8), higher body weight during gravidity (65.52 kg and 61.86 kg) and increased body weight losses after lambing (7.72 kg and 6.44 kg). As for the body weight losses after lactation (7.94 kg and 7.78 kg) no statistically significant differences were determined between the feeding seasons. Birth weight of lambs was higher by 26.91% (4.15 kg and 3.27 kg) and at 60 days of age it was higher by 11.40% in winter compared to summer feeding season. Faster daily gains of lambs (by 7.21%) was determined during the winter feeding season. However, it was noticed that lambs aged from 40th to 60th and 20th to 60th day obtained higher daily gains (by 6.25% and 1.74%) in summer feeding season.

Investigations of correlation between some body measurings refer to Lipizzaner mares and stallions raised in Đakovo stud. Measures were carried out with 16 stallions and 34 mares by Lydtin stick and cattle tape measure. Achieved correlation values indicate correlation among some body measures. The correlation ranged from slightly negative to highly positive with correlation coefficients from -0.242 to 0.894**. The poorest correlation was determined between forehead width and cannon bone circumference with other body measures whereas positive correlations were found out with other body measures.

Investigation of fattening and slaughter traits was conducted with crossbreeds between Swedish Landrace and Large White (SL x LW), Swedish Landrace and Pietrain (SL x P) as well as between Large White and Pietrain (LW x P). The pigs were fed in the same conditions. They were fed mixture containing 15.36% crude proteins and 13.22 MU/kg. Values of meat pH were determined by pH –meter Mettler Toledo, ability of meat water fixation according to Grau-Hamm (1952) whereas colour and meat marbling by an American NPCC method. No statistically significant differences were found (P>0.05) in terms of daily gain (640 g, 680 g and 6880 g) among the investigated pig genotypes. However, feed conversion differences were determined. The lowest feed consumption per gain kg was characterized by crossbreeds LW x P (2.04 kg) followed by crossbreeds SL x LW (3.22 kg) and crossbreeds SL x P (3.63). The highest meatiness of pork sides (55.15%) and their conformation were known by crossbreeds LW x P followed by (by the meatiness) crossbreeds SL x LW (54.71%) and crossbreeds SL x P (54.08%). Pig meat quality of the investigated genotypes was satisfactory. Crossbreeds with Pietrain (SL x P and LW x P) had slightly lower meat water fixation ability (9.70 cm2 and 9. 80 cm2 ) compared to the crossbreeds LW x SL (8.51cm2 ). Crossbreeds with Pietrain were also characterized by lower meat colour intensity (2.50 and 2.33) and meat marbling (1.38 and 1.50) compared to colour intensity and meat marbling in crossbreeds LW x SL (2.75 and 2.50).

Observation at he foals development, especially in their first months of life, gives a possibility of their successful selection. A correct offspring treatment from the early age and a quality feeding of lactating mares ensures a successful foals breeding, which has a positive influence on their further development. Eighty two six-month-old foals were included into the research. Measuring of the withers height, chest girth and cannon bone circumference were done seven days after foaling and at the age of six months. The measuring data were processed by the statistical program SPSS/PC (Nie et al., 1975). A correlation between physical measures of the seven-day-old and six-month-old foals was summed. Withers height of the six-month-old in relation to the seven-day-old foals increased by 35%, the chest girth by 69% and the cannon bone circumference by 34%. The correlation among attained values was highly significant at the level P=0.01 with correlation coefficients ranging between r=0,363 and r=0,820. The aim of this research was to get an insight of the mutual connection of foals development in the early phase, i.e. in the suckling phase.

This paper aimed at determination of defferences in morphological and reproductive properties of Lippizaner breed blood mares raised in stud farm Đakovo and on family farms. Results of morphological properties investigation indicate better development of investigated body measures of a stud farm mares, except chest width that was more pronounced in family farm mares. Significant differences were determined with withers height (cattle tape), back height and cannon bone circumference whereas differences of withers height (stick), small of the back height, chest depth and chest width were highly significant. As for reproductive properties stud farm raising mares were older at first fertilization and first foaling compared to the family farm mares. Statistically very significant differences in pregnancy duration were determined only at 5-12 pregnancy of stud farm raising mares. First, second, fourth and 5-12 service period lasted longer in stud farm raising mares whereas longer duration of the second and third service period was determined with family farm mares.

Heavy metals and metalloids are very frequent pollutants of surface waters. Due to high toxicity heavy metals are dangerous for living organisms. Contamination chain is always in the following cycle: industry, atmosphere, soil, water, phytoplankton, fish and human beings. The aim of the research is to determine concentration of Pb, Hg, Cd and As in meat of two-year-old fish-pond carp. For lead and mercury determination electrothermal technique to AAS Perkin-Elmer 4100 ZL was applied whereas to determine concentration of Hg and As we applied hydride technique to AAS Perkin-Elmer 2380 with MHS-10 system. In 17 analysed meat samples concentration of Pb ranged from 0,120 to 0,750 mg kg -1 , Hg from 0,024 to 0,308 mgkg-1 , Cd from 0,07 to 0,019mgkg-1 and As from 0,025 to 0,052 mg.kg-1 The research has proved positive correlation at high level of significance between concentration of Pb and body weight (r=0,914; p0,001) whereas correlation between body weight and concentration of Hg (r=0,512, P0,05) was significant. Determined concentrations of heavy metals in fish-pond carp meat are lower than those permitted by the Law on Foodstuffs of the Republic of Croatia.

The academic textbook Stock Breeding in Tropical and Subtropical Conditions contains the following chapters: General part, Cattle and camels, Sheep and goats, Horses, donkeys, mules and hinnies, Index and Appendix with photographs of domestic animals in tropical and subtropical area. The textbook is written for students of the Faculty of Agriculture in Osijek and serves as a reading recommended within the module of the same title. Since 1997, when this module was introduced to curriculum as an elective course, students have showed great interest for gaining knowledge on cattle breeding in specific tropical and subtropical conditions. They prepared numerous seminary papers and final theses on the mentioned topic. Gaining of such knowledge contributes to openness and mobility of students to other European universities, which further promotes Bologna Process principles. The textbook covers all topics that are planned to be elaborated within the module. The handbook content is divided into two parts. The first part overviews numerous problems that producers of cattle in tropical and subtropical conditions are faced with. Some of those problems are also present in Croatia, especially in the warmer part of a year, becoming more obvious because of global climatic changes. Some breeds of cattle typical for tropical and subtropical areas are presented in the second part of the textbook within three chapters (Cattle and camels, Sheep and goats, Horses, donkeys, mules and hinnies). According to historical records, some of these animals, such as buffalos lived in our areas, particularly in Slavonia, while some other breeds live today across Europe and are treated as exotic animals.