The Challenge of Global Warming in Water Buffalo Farming: Physiological and Behavioral Aspects and Strategies to Face Heat Stress

Abstract

Global warming (GW) is a current challenge for livestock systems, including water buffalo farms. Buffaloes have anatomical traits such as thick skin and a high density of capillaries and arterioles to improve sensitive heat losses. However, they are exposed to high temperatures and tropical and humid climates that make them susceptible to heat stress. The present review aims to analyze the adverse effects that GW has on the productive performance and health of water buffaloes. The physiological, morphological, and behavioral characteristics of the species will be discussed to understand the impact of GW on buffaloes’ thermoregulation. Additionally, the effectiveness of implementing strategies such as a physical enrichment of the facilities or a thermal assessment through infrared thermography will be discussed.