Potential of tree species for designing silvopastoral technologies in animal husbandry areas

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the potential of tree species for the development of silvopastoral technologies in animal husbandry areas in the Sibanicú municipality, Camagüey, Cuba.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted between February and March, 2024, at the La Quintina farm.
An inventory of trees present for silvopastoral purposes was carried out, and air temperature, soil moisture, and the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) for livestock were determined.
Results: Nineteen trees belonging to nine species and nine botanical families were observed, with Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr being the species that casts the most shade (between 300 and 568 m2). The air temperature ranged between 31,0 and 35,0 °C, always higher in areas under full sun (35 °C) than in shaded areas (31,0 °C). Both under the shade of the trees and in full sun, the THI was above 78.
Conclusions: The strategic integration of trees in livestock systems provides multiple benefits by reducing heat stress in cattle, improving soil moisture retention, and enhancing drought resilience.