Solutions
RUMINATE will develop four interconnected solutions that translate scientific knowledge into practical applications for climate-resilient livestock farming. Nutritional protocols, genetic information from targeted sequencing panels and predictive models will come together in a practical, user-friendly Decision Support Tool (DST), supporting farmers in reducing methane emissions in cattle and improving heat-stress resilience in sheep.
Nutritional Protocols
Nutritional Protocols
Clear, evidence-based feeding protocols designed to reduce methane emissions in cattle and strengthen heat-stress resilience in sheep. The protocols will be species- and systems-specific, providing practical guidance that can be integrated into farm management and incorporated into the Decision Support Tool (DST).
Sequencing Panels
Sequencing Panels
Two targeted genetic marker panels supporting the screening and selection of animals with desirable climate-related traits: one for cattle focused on methane emissions and one for sheep focused on heat-stress resilience. The panels will also incorporate markers associated with key performance and health traits. The genetic information they provide will inform the predictive models and the DST.
Predictive Models
Predictive Models
Two predictive models combining genomic, nutritional, production, emissions, welfare, and economic/environmental trade-off information to assess how animals are expected to perform under different conditions and management interventions. The models will help translate complex genotype × environment interactions into information that can support more informed livestock management and breeding decisions and will be integrated into the DST.
Decision Support Tool (DST)
Decision Support Tool (DST)
The final integrated tool, bringing together RUMINATE’s nutritional protocols, genetic information from the sequencing panels, and predictive models in a practical, user-friendly digital application. The DST will support farmers in selecting feeding and management strategies adapted to animal genetics and environmental conditions, helping reduce methane emissions and improve resilience to heat stress.