Lameness identification system at sheep and goat breeding units in the Region of Western Macedonia
SAGENESS
Implementation methology
In recent decades, livestock production in Greece has been growing rapidly, due to the growing demand for products of animal origin. This demand led to the transition from traditional to intensive farming systems with the aim of intensifying production. Sheep and goats, being one of the most important productive species in the livestock sector, contribute decisively to the economic development of the country.
The consequence of these changes is the emergence of unknown health problems or the worsening of existing ones, mainly due to the incorrect management of intensively farmed animals.
The Innovation
The structure of the system includes both commercial components and datas that occurred from prototype laboratory research. – The system manages to efficiently and successfully combine commercial sensors for recording the kinesiological parameters of animals, an integrated electronic feed system and an innovative information system that uses machine learning algorithms for the early diagnosis of lameness adapted to diagnose lameness at an early stage even if symptoms are not visually apparent.
This capability is due to the system’s ability to highlight differences in the kinesiological signatures of diseased animals and compare them to those of healthy ones.
Agricultural European Innovation Partnership (EIP-AGRI)
The objective of Measure 16 is to strengthen the culture of cooperation between the involved bodies with the aim of:
- strengthening the competitiveness of businesses in primary production (agricultural holdings) in the food sector, mainly local products but also as well as
- the search for new cultivation practices and production practices that contribute to the protection of the environment but also to adaptation to climate change.
Through the partnerships that will be developed, the opportunity will be given to utilize new technologies and innovative processes for:
- the production of safer and healthier food.
- the reduction of water consumption and in general the cost of inputs for economic and environmental benefit
- ensuring the uniqueness of certified agricultural products
