Review article
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.5513/JCEA01/27.3.5095
Hygienic importance of light in dairy farming - a review
Dimo DIMOV
; Department of Ecology and Animal Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Toncho PENEV
; Department of Ecology and Animal Hygiene, Faculty of Agriculture, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Ivaylo MARINOV
; Department of Animal husbandry – Ruminant animals and animal products technologies, Faculty of Agriculture, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
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* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Lighting within dairy housing serves as a key determinant of behavioral patterns, health, and yield. Specifically, the parameters of light intensity and photoperiod duration exert a substantial influence on the overall physical condition and productive lifespan of the cows. A long-day photoperiod (LDPP) is characterized by 16 to 18 hours of continuous light exposure followed by a 6 to 8-hour period of darkness. Conversely, a short-day photoperiod (SDPP) is defined as 8 hours of light followed by a continuous 16-hour dark period. Lactating cows exposed to a long-day photoperiod (16 h light / 8 h dark) via LED lighting exhibited significantly higher milk yields compared to those under natural conditions (14.2 h light / 9.4 h dark at < 10 lux). Specifically, daily yields increased by 8.6 kg, 7.7 kg, and 3.6 kg per cow at illumination levels of 50 lux, 100 lux, and 200 lux, respectively. The recommended illumination level for milking parlors, specifically within the pits and near the udder, is approximately 540 lux. This intensity ensures that any abnormalities in milk color or consistency are easily detectable, allowing for timely intervention and corrective measures.
Keywords
illumination level; dairy cows; milking parlour; welfare
Hrčak ID:
351475
URI
Publication date:
1.10.2026.
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