Research of the Adaptation Physiology group
The aim of the research performed at the Adaptation Physiology group is to investigate the impact of changing and challenging conditions on health and welfare of animals.
We focus on (1) transition periods, such as birth, weaning or the change from conception to birth or from pregnancy to lactation; (2) the influence of the direct physical and social environment and (3) global challenges that affect animal welfare and health.
Our research is characterised by a multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in energy metabolism, behavioural biology, immunology, reproductive physiology and modelling, and a strong collaboration with other groups within and outside WUR.
The knowledge generated in our group fosters changes in animal production that facilitate positive experiences and resilience in animals. The societal impact of ADP research is exemplified by its contribution to the development of novel housing and incubation systems, adapted management and feeding strategies, and its relevancy for policy making and legislation in the field of animal health and welfare.
Our research themes
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Transition periods
Throughout their lives, animals experience a number of transitions that invoke large physiological and behavioural changes. Examples of such transitions are hatching in chickens, the onset of lactation in dairy cows and weaning in piglets. We study the influence of environmental factors, including early life conditions, as well as individual characteristics, such as genetic background or personality, on how animals cope with these transitions. See below an overview of our current projects in this field.
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Physical and social environment
Features of the both the physical and social environment in which animals are kept crucially affect their health and welfare. We study the impact of environmental conditions on resilience and emotional states of animals. Examples are the influence of novel housing systems and enrichment to facilitate the expression of natural behaviour, positive and negative interactions between group members, maternal behaviour, and social support. See below an overview of our current projects in this field.
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Global challenges, sustainability and resilience
Global challenges, and the measures taken to mitigate these, affect the animals we keep. For example, animals may experience more heat stress due to climate change, and need to adapt to dietary changes driven by environmental issues and feed-food competition. We study the impact of global changes on animal health and welfare and strategies to facilitate adaptation of animals to the challenges they encounter. See below an overview of our current projects in this field.