The book reflects research conducted by observing natural behaviour, by investigating form-function relationships, physiology, metabolism and genetic make-up, and by offering choices of feed and environment.
Feed intake is the central issue in animal husbandry, being the key factor in determining health, welfare, environmental impact and productivity. With the focus on these issues, this book has been developed from the 5th Zodiac Symposium held in Wageningen in April 1998. The book reflects research conducted by observing natural behaviour, by investigating form-function relationships, physiology, metabolism and genetic make-up, and by offering choices of feed and environment. Information from studies on humans, wildlife and fish, as well as farm animals, is presented. It is divided into three parts:Natural Feeding, Feeding Modes, Preferences and BehaviourPhysiological Regulation of Feed Intake: Genetic, Metabolic, Hormonal and Neural RegulationsEnvironmental Factors and Feed Intake: Feeding Behaviour, Feed Choice and Feeding HabitsContributors include leading research workers from several European countries and Africa.