Scope
Animal Production Science is an international, interdisciplinary journal with a focus on improving livestock and food production, and on the social and economic issues that influence livestock production systems. Papers span traditional animal science to genomics and precision agriculture and examine the societal role of animal agriculture in the provision of a healthy human diet and a sustainable environment. The journal is predominantly concerned with domesticated livestock (beef cattle, dairy cows, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry); however, contributions on horses, deer, and fish will be considered where relevant.
Animal Production Science publishes the highest quality original contributions and critical reviews dealing with, but not limited to:
- Genomics, genetics and animal breeding
- Physiology, endocrinology and reproduction
- Animal nutrition and metabolism
- Feed quality, nutritional value and toxicology
- Livestock farming systems, sustainability and natural resource management
- Rural development and livestock systems in transition
- Meat science, product quality and consumer acceptability
- Behaviour, health and welfare
- Bio-pharmaceuticals derived from animals
- Technology and education
Research articles should report research that addresses a fundamental question in the animal sciences and enhances livestock production. Descriptive and methodological studies will be assessed according to this criterion. Papers detailing robust science but with negative outcomes will be considered. In general, articles dealing with veterinary practice or the application of food technology are not considered.
Molecular genetics: the journal rarely accepts manuscripts based on simple correlation analyses that target polymorphisms in a specific 'candidate' gene and an aspect of animal production. Most animal production traits are polygenic, and genome-wide approaches are far more appropriate and effective than single-gene analysis. The polygenic nature of most animal production traits has been demonstrated by numerous genome-wide association studies (GWAS). For a deeper analysis of this perspective, go to: Montgomery (2020). Commentary: lessons from molecular genetic studies on reporting false-positive results. Reproduction, Fertility and Development 32, 1298-1300. Doi: 10.1071/RD20281. In addition, correlation alone is not sufficient to advance our understanding of the processes because it does not strongly link cause and effect; at best, it is a hypothesis and needs to be supported by functional studies. Results from most candidate gene studies cannot be replicated, often because there is insufficient experimental power or appropriate statistical analysis, leading to false-positive results. There is one exception: for Mendelian traits, single gene analyses are expected (i.e., myostatin and the double muscling phenotype).
Thematic Discussions
Animal Production Science also supplements its broad coverage by publishing Special Issues and Research Fronts.
