RumenPredict
The RumenPredict project, funded via ERA-NET, brings together key members of the RMG network to generate the necessary data to link rumen microbiome information to host genetics and phenotype and develop feed based mitigation strategies.
This will enhance innovative capacity and allow integration of new knowledge with that previously generated to devise geographic and animal-specific solutions to reduce the environmental impact of livestock ruminants.
Ruminant production is responsible for ~ 9% of anthropogenic CO₂ emission and 37% of CH₄ emissions. Release of methane results in 6–12% less energy being available to the animal. Ruminants also contribute towards NO₂ within the environment, a persistent gas in the atmosphere which has 296 times more warming potential than CO₂. RumenPredict will provide a platform for predicting how host genetics, feed additives or microbiome may affect emission phenotypes and develop genetic/diet/prediction technologies further for implementation to improve nitrogen use efficiency whilst decreasing environmental impact of ruminants.
Professor Huws’ key research interests lie in understanding the role that rumen microbes play in ruminant food security. Her research is strategically focused on understanding the functionality of rumen microbes—with the aim of addressing food security and human health—coupled with industrial biotechnology related to the rumen microbiome. She coordinates the global ‘Rumen Microbial Genomics’ network, is an editor for the journals Microbiome and Frontiers in Microbiology, as well as a ruminant nutrition section editor for the journal Animal. Professor Huws is currently a recipient a Brazil Special Visiting Researcher Award.
More information is available on the project website: https://www.eragas.eu/en/eragas/research-projects/rumenpredict.htm