Animal Scientists

In many farms today, AI and smart devices are helping animal scientists with data but not doing their jobs for them. For example, some farms use wearable trackers and barn sensors so computers can see how much each animal eats and how it grows. These systems can suggest better feeding plans and spot health problems early ^{[1] [2]}.

In research on nutrition, big data and AI models are used to balance complex diets that older methods struggled with ^[1]. Computers also read genetic information to help scientists decide which animals to breed for traits like fast growth or disease resistance ^{[2] [3]}. Even giving advice can be supported by AI: researchers are testing chatbots (like ChatGPT) that turn scientific studies into simple tips for farmers ^[4].

AI adoption in animal science can be fast or slow depending on the situation. On the plus side, studies highlight big benefits: AI can make livestock farming more efficient, improve animal health and welfare, and even help the environment – giving farmers more products for less waste ^[3]. These clear economic gains give a strong reason to start using AI tools.

In fact, some high-tech tools are already on the market. But there are hurdles too. Cutting-edge sensors and data systems can be expensive, so only larger farms or well-funded labs may afford them at first.

Social and practical issues matter as well: one report notes many farmers speak only local dialects, so advice in major languages doesn’t always work ^[4]. Studies also point out that existing AI tools aren’t perfect – for example, a new pig-health monitoring system works but still has flaws ^[1].