Analysis of the Morphological Characteristics of PM 2.5 and Its Microbiological Composition in a Fattening Pig House

Mingfeng Tang, Yue Jian, Jiaming Zhu, Kun Tian, Qiong Tan () and Run Zhao ()
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Mingfeng Tang: Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
Yue Jian: Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
Jiaming Zhu: Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
Kun Tian: Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
Qiong Tan: Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
Run Zhao: Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 23, 1-12

Abstract: Particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) in pig houses and the microorganisms in PM 2.5 restrict the sustainable development of the pig industry and have a negative influence on environmental sustainability. This study aimed to investigate the morphological characteristics and diel microbial composition of PM 2.5 in fattening pig sheds and explore how changes in the diel microbial composition of PM 2.5 correlate with environmental factors and sources. To this end, environmental data from a fattening pig house were monitored, and PM 2.5 , feed, and faecal particles were examined using electron microscopy. Additionally, the bacterial and fungal assemblages contained in PM 2.5 were analysed using 16S and 18S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively. The results showed that NH 3 , CO 2 , temperature, and relative humidity were significantly higher at night than during the day. PM 2.5 particles from the fattening pig house exhibited different morphologies such as spherical, flocculent, and chain structures. The microbial diversity and bacterial assemblage showed significant variations, which were related to diel environmental factors in the fattening house. In addition, faeces may be the main source of airborne bacteria and feed may be the main source of airborne fungi in fattening houses. These findings provide a scientific basis for exploring the potential risks of the morphological characteristics of PM 2.5 and its microbial composition to human and animal health. Additionally, they contribute to the sustainable development of the pig industry and the protection of the environment.

Keywords: PM 2.5; microorganisms; diel variation; pig houses (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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