Ecological destruction of anthropogenic origin as a factor of biological depletion
Open Access
- 22 September 2026
- journal article
- Published by Stepan Gzhytskyi National University of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnologies Lviv in Ukrainian Journal of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences
- Vol. 9 (4) , 73-78
Abstract
The article presents the results of a medical and philosophical analysis of contemporary issues in veterinary ecology. The study examines human interaction with domestic and farm animals through the prism of preventive and therapeutic activities. The scientific novelty of the work lies in introducing the concept of “ecological destruction of anthropogenic origin” into scientific discourse and substantiating it as an independent category for the analysis of pathological conditions in animals. The analysis indicates that a considerable range of veterinary pathologies at the morphofunctional and genetic levels may be associated with civilization-related and other anthropogenic factors. The study shows that artificially induced productivity traits may conflict with the natural biological limits of adaptation. In particular, examples of systemic depletion of biological resources in highly productive livestock and poultry are considered, including hypocalcemia in dairy cows and osteoporosis in laying hens. It is emphasized that the intensification of production and the pursuit of maximum productivity may act as additional stressors, contributing to the premature depletion of biological resources. Special attention is paid to destructive changes associated with the breeding of companion animals, in which selection based primarily on aesthetic criteria may lead to physiological abnormalities. Brachycephaly in dogs is considered as an example of a selectively fixed morphological trait associated with shortening of the respiratory tract and difficulties in natural parturition due to a mismatch between fetal size and the anatomical characteristics of the birth canal. Genetically determined chondrodystrophy in dachshunds is highlighted as an example of a selection-related musculoskeletal disorder. The need for a differentiated approach to the understanding of animal health is substantiated by considering the health of productive animals as a functional state that ensures long-term maintenance of productivity while preserving adequate physiological adaptation. The main categories of anthropogenic ecological destruction are identified as selection-related, technological, nutritional, and environmental. The use of genetic resources from wild forms, particularly argali and zebu, to improve the biological stability and adaptability of domesticated breeds is also analyzed. The practical significance of the study lies in providing a conceptual basis for improving veterinary diagnostic and preventive approaches through systematic consideration of anthropogenic and technological factors that may contribute to the biological depletion of animals. The findings also provide a methodological basis for optimizing breeding strategies aimed at achieving a more balanced relationship between productivity and animal health.Keywords
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