Caracterização do Confinamento Bovino no Estado do Acre

Abstract

Cattle farming plays a significant role in Brazilian agribusiness and stands out as an important economic activity in the state of Acre. In this context, cattle feedlot systems emerge as an alternative for production intensification, enabling greater efficiency in cattle finishing, improved zootechnical performance, and better use of available land resources. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze and characterize cattle feedlot systems in the state of Acre, considering structural, productive, nutritional, sanitary, and management aspects. The research adopted a qualitative and quantitative approach through a literature review and exploratory field research conducted on five farms located in Acre between August and November 2025. Data related to infrastructure, feeding management, animal performance, animal welfare, health management, and production management were collected. The results showed that cattle feedlot systems in Acre are still in an early stage of consolidation and are mainly used as a complementary strategy to extensive and semi-intensive production systems. The evaluated farms presented structures compatible with national technical recommendations, with an average feedlot period ranging from 90 to 110 days and predominance of the Nellore breed. Average daily gain ranged from 1.6 to 2.0 kg per animal, feed conversion averaged 1:1.9, and carcass yield ranged from 54% to 55%. However, limitations were identified regarding the lack of systematic records, limited adoption of management technologies, dependence on external technical assistance, and the absence of formalized technical protocols. It is concluded that cattle feedlot systems have the potential to contribute to the sustainable intensification of cattle farming in Acre by increasing productivity, reducing the need for the expansion of new agricultural areas, promoting the recovery of degraded lands, and strengthening the regional production chain. Nevertheless, the consolidation of this production system depends on advances in technical management, monitoring of productive indicators, and the adoption of technologies aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness in Acre's cattle sector.