Research and application progress of electronic ear tags as infrastructure for precision livestock industry: a review

Abstract

With the rapid development of modern livestock farming, animal electronic ear tags (AEET), as animal identification and tracking tools based on radio frequency identification technology, are playing an increasingly important role in precision livestock management. This review summarizes the latest technological advancements in AEET, including material innovations, design improvements, and manufacturing process enhancements, and explores their wide-ranging applications in production management, food traceability, breeding optimization, behavior recognition, and disease monitoring. Additionally, the article highlights the main challenges faced by AEET, such as durability in harsh environments, data security, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, it looks ahead to future development trends, including the integration of Internet of Things and blockchain technologies to further enhance the precision and sustainability of livestock farming. By reviewing the current status and future directions of AEET, this review provides references for researchers and practitioners aiming to improve the efficiency and sustainability of modern livestock industry.

Keywords

Electronic ear tags / precision livestock industry / production management / food traceability / behavior recognition / disease monitoring

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