Applied Research for a More Sustainable Dairy Sector in the Tropics

Tegucigalpa, Honduras – July 1, 2025

Dr. Marielena Moncada, Associate Professor in the Dairy Cattle unit at Zamorano University, continues to lead cutting-edge research focused on sustainability, animal welfare, and production efficiency—key areas for advancing tropical livestock systems.

As part of these efforts, Dr. Moncada represented Zamorano University at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Dairy Science Association (ADSA), recently held in Louisville, Kentucky. This prestigious scientific event is one of the most important gatherings in the global dairy science community, bringing together researchers, industry leaders, and professionals to share insights and promote innovation in dairy production.

At the conference, Dr. Moncada presented two high-impact studies with strong practical relevance for tropical dairy systems:

× Inclusion of Hermetia illucens larvae in Jersey cow diets: effects on milk yield and composition This study explores a sustainable alternative to conventional protein sources in animal feed, with the potential to reduce environmental impact and improve nutritional efficiency.

× Effects of music as a stimulus on milk production and quality in Holstein cows under tropical conditions An innovative approach to animal welfare, this research examines how sensory stimulation can positively influence milk output and quality.

These research efforts reflect Zamorano’s strong commitment to high-impact science and practical solutions for the challenges of tropical livestock farming. They also reinforce the university’s leadership in applied research and its role in advancing sustainable agriculture across Latin America.

Zamorano University Welcomes FONAGRO Delegation to Strengthen Scholarship Program Partnership

As part of its commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships that expand access to higher education, Zamorano University welcomed a delegation from Guatemala's National Fund for the Reactivation and Modernization of Agricultural Activities (FONAGRO). The purpose of the visit was to follow up on the scholarship program jointly promoted by both institutions to benefit Guatemalan students.

SEDESOL and Zamorano University Strengthen Access to Higher Education Through the Scholarship Program

Zamorano Unisversity hosted the signing of scholarship agreements under the Scholarship Program implemented in partnership with the Secretariat of Social Development (SEDESOL), an initiative that continues to expand access to quality higher education for young Hondurans. Today, this partnership benefits more than 180 Honduran students across different academic years and degree programs at Zamorano University, representing an investment of more than L 60 million in scholarships.

Zamorano University and Fundación PROSPERA Explore Collaboration Opportunities to Advance Education and Innovation

Zamorano University welcomed a delegation from Fundación PROSPERA to strengthen institutional relationships and explore opportunities for collaboration in areas of shared interest, particularly education, professional development, internships, and agrifood innovation. The visit provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives and discuss potential joint initiatives aimed at developing talent and fostering innovation with a positive impact in Honduras and the region.