A comparative analysis among tractors and animal traction in agriculture: efficiency and costs
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Abstract
Animal traction is a vital technology worldwide for agricultural work and the transport of goods and people, especially in developing countries, but in Cuba, knowledge of its relevance and potential remains insufficient. To analyze the most important aspects of using working animals and disseminate their advantages, a study was conducted. This study involved a comprehensive literature review to analyze the global population of working animals, the energy capabilities of each species, and a comparison between individual animals, teams of oxen, and tractors. The results showed that approximately 246 million bovines and 116 million equines are used for work worldwide, while Cuba has 365,000 oxen and 300,000 horses. A comparative cost analysis determined that animals have lower operating costs on farms smaller than 10-15 hectares compared to tractors. The possibilities and challenges of using animals in agriculture are discussed.
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