1. Cattle: Cattle are one of the most common types of livestock and are primarily raised for their meat (beef or veal) and milk. They can be classified into different breeds, such as Angus, Hereford, Holstein, Jersey, and others, each with its unique characteristics.
2. Pigs: Pigs are another important livestock species, known for their meat (pork). Different breeds of pigs exist, including Duroc, Hampshire, Landrace, and Yorkshire.
3. Poultry: Poultry refers to domesticated birds, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese, that are raised for their meat (chicken, turkey, duck, or goose meat) and eggs.
4. Sheep: Sheep are raised primarily for their wool and meat (lamb or mutton). Different breeds of sheep have varying wool qualities and characteristics, such as Merino, Suffolk, Dorset, and Hampshire.
5. Goats: Goats are versatile livestock animals, valued for their milk, meat (chevon), and fiber (mohair or cashmere). They are often kept for both commercial and personal purposes.
6. Horses: Horses are commonly used for transportation, recreation, and work in agriculture. While not typically considered a primary livestock species, horses play an important role on many farms.
7. Donkeys: Donkeys are smaller equine animals that are often used for work purposes, such as transportation and pulling carts.
8. Rabbits: Rabbits can be raised for their meat (rabbit meat) and fur. They are sometimes considered small-scale livestock.
9. Bees: Bees are important livestock for their role in pollination, which supports the growth of crops and plants essential for agriculture. Beekeeping (apiculture) is a specialized branch of livestock management.
10. Fish: In some cases, fish farming (aquaculture) is also considered a form of livestock production, where fish species like trout, salmon, catfish, and tilapia are raised in controlled environments for human consumption.
The term "livestock" can vary based on regional differences and specific farming practices, but it generally refers to animals that are bred, raised, and managed for commercial or agricultural purposes under human care on a farm.