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The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of groundnut haulm and maize bran mixture supplementations on feed intake, digestibility, body weight gain and carcass characteristics of local sheep fed hay basal diet at Salga sheep farm in Assosa district, Western Ethiopia. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatments consisting of six blocks with four animals per block based on their initial body weight of 20.12 ± 0.05 kg (mean ± SD). Treatments comprised of feeding natural pasture hay ad libitum T1 = 0; T2 = 100% maize bran (MB); T3 = 50% MB and 50% Groundnut haulm (GNH), and T4 = 100% GNH. The amount of supplements offered was 300 g/day/animal on DM basis. The daily feed intake, daily body weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, dry matter and nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics parameters were measured during the experimental period. The study result indicates that the crude protein (CP) contents were 7.12% and 11.6%, and the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) contents were 67.9% and 57.5% for natural grass hay and groundnut haulm, respectively. The total DM intake was higher (P

Background: Novel feeding strategies should be developed to produce high-quality meat in current goat production systems. Objective: To evaluate the effects of castration and the association of spineless cactus with sugarcane bagasse or elephant grass hay on nutrient intake, digestibility, performance, feeding behavior and carcass traits of feedlot kids. Methods: A total of 24 male kids (12 castrated and 12 intact), with an average initial weight of 18.5 ± 3.8 kg were allotted to a completely randomized 2 x 2 factorial design (sugar cane bagasse or elephant grass hay; intact or castrated), and confined for 70 days. Results: Nutrient intake and animal performance were similar between treatments. Sugarcane bagasse increased, when compared to elephant grass hay, the digestibility of dry matter (66.12 vs 62.88; p=0.005), crude protein (74.26 vs 70.95; p=0.029) and non-fibrous carbohydrates (91.94 vs 83.07; p

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of feeding biological treated rice straw with Pleurotusostreatus or treated corn stalks with Trichodermareesei at different levels on carcass characteristics of rabbits. Dried treated rice straw (RS) or corn stalks (CS) were used to formulate the experimental pelleted diet by substituting of berseem hay with treated rice straw with medium only (without Pleurotusostreatus) and biological treated rice straw with Pleurotusostreatus (BTRS) or treated corn stalks with medium only (without Trichodermareesei) and biological treated corn stalks with Trichodermareesei (BTCS) at different levels. All diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric, and to meet nutrients requirements for growing rabbits. A number of 78 weaned New-Zealand white rabbits about 6 weeks of age and weighed 500 g in average were randomly divided into 13 groups (R1 to R13) 6 rabbits in each. The experimental groups were fed as following the first group fed control diet (0% rice straw or corn stalks) and other 12 groups were fed on diets containing rice straw either with or without fungi or corn stalks either with or without fungi at 33, 66 and 100% as replacing of berseem hay (11, 22 and 33% of total diet). At the end of the experimental period (91 days), three rabbits from each group were slaughtered to evaluate carcass characteristics. The results showed that the values were significantly (P

This study examined the effects of changes in rumen fermentation during the weaning transition on abundance of transporters involved in volatile fatty acid (VFA) absorption or intracellular pH homeostasis. Holstein bull calves (n = 27) were assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups in a randomized, complete block design: 2 preweaning groups [animals fed milk only (PRE-M) or milk, calf starter, and hay (PRE-S)] and 1 postweaning group (animals fed milk, starter, and hay with a 2-wk weaning transition; POST-S). Calves were euthanized at 42 d of age (PRE-M and PRE-S) or at 63 d of age (POST-S), and rumen epithelium and rumen fluid samples were collected. Rumen fluid was analyzed for VFA concentration, and rumen epithelium was analyzed for the abundance of VFA transporter monocarboxylate transporter isoform 1 (MCT1) and the intracellular pH regulators sodium bicarbonate co-transporter 1 (NBC1) and sodium-proton exchanger 3 (NHE3) protein. Preweaning, total VFA concentrations tended to increase and NBC1 abundance increased with starter intake. Between pre- and postweaning, total VFA concentrations increased but NHE3 protein abundance decreased. In calves, rumen epithelial development during the weaning transition appears to show more pronounced changes in intracellular pH homeostasis than in VFA transport capacity.

This bibliography review analyzes the effects of different feeding regimes of cows the nutritional and sanogenic quality of milk, with a particular emphasis on milk content in functional fatty acids and non-enzymatic lipophilic antioxidants. Thus, using suitable feeding regimes of cows, fatty acid (FA) profile of milk fats can be improved by increasing the concentration in functional FA (C18:1 trans-11, vaccenic acid; C18:3 n-3, acid linolenic and C18:2 cis-9 trans-11, isomer of conjugated linoleic acid), considered as beneficial for consumer’s health. These suitable feeding regimes of cows aim using green fodder (pastures), preserving the fodder by drying or silage, supplementing the food with fats rich FA polyunsaturated (PUFA) and ensuring an optimal ratio between volume and ration concentrates. Milk yielded from grazing cows shows a considerably higher concentration of functional FA and lipophilic antioxidants (tocopherols, retinol and carotenes) and a lower content of saturated FA compared to that yielded from cows fed in shelter with TMR (total mixed ration). Also, hay-based feed rations, mainly those containing small amounts of concentrates or those supplemented with vegetable fats, ensure a milk yield with a fatty acid profile more favorable for human health and a better oxidative stability of compared to those with feed-based rations on silage or those high in concentrates.

The present study evaluated the effects of forage sources on dry matter (DM) intake, digestibility, and fermentation parameters in camels vs. sheep. The study was arranged as a 2 × 3 factorial experiment in a completely randomized design by using two animal species (three ruminally cannulated female camels and three male sheep) and three forage sources. The forages were (1) alfalfa hay; 164 and 479 g/kg DM for crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF), respectively, (2) berseem hay; 121 and 513 g/kg DM for CP and NDF, respectively, and (3) wheat straw (27.5 and 723 g/kg DM for CP and NDF, respectively). Higher DM intake [g/kg body weight (BW)] was noted in sheep compared to camel when alfalfa hay (p

Context The efficiency of the cow–calf sector could be enhanced by matching cow biological type to the production environment; however, methods to estimate the biological efficiency of grazing beef cows are not available. Aims This study utilised a mathematical nutrition model for ranking beef cows for estimated biological efficiency, determining energetic efficiency and evaluate relationships with other production traits. Methods Cow live weight, calf birth and weaning weight, calf birth and weaning date, and forage nutritive value of hay and pasture were collected for 69 Brangus crossbred beef cows over a complete production cycle. The Cattle Value Discovery System for Beef Cow (CVDSbc) model was used to compute metabolisable energy required (MER) for the cow, and energy efficiency index (EEI) was computed as the ratio of MER to calf weaning weight. Pearson correlation coefficients were computed among performance traits. During late lactation and gestation, low (n = 8) and high (n = 8) EEI cows were individually fed ad libitum for 44 and 32 days, respectively, then fed 0.5× the estimated metabolisable energy required for maintenance for 7 days (gestation experiment only). Apparent nutrient digestibility, heat production, and milk yield were measured. Key results EEI was strongly negatively correlated (P 0.75) between low and high EEI cows even though low EEI cows weighed less (P

Little is known about the effects of Fusarium mycotoxins on the fermentation potential of rumen fluid sampled from lactating dairy cows ingesting diets contaminated at regular levels of these mycotoxins (i.e., contamination levels that can normally be found on dairy farms). In the current experiment, rumen donor animals received diets contaminated with both deoxynivalenol (DON) and fumonisins (FB) with or without a mycotoxin-deactivating product. The rumen fluid donor animals were 12 lactating Holstein dairy cows that received one of 3 experimental diets in agreement with a 3 × 3 Latin square design (3 periods and 3 treatments). The 3 diets were as follows: (1) a TMR contaminated with a regular level of Fusarium mycotoxins [340.5 ± 161.0 µg of DON/kg of dry matter (DM) and 127.9 ± 43.9 µg of FB/kg of DM; control diet, CTR], (2) a TMR contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins at levels higher than CTR but below US and European Union guidelines (733.0 ± 213.6 µg of DON/kg of DM and 994.4 ± 323.2 µg of FB/kg of DM; MTX), and (3) the MTX diet (897.3 ± 230.4 µg of DON/kg of DM and 1,247.1 ± 370.2 µg of FB/kg of DM) supplemented with a mycotoxin-deactivator product (Mycofix, Biomin Holding GmbH; 35 g/animal per day; MDP). Each experimental period lasted 21 d, and rumen fluid was individually sampled from all cows on the last day of each intoxication period. Then, the 4 rumen fluids sampled from cows receiving the same experimental diets were pooled into a single rumen inoculum, which was used in the in vitro gas production test. For the gas production test, 3 different rumen inocula (i.e., CTR, MTX, and MDP) were buffered (buffer:rumen ratio of 2:1, vol/vol) and then used in 3 fermentation runs to evaluate gas production dynamics in the presence of 8 feeds (i.e., corn meal, barley meal, corn silage, sorghum silage, alfalfa hay, ryegrass hay, dry brewers barley grains, and dried distillers grains with solubles). The kinetic parameters of gas production and volatile fatty acid concentrations were evaluated at the end of fermentation. The block run (i.e., fermentation day) effect influenced all of the fermentative and kinetic parameters. Greater final volumes or rates of gas production over time were observed for MDP compared with MTX rumen inocula (i.e., 172.6 vs. 147.8 mL/g of organic matter or 0.078 vs. 0.063 h−1, respectively). However, the increase in rate of gas production was not consistent among tested feeds, meaning that a treatment by feed interaction was observed. Volatile fatty acid concentrations were not different among treatments, except for a slight increase of acetic acid in CTR compared with MTX (i.e., 71.0 vs. 67.9 mmol/L). This study showed that Fusarium-produced mycotoxins negatively affected the kinetics of gas production in feeds, whereas the presence of the mycotoxin-deactivator product in the diets of donor animals resulted in an increase in rumen fermentation potential, thus safeguarding the rumen environment.

Restoration of species‐rich grasslands is a key issue of conservation. The transfer of seed‐containing local plant material is a proven technique to restore species‐rich grassland, since it potentially allows to establish genetically variable and locally adapted populations. In our study, we tested how the transfer of local plant material affected the species diversity and composition of restored grasslands and the genetic variation of the typical grassland plant species Knautia arvensis and Plantago lanceolata. For our study, we selected fifteen study sites in southeastern Germany. We analyzed species diversity and composition and used molecular markers to investigate genetic variation within and among populations of the study species from grasslands that served as source sites for restoration and grasslands, which were restored by transfer of green hay and threshed local plant material. The results revealed no significant differences in species diversity and composition between grasslands at source and restoration sites. Levels of genetic variation within populations of the study species Knautia arvensis and Plantago lanceolata were comparable at source and restoration sites and genetic variation among populations at source and their corresponding restoration sites were only marginal different. Our study suggests that the transfer of local plant material is a restoration approach highly suited to preserve the composition of species‐rich grasslands and the natural genetic pattern of typical grassland plant species., In our study, we analyzed the impact of restoration on the genetic variation of typical grassland plant species. Our results indicate that the transfer of local seed‐containing plant material is a technique highly suitable to create genetically variable and locally adapted plant populations.

The objective of this research was to assess the effects of including oil-rich feedstuffs in diets for lactating goats on the fatty acid (FA) profile of their milk. Thirty-six Murciano-Granadina goats were randomly assigned to three treatment groups, namely a control diet (CTRL), a diet based on whole rapeseed (RS), and a diet based on pumpkin seed cake (PSC). The diets were composed of 1 kg hay (70 % Italian ryegrass, 30% alfalfa) and 1.24 kg concentrate, and were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous. Milk yield and its contents of protein, fat and lactose did not differ significantly among the groups. However, including oil-rich feeds in the diet altered the fatty acid profile of the milk significantly, decreasing its saturated fatty acid (SFA) content and increasing its content of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). Effects on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and the n-6 to n-3 ratio depended on the source of dietary lipids. The PSC augmented diet increased the relative amount of PUFAs and fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) in milk (+25 %) significantly In comparison with CTRL, whereas the RS diet produced a limited and statistically insignificant increase (+7.5%). The concentration of CLA was higher in milk from does fed the PSC diet, whereas the n-6 to n-3 ratio was lower in milk from does fed RS. These preliminary results form the basis for developing premium dairy products that are enriched in fatty acids that are more favourable for human health.

This study aimed to investigate cyclopropane fatty acids (CPFAs) as quality biomarkers of forage feedings in cheese fat obtained from ewe’s milk, based on two different dietary treatments (hay and silage). The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis detected CPFAs in most cheese samples, both from hay and silage-based diets. CPFA levels in cheese fat from hay feeding were positively correlated to the total trans-monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), whereas they were negatively correlated to cis-MUFAs, odd- and branched-chain fatty acids (i.e., C13:0 anteiso, C16:0 iso, and C17:1), and C22:5n-3, which are mainly associated with a low starch intake and grass pasture. Overall, the presence of CPFAs in ovine cheese fat suggests the use of silage, but it can also be an indicator of poor-quality hay forages. This approach confirmed the reliability of CPFAs as biomarkers of forage quality, especially in relation to the use of conserved forages and good livestock practices., This research was supported by the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (Project AGL2016-75159-C2-2-R; Madrid, Spain), the Spanish National Research Council (Grant number 20217AT002), and the Instituto Nacional de Investigacíon y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (Project TA2014-00069-CO2-02).

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of including a molasses-based liquid feed on sorting of a mixed diet of starter and hay, and to compare the nutrient composition of the ration consumed by calves offered hay and starter according to different feed presentations. Holstein bull and heifer calves were exposed for the first 8 wk of life to 1 of 3 feed presentation treatments: (1) starter and hay provided in separate buckets (n = 15), (2) a mixed diet of 80% starter and 20% hay (n = 16), or (3) a mixed diet containing the same ratio of starter and hay, with inclusion of 10% (as-is basis) liquid molasses (n = 14). Calves received 8 L/d of pasteurized waste milk and were weaned over a 10-d period beginning at 42 d of age. Intake was recorded daily and calves were weighed weekly. Fresh and refused feed were sampled on 3 consecutive days during wk 4 and 6 of the preweaning period and wk 8 immediately postweaning. Sorting was assessed through nutrient analysis of the feed samples, with additional sorting indices reflective of sorting for starter and hay components calculated based on weighted averages of individual nutrient intakes as a percent of predicated intakes. Dry matter intake and average daily gain did not differ among treatments. During the preweaning period, addition of molasses to the mixed diet did not affect the extent of feed sorting, with calves provided both mixed diets sorting, on average, in favor of starter and against hay. Postweaning, addition of molasses tended to reduce the extent of feed sorting, although calves on both treatments persisted in sorting for starter and against hay. Across treatments, there was an association between the pre- and postweaning extent of feed sorting, suggesting a degree of individual consistency in sorting behavior. Calves provided starter and hay separately consumed a diet consisting of approximately 18 to 19% hay preweaning and 14% hay postweaning, and generally had greater fiber intake and lower intake of nonfiber carbohydrates compared with calves provided a mixed diet. These results indicate that addition of molasses slightly reduced sorting during the postweaning period only. On average, calves provided both mixed diets sorted their feed in favor of starter and against hay, which mirrored dietary selection exhibited by calves offered hay and starter separately.

The aim of this investigation was to determine appropriate perennial grasses and their most suitable mixture ratios, which can be grown with alfalfa in binary mixtures. The research was conducted during 2009-2011 in Isparta (37.50 °N, 30.32 °E), located in the Western Mediterranean climate conditions. In the study, alfalfa was planted as a binary mixture with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis Huds.), and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.) in a randomized block design with three replications. Sowing ratios of alfalfa in the mixtures varied 20, 30, and 40%, and grass species ratios were 80, 70, and 60%. In the study, significant differences were found among the applications regarding hay yield, crude protein content, crude protein yield, NDF, ADF, land equivalent ratio (LER), and grass ratio in the hay (GR). The highest hay yield was obtained from alfalfa + orchardgrass and alfalfa + smooth bromegrass binary mixtures (25.98 and 25.78 t ha-1, respectively). Alfalfa + perennial ryegrass and alfalfa + meadow fescue mixtures gave the highest crude protein contents as 14.93 and 14.80%, respectively. The highest LER values were observed on perennial ryegrass and smooth bromegrass binary mixtures, and the highest grass ratios were determined in orchardgrass and smooth bromegrass mixtures made with alfalfa. Increasing the alfalfa sowing ratio in the mixtures positively affected all quality characteristics such as crude protein, NDF, and ADF. It was concluded that orchardgrass and smooth bromegrass binary mixtures with alfalfa produced high yield and quality hay and that the mixture should contain 40% alfalfa and 60% grass.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the addition of Safflower, Sunflower and Corn vegetable oils to dairy cattle rations on in vitro gas and methane production, true dry matter (TDMD), organic matter (TOMD) and NDF (TNDFD) digestibilities values ​​and microbial protein (MP) production. Dairy cattle TMR ration consisting of milk feed, corn silage, alfalfa hay and meadow hay was prepared as the control group, and the experimental groups were prepared with the addition of safflower, sunflower and corn vegetable oils at the level of 3% in each of the control groups, respectively. Vegetable oils added to the diet significantly affected in vitro gas production and organic matter digestibility (OMD). Methane (ml) production values ​​in the experimental groups varied between 10.00 and 10.71 ml. The Metabolic energy (ME) and OMD values ​​of the control and experimental groups varied between 7.00 and 7.29 MJ/kg DM and between 53.78 and 51.20. TDMD values ​​of the rations were determined between 48.49 and 52.63%. While the control group had the highest TDMD value, the ration containing safflower oil had the lowest TDMD value. TNDFS values ​​of the rations varied between 67.26 and 68.80%. As a result; Since the vegetable oils added to the ration increase the net energy lactation (NEL) content of the ration, it can be said that it used to meet the energy needs of high milk yielding cattle in the lactation period, provided that they do not exceed the upper limits specified in the literature.

This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of substituting barley grain with discarded dates on intake and digestibility, nitrogen (N) utilization and fermentation characteristics of sheep fed Atriplex hay-based diets. Four Barki sheep (50.9 ± 2.93 kg of body weight (BW)) fitted with rumen cannula were used in a 4 × 4 Latin Square design with 23-day periods. Four isonitrogenous (~140 g crude protein (CP)/kg of dry matter (DM)) experimental diets were formulated with Atriplex hay, and dietary sugar content was increased by replacing barley grain with discarded dates (the proportions of discarded dates in the diet were 0, 93, 187 and 280 g/kg DM). Nutrient intakes were not influenced by diet. Organic matter, CP and neutral detergent fibre digestibility increased (p

Purpose This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive review with meta-analysis to determine the effects of different forms of calf starters (ground, pelleted, textured, ground diets blended with hay, and textured diets blended with hay) on starter feed intake and growth rate of dairy calves during preweaning and postweaning periods. Sources The main sources for information and data included in this review were peer-reviewed literature from 1938 to 2021. The search engines Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar were used. Findings of 37 full-text articles and 60 studies were Bayesian meta-analyzed for pooled estimates. Synthesis Newborn calves are not functional ruminants. Thus, this function must be developed, and that largely occurs due to the chemical composition of their diet and its fermentation in their rumens. There is ongoing discussion regarding what kinds of processing or form of calf starters should be used to improve growth performance of dairy calves. Conclusions and Applications This review article attempted to review all the literature related to different forms of starter feed (i.e., ground, pelleted, textured). It appears that considerable changes have occurred between 1938 and 2020 in the calf starter manufacturing process. Results of this meta-analysis showed that greater starter intake occurred when hay was supplemented to the finely ground starter (125 g/d) or when calves received textured starters compared with pelleted diets (107 g/d). Because variation is great in calf studies, there was not sufficient evidence for a recommended starter physical form for improving the growth rates of dairy calves. Processing of calf starter diets requires further investigation according to the guidelines for measuring and reporting calf and heifer experimental data.

The effects of sowing time and companion crop on hay yield, weed rate and some hay quality parameters of smooth bromegrass were determined in 2014 and 2015. Smooth bromegrass was sown in spring and summer period with or without wheat as a companion crop. The study was established according to the experimental design of randomized complete blocks in irrigated conditions with three replications. Sowings mixed with companion crop in spring produced higher dry matter yield in the first year and in the second year. Mixed sowing with companion crop decreased the rate of weeds in the first year from 76.7% to 7.8%. Sowing time was not effective on hay quality, but the use of companion crop decreased the crude protein content and increased ADF and NDF ratios in the establishment year.

Objective: This work was carried out to evaluate the effect of pasture (PA) feeding on buffalo meat quality compared with buffaloes reared intensively with the use of corn silage as a forage base or alternatively with polyphite meadow hay (PH).Methods: Thirty Mediterranean bull buffaloes were distributed into three experimental diet groups: maize silage (MS), PH, and PA. The animals were slaughtered at a live weight of 250 kg, and carcass and meat quality were evaluated. After 7 days of ageing, physical and chemical parameters of longissimus thoracis muscle were determined. To evaluate lipid oxidation the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was tested at 7 and 14 days, and also the fatty acid profile was recorded by gas chromatography.Results: The PA group, even if it showed carcass parameters lower than those of the silage maize group, reported a good meat percentage (60.59% vs 58.46%, respectively) and lower fat percentage (p

It has been reported that root characteristics and canopy structure in an agroforestry system directly change the availability of underground and aboveground resources and climatic conditions and seriously affect crop growth and yield (Dufour et al. in J Agron Crop Sci 199: 217–227, 2013; Bouttier et al. in Agroforest Syst 88: 693–706, 2016; Farooq et al. in Appl Ecol Env Res 17: 3553-3566, 2019). An experiment was conducted in northwest China to explore the distribution and characteristics of root systems for alfalfa grown in a poplar/alfalfa silvopastoral system. Field sampling was conducted every 15 days in a 3-yr-old alfalfa + 7-yr-old poplar silvopastoral system, a 3-yr-old sole-alfalfa system, and a 7-yr-old sole-poplar system. The results showed that intercropping reduced the RLD of alfalfa, while the FSRL of intercropped alfalfa was higher than that of sole-cropped alfalfa. In terms of the agronomic traits of alfalfa (plant height, leaf area index, leaf-stem ratio, growth rate), intercropping traits were significantly lower than sole-cropped alfalfa, and the total hay yield during intercropping was 55.27% lower than that of sole-cropped alfalfa. In terms of field microclimate, the dew point temperature and wind speed of sole-cropped alfalfa were 70.68% and 93.83% higher than that of intercropping, but the air humidity of sole-cropped alfalfa was 13.49% lower than that of intercropping, and there was no significant difference in air temperature. The crude protein (CP), crude fat (CF), and relative feed value (RFV) of intercropping alfalfa were 17.78%, 12.33%, and 17.26% higher than sole-cropped alfalfa, respectively. Although the agronomic traits and yield of alfalfa decreased with intercropping, intercropping could improve the microclimate and the quality of alfalfa significantly. The land equivalent ratio (LER = 1.42) in the poplar/alfalfa silvopastoral system was > 1, indicated that the system in advantageous.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T15:04:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-05-11 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Context. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) grain with low tannin content may be suitable as an alternative to maize (Zea mays L.) grain in ruminant diets in terms of input costs and drought tolerance, and effects on growth performance and mitigation of methane (CH4) emissions. Aims. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of substitution of maize with sorghum grain at different rates on ruminal microbial protein synthesis, CH4 formation and liveweight gain in growing ruminants. Methods. Twenty-five Santa Ines lambs (bodyweight 19.0 +/- 1.5 kg) were randomly divided into five dietary treatments. Control diet components (on a dry matter basis) were Tifton-85 hay (400 g/kg), maize (405 g/kg), soybean meal (165 g/kg) and commercial mineral supplement (30 g/kg). Sorghum diets comprised the basal diet with the maize grain proportionately substituted with sorghum grain at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% (diets S-25-S-100). Lamb feed intake, growth performance, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, microbial protein synthesis and CH4 emission were measured during an experimental period of 70 days. Key results. Negligible variations of chemical composition were observed among the experimental diets, although numerical increases in condensed tannins were observed with increasing levels of sorghum replacement. There was no significant effect of level of sorghum inclusion on feed intake. Partial substitution of maize with sorghum grain increased lamb average daily gain linearly (P = 0.02) and quadratically (P = 0.002) compared with diets based on either grain alone, with the S-50 lambs having the highest values. A linear decrease in dry matter digestibility (P = 0.02), organic matter (P = 0.02) and acid detergent fibre (P = 0.002) was observed for lambs receiving sorghum diets compared with the control. A significant linear (P = 0.023) effect was observed for retained nitrogen (g/day), with lambs fed S-25 and S-50 having higher values than those in other treatments. All partially substituted diets (S-25, S-50 and S-75) reduced CH4 per unit bodyweight gain in a linear trend (P = 0.03), by 35%, 29% and 33%, respectively, and tended to increase (linear effect, P = 0.09) the calculated amounts of absorbed microbial protein compared with the control diet. Conclusions. Low tannin sorghum grains can replace maize grains by up to 75% to maximise ruminal microbial biomass production for optimal lamb growth performance and reduced CH4 emission. Alexandria Univ, Anim & Fish Prod Dept, Fac Agr, Alexandria, Egypt Univ Sao Paulo, Ctr Nucl Energy Agr, Lab Anim Nutr, BR-13418900 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil Fed Univ South Frontier, Dept Agron Engn, Erechim, RS, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Anim Nutr & Breeding, Coll Vet Med & Anim Sci, Botucatu, SP, Brazil Sao Paulo State Univ, Dept Anim Nutr & Breeding, Coll Vet Med & Anim Sci, Botucatu, SP, Brazil

In this study, we assessed the effects of increasing amounts of linseed oil (LSO) in corn silage-based diets on enteric CH4 production, rumen fermentation characteristics, protozoal population, nutrient digestibility, N utilization, and milk production. For this purpose, 12 multiparous lactating Holstein cows (84 ± 28 d in milk; mean ± SD) fitted with ruminal cannula were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design (35-d period). The cows were fed ad libitum a total mixed ration without supplementation (control) or supplemented [on a dry matter (DM) basis] with LSO at 2% (LSO2), 3% (LSO3) or 4% (LSO4). The forage:concentrate ratio was 61:39 (on DM basis) and was similar among the experimental diets. The forage portion consisted of corn silage (58% diet DM) and timothy hay (3% diet DM). The proportions of soybean meal, corn grain and soybean hulls decreased as the amount of LSO in the diet increased. Daily methane production (g/d) decreased quadratically as the amount of LSO increased in the diet. Increasing LSO dietary supplementation caused a linear decrease in CH4 emissions expressed on either DM intake (DMI) basis (-9, -20, and -28%, for LSO2, LSO3, and LSO4, respectively) or gross energy intake basis (-12, -22, and -31%, for LSO2, LSO3, and LSO4, respectively). At 2 and 3% LSO, the decrease in enteric CH4 emissions occurred without negatively affecting DMI or apparent total-tract digestibility of fiber and without changing protozoa numbers. However, these 2 diets caused a shift in volatile fatty acids pattern toward less acetate and more propionate. The effect of the LSO4 diet on enteric CH4 emissions was associated with a decrease in DMI, fiber apparent-total-tract digestibility, protozoa numbers (total and genera), and an increase in propionate proportion at the expense of acetate and butyrate proportions. Methane emission intensity [g of CH4/kg of energy-corrected milk (ECM)] decreased linearly (up to 28% decrease) with increasing LSO level in the diet. Milk fat yield decreased linearly (up to 19% decrease) with increasing inclusion of LSO in the diet. Milk protein yield increased at 2% or 3% LSO and decreased to the same level as that of the nonsupplemented diet at 4% LSO (quadratic effect). Yield of ECM was unchanged by LSO2 and LSO3 treatments but decreased (-2.8 kg/d) upon supplementation with 4% LSO (quadratic effect). Efficiency of milk production (kg ECM/kg DMI) was unaffected by the 3 levels of LSO. Ruminal NH3 concentration was quadratically affected by LSO supplementation; decreasing only at the highest level of LSO supplementation. The amount (g/d) of N excreted in feces and urine decreased linearly and quadratically, respectively, as the amount of LSO increased in the diet, mainly because of the reduction in N intake. Efficiency of dietary N used for milk N secretion increased linearly with increasing LSO supplementation in the diet. We conclude that supplementing corn silage-based diets with 2 or 3% of LSO can reduce enteric CH4 emissions up by to 20% without impairing animal productivity (i.e., ECM yield and feed efficiency).

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare growth performance, carcass traits and meat quality in young bulls, steers and heifers produced by crossing Limousin bulls with Holstein-Friesian cows, fattened semi-intensively and slaughtered at 18 months of age.Methods: Thirty-one young calves were reared in a conventional production system, and were fed milk replacer, hay and concentrate. At 6 months of age, the animals were divided into groups based on gender, and were fed a total mixed ration composed of grass silage, concentrates I and II in a semi-intensive production system. At the end of the fattening period (18 months), the animals were slaughtered, carcass quality was evaluated, and samples of musculus longissimus thoracis were collected to determine the proximate composition and quality of meat.Results: Bulls were characterized by the highest percentage share of the most valuable cuts in the carcass, and three-rib sections from bull carcasses had the highest lean meat content with low intramuscular fat content (0.93%). No significant differences in carcass conformation, dressing percentage or the percentage share of round in the right half-carcass were found between bulls vs. steers and heifers. Heifers and steers had higher carcass fat content than bulls, which had a positive influence on the sensory properties of beef. In comparison with the meat of bulls, the meat of steers and heifers was characterized by more desirable physical properties and sensory attributes (water-holding capacity, shear force, color lightness, aroma, juiciness, tenderness, flavor).Conclusion: Under the semi-intensive production system, heifers and steers had higher carcass fat content than bulls, which had a positive effect on the sensory properties of beef. Bulls are better suited for intensive systems, which contribute to improving the quality of their meat. The results of this study may encourage producers to breed steers and heifers for beef.

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of starch and protein interaction on rumen environment, in situ digestion, and total-tract digestibility of nutrients in weaned dairy calves between 8 and 16 wk of age. Sixteen rumen-cannulated calves were randomly divided into 4 dietary treatment groups with 4 calves fed in each treatment. The treatment diets had 2 levels of starch [18%, low starch (LS), or 38%, high starch (HS)] and 2 levels of protein [16%, low protein (LP), or 22%, high protein (HP)] on a dry matter (DM) basis in calf grower: (1) LPLS, (2) LPHS, (3) HPLS, and (4) HPHS. Calves were fed for ad libitum intake (95% assigned grower and 5% grass hay), and refusals were collected weekly. Total-tract digestibility collection and in situ digestibility procedures were performed for each calf at 11 and 15 wk. Samples for in situ digestibility, grass hay (GH), soybean hulls (SBH), wheat middlings (WM), ground corn (GrC), and soybean meal (SBM) were incubated for 9 and 24 h. There was no starch and protein interaction on total-tract digestibility of calves. Total-tract DM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility, and feed efficiency were affected by both protein and starch inclusion level in calf diet. Total-tract starch digestibility was lower for LS diets. Dry matter digestibility and feed efficiency were greater in calves fed HP and HS diets compared with calves fed LP and LS diets, respectively. Fiber digestibility (NDF and ADF) was less in calves fed HS diets compared with calves fed LS diets but was greater in calves fed HP diets compared with calves fed LP diets. Level of protein did not affect in situ DM and NDF disappearance of GH, but HP increased in situ DM and NDF disappearance of SBH. High-starch diets decreased DM and NDF disappearance of both GH and SBH. At 20 h after feeding, ruminal pH was 0.51 unit higher in calves fed HPHS compared with calves fed LPHS. Total ruminal VFA and proportion of propionate was greater with HS versus LS, whereas proportion of acetate was greater with LS versus HS. The DM disappearance of SBM and WM and NDF disappearance of WM was greater for calves fed HPHS compared with calves fed LPHS at 11 wk of age. In our study, when HP was fed with HS, rumen pH, in situ digestion of WM and SBM, and total-tract digestion of DM, NDF, and ADF increased. This provides evidence for starch-protein interaction in the rumen of recently weaned dairy calves. Improvements in total-tract and in situ digestibility suggest that both protein and starch levels are important for 8- to 16-wk-old calves.

Objective: This study aimed at studying the potential use of Flemingia (Flemingia macrophylla) as a protein source fodder to improve nutrients digestibility and ruminal fermentation efficiency in beef cattle.Methods: Four, Thai native beef cattle were randomly assigned in a 4×4 Latin square design. Four levels of Flemingia hay meal (FHM) were used to replace soybean meal (SBM) in the concentrate mixtures in four dietary treatments replacing levels at 0%, 30%, 60%, and 100% of SBM.Results: The experimental findings revealed that replacements did not effect on intake of rice straw, concentrate and total dry matter (DM) intake (p>0.05). However, the apparent digestibilities of DM, organic matter, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, and neutral detergent fiber were linearly increased up to 100% replacement levels. Moreover, the production of total volatile fatty acids, and propionate concentration were enhanced (p4 production was significantly lower when increasing levels of FHM for SBM (p4 production in beef cattle fed on rice straw.

Objective Propionic-acid-based products are used commonly for storage of dry hay but are not often considered when ensiling baled forages. The objectives for this study were to test several application rates of a propionic-acid-based preservative on the storage efficiency, nutrient preservation, fermentation characteristics, and aerobic stability of alfalfa–grass silages. Materials and Methods This study evaluated 4 preservative treatments applied to alfalfa–grass forages that had received 5.1 mm of unexpected rainfall during wilting. A propionic-acid-based preservative was applied at rates of 0.01 (control), 0.13, 0.44, or 0.80% of wet bale weight to 24 (1.2 × 1.2 m) round bales made at either 43.6 or 51.6% moisture. Aerobic stability was then evaluated by removing plastic film from all bales and monitoring surface bale temperatures for 11 d during spring. After exposure, surface and core samples were evaluated further for residual fermentation products and pH. Results and Discussion Before fermentation, forage pH declined linearly (P Implications and Applications Propionic-acid-based preservatives improved aerobic stability of round-bale silages, but the additional cost must be a critical component of any overall management strategy.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) dominates cropping systems in the Western United States and is first in terms of acreage planted in Arizona. The alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica (Gylenhall) and/or Hypera brunneipennis (Boheman), respectively, is the most destructive pest in terms of yield loss in low desert-grown alfalfa hay. The current economic threshold of 15–20 larvae per sweep, established in California in 1975, is currently not suitable or adopted by growers in the western U.S. low desert. Here, we conducted 4 yr of field trials to re-evaluate this economic threshold. Supporting observations of agricultural growers and professionals in the region, our results indicate that the economic threshold established in 1975 is too high. Specifically, one to three large larvae often cause a significant decrease in yield justifying weevil control based on current hay prices and costs of insecticide application. These results are discussed in the context of sustainable alfalfa production in the western U.S. low desert.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the impact of adding a fixed amount of Peppermint0.5 gm / kg LBW/ day to rations containing dried orange(DOP) or citrus pulps( DCP )as energy sources on milk production, some rumen and blood parameters of Zaraibi does ( Twenty animals averaged 4 years old and weighed on average 45 kg ). The experiment was started at the last 8 weeks of gestation until three months of suckling period. The experimental rations were : R1(control ration ) consists of 50 % hay and 50 % concentrate mixture which contained 30 % yellow corn grain whileR2( positive control ration) consists of the control ration ( R1) + 0.5 gm Peppermint / kg LBW/ day.However,50 %of corn grains in the R1was replaced with 50 % of dried orange pulp (DOP) + 0.5 gm Peppermint / kg LBW/ day ( R3) and 50 % of dried citrus pulp (DCP) + 0.5 gm Peppermint / kg LBW/ day ( R4) . At the end of the experiment the economic efficiency was calculated. The Results could be summarized as follows: Feeding goats on rations contained dried orange or citrus pulps+ 0.5 gm Peppermint / kg LBW/ day increased nutrients digestibility (CF,CP, EE and NFE) and nutritive values (TDN and DCP) compared to control ration. Dried orange or citrus pulp+ 0.5 gm Peppermint / kg LBW/ day decreased plasma total lipids and cholesterol concentrations, while total plasma protein and globulin were significantly (P

Thirty intact growing lambs were used to evaluate feed intake, digestibility and growth performance of Begait sheep breed kept under different feeding options. Animals were used in randomized completely block design with three dietary treatments in ten replicates. Treatments were grass hay fed ad libitum to all treatments plus a mixed diet of 48% wheat bran, 15% molasses, 35% cotton seed cake, 1% salt and 1% limestone (T1); 43% wheat bran, 20% sorghum grain, 35% Noug seed cake, 1% salt and 1% limestone (T2) and 47% wheat bran, 16% molasses, 35% sesame seed cake, 1% salt and 1% limestone (T3). Sheep in T3 (1123 g DM/day) consumed more feed (P < 0.001) as compared to sheep in T2 (1077 g DM/day) and T1 (1057 g DM/day). Higher apparent digestibility of DM, OM, CP, NDF and ADF were obtained in T3 groups than in the other treatment groups (P < 0.05). Average daily gain was significantly higher for T3 (158 g/day) than T2 (120 g/day) and T1 (118 g/day) (P < 0.001). Diet 3 was better as compared to the other feeding options. Key words: Apparent digestibility, average daily gain, feed consumption, sheep.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Zeolite inclusion on lactating dairy cow’s ration on milk yield, milk composition as well as digestion coefficients, nutritive values, blood urea, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, and some liver enzymes. The experimental work lasted for two months. Seventy-two Holstein Frisian cows with average weight 650 ± 5 kg were randomly divided into three groups (24 cows each). Every group was fed one of three rations as follows: in ration-1 group (control), cows were fed on a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) without any Zeolite addition, while rations-2 and -3 were supplemented with 80 and 140 g. Zeolite/cow/day, resp. The TMR ration consisted of concentrate feed mixture (CFM), corn silage and clover hay. Milk production was recorded weekly, and evaluated for fat, protein and lactose values and percentages. Fresh feces samples were collected for five consecutive days and dried in oven at 65°C for 24 hrs., then pooled together, and stored in plastic bags and representative samples were taken for chemical analysis. Adding Zeolite (80 G. Cow/Day) Significantly (P< 0.05) Increased Organic Matter (OM), Crud Protein (CP), Crud Fiber (CF), Ether Extract (EE), Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE), Digestibility, Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) and Digestible Crud Protein (DCP). Milk protein, fat and lactose percentages were insignificantly and slightly affected by Zeolite additions. Furthermore, milk yield, Fat Corrected Milk (FCM), fat, protein, and lactose (Kg) of lactating cows was increased by adding Zeolite to basal ration. Generally, all values of blood urea, Alkaline phosphatase, AST and ALT enzymes in all groups in this study displayed approximately normal levels and did not seem to alter with Zeolite supplementation

The objective of this study was to determine effects of inclusion Bentonite in lactating dairy cows rations on milk yield, milk compositionas well as digestibility, nutritive values and blood urea, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, and liver enzymes. 72 Holstein Frisian cows weighed 650 ± 5kg were randomly divided into 3 groups (24 cows in each group) fed 3 rations as follows: ration 1 (control) without additives, ration 2 supplemented with 70 g Bentonite/cow/day, and ration 3 supplemented with 120 g Bentonite/cow/day. Experiment lasted for two months. Cows fed on TMR (Total Mixed Ration) which consisted of concentrate feed mixture, corn silage and clover hay. Milk production was recorded. Milk samples were taken, fat, protein and lactose percentages were estimated. Fresh feces samples were collected for five days and dried in oven at 65oⅭ for 24 hrs, then mixed and then representative samples were taken for chemical analysis. Bentonite added as 70g Bentonite/cow/day significantly (P

Context Recent heightened interest of consumers in the origins of their food, together with broader general awareness of environmental matters, has led to an increase in the demand for meat obtained from grazing systems. The importance of local breeds adapted to medium- and low-input production is fully recognised as a means of guaranteeing the sustainability of these farming methods. A finishing system based on pastures and the use of local breeds could both meet the demands of consumers and increase economic returns for Sardinian farmers. Aims The work evaluated the effects of different finishing treatments (pasture PAS-0C vs hay–concentrate-based diets HAY-C) on the quality of meat from young Sarda bulls and the usefulness of meat chemicals as markers to discriminate between finishing systems. Methods Twenty-eight young Sarda bulls were assigned randomly to the following two treatments: finished on natural pasture (PAS-0C group, n = 7), and fed on natural pasture hay ad libitum and concentrate (HAY-C group, n = 21). The latter group comprised three levels characterised by an increasing daily dose of concentrates, as follows: 2.5 kg/animal (HAY-2.5C), 3.3 kg/animal (HAY-3.3C), and ad libitum (HAY-ALC). After slaughter at a fixed age (416 ± 25 days), carcass yield, pH of the Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle, colour parameters, cooking loss, proximate analysis, α-tocopherol and cholesterol concentration, and fatty acid composition of intramuscular fat of LT were all determined. The discriminating power of the meat chemicals between the two main finishing systems (PAS-0C vs HAY-C) and among the three groups receiving concentrates and hay (HAY-2.5C, HAY-3.3C and HAY-ALC) was assessed using linear discriminant analysis. Key results Pasture-based treatment decreased the intramuscular fat and increased the α-tocopherol concentration of meat and the proportion of some desirable fatty acids (α-linolenic acid and its derivatives eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid), and improved the value of the ratio of n-6:n-3, without affecting the ultimate pH, colour parameters, and cooking loss. The discriminant procedure was able to discriminate accurately between the two main finishing systems and among the three groups receiving concentrate and hay (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.005 of the Hotelling’s T-squared test respectively). The concentration of α-tocopherol was key to the discrimination of the two main finishing systems, whereas the content of C17:0 and C18:0i were particularly effective in discriminating among the three groups fed with hay concentrate. Conclusions Grazing improves some of the meat traits of young Sarda bulls compared with the effects of a hay-concentrate-based finishing diet. The concentration of α-tocopherol in meat is an effective marker for discriminating the effects of pasture from those of a concentrate-based finishing diet Implications The results highlight the role of pasture-based diet in finishing young Sarda bulls, and could provide a wealth of knowledge for Sardinian beef farmers for delivering meat produce that stands out in the market and meets the demand of consumers more concerned about food origin and its healthiness.

Over 2 yr, yearling steers (n = 200) were used to evaluate growth performance, carcass, meat quality, and nutrient composition traits as affected by management regimen comparing three methods of forage finishing (alfalfa pasture, hay, and silage) versus a high corn diet. Management regimen × year interactions (P 0.10) across method of forage finishing. Trained taste panels found longissimus muscle from grain-fed beef to be more (P

Limited data about the effects of various factors on forage quality and β-carotene content of rye produced in Korea are available, so this study investigated the effects of two preservation methods. Samples were collected from rye harvested every 5 days between April 25 and May 31, and comparisons were done among rye silage wilted for different periods of time and hay of three growth stages of rye. For the silage, dry matter (DM), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) contents increased with advanced maturity of rye, whereas crude protein, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), total digestible nutrients (TDN), relative feed value (RFV), and DM loss decreased (p < 0.0001). Wilting increased the DM content and pH value significantly (p < 0.0001). Silage harvested at the heading stage had the lowest pH value (4.45), propionic acid (0.83 g/kg DM), butyric acid (0 g/kg DM), and fungi and yeast populations (3.70 Log CFU/g of fresh matter [FM]); conversely, it had the highest lactic acid (9.7 g/kg DM), lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (6.87 Log CFU/g of FM), total microorganisms (TM) (7.33 Log CFU/g of FM), and Flieg’s score (70) (p < 0.0001). Wilting elevated LAB and TM populations, but it had no consistent effect on other fermentation products. Both delayed harvest and prolonged wilting decreased β-carotene content. Rye silage harvested around May 9 (heading stage) with 24 h of wilting was preferred for highland, Pyeongchang. For rye hay, advanced maturity decreased DM loss, IVDMD, TDN, and RFV, but it increased DM, ADF, and NDF significantly (p < 0.05). β-carotene was decreased by delay of hay-making. Consequently, to attain lower DM loss and higher hay quality, the harvest date of May 9 (heading stage) is recommended.

Background This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of solid diet introduction initiating the cellular growth and maturation of rumen tissues and characterize the shared and unique biological processes upon different solid diet regimes. Methods Twenty-four Hu lambs were randomly allocated to three groups fed following diets: goat milk powder only (M, n = 8), goat milk powder + alfalfa hay (MH, n = 8), and goat milk powder + concentrate starter (MC, n = 8). At 42 days of age, the lambs were slaughtered. Ruminal fluid sample was collected for analysis of concentration of volatile fatty acid (VFA) and microbial crude protein (MCP). The sample of the rumen wall from the ventral sac was collected for analysis of rumen papilla morphology and transcriptomics. Results Compared with the M group, MH and MC group had a higher concentration of VFA, MCP, rumen weight, and rumen papilla area. The transcriptomic results of rumen wall showed that there were 312 shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between in “MH vs. M” and “MC vs. M”, and 232 or 796 unique DEGs observed in “MH vs. M” or “MC vs. M”, respectively. The shared DEGs were most enriched in VFA absorption and metabolism, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, butanoate metabolism, and synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies. Additionally, a weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified M16 (2,052 genes) and M18 (579 genes) modules were positively correlated with VFA and rumen wall morphology. The M16 module was mainly related to metabolism pathway, while the M18 module was mainly associated with signaling transport. Moreover, hay specifically depressed expression of genes involved in cytokine production, immune response, and immunocyte activation, and concentrate starter mainly altered nutrient transport and metabolism, especially ion transport, amino acid, and fatty acid metabolism. Conclusions The energy production during VFA metabolism may drive the rumen wall development directly. The hay introduction facilitated establishment of immune function, while the concentrate starter enhanced nutrient transport and metabolism, which are important biological processes required for rumen development.

This study was divided into three parts. The first evaluated the effects of five stages of plant maturity (60, 75, 90,120 and 180 d) on the agronomic characteristics, chemical composition and in vitro degradability (IVDMD) of pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] 'Kaki' and its anatomical fractions, leaves and stems. In the second part, the selective consumption of this legume was studied. In the third part, the effects of the inclusion of pigeon pea in diets based on tropical grass hay for goats on voluntary intake, and digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were determined. Plant height increased and leaf :stem ratio decreased, as the plants grew. In the whole plant, DM and NDF content increased (P < 0.05) by 13.9 and 19.2 percentage units, but CP content numerically decreased by 4.8 units as plant maturity progressed from 60 to 120 d. At the five successive stages evaluated, CP content in the leaves exceeded that of the stems, whereas NDF content showed the opposite trend. The IVDMD values were 69.6% in the whole plant, 73.9% in the leaves, and 50.4% in the stems. Whole plant IVDMD decreased (P < 0.05), with advancing plant maturity, from 71.2% at 60 d to 55.8% at 180 d. In the selective consumption trial, intake of fresh pigeon pea was compared with that of fresh native tropical grass (NTG) or NTG hay. A high selection of pigeon pea was observed for the first 10 minutes, but during the following 20 minutes this selection decreased. In the voluntary intake and digestibility trial that utilized six goats (26.4 kg live weight) to evaluate the inclusion of 25% of pigeon pea in a NTG-based diet, CP intake was markedly higher (P < 0.05) with legume supplementation. Dietary inclusion of the legume also tended to improve the digestibility of DM and CP but not at the P < 0.05 level of significance (56.7% vs. 51.4% and 58.7 vs. 51.2%); however, it did not affect NDF digestibility. As the pigeon pea plant increased in height, changes occurred in leafistem proportions and chemical composition. The IVDMD results suggest that the interval from 75 to 120 d of growth is favorable for possible utilization of pigeon pea as fresh forage in diets for small ruminants.

Objective We evaluated the effects of adding live Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) and Aspergillus-based extract (ABE) on rumen fermentation, plasma polyamine concentrations, and in vitro fiber digestibility in beef steers fed mixed red clover–orchardgrass hay. Materials and Methods Eight rumen-cannulated Angus crossbred beef steers were assigned to 4 treatments arranged in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with four 21-d periods. Dietary treatments were (1) control (CON; basal diet without additive), (2) SC (CON + 15 g/d of live SC), (3) ABE (5 g of ABE), and (4) SC+ABE (15 g/d of live SC + 5 g of ABE). On d 21, blood samples were collected before morning feeding for plasma metabolome analysis (including polyamines such as spermines, spermidine, and putrescine). Rumen fluid samples were collected 3, 6, and 9 h after feeding for analysis of VFA, ammonia-N concentrations, and in vitro DM and NDF digestibility. Results and Discussion Compared with CON, neither SC nor ABE had effects (P > 0.10) on rumen fermentation and in vitro digestibility. In contrast, SC+ABE increased (P ≤ 0.05) the ruminal concentrations of acetate, butyrate, and total VFA and in vitro DM and NDF digestibilities. Both SC and SC+ABE increased (P Implications and Applications Supplementation of SC with or without ABE to forage-fed beef steers increased plasma concentrations of polyamines and kynurenine, a possible indication of improved immune function; however, combining SC and ABE, but not SC alone, improved the rumen fermentation and in vitro fiber digestibility.

Breeding cows grazing seasonally dry rangelands usually lose substantial live weight (LW) during the dry season, when in late pregnancy. An experiment investigated the effects of feeding a N-based supplement to cows in late pregnancy on voluntary intake, total live weight (T-LW), body condition score (CS) and estimated body net energy content (Body-NE), as well as carry-over effects during lactation. In Phase A for 139 days from mid-pregnancy, mature Bos indicus cross breeders [initially 438 kg T-LW and 5.7 CS units (9-point scale)] were fed in pens on low quality tropical grass hay alone (Control) or with a N supplement (Supplemented). Most (17/22) of the cows calved during this interval. Voluntary hay intake averaged 6.74 g DM/kg T-LW/d in Control cows, and was increased by 35% (P

The results of proximate analysis of five tropical forage species and two forms of conserved forage over sampling period of 147 days of the dry season are presented. Three plots of Panicum maximum (Guinea grass) one plot of Cynodon nlemfuensis (giant star grass) and one plot of Centrosema pubescens (centro) were used as sample plots. Trends indicated in the results suggest a general decline in crude protein, ether extract, dry matter yields and ash, and a progressive increase in crude fibre, dry matter content and nitrogen free extract from the conset of the dry season in early November to the first rains in March in the next year; when trends were reversed. In the standing forage samples the mean values of the species were significantly different in all proximate constituents. These differences were generally higher between grass and centrosema than among grasses. There were also significant periodic effects between sampling dates for all chemical constituents except ash which showed no significant periodic effect at 5% level. These differences were concentrated mainly within the first few weeks of dry season. The mean crude protein values of grasses and grass silage during most of the dry season period fell substantially below the 6% level which is considered the minimum value for maintenance of Nigerian indigenous Fulani cattle. Dry season grass pasture and grass silage should therefore be supplemented for protein as from late November. Where legume pasture or hay is available and constitutes up to 20% of hte roughage ration, supplementation does not appear to be necessary for maintenance of cattle until late December, under Nsukka conditions.

An experiment to compare the effects on digestibility of alkali treated Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) straw was conducted with four Borno white male goats (22.25 ± 1.0kg body weight) in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. Treatments were (A) untreated straw (control), (B) Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treated straw, (C) Kanwa-treated and (D) Kantu-treated straws. Straw was treated separately with solutions (8%) of NaOH, Kanwa and Kantu for 10 minutes prior to ensiling for 20 days. In treatment A, straw was soaked in water before ensiling. Alkali treatment increased the ash and crude protein, but decreased the crude fibre, nitrogen free extract and energy contents of the silage diets. The ether extract content of the diets was not affected by treatment. Dry matter intake (g/day/Wkg ) of alkali treated diets was significantly higher (P

A total or 20 animals comprising 10 rams and 10 bucks were involved in a digestibility study to assess the nutritive value of a combination of yam peel, cocoa-seed testa and Leucaena leaf in an all-concentrate diet for the sheep and goat. Parameters for assessment were dry matter intakes, dry matter and nutrient digestibilities, total digestible nutrients and nutritive ratio. The dry matter intakes in the all-concentrate diet by the sheep and goat ( > 4% of body weight) were higher (p

International audience; The ability of mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR) to predict indicators (1) of diet composition in dairy herds and (2) for the authentication of the cow feeding restrictions included in the specification of 2 Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheeses (Cantal and Laguiole) was tested on 7,607 bulk milk spectra from 1,355 farms located in the Massif Central area of France. For each milk sample, the corresponding cow diet composition data were obtained through on-farm surveys. The cow diet compositions varied largely (i.e., from full grazing for extensive farming systems to corn silage-based diets, which are typical of more intensive farming systems). Partial least square regression and discriminant analysis were used to predict the proportion of different feedstuff's in the cows' diets and to authenticate the cow feeding restrictions for the PDO cheese specifications, respectively. The groups for the discriminant analysis were created by dividing the data set according to the threshold of a specific feedstuff. They were issued based on the specifications of the restriction of the PDO cheese. The pasture proportion in the cows' diets was predicted by MIR with an coefficient of determination in external validation ((RV)-V-2) 0.81 and a standard error of prediction of 11.7% dry matter. Pasture + hay, corn silage, conserved herbage, fermented forage, and total herbage proportion in the cows' diets were predicted with a (RV)-V-2 >0.61 and a standard error of prediction = 50%, and pasture >= 57% in the cows' diets achieved an accuracy and specificity >= 90%. A sensitivity and precision >= 85% were also observed for the pasture proportion discrimination models, but both of these indexes decreased at increasing thresholds from 0 to 50, and 57% pasture in the cows' diets. An accuracy >= 80% was also observed for pasture + hay >= 72%, herbage >= 50%, pasture hay >= 25%, absence of fermented herbage, absence of corn silage, and corn silage 90%. Both the regression and discriminant MIR models for bulk milk can provide useful indicators of cow diet composition and PDO cheese specifications to producers and consumers (farmers, dairy plants).

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of three roughages that were fed ad lib. with two types of water on feed intake, digestibility, water utilization and performance of growing she-camels. Twenty-four healthy growing she-camels (30-36 months old and 448.50 ± 29.30 kg body weight) were housed individually in metabolic cages and randomly allotted to three treatments. The experiment lasted for 60 days. Three roughages were Egyptian clover hay to represent optimum grazing conditions, rice straw to represent dry season grazing and Atriplex halimus to represent arid rangelands dominated by halophytes. Roughages offered to camels ad lib. The concentrates used were corn grains and cottonseed meal. Concentrate intakes calculated, per unit metabolic body weight (kg0.73). Final body weight and ADG were affected by roughages. Nutrients intake was affected (P

A field experiment with 24 treatments consisting of three perennial forage crops [alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. cv. AC Longview), hybrid bromegrass (Bromus riparius Rehm & Bromus inermis Leyss. cv. AC Success) and their mixture], four Cut 1 dates (approximately June 20, July 10, July 30 or August 20), and two fertilizer levels (unfertilized and fertilized) was established in late May 2014, on a Black Chernozem [Udic Boroll] silty clay soil. Forage dry matter yield [DMY], and concentration (g·kg−1 DM) of crude protein [CP], total digestible nutrients [TDN] and acid detergent fiber [ADF] data were collected over 3 years from 2015 to 2017. The fertilizer treatments were imposed in 2016 and 2017. Forage crops were initially cut at four Cut 1 dates, and again cut [Cut 2] in autumn (September 2 in 2015, November 7 in 2016 and October 5 in 2017). For all three forage crops, forage DMY usually increased when Cut 1 was delayed. Delaying Cut 1 reduced forage DMY for Cut 2. Total DMY (Cut 1 + Cut 2) for all three forage crops was highest from the combination of July 10 and late Autumn cuts. Alfalfa-bromegrass mixture produced higher DMY than bromegrass or alfalfa alone. Fertilizer application resulted in a significant increase in Cut 1 and total DMY for bromegrass. The CP concentration in Cut 1 forage usually declined as the forage crops matured. The CP concentration was highest for alfalfa, followed by alfalfa-bromegrass mixture, and much lower for bromegrass. There was little or no effect of forage crop maturity on the TDN and ADF concentrations in forage. The TDN concentration was higher and ADF concentration was lower in forage from alfalfa or alfalfa-bromegrass mixture than bromegrass. Fertilizer application significantly increased CP concentration for alfalfa-bromegrass mixture. Delaying harvesting for Cut 1 increased ADF yield and TDN yield until Late July, but CP yield generally decreased with crop maturity. The ADF yield and TDN yield were higher for alfalfa-bromegrass mixture than bromegrass or alfalfa alone, and CP yield was similar for alfalfa and alfalfa-bromegrass mixture but considerably higher than bromegrass. Fertilizer application increased CP yield and ADF yield for bromegrass and alfalfa-bromegrass mixture, and TDN yield only for bromegrass. In conclusion, total DMY (Cut 1 + Cut 2) was highest for a combination of Early July and Autumn cuts. Forage yield was highest for alfalfa-bromegrass mixture, followed by alfalfa and lowest for bromegrass. The CP and TDN concentrations were higher, and ADF concentrations were lower in forage from alfalfa or alfalfa-bromegrass mixture than bromegrass.

This study aimed (1) to provide estimates of total mean retention times of milk replacer (MR), concentrates, and roughage in veal calves fed a mixed diet; (2) to determine the effect of level and type of solid feed (SF) on passage kinetics of MR, concentrates, and roughages in veal calves; and (3) to compare passage kinetics in veal calves using the fecal excretion curves of indigestible markers and a noninvasive 13C tracer breath test approach to determine whether the latter technique can serve as an alternative. At the start of the trial, 48 Holstein-Friesian calves (6 wk of age; 68 ± 7.7 kg of body weight; BW) were assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments (for statistical analysis, only 39 calf observations were used). Three treatments contained chopped wheat straw as roughage in the SF mixture in a concentrate:roughage ratio of 90:10 (dry matter basis). The SF level was 20 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (low straw), 30 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (middle straw), or 40 g/kg of metabolic BW per day (high straw). The fourth treatment (high hay) contained long perennial ryegrass hay as roughage in the SF mixture in a concentrate:roughage ratio of 70:30 (dry matter basis, at 40 g/kg of metabolic BW per day). The quantity of MR was fixed for the high straw treatment, whereas the amount of MR for the other treatments during the adaptation period was adjusted based on a pair gain strategy (i.e., exchanging ration components but keeping similar net energy). At the end of the adaptation period, calves ranged from 12 to 15 wk of age with an average BW of 123 ± 8.6 kg. Passage kinetics of concentrates were estimated by measuring 13C enrichment excess of CO2 in breath from a pulsed-dose of [1-13C]octanoate. Passage kinetics of roughage, concentrates, and MR were also estimated using fecal excretion curves obtained after ingestion of chromium-mordanted roughage, Yb2O3, and Co-EDTA, respectively. We conclude that [1-13C]octanoate cannot serve as a measure for oro-duodenal transit of concentrates because of unrealistic estimates. Based on the fecal excretion curves, we concluded that the total mean retention time of MR (i.e., time to peak; the moment that the excretion curve reaches peak concentration) was, on average, 12.4 h, and that the passage kinetics of MR was not affected by the level or type of SF. The mean retention time of concentrates was shorter (21.4 h) than that of both straw (59.1 h) and hay (36.8 h), and was not affected by the level or type of SF. Also, the mean retention time of the slowest compartment (i.e., the rumen) was shorter for concentrates (39.6 h) than that of straw (110.0 h) and hay (59.2 h). Contrary, the passage of roughage was affected by level and type of SF. Long hay increased time to peak by 22.3 h and decreased ruminal mean retention time by 50.8 h relative to chopped straw, indicating that the passage rate of long hay is faster than that of chopped straw. We conclude that the level and type of SF only affects the passage kinetics of roughage and not that of MR and concentrates.

The purpose was to determine impact of nutritional treatments containing energy and protein on ewes body condition score (BCS), body weight (BW), milk production, newborn of lambs behavior and blood parameters of twin-bearing ewes. At trimester of pregnancy, one hundred-fifty shearing Rahmani ewes had been scanned to choose twin-bearing ewes. Then, twenty-four ewes had been diagnosed twin-bearing actually. They age from 3 to 4 years, BW 51.30±0.39 kg and BCS 2.54±0.16 (on a scale of 1 to 5). They were allocated to 3rd nutritional treatments (n=8/ treatment). Ewes in T1 were received rations consisted of concentrate fed mixture (CFM) + roughage included berseem hay (BH) + rice straw (RS). However ewes in T2 and T3 were fed the previous ration addition with protected fat (PF) and corn steep liquor (CSL), respictevely. Then, T1, T2 and T3 were offered from 100 day until weaning according to NRC (2007) . Resulting indicated that either T2 or T3 to twin-bearing ewe from trimester of pregnancy to weaning could be achieved the greatest (P

This research assessed the effect of incorporating condensed tannin-rich pine bark (PB) and sericea lespedeza (SL) into meat goats’ diets on carcass traits, chemical composition, and meat quality of goat meat (chevon). Meat goats were supplemented with bermudagrass hay (BG-diet, control), SL, PB, or 1:1 mixture of SL and PB (SL + PB-diet), with the remainder of each diet made uCIE ap of 70% alfalfa pellets mixed with a commercial corn-based sweet feed. Furthermore, four experimental diets provided a total of 4.9, 40.1, 49.0, or 45.0 g of condensed tannins, CT/kg DM, respectively. Carcass traits were assessed after the slaughter at the end of 50 d feeding period. After 24 h cooler storage (2˚C), edible tissues were collected from each carcass for analyzing meat quality parameters. No significant differences were found in carcass traits and primal cuts among goats fed the experimental diets. Supplementing goats with wood-derived condensed tannins (pine bark) produced redder (higher CIE a* values; P P P < 0.03) chevon than that from goats fed either forage-derived (sericea lespedeza) or combined condensed tannins (1:1 mixture of sericea lespedeza and pine bark). Our findings indicate that either forage-, wood-derived condensed tannins, or their combined one can be used as a dietary supplement since they do not have any detrimental effect on meat goats’ performances and meat quality characteristics of chevon. Furthermore, feeding meat goats with wood-derived condensed tannins probably produced tenderer and healthier chevon than that from meat goats fed either forage-derived only or combined with forage and wood derived-condensed tannins.

The present study was carried out to find out if their any deferent impact of using dried orange and citrus pulps as energy source on the performance, milk production, some rumen and blood parameters ofZaraibi does. The animals averaged 4 years old and weighed on average 45 kg. Fifteen animals were randomly divided into three similar groups (five animals each). The experiment was started at the last 8 weeks of gestation until three months after suckling period. The experimental rations were: R1(control ration ) consists of 50 % hay and 50 % concentrate which contain yellow corn grain . Does in the experimental rations were fed 50 % of DOP( R2) and 50 % of DCP( R3) as partial replacement to yellow corn grains in the ration. At the end of the experiment the economic efficiency value was calculated. The Results could be summarized as follows: Feeding dried orange and citrus pulps increased nutrients digestibility (CP, CF, EE and NFE) and nutritive values as TDN, DCP compared to control ration.Dried orange and citrus pulp decreased total lipids and cholesterol .Also, increased total plasma protein and globulin significantly( p < 0.05) compared to the control group .Also,using dried citrus or orange pulps improved total milk yield and feed efficiency in all supplemented groups. It could be recommended that dried orange and citrus pulps( Oranges, tangerines, lemons) can safely replace a part of the energy sources included in rations at 50 % in goats ration to reduce the feed cost and improve the performance and milk production of goats.

Background Commercial horse feeds utilise cereal grains and byproducts; however, their effects on the caecal environment remain poorly characterised. Objective Characterise the effect of commonly used feed ingredients on caecal pH and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration. Study design 6 × 6 Latin square. Methods Two days prior to the start of the study, 6 caecally cannulated Quarter horses were moved into individual stalls where Smooth bromegrass hay (brome) was offered at 2.0% BW/d split between 2 feedings (0600 and 1800). On day 0, caecal digesta was collected every 2 h for 12 h relative to the 0600 feeding to establish control values for horses consuming only brome (HAY). On day 1, horses began consuming their respective treatments which consisted of beet pulp (BP), maize (M), dehydrated alfalfa (A), oats (OAT), soybean hulls (SBH), or wheat middlings (WM) at 0.25% BW/d split into 2 feedings. On day 7 of each treatment period, caecal digesta was collected every 2 h for 12 h and analysed for pH and VFA. Data were analysed using mixed ANOVA with repeated measures, fixed effects of treatment and time, and random effects of horse and period. Results There was a main effect of hour (P ≤ 0.05) indicative of post-prandial shifts in caecal metabolites. There were no main effects of treatment on pH or VFA concentration (P ≥ 0.3). Effects of hour × treatment (P ≤ 0.04) were observed for all response variables. Regardless of treatment or hour, caecal pH remained well within normal limits. Three horses exhibited signs of lower oesophageal choke immediately after consumption of BP pellets. Limitations Interactions between ingredients when mixed for formulation of a concentrate warrant further research. Furthermore, a short adaptation period was chosen to mimic common management practices. Conclusion Minimal differences in caecal fermentation parameters were detected when ingredients were fed at a common inclusion level.

Twenty four lactating Damascus goats were used in a comparative feeding trial to investigate the effect of replacing clover hay (CH) by dry bean vines (DBV) in their diets on nutrient digestibilities, productive performance and economic efficiency. Does were chosen with an average body weight 40±1.50 kg and 3-4 milk seasons. Goats were divided into four groups (6 animals each). The first group T0 was served as control and fed concentrated feed mixture and clover hay at rate of (50: 50). The tested groups T1, T2, and T3 were fed on rations contained DBV (50, 75 or 100%) as replacement of CH in control ration. Results showed that digestibility and feeding values of most nutrients were significantly higher with T2 and insignificant higher with T1 than those of T3 and control T0. While, insignificant difference in digestibility of CP were observed among the dietary treatments, being the highest in T2. Milk composition, feed intake and most blood parameters did not affected significantly by the tested rations. Actual milk and 4%-FCM yields were significantly higher with T2 and insignificant higher with T1 than those of T3 and T0. Feed conversion was improved with T1 and T2, while, the poorest value was occurred with T3 or T0. Economical efficiency was marked improved in T2 compared with the other treatments. It could concluded that replacing clover hay in the diet of lactating goats by dry bean vines up to 75% could led to significant improvement of digestibility, productive performance of goats and profitability.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of partial substitution of clover hay by tomato vines hay (DTV) at three levels in lamb rations on their growth performance. Twenty-four Barki lambs with initial weight 28±1.5 kg and aged 6-7 months were randomly divided into four similar groups (6 lambs in each group) according to their LBW and were used in a feeding trial lasted 97 days. Lambs were fed with 0, 10, 20 and 30% of DTV as instead of CH in ration (T1) that served as control and the tested rations T2, T3 and T4, respectively.Results indicated that DM, OM and NFE digestibility did not differ significantly among all groups. Moreover, CP, CF and EE digestibility were decreased by increasing the levels of DTV in the tested rations. Feeding values of TDN were significantly (P≤ 0.05) decreased with increasing levels of DTV meanwhile, DCP values were not significantly differ among treatments. Daily gain was insignificant decreased with tested rations T2 and T3, but decreased (P≤ 0.05) significantly with tested ration T4, in comparison with those of control one (T1). All blood serum parameters were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. The best economic efficiency was associated with tested ration (T3) that having 20% DTV in replacing with CH. It could be concluded that DTV can be used up to 20% as substitute of CH in lambs rations, without any adverse effects on productive performance, health status and reducing the environmental pollution.