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A caracterização do sistema produtivo na ovinocultura de corte se torna atraente e competitiva com máximo de informações possíveis. Objetivou-se predizer as características dos músculos Trícpes brachii, Semimembranosus, Bíceps femoris e Longissigimus dorsi, a partir das medidas in vivo e da carcaça de cordeiros Comerciais e Pantaneiros. Foram utilizados 80 cordeiros machos, sendo 40 cordeiros Comerciais e 40 cordeiros Pantaneiros. O critério de abate foi determinado pelo peso corporal de abate de 35 kg. Nos cordeiros Pantaneiros, a condição corporal apresentou moderada correlação com extrato etéreo no Semimembranosus (r = 0,59). Nas equações de regressão, as características in vivo e na carcaça apresentaram baixo coeficiente de determinação com todas as análises avaliadas nos cordeiros Comerciais. Nos cordeiros Pantaneiros as características in vivo e na carcaça apresentaram moderado coeficiente de determinação com a cor b* no Longissigimus dorsi (R2 = 0,57), perda de peso ao cozimento no Semimembranosus (R2 = 0,63) e alto coeficiente de determinação com a matéria mineral no Trícpes brachii (R2 = 0,70). As características in vivo e na carcaça mais representativas nas equações, nas análises instrumentais foram o peso corporal de abate, espessura de gordura subcutânea, área de olho de lombo, músculo total, relação músculo/gordura. As características in vivo e na carcaça apresentaram baixa correlação e não foram eficientes para predizer as características dos músculos dos cordeiros Comerciais e Pantaneiros.

We aimed to evaluate environmental effects on pre-weaning traits of Santa Gertrudis cattle. We used 213 standardized records for adjusted 205-day weight at weaning (W205), average daily gain from birth to weaning (AGD), and number of days to gain 160 kg from birth to weaning (D160), obtained from the Santa Gertrudis Breeders' Association for animals born between 1990 and 1997. The files were edited with information regarding cow age at calving (CAC) and contemporary group (CG), for which the effects of year and season of birth, animal category, herd, and sex were considered. It was observed that cow age at calving, which had linear and quadratic effects, and effect of contemporary group were significant (P < 0.0001) for the evaluated traits. Estimated averages were 198.05 ± 40.64 kg, 0.790 ± 0.198 kg day-1, and 288.05 ± 67.18 days for W205, ADG, and D160, respectively. Males were 4.67 kg heavier (197.17 kg) than females, on average. Regarding the animal category effect, the classified females were 2.3% heavier than the unclassified, on average. On average, animals born in the dry season were 1.6% lighter than those born in the rainy season (197.18 kg). Thus, environmental effects are important and should be considered in any analysis model.

The main objective of this research work was to evaluate the performance of Santa Inês ewes according to their body condition score (BCS) at lambing. Data from 135 adult ewes, with singletons, were used. Ewes were divided into three distinct groups: 1) Bellow average: BCS less than 2.5 points (n = 44); 2) Average: BCS between 2.5 and 3.0 (n = 53); and 3) Above average: BCS greater than 3.0 (n = 38). The scale for BCS varied from 1 (very poor) to 5 (very fat). The individual BW, BCS, metabolic profile, milk production and composition of ewes as well as their lambs’ performance until weaning were considered. Metabolic profile was monitored at -7, +7 and +60 days relative to lambing. It was observed that ewes with higher BCS were also heavier; however, there were no differences among the groups for weights of lambs at birth and weaning (70 days). As there was no difference in milk production and composition, the average daily weight gain of the lambs was also similar for the different BCS groups. The metabolic profile (glucose, ?-hydroxibutyrate, cholesterol, creatinine, urea, hemoglobin, albumin, total protein and aspartate aminotransferase - AST) was also similar among the groups. However, when the metabolic profile was compared among the different physiological stages relative to lambing, some differences were observed. For example, ?-hydroxibutyrate was greater during the peripartum period, and glucose was greater in the lactation phase. As conclusion we could say that even in a situation of poor BCS, Santa Inês ewes have the physiological capacity to adapt themselves to the negative energy balance like those of the periparturient period. It seems that irrespective of the BCS, ewes prioritized lactation and were able to produce enough milk to accordingly nurse their lambs

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ruminal degradability of dry matter and crude protein of high moisture triticale silage ensiled with different chemical and biological additives. Urea, sodium benzoate and an enzyme-bacterial inoculant were used as treatments. Four samples from each treatment were incubated in rumen on four sheep. Effective degradability was estimated for ruminal passage rate of 2%, 5% and 8% hour-1. Bayesian procedures were used to estimate potential degradation parameters in situ. The high moisture triticale silage with urea showed highest value for the soluble fraction (70.46%) and the best effective dry matter degradability, with a passing rate of 2% h-1 (90.63%), of control silage at other rates of passage. In relation to control silage, the addition of sodium benzoate and enzyme-bacterial inoculant decreased the effective degradability of dry matter, regardless of rate passage evaluated. Due to high solubility of urea, the silage added with this additive had the highest soluble fraction of crude protein (76.42%). The addition of enzyme-bacterial inoculant accelerated the ruminal passage rate of dry matter and protein to 0.26 and 0.20% h-1, respectively, providing less potential degradability of both in relation to other silages. As enzyme-bacterial inoculation reduces rumen degradability of crude protein, it tends to increase the availability of amino acids for intestinal absorption. The addition of urea to high moisture triticale silage may be recommended for sheep feeding at a low level of consumption, as it improves the effective dry matter degradability.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência de diferentes teores energéticos na ração sobre o desempenho e características de carcaças de cordeiros confinados. Avaliaram-se quatro teores energéticos: 2,00; 2,28; 2,54 e 2,80 Mcal de EM kg-1 MS, sendo o último teor o recomendado pelo NRC (2007) para ganhos diários de 300 g. Foram utilizados 24 cordeiros inteiros com 240,0 ± 9,6 dias de idade e 26,6 ± 3,8 kg de peso corporal, seis por tratamento, mestiços Ile de France, alimentados com rações isoprotéicas (158 g kg-1, PB). O confinamento durou 57 dias. O peso corporal final e de carcaça fria, bem como o rendimento de carcaça fria, apresentaram comportamento linear positivo de acordo com os teores de energia. Já o consumo de alimentos, o ganho médio diário de peso e a conversão alimentar, foram influenciados de forma quadrática pelos teores de energia, onde as melhores médias foram observadas para rações contendo entre 2,54 e 2,80 Mcal. Em termos percentuais, os principais cortes da carcaça (pernil e paleta) não foram influenciados pelos teores energéticos das rações. Na composição tecidual da paleta, observou-se que o teor de ossos diminuiu linearmente, o de gordura aumentou de forma quadrática e o de músculo não foi afetado pelos teores de energia da ração. Conclui-se que dietas com maiores densidades energéticas proporcionam a produção de carcaças mais pesadas e com maiores rendimentos e para melhores ganhos de peso as rações devem conter entre 2,54 e 2,80 Mcal de EM kg-1 MS.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Brachiaria spp. Cv. Mulato II (Convert) on performance, meat quality and carcass characteristics of castrated Nellore steers in the growing and finishing phases, in rotational grazing system, compared to Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu, under the same conditions. The experimental area was divided into two treatments: Marandu and Convert with 20 hectares each, splited in four replications per treatment, composed of five paddocks of one hectare each. Animals were managed based on the availability of leaf blade dry matter (6.19% body weight) in rotational grazing with 7 days of occupation and 28 days of rest. Ten animals were used in each replicate (testers), as well as regulatory animals whenever necessary. Animals were managed based on the availability of leaf blade dry matter (6.19% body weight) in rotational grazing with 7 days of occupation and 28 days of rest. Ten animals were used in each replicate (testers), as well as regulatory animals whenever necessary. For performance analysis, 10 animals of each replicate were used, while for carcass and meat analyses, only six of each replicate. Production and chemial characteristics of the two grasses were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized with two treatments and four replicates; data were tested by analysis of variance using the R software. Animals fed on Convert grass were superior than those fed on Marandu grass, with higher average daily gain (0.682 kg vs. 0.605 kg), slaughter weight (470.45 kg vs. 451.43 kg), hot carcass weight (239.93 kg vs. 232.36 kg). The study also showed the possibility of finishing castrated young steers (up to 30 months) and with subcutaneous fat thickness required by industry (3 mm) in both pastures.

The objective of this work was to study the effect of different zinc content (ZnSO4) in the mineral supplementation for Nellore steers grazing Brachiaria brizantha (cv) MG-4, on productive performance and carcass traits. Twenty-eight castrated animals with average body weight of 355 kg, were used. The animals were randomly divided into four groups and housed in paddocks of 6.25 ha each one, equipped with covered feeders and waterers, and grazed alternately each 28 days. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four zinc (Zn) content and seven repetitions. Different zinc content were: Zn-0, without Zn; Zn-2, with 2,000 mg Zn kg-1; Zn-4, with 4,000 mg Zn kg-1; and Zn-6, with 6,000 mg Zn kg-1; in the inorganic form (Zinc Sulphate) in mineral supplement. Mineral supplements were given ad libitum in covered troughs and previously weighed, with leftovers control for determining intake. The experimental period was 370 days. Organs, viscera, carcass and non-carcass components were weighed from each slaughtered animal. Loin eye area (LEA) and subcutaneous fat thickness (SFAT), as well as, color, pH and lipid oxidation, were evaluated. The increasing inclusion of zinc content in the diet of steers do not affected (P > 0.05) final body weight (FBW) and average daily weight gain (ADWG). Difference (P < 0.05) was observed in the Zn intake (ZnI) (? = -2.09386 + 146.9616x; R2 = 0.99) and hot carcass weight (?= 299.92662 + 3.33362x; R2= 0.24), as well as, in meat lipid oxidation (? = 0.15170 + 0.02539x; R2= 0.31). There was an increasing linear effect for meat color, evaluated by values of L* (luminosity) (? = 32.23309 + 0.41445x, R2 = 0.14), a* (red-green intensity) (? = 0.88592 + 18.16225x, R2 = 0.25) and b* (yellow-blue intensity) (? = 9.35295 + 0.45030x, R2 = 0.20), but remained within normal values for meat. It can be concluded that beef cattle grazing Brachiaria brizantha MG-4, and supplemented with different zinc contents in mineral supplements, supplied ad libitum, do not show changes in weight gain, carcass yield, physical carcass composition, as well as, in non-carcass components, but the Zn content has a positive linear influence on hot carcass weight, without causing changes in absolute and relative weights of organs and viscera.

As carcaças de animais de descarte ou mais velhos apresentam, geralmente, excesso de gordura, a cor da carne mais escura, carne mais firme e apresentam sabor e aroma mais acentuados. Objetivou-se com este trabalho mensurar o desempenho, qualidade da carcaça e carne de ovinos de diferentes categorias. Foram utilizados 25 animais, sendo 5 borregas, 5 cordeiros, 5 machos inteiros, 5 machos castrados e 5 ovelhas. Após um período de 50 dias de pastejo diário e suplementação no período da noite os animais foram abatidos. Foram realizadas mensurações na carcaça e carne dos animais. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância e teste Tukey a 5%. Em relação ao desempenho, biometria e avaliações de carcaça, os machos castrados, inteiros e ovelhas apresentaram os maiores valores, porém é interessante ressaltar que os cordeiros e borregas apresentaram resultados satisfatórios. Outro ponto importante é que o rendimento verdadeiro, a força de cisalhamento e a aceitabilidade global da amostra na análise sensorial foram semelhantes entre todas as categorias. Em relação ao tamanho de cortes o que deve ser levado em conta é o que o mercado consumidor almeja, consumir cortes grandes ou pequenos. Quanto a qualidade da carne, animais adultos apresentaram mais gordura, o que pode ser interessante para garantir uma melhor carcaça e qualidade sensorial da carne, desde que não seja um excesso que aumente as perdas no toalet da carcaça ou piore o odor da carne.

Durante muitos anos a comercialização da carne ovina foi desorganizada, com abate de animais de baixa qualidade. Isto criou uma imagem desfavorável ao produto. À medida que este cenário muda, a carne ovina recebe mais destaque, principalmente, a de cordeiros que atende a nichos de mercado nos grandes centros urbanos. Objetivou-se com este trabalho mensurar o consumo e aceitabilidade da carne ovina na região de Londrina - Paraná, de acordo com o gênero, idade, nível de escolaridade e renda familiar das pessoas entrevistadas, assim como avaliar os parâmetros sensoriais da carne ovina segundo consumidores sem a informação da espécie animal, visando indicar ações norteadoras para a cadeia produtiva de ovinos de corte. Foram entrevistados um total de 951 habitantes e realizado um estudo de consumidores com 134 habitantes, ambos de Londrina e região, durante a Exposição Agropecuária e Industrial de Londrina, no ano de 2014. Os principais motivos de não consumir a carne é a falta de costume 44,1% seguido do fato de não gostar 39,8%. O motivo pelo qual não gostam da carne é o cheiro forte do animal 44,8% seguido pelo sabor adocicado 20,2%. Quanto à aceitabilidade da amostra, 47,01% dos consumidores marcaram a carne como gosto muito, seguido por 26,87% que marcaram como gosto extremamente, apenas 2,25% dos consumidores marcaram a carne como desagradável. Observa-se que a grande barreira para aumentar o consumo da carne ovina é a falta de costume e experiências ruins que levam ao não consumo.

Com o objetivo de estudar os fatores ambientais e estimar os parâmetros genéticos, para os efeitos diretos e maternos, para as características de crescimento, foram utilizadas 4170, 1538, 3139, 1830 e 1151 observações de peso ao nascer (PN), peso ajustado aos 120 dias de idade (P120), peso ajustado aos 205 dias de idade (P205), peso ajustado aos 365 dias de idade (P365) e peso ajustado aos 550 dias (P550), de bovinos da raça Nelore nascidos no período de 2005 a 2011 em uma propriedade situada no município de Amaporã-PR. As médias estimadas para PN, P120, P205, P365 e P550, foram 38 kg, 138 kg, 201 kg, 270 kg e 376 kg, respectivamente. Os componentes de (co) variância utilizados para estimar as herdabilidades foram obtidos por meio do programa MTDFREML, o modelo utilizado considerou o efeito fixo do grupo de contemporâneos, o efeito da idade da vaca ao parto como covariável, além dos efeitos aleatórios genéticos aditivo direto e materno e o efeito de ambiente permanente. As correlações fenotípicas foram estimadas com o auxílio do procedimento PROC CORR do SAS. As herdabilidades estimadas para efeito genético direto e materno, respectivamente, para PN foram 0,17 ± 0,04 e 0,11 ± 0,03, para P120 foram 0,14 ± 0,03 e 0,03 ± 0,04, e para P205, 0,17 ± 0,04 e 0,09 ± 0,03, P365 foram 0,14 e 0,02, e para P550 foram 0,21 e 0,07. As correlações genéticas, fenotípicas e ambientais entre as características PN e P120 foram de 0,79, 0,44 e 0,32, entre PN e P205 foram 0,79, 0,39 e 0,26 e entre P120 e P205 foram 0,96, 0,74 e 0,75, respectivamente. Os resultados indicam que para o período pré-desmama, a seleção por peso seria mais eficiente para P205 e o alto valor das correlações genéticas estimadas indicam que, ao selecionar os animais para qualquer uma das características, ocorrerá resposta correlacionada positivamente para as demais. As correlações genéticas, fenotípicas e ambientais entre as características P365 e P550 foram 0,99, 0,75 e 0,76. Para o período pós-desmama é possível obter maior ganho genético quando a seleção é feita aos 550 dias de idade, e devido à alta correlação genética entre as características, a seleção em qualquer idade promoverá mudança no mesmo sentido na outra.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar as inter-relações entre as medidas de crescimento em cordeiros da raça Santa Inês no período pré-desmame, utilizando-se a técnica dos componentes principais. Para tanto, contou-se com informações de 270 cordeiros, nascidos entre 2008 e 2013. As variáveis estudadas foram o peso ao nascimento, os pesos corrigidos e ganhos médios diários aos 14, 28, 52 e 70 dias de idade. Foram utilizadas as medidas, altura de cernelha, perímetro torácico e comprimento ao nascimento e corrigidas para os 28 e 70 dias de idade de cordeiros Santa Inês. O modelo estatístico utilizado na análise por componentes principais para todas as características estudadas incluiu os efeitos de grupo de contemporâneos, o efeito linear da data juliana de nascimento e os efeitos linear e quadrático do peso da ovelha ao parto. Para os pesos às diferentes idades e os ganhos médios diários o primeiro componente principal acumulou 89% e 85% da variação total, respectivamente. O segundo componente contrastou animais mais pesados ou ganharam mais peso aos 14 dias com aqueles que foram mais leves ou ganharam menos pesos nas demais idades, explicando 5 e 10% da variabilidade entre os animais. Para as medidas de peso, perímetro torácico, altura de cernelha e comprimento ao nascimento, aos 28 dias de idade e aos 70 dias de idade, o primeiro componente, que acumulou 77%, 91% e 77% da variabilidade existente, respectivamente, comparou animais de maior tamanho ou volume corporal. O segundo componente, com 16%, 6% e 14%, respectivamente da variabilidade total, comparou animais de diferentes conformações e verificou-se que os pesos nas diferentes idades e o perímetro torácico são importantes fontes de variabilidade entre os animais.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a influência dos fatores ambientais, sexo do cordeiro, tipo de parto, ano de nascimento, época de nascimento, data juliana de nascimento e peso da mãe ao parto sobre os pesos e medidas biométricas de cordeiros da raça Santa Inês do nascimento ao desmame (70 dias de idade), e avaliar duas diferentes composições de grupos de contemporâneos. Foram utilizadas informações de peso corporal, altura de cernelha, comprimento corporal e perímetro torácico de 270 cordeiros ao nascimento e próximas aos 28 e aos 70 dias de idade. Foram realizadas três análises, utilizando-se diferentes modelos. Um modelo com efeitos de ano de nascimento, época de nascimento, sexo da cria e tipo de parto e o peso da mãe ao parto com efeitos linear e quadrático e a data juliana de nascimento. Outros dois modelos foram avaliados, com os animais reunidos em grupos de contemporâneos de acordo com sexo do cordeiro, tipo de parto, ano de nascimento e época de nascimento (GC1), e com os animais reunidos em grupos de contemporâneos de acordo com sexo do cordeiro, tipo de parto, ano de nascimento, época de nascimento e a data juliana de nascimento (GC2). Os fatores ambientais influenciaram grande parte dos pesos e medidas corporais do nascimento ao desmame, sendo que os principais efeitos foram o tipo de parto e ano de nascimento. As avaliações com GC2 apresentaram maiores coeficientes de determinação e menores critérios de informação Akaike, porém grande número de observações foi descartado, 114, 111 e 103, quando comparadas aos números de observações descartadas da análise com o GC1, que foram de 2, 3 e 4 observações ao nascer, aos 28 dias de idade e ao desmame, respectivamente, o que pode acarretar na exclusão de animais com bom potencial genético para as características analisadas.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of genetic group, sex and level of protein-energy supplementation on the performance and carcass traitsultrasound prediction of weaned calves Nellore and crossbred animals ½ Nellore x ½ Aberdeen Angus. A completely randomized design in a factorial 2x2x2, were used, with two levels of protein-energy supplementation, two sex and two genetic groups. Fifty-six animals were used (28 Nellore and 28 crossbred ½ Nellore x ½ Aberdeen Angus), equally divided between males and females, maintained on grazing Brachiariabrizanthacv. Marandu and evaluated in three experimental periods: period 1 = protein-energy supplementation in the dry season; period 2 = protein-energy supplementation during the rainy season; period 3 = only mineral supplementation. In the dry season, they were supplemented with levels of 0.5 and 1% of body weight (BW) and in the rainy season with 0 and 1% BW. Dry matter intake (kg day-1, % BW, g kgBW0.75-1) was estimated. In vivo ultrasound measurements of carcass were: loin eye area (LEA), fat thickness (FT) and rump fat thickness (RFT). There was influence of genetic group and protein-energy supplementation levels on average daily gain (ADG) of animals in period 1 and 2 (P < 0.05). Sex affected the ADG only in period 2, and the males had 754 gday-1 and females, 582 g day-1. There was no interaction of genetic group x sex x supplementation level. At the end of the experimental period (end of period 3), it was found that male animals and crossbred animals ½ Nellore x ½ Aberdeen Angus had higher ADG (716 and 748 g day-1, respectively). The values of dry matter intake (DMI) were influenced by genetic group and sex, in all periods, verifying highest intake in crossbred animals ½ Nellore x ½ Aberdeen Angus, with better feed conversion for crossbred animals. Regarding ultrasound measurements taken on the carcass, the influence of sex on FT and RFT, it was observed, and the males showed higher values, 3.24 and 4.62 mm, respectively. LEA was influenced by protein-energy supplementation levels in the second period, herein animals receiving 1% of BW, showed higher values (56.04 cm2) than those receiving 0.5% of BW supplement (48.38 cm2). The use of protein-energy supplementation with 0.5% of BW in the dry season and 1% of BW in the rainy season, the best results of performance and contributes to larger loin eye area.

It was evaluated the feeding behavior of lambs fed diets containing 30% sorghum silage and 70% crambe cake (30:70 diet), and 70% sorghum silage and 30% crambe cake (70:30 diet) under voluntary and controlled consumption. The experimental design used was a 4 × 4 Latin square, with four animals, four periods, and four treatments; feeding behavior was determined by observation. The results indicated that animals fed the 30:70 diet showed higher DM and NDF (g day-1) than those fed the 70:30 diet. Animals fed the 70:30 diet showed longer feeding times (h kg-1 DM), mastication (min kg-1 DM and min kg-1 NDF), rumination (min day-1 and min kg-1 DM), and the largest number of mericics chewing per bolus; however, a higher feed efficiency (g DM h-1) was observed in the 30:70 diet group. Furthermore, animals feeding voluntarily had higher DM intake and chewed for longer. Therefore, the combined results indicated that crambe cake could be used in the diet of sheep without affecting feeding behavior.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the replacement of soybean meal by soybean cake on carcass characteristics and meat quality of Santa Ines lambs. Twenty-nine intact males were used, weighing 23.63 ± 2.44 kg, at 80 days of age, distributed randomly, submitted to five diets, with the diets differing in the levels of substitution of soybean meal by soybean cake (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%). Each diet was provided to six animals, except the 25% diet, in which five animals were used. Carcass characteristics were evaluated, and the Longissimus dorsi was removed for meat quality analysis. The different levels of soybean cake did not affect carcass characteristics. Regarding the characteristics of meat, there was a quadratic effect for the shear force and negative linear effect on flavor intensity, but no significant differences on the other parameters were observed. Replacement of soybean meal for soybean cake can be made without affecting most of the carcass and meat characteristics, and high levels of soybean cake in the diet can improve the meat sensorial quality of lambs receiving concentrated diets. Keywords: biodiesel; morphometry; Santa Ines; sensorial analysis; shear force.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sex class (castrated; non-castrated) and level of food restriction (0%, 30% and 60% of ad libitum consumption) on the quantitative composition of carcass and non-carcass components of Santa Ines lambs. A completely randomized 3x2 design (restriction level x sex class) was used to evaluate thirty lambs approximately two months of age with an average initial body weight of 13 ± 1.49 kg. When the average body weight of the animals in one of the treatment groups reached 28 kg, all animals were slaughtered. Sex class had effect on body weight at slaughter, empty body weight, hot carcass weight and cold carcass weight. The weight of the leg was greater in non-castrated animals. There was linear decreased effect according to increasing levels of restriction for the carcass cuts, except for leg and rear loin yield. There was statistic difference between sex class for the weights of kidneys, paw, and large intestine of non-castrated animals (P < 0.05). There was a negative linear association between level of food restriction and mass of blood, head, leather, paw, rumen, reticulum, abomasum, small intestine, large intestine; perirenal, omental, mesenteric and heart fat. The quantitative composition of carcass and non-carcass components of Santa Ines lambs is influenced by sex class and food restriction level.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo, avaliar o efeito da Brachiaria spp. cv. Mulato II (Convert) sobre o desempenho, qualidade de carne e características de carcaça de novilhos Nelore castrados, na fase de recria e terminação, em sistema de pastejo rotacionado em comparação com a Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu, nas mesmas condições. A área experimental era composta por 40 hectares, divididos em dois tratamentos: Marandu e Convert, com 20 hectares cada. Cada tratamento possuía quatro repetições e cada repetição era um módulo composto por cinco piquetes de um hectare cada. Os animais foram manejados de acordo com a oferta de matéria seca de lâminas foliares (6,19% do peso vivo), em pastejo rotativo, com 7 dias de ocupação e 28 dias de descanso. Foram utilizados 10 animais em cada repetição (testers), além de animais reguladores, quando necessário. Para análises de desempenho, foram utilizados os 10 animais de cada repetição, enquanto para análises de carcaça e carne utilizou-se seis animais por repetição. Foram avaliadas caracteristicas de produção e bromatológicas das duas gramíneas. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado com dois tratamentos e quatro repetições, os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância utilizando o programa estátistico R. Os animais alimentados em pastagens estabelecidas com capim Convert foram superiores em relação aos alimentados em pastagens estabelecidas com capim Marandu, tendo maior ganho médio diário durante o período experimental (0,682 kg x 0,605 kg), peso ao abate (470,45 kg x 451,43 kg), peso de carcaça quente (239,93 kg x 232,36 kg). O trabalho também mostrou a possibilidade de terminação de novilhos castrados jovens (até 30 meses) e com a espessura de gordura subcutânea exigida pela indústria (3 mm) em ambas pastagens utilizadas.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of wool produced by ewes of different genetic groups, ages, and reproductive statuses. A total of 115 ewes, of the following genetic groups, were used: 10 Corriedale, 37 Hampshire Down, 26 1/2 Hampshire Down + 1/2 Corriedale, 24 1/2 Ile de France + 1/2 Corriedale, and 18 1/2 Suffolk + 1/2 Corriedale. Age was determined by the number of permanent incisors, ranging from four teeth to eight teeth. Ewes were further classified by their reproductive status into: lambed, having reared one lamb; and not-lambed. Hampshire and half-blood Suffolk ewes were heavier (53.2 and 52.7 kg, respectively), while Corriedale animals were lighter (40.1 kg). Older ewes and not-lambed ewes were heavier as well. Fleece weight was higher for the Corriedale and its crossbred ewes (average of 2.9 kg). Genetic group did not affect yield after scouring (61.6%). Ewe age, reproductive status, and year of evaluation did not affect greasy fleece weight or yield. Fiber diameter and number of crimps were not affected by any tested variables, with mean values of 29.8 μm and 5.8 crimps per centimeter, respectively. Staple length was influenced only by genetic group, in which the Hampshire ewes showed the shortest staple (6.2 cm). In general, the character was classified as good to regular, and the worst was found in the Hampshire. That genetic group grew rough wool, while the others were rated as slightly soft to rough. All genetic groups presented wools with some medullation. The majority of the samples were classified from "Cruza 1" to "Cruza 3" in all five groups and, for quality, the majority of the samples were rated as Good. Wool produced by meat breeds presents variations of quantity and quality that should be considered by producers and industry.

This research had as objective to evaluate the performance of intact or castrated beef cattle in a croppasture rotation system. The experiment was conducted during 2004 and 2005, and carried out at the Cooperativa Agropecuária Mourãoense (COAMO) Experimental Farm, in Campo Mourão city, Paraná state. It was used a completely randomized design, with two treatments, intact or castrated. Forty ½Angus+½Nelore crossbred animals, with average age of nine months, were used. Half of the animals were castrated at weaning, and the other half was kept intact. Pasture was composed of two areas. The winter field, established after soybean crop, was composed by a mixture of black oat (Avena strigosa) and Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiforum). The summer field was composed by stargrass (Cynodon nlemfuensis) and Mombaça grass (Panicum maximum). During the winter time it was used a continues grazing system, with regulator animals (put and take), and during the summer an intensive rotational system, with regulator animals and fixed grazing period. Intact animals presented higher average daily weight gain (0.907 vs 0.698 kg), slaughter weight (490.9 vs 442.2 kg), and hot carcass weight (250.2 vs 232.6 kg). Slaughter age was influenced by sexual condition, being lesser in the intact animals. Carcass dressing percentage was similar for the groups. Castrated animals showed better finishing fat cover and backfat thickness (3.45 vs 2.70 mm) compared to intact ones. Therefore, it can be concluded that intact animals presents better performance than castrated ones when finished in an intensive crop-pasture rotation system, however, they may not present the minimum required fat cover, when slaughter at young ages.

The present study objective was to determine the intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance and ruminal fermentation parameters in sheep fed diets containing levels of substitution of soybean meal for sunflower cake. The diets consisted of five levels of protein soybean meal (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 %) by sunflower cake. Diets were formulated with 12.6% CP, respecting the roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60, as source roughage was used hay Tifton-85 and as food concentrates used were: corn, soybean meal, sunflower cake and premix mineral vitaminic. Five lambs crossbred castrated with average weight of 29.64 ± 2.94 kg were used, distributed in latin square 5 x 5. There were no differences in intake dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and total digestible nutrients. The intake of ether extract (EE) and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) were increased linearly. For intake of total carbohydrates (TC) was observed equation linear in relation to body weight and metabolic weight and quadratic when expressed in g day-1 with peak in 377.1 g kg-1 replacement of soybean meal by sunflower cake. There were no differences in digestibility DM, OM, CP, NDF, NFC and TC. There was a linear increase in the digestibility of ether extract (EE). The intake, feces, urinary and retained nitrogen were not influenced by levels of substitution of soybean meal by sunflower cake in the diets. For the pH of liquor ruminal there was no difference for the different levels of substitution of soybean meal by sunflower cake. However, ruminal pH differed with respect to collection time for all experimental diets. There was no effect on diets and sampling time for concentration of NH3-N. It was concluded that the sunflower cake can be used as na alternative food to replace soybean meal up to 100% in concentrate mixture unless there are changes in the rumen parameters, balance of nitrogen, intake and nutrient digestibility.

This study was carried out to estimate efficiencies of the utilization of metabolizable energy for maintenance (km) and weight gain (kg) and to evaluate the Small Ruminant Nutrition System (SRNS) model in predicting dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) of growing Morada Nova lambs. The animals were non-castrated and two months of age, with initial body weights averaging 12.05 ± 1.81 kg. Eight animals were slaughtered at the beginning of the trial as a reference group, in order to estimate initial empty body weight and body composition. The remaining animals were assigned to a randomized block design with eight replications per block and five diets with increasing metabolizable energy levels (0.96, 1.28, 1.72, 2.18 and 2.62 Mcal/kg of dry matter (DM)). The metabolizable energy use efficiencies for maintenance and for weight gain were calculated from the relationship between the dietary net energy for maintenance and gain and ME concentration in the diets. Evaluation of the SRNS model was performed by adjustment of simple linear regression model between the predicted (independent variable) and observed (dependent variable) values. The efficiency of ME utilization for maintenance (0.96 Mcal/kg DM) was 0.24 and decreased (0.60 to 0.40) for the other treatments with increasing energy content. The DMI and ADG predicted by the SRNS model did not differ (P?0.05) from the observed values. Thus, the SRNS model can be used to estimate the DMI and ADG in feedlot Morada Nova lambs.

The aim of this study was to determine the intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance and ruminal fermentation parameters in sheep fed diets containing levels of substitution of soybean meal for soybean cake. The diets consisted of five levels of protein soybean meal (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 %) by soybean cake. Diets were formulated with 12.5% CP, respecting the forage-to-concentrate ratio of 40:60.Tifton-85 hay was used as forage and the concentrate was formulated with corn, soybean meal, soybean cake and vitamin mineral supplement. Five crossbred lambs castrated, with average weight of 33.7 ± 5.8 kg were used and distributed in a Latin Square 5 × 5. No differences in intake and digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrate, non-fiber carbohydrates and total digestible nutrients. Increased linearly in ether extract intake by replacing protein from soybean meal by soybean cake in the diet but with no changes in the digestibility of this component. The nitrogen balance, nitrogen content fecal and urinary retained were not influenced by levels of substitution of soybean meal by soybeans cake in diets. For the index pH and concentration of ammonia nitrogen in rumen fluid did not differ between diets. It was concluded that the soybean cake can be used as an alternative food to replace soybean meal up to 100% unless there are changes in the rumen parameters, balance of nitrogen, intake and nutrient digestibility.

The objectives of this study were to analyze the productive performance of lambs, out of ewes of different genetic groups and submitted to different feeding managements before and during the mating season, from birth until weaning. One hundred and twenty-six lambs were used, from the genetic groups ½ Corriedale + ½ Texel (11), Hampshire Down (73), Ile de France (26) and Suffolk (16), born in two consecutive years. The ewes were submitted to three feeding managements: T1 – without supplementation, T2 - supplemented with 600 g/day of corn grain, and T3 - supplemented with 600 g/ day of a ration containing 75% of corn and 25% of soybean meal. Body weight and weight gain were analysed individually and by litter size. Flushing did not influence weight and weight gain of lambs. Twin lambs, in the individual analysis, showed lower body weight and weight gain compared to single lambs, but in the analysis by litter size, the sum of the twin lambs showed greater body weight and weight gain compared to single lambs. Differences in body weight and weight gain were observed among the genetic groups and between the sexes, where males were heavier and presented greater weight gain. Twin lambs showed higher mortality than single lambs. Although flushing can provide greater number of lambs, a considerable profit was not verified. It is concluded that flushing do not influence in the performance of lambs, and that twin lambs show higher mortality than single ones, and flushing is not profitable.

This work was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effects of different levels of replacement of whole grain corn by pelleted soybean hulls in high concentrated diet, without long fiber use, on intake, productive performance and economical viability of feedlot lambs production. Twenty four Texel lambs, 12 males and 12 females of the same age, with average weight of 23 kg, distributed in 12 stalls, in a completely randomized design, were used. The treatments consisted of replacement of whole grain corn by pelleted soybean hulls, at levels of 0% (SH0), 15% (SH15) and 30% (SH30). Dry matter (DM) (kg day-1), crude protein (CP) (kg day-1, %AW, g AW0,75), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (kg day-1, %AW, g AW0,75) intake showed linear increasing behavior (P

The objective was to determine the efficiency of utilization of metabolizable energy for maintenance (km) and weight gain (kf), the dietary requirements of total digestible nutrients (TDN) and metabolizable protein (MP), as well as, evaluate the Small Ruminant Nutrition System (SRNS) model to predict the dry matter intake (DMI) and the average daily gain (ADG) of Santa Ines lambs, fed diets containing different levels of metabolizable energy (ME). Thirty five lambs, non-castrated, with initial body weight (BW) of 14.77 ± 1.26 kg at approximate two months old, were used. At the beginning of the experiment, five animals were slaughtered to serve as reference for the estimative of empty body weight (EBW) and initial body composition of the 30 remaining animals, which were distributed in randomized block design with five treatments (1.13; 1.40; 1.73; 2.22 and 2.60 Mcal/kg DM), and six repetitions. The requirement of metabolizable energy for maintenance was 78.53 kcal/kg EBW0,75/day, with a utilization efficiency of 66%. The average value of efficiency of metabolizable energy utilization for weight gain was 48%. The dietary requirements of TDN and MP increased with the increase in BW and ADG of the animals. The SRNS model underestimated the DMI and ADG of the animals in 6.2% and 24.6%, respectively. Concludes that the values of km and kf are consistent with those observed in several studies with lambs created in the tropics. The dietary requirements of TDN and MP of Santa Ines lambs for different BW and ADG are, approximately, 42% and 24%, respectively, lower than those suggested by the american system of evaluation of food and nutrient requirements of small ruminants. The SRNS model was sensitive to predict the DMI in Santa Ines lambs, however, for variable ADG, more studies are needed, since the model underestimated the response of the animals of this study.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutrient intake and suitability test of the SRNS nutritional model for dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG), and Hankins and Howe equations to estimate the carcass and empty body chemical composition of 35 Santa Ines lambs, non-castrated, with initial body weight of 14.77 ± 1.26 kg and two months old. After 10 days of adaptation, five animals were slaughtered serving as reference group for estimates of empty body weight (EBW) and initial body composition. The remaining animals were distributed in randomized block design with five treatments with different levels of metabolizable energy (1.13, 1.40, 1.73, 2.22 and 2.60 Mcal/kg DM). Quadratic effect was observed for DMI, expressed in g/d, % BW and g/BW0.75, with maximum DM intake of 867.25 g/d. Non fiber carbohydrates (NFC) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) intakes, expressed in g/d, increased with increases in ME levels and the intakes of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and fibrous carbohydrates (FC), expressed in g/d, presented decreasing linear effect. The DMI and ADG observed and predicted by SRNS model showed a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.68 and 0.98, respectively. Comparing the chemical composition of the carcass and HH section, observed that HH section estimated satisfactorily the protein and ether extract of carcass of animals, with Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.77 and 0.92, respectively, while the water content was underestimated with Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.42. The rib section also satisfactorily estimated to ether extract and protein in the empty body (r = 0.96 and 0.86, respectively).

This study aimed to determine the carbohydrate fractions and estimate ruminal fermentation kinetics parameters of silages Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu with the inclusion of two microbial additives: Additive LPPP Pasture (Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus pentosaceus) and additive BSLPPA Pasture (Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici). The experimental design was completely randomized with three different silages and three replications per silage. The silos were opened after 34 days of fermentation and then sent for laboratory analysis. For the fractionation of carbohydrates were determined total carbohydrates (TC), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), fractions A + B1 (fractions of fast and average ruminal degradation), B2 fraction (fraction slowly degraded in the rumen) and fraction C (carbohydrates no digestible in the rumen). The gas production data were fitted to a logistic model bicompartimental. There was no difference in the values of the variables of fiber degradation (FC) kinetic and no-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) of the silages. However, silages Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu with use of additives LPPP and BSLPPA had higher fractions of digestible carbohydrates, reducing total carbohydrates and low indigestible fiber fraction of carbohydrates. Thus, the two microbial additives improved the nutritional value of silage Marandu-grass.

The objective of this study was to evaluate carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs fed sunflower cake to replace the protein of cottonseed meal. The experiment was conducted at the sheep sector at the Farm School, State University of Londrina. Thirty Santa Inês lambs, intact males, with age and weight at the beginning of the experiment of 80 days and 21.45 ± 2.16 kg, respectively, were used. It was used a completely randomized experimental design. The animals were divided into 5 treatments, with 6 replicates per treatment, according to the amount of protein of cottonseed meal replaced by protein of the sunflower cake (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80% of replacement). Carcasses were evaluated and the Longissimus dorsi was removed for analyzes of shear force, color, pH, marbling, water loss by pressure, sensory analysis, chemical analyses and lipid oxidation. Hot and cold carcass yields showed quadratic distributions, where the best values were found for treatments with low inclusion of sunflower cake. Carcass measurements, as well as cut yields were not affected by the content of sunflower cake. Regarding the parameters of lamb meat, only water losses during cooking and shear force were affected, being quadratic and linear, respectively. The meat was more tender in animals fed higher amounts of sunflower cake. The tasters of the sensory panel did not identify differences between treatments, and classified the meat with moderate odor intensity, good tenderness, low to moderate juiciness and medium acceptability. The replacement of cottonseed meal protein by sunflower cake protein in the levels used, did not affect the majority of the carcass characteristics and the meat quality.

The objective of this study was to analyze the production of dry mass, forage accumulation rate and the structural composition of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Xaraés pastures, managed under different grazing heights in continuous stocking. The experimental area was 12 hectares, divided in paddocks of one hectare each. The treatments were 15, 30, 45 and 60 cm of defoliation heights. Nellore steers were used to reach the desired heights. Every 28 days four cut samples and eight visual samples were collected for comparative performance in the experimental plots. Two grazing exclusion cages were used per treatment to estimate accumulation rates kg.ha-1 DM. The cut material was taken to the laboratory for separation of the botanical components (green leaf, stem and senescent material), weighing and determination of dry matter. The experimental design was the completely randomized with three replicates. There were treatments effects at all seasons for the production of total mass, except in the spring. In summer and spring seasons it was observed the highest values for leaf blades (1.100 kg DM. ha-1). In the winter, the highest values of senescent material was observed, as expected. The average accumulation showed no significant difference among the treatments, except for stem and total mass in the summer and stem in the fall. The tillers were heavier and higher values for number of green leaves per tiller occurred in the fall, but for senescent leaves per tiller ocurred in the winter. Swards grazed at heights between 45 and 60 cm of defoliation, had good production of forage mass and leaf constituent.

The production of grazing cattle has been very interesting, due to the low cost to produce fodder, compared to other sources of forage used to feed these animals, but the adequate management pasture has high influence on the success and profitability of cattle production systems. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the optimum grazing height of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Xaraés, which provides the highest individual weight gain and gain per area. The stocking rate was continuous, with variable stocking rate. The experimental period was from January to December 2010. Three Nellore males were used in each experimental plot, and, when needed, additional animals were used for adjusting the desired heights. Monthly sampling was obtained to estimate forage mass (kg.ha-1 of DM) and the structural characteristics of the pastures, such as, leaf: stem ratio. The animals were weighed at the beginning of the experiment and every 28 days, after 12 hours of fasting, to measure the average daily gain (ADG) After weighings were performed adjustments stocking rate to desired heights. Throughout the experimental period the animals received mineral supplementation. The desired sward heights were 15, 30, 45 and 60 cm, with three replicates each. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments and three replications. To body weight gain (BWG) and average daily gain (ADG), each animal was considered an experimental unit. To gain per area and stocking rate, the paddock was considered the experimental unit. The leaf: stem ratio showed a linear increasing behavior in the spring and summer seasons. The smaller grazing heights provided higher gain per unit area (812.15 kg ha-1), while the highest grazing heights promoted high individual weight gain (0.790 kg.dia-1). The results suggest that Xaraés grass pastures should be grazed between 30 and 45 cm to allow reasonable performances by area and individual performances.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of diets with different proportions of concentrate in finishing lambs Texel on carcass characteristics and meat sheep. Twelve Texel lambs with an initial weight of 20.1 ± 2.34 kg were used. The treatments consisted of three levels of concentrate in the total ration (60, 80 and 100%) and four replicates per treatment.As the values of loin eye area, finish and weight of rib and ham were higher (P

The objective of this study was to determine the best height of the Tanzania grass under grazing, assessing morphological and productive characteristics of the sward. This experiment was conducted in Cidade Gaucha, Parana, where he was rated the accumulation rate and morphological characteristics of Tanzania grass pastures grazed at 20, 40, 60 and 80 cm grazing under continuous stocking with variable stocking rate for beef cattle. The experimental area was 12 hectare divided in paddocks of one hectare each. For each paddock were allocated two grazing exclusion cage for estimating herbage accumulation, and eight samples were taken every 28 days throughout the year 2010. The completely randomized design. The herbage mass of the morphological structures showed a linear positive function of sward heights. The height of defoliation did not influence the rate of herbage accumulation for any of the morphological structures: green leaf, stem + sheaths and senescent material. There were also no differences in leaf: stem ratio. All heights within the range studied provided adequate number of green leaves per tiller. Tanzania grass pastures grazed under continuous stocking between 40 and 60 cm, for providing a good association between accumulation and mass of green leaf blades, and acceptable values of the mass of stem + sheaths and senescent material. Pasture of Tanzania grass under 60 and 80 cm allow of leaves satisfactory accumulation in the autumn.

This study aimed to assess levels of nitrogen additive Silogen® pasto on ruminal in vitro degradability gas production in Brachiaria decumbens silages. The nitrogen additive contained bacterial strains (Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus curvatus, Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici) and minimum nitrogen to 360 g/kg. The levels were: 0.0; 1.0; 1.5; 2.0 and 2.5%. In fractionation were calculated total carbohydrates (TC), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), soluble and rapidly degradable (A + B1), potentially degradable (B2) and degradable (C). The kinetic parameters of FC and NFC were estimated using the technique of in vitro gas production. Data were subjected to analysis of variance at 5%. The level additive did not influence the TC and fraction A + B1. The levels of nitrogen additive influenced the NFC, fractions B2 and C. For NFC content 2.0% showed the lowest (22.0 %). The lower levels of additive nitrogen (0, 1.0 and 1.5 % ) had higher fractions of B2 (average 40.2 %) and lower values for the fraction C (average 20.0 % ). There was no difference in the volume of gas CNF (average 86.73 mL) and final volume of gas produced (average 195.79 mL). Was no influence of nitrogen additives for the time of colonization, the lowest time of 3.89 h to 1.0%. The volume of gas of FC was influenced by levels of nitrogen additives with higher values to 0 % from 1.0 %, and 114.74 and 115.09 mL, respectively. Degradation rates of FC and FNC were also affected by the concentrations of nitrogenous additives, which presented higher rates to the levels of 2.0 and 2.5%. It follows that the lower levels of additives to 1.5 % promoted the reduction of the C fraction and increased B2, and greater production of gas volume of the fiber in these silages, showing better nutritional value in these silages.

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of grazing heights on daytime behavioral activities of Nellore beef cattle in the rainy season. The experimental area was 12 hectares divided into paddocks of one hectare each. The treatments consisted of four defoliation heights (15, 30, 45 and 60 cm) in pastures of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Xaraés with three replicates each. It was used the continuos grazing method, with variable stocking rate. Forage samples collected on the plots were sent to the laboratory for separation of the botanical components, weighing and determination of dry matter, with the material collected by simulated grazing. The variables: grazing time, idle time and ruminating time were evaluated for 12 consecutive hours on days 15 and 16 February 2011, considering the morning and afternoon periods. It was used a completely randomized design. The height of the canopy significantly influenced the daily grazing time and ruminating time, with a quadratic response as a function of time of defoliation. The bite rate decreased as a function of heights studied. However the chemical composition of the material collected by simulated grazing did not differ between treatments. Xaraés grass swards grazed at around 45 cm height provide greater ease of apprehension by grazing cattle.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance, the carcass and meat characteristics of ewes supplemented with magnesium oxide. Eighteen 6-year-old Santa Ines ewes were used in a completely randomized experimental design, where three levels of supplementation (0.0, 0.1 and 0.2% magnesium oxide in the concentrate) were tested, with six replicates. Final weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion were not affected by levels of magnesium supplementation. Hot and cold carcass weights showed linear increasing and quadratic responses, respectively, according to supplementation with magnesium. Carcass measurements such as length, depth, and measures of arm and leg were not affected by supplementation. Depth and width of the longissimus muscle and rib-eye area were not affected; however, marbling and ether extract increased linearly with supplementation. Water loss and color were not affected. Lipid oxidation and shear force were not affected by supplementation, while the myofibrillar fragmentation index showed a quadratic regression. There was a linear decrease in pH with magnesium supplementation. Supplementation with magnesium can improve carcass and meat pH, but can act negatively by increasing the amount of marbling and ether extract of meat.

The objectives of this work were to evaluate the environmental effects (age of dam, type of birth and sex of lamb) and genetic groups (Hampshire Down and Ile de France, ½ and ¾ Hampshire Down, Ile de France and Suffolk, and ½ Texel) on performance and morphometric characteristics (height, length and heart girth) of lambs; to test regressions to predict live weight of lambs from body measurements; and to describe the growth type of the measurements as function of the weight. Weights and measurements were collected from birth to weaning, every 14 days. For evaluations of performance in relation to environmental effects and genetic groups, only data from birth and from weaning were used; for type of growth all collected data were used. Lambs from younger ewes (2 teeth) presented smaller average for weight at birth, heart girth and height at weaning. Single-birth lambs presented greater averages than twins. Genetic group influenced all traits evaluated, except heart girth at birth and average heart girth gain. Means for birth weight were higher in ¾ Ile de France (3.93±0.16 kg) and lower in ½ Texel lambs (3.04±0.24 kg), and for weaning, they were higher in ½ Texel (14.86±0.87 kg) and lower in Ile de France lambs (11.66±0.83 kg). Year of birth influenced all traits. Heart girth and length showed a negative allometric growth in relation to weight, while between weight and height the relation was positive allometric. The factors that most influenced the performance of lambs from birth to weaning are the type of birth, genetic group and year of birth. Correlations between body weight and morphometric measurements are significant, so it is possible to predict one from the other.

Effects of metabolizable energy (ME) levels were evaluated on nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics in Morada Nova lambs. Forty Morada Nova lambs with initial weight of 12.2 ± 2.05 kg, were used. Five treatments were defined according to metabolizable energy (0.96; 1.28; 1.72; 2.18 and 2.62 Mcal/kg DM) levels. It was used a randomized block design. Animals were slaughtered when body weight mean (BW) of the group reached 25 kg. Linear effect was observed for digestibility coefficient of DM, OM, EE, CP, NDF, TC, FC and NFC. Daily weight gain (DWG) presented linear increase (P Foram avaliados os efeitos de diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável (EM) sobre a digestibilidade e características de carcaça em cordeiros Morada Nova. Utilizaram-se 40 cordeiros Morada Nova, com peso inicial de 12,2 ± 2,05 kg. Cinco tratamentos foram definidos de acordo com os níveis de energia metabolizável (0,96; 1,28; 1,72; 2,18 e 2,62 Mcal/kg MS), conduzidos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso. Os animais foram abatidos quando a média de peso corporal (PC) do grupo atingiu 25 kg. Foi observado efeito linear para o coeficiente de digestibilidade da MS, MO, EE, PB, FDN, CT, FC e NFC. O ganho de peso diário (GPD) apresentou aumento linear (P

The objective of this work was to determine the total carbohydrates fractions and to estimate the digestion rate of non-fibrous carbohydrates of agroindustrial byproducts by using the gas production technique. The agroindustrial byproducts evaluated were the following: cashew, passion fruit, pineapple, barbados cherry, annatto and melon, and each sample was incubated in quadruplicate. After mixing all contents thoroughly, the bottles were placed in an incubator at 39ºC, and connecting the lid of each bottle to a pressure sensitive switch, a solenoid valve and a vent stem connector. Gas pressure measurements were made at 0, 3, 6, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 40, 48, 60, 72, 96 e 120 hours post-inoculation. Blanks and an internal standard were included to enable adjustments in variation among readings. There was a high variation in nutritional composition of agroindustry byproducts, that cashew and annato presented the highest protein contents (159.3 and 135.3 g/kg of dry matter, respectively). Mellon and cashew presented the lowest values of total gas production (9.60 and 12.85 mL, respectively); and annato, pineapple and passion fruit presented highest gas volume (32.80; 28.16 and 22.54 mL, respectively), being the greatest percentages of phases from B2 fraction (64.27; 81.25 and 67.49%, respectively). Among the byproducts, pineapple and annatto stand out for the highest contribution of fibrous carbohydrate for total gas production, being B2 the main energy source for microbial growth, which is degraded at a slower rate than non-fibrous carbohydrate.Os objetivos deste trabalho foram determinar as frações de carboidratos totais e estimar a taxa de digestão dos carboidratos não-fibrosos de subprodutos agroindustriais, utilizando a técnica de produção de gás. Os subprodutos agroindustriais avaliados foram: caju, maracujá, abacaxi, acerola, urucum e melão, sendo cada amostra incubada em quadriplicata. Após mistura minuciosa de todos os conteúdos, as garrafas foram colocadas em estufa a 39ºC e foram conectadas a um interruptor sensível à pressão, com uma válvula solenóide e uma haste de ventilação. As medições de pressão do gás foram feitas a 0, 3, 6, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 40, 48, 60, 72, 96 e 120 horas após a incubação. Espaços em branco e um padrão interno foram incluídos para permitir ajustes na variação entre as leituras. Houve grande variação na composição nutricional dos subprodutos agroindustriais, sendo que caju e urucum apresentaram os maiores teores de proteína (159.3 e 135.3 g/kg de matéria seca, respectivamente). Melão e caju apresentaram os menores valores de produção total de gás (9,60 e 12,85 mL, respectivamente); e urucum, abacaxi e maracujá apresentaram maiores volumes (32,80; 28,16 e 22,54 mL, respectivamente), sendo os maiores percentuais da fração B2 (64,27; 81,25 e 67,49%, respectivamente). Entre os subprodutos agroindustriais, abacaxi e urucum destacaram-se pela maior contribuição dos carboidratos fibrosos para produção de gás total, sendo a fração B2 a principal fonte de energia para o crescimento microbiano, que é degradada em um ritmo mais lento do que os carboidratos não-fibrosos.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the environmental effects (age of dam at lambing, type of birth and sex of lamb) and genetic groups (Santa Inês and ½ Santa Inês) on weight and morphometric measurements (heart girth, body length and height) of lambs; to test linear and allometric regressions to predict the weight through the measurements; and to describe the type of growth of the measurements from weight. Weight and morphometric measurements were sampled from birth to 154 days of age, at every 14 days. For the evaluation of the environmental factors and to predict the regressions the data of birth, weaning and 154 days of age were used; and to determine the type of growth all the data collected were used. The lambs derived from younger (two-tooth) ewes recorded lower averages than the ones from eight-tooth ewes for weight, heart girth and body length at birth and length at weaning. The animals born from single births presented higher average weight from birth to weaning, as well as of all the measurements from birth to 154 days of age than those from twin births. There was no difference between the genetic groups Santa Inês and ½ Santa Inês. The correlations between the weight and measurements were significant, and it was possible to predict the weight from the morphometric measurements through regressions. The type of weight gain with heart girth was isometric, while with length it was positive allometric, and with height it was negative allometric. Thereby, in the absence of a scale it is possible to predict the weight from the morphometric measurements, and the type of birth is the most important factor that affects the development of lambs from birth to weaning.

Objetivou-se avaliar a substituição do farelo de soja pela torta de soja sobre as características de carcaça e qualidade da carne de cordeiros Santa Inês. Foram utilizados 29 machos inteiros, com 23,63 ± 2,44 kg de peso vivo, 80 dias de idade, distribuídos de maneira inteiramente casualizada, submetidos a cinco dietas, sendo que as dietas variaram nos teores de substituição do farelo de soja pela torta de soja de 0, 25, 50, 75 e 100%. Para cada teor de substituição foram utilizados seis animais, mas no teor de 25%, cinco animais. Foram realizadas avaliações das carcaças e retirou-se o Longissimus dorsi para análises da qualidade da carne. As características da carcaça não foram afetadas pelos diferentes teores de torta de soja. Observou-se efeito quadrático para a força de cisalhamento e efeito linear decrescente para a intensidade de odor, mas não foram observadas diferenças nos demais parâmetros. A substituição do farelo de soja pela torta de soja pode ser realizada sem prejuízo à maioria das características da carcaça e de carne e altos teores de torta de soja na dieta podem resultar em benefícios às qualidades sensoriais da carne de cordeiros recebendo dietas concentradas. Palavras-chave: análise sensorial; biodiesel; força de cisalhamento; morfometria; Santa Inês.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different metabolizable energy (ME) levels on weight of gastrointestinal content, weight and yield of the internal organs and gastrointestinal compartments of Morada Nova growing lambs. Thirty-two animals, non-castrated, with average body weight of 12.12 ± 1.69 kg and two months old approximately, were used. The animals were distributed into four different metabolizable energy (1.28; 1.72; 2.18 and 2.62 Mcal/kg DM) levels, in randomized block design with eight replicates per treatment. Tifton 85 hay was used as roughage. There was no effect of energy levels (P > 0.05) on weight of gastrointestinal content. Increased linear effect (P < 0.05) was observed for the weights of heart, “LTET” (lungs, trachea, esophagus and tongue), liver and spleen, expressed in kg. Regarding the compartments of the gastrointestinal tract, it was observed increased linear effect (P < 0.05) only for rumen-reticulum, in %, and small intestine, in kg. The perirenal, omental and mesenteric fats were also influenced by the ME levels (P < 0.05) with linear increase when expressed in kg and %. Increased levels of ME influence weight and yield of internal organs, viscera and fats of Morada Nova lambs during the growing period.Objetivou-se com o presente estudo avaliar o efeito de diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável (EM) sobre: peso do conteúdo do trato gastrintestinal, peso e rendimento dos órgãos internos e compartimentos gastrintestinais em ovinos Morada Nova em crescimento. Foram utilizados 32 animais, não castrados, com peso corporal médio de 12,12 ± 1,69 kg e, aproximadamente, dois meses de idade. Os animais foram distribuídos em quatro diferentes níveis de EM (1,28; 1,72; 2,18 e 2,62 Mcal/kg de MS), em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com oito repetições por nível de EM. O feno de Tifton 85 foi utilizado como volumoso. Não foi observado efeito (P > 0,05) dos níveis de energia sobre o peso do conteúdo gastrintestinal. Verificou-se efeito linear crescente (P < 0,05) dos níveis de EM sobre os pesos do coração, PTEL (pulmões, traqueia, esôfago e língua), fígado e baço, expressos em kg. Em relação aos compartimentos do trato gastrintestinal foi observado efeito linear crescente (P < 0,05) dos níveis de EM somente sobre o rúmen-retículo, em %, e intestino delgado, em kg. As gorduras perirrenal, omental e mesentérica foram influenciadas pelos níveis de EM (P < 0,05), com incremento linear para os pesos em kg e %. O aumento dos níveis de EM das rações influencia o peso e rendimento dos órgãos internos, vísceras e gorduras de ovinos Morada Nova em crescimento.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of sunflower cake (SC) inclusion in the diets of lactating dairy cows on dry matter (DM) intake, the apparent digestibility of dietary nutrients and nitrogen balance. Eight Holstein-Zebu cows with a milk yield of 20 ± 2 kg/day were allotted to a 4 × 4 replicated Latin square design, where were tested the effects of four levels of SC inclusion (0, 7, 14 and 21% of DM basis). Tifton-85 (Cynodon dactylon) hay was used as roughage in a 60:40 roughage:concentrate ratio. The SC inclusion had no effect on dry matter, crude protein, organic matter (OM) or total carbohydrate (TC) intake (kg/day). However, a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) was detected on neutral detergent fiber and non-fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) intake (kg/day). There were no effects of SC inclusion on OM, TC and NFC digestibility, as well as, for nitrogen balance. It was observed a linear effect for the basal endogenous nitrogen (g/day). Sunflower cake can be recommended as an ingredient in the rations of lactating dairy cows.O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes níveis de inclusão de torta de girassol (TG) na dieta de vacas em lactação sobre o consumo de matéria seca (MS), digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes da dieta e balanço de nitrogênio. Oito vacas Girolanda com produção diária de leite de 20 ± 2 kg/dia foram distribuídas em delineamento em quadrado latino duplo 4x4, em que foram testados os efeitos de quatro níveis de inclusão da TG (0, 7, 14 e 21% MS). Foi utilizado o feno de Tifton-85 (Cynodon dactylon) como volumoso em uma relação volumoso:concentrado de 60:40. A inclusão de TG não afetou o consumo (kg/dia) de MS, proteína bruta, matéria orgânica (OM) e carboidratos totais (CT). Entretanto, foi observado efeito quadrático (P < 0,05) no consumo (kg/dia) de fibra em detergente neutro e carboidratos não-fibrosos (CNF). Não houve efeito da inclusão de TG na digestibilidade de MO, CT e CNF, assim como para o balanço de nitrogênio. Foi observado efeito linear para o nitrogênio endógeno basal (g/dia). A torta de girassol pode ser recomendada como um ingrediente de rações para vacas em lactação.

Fish anesthesia is indicated for several management procedures such as capturing, biometry, tagging, transporting, physical examination, reproductive management and surgical procedures. In this study the dose of benzocaine hydrochloride necessary for tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus) anesthesia was determined through six phases with 240 fish. In each phase 40 fish were evaluated. The interval between phases was two months. Mean values for weight and (allometric condition factor), in each phase, were 25.64 (2.56), 167.58 (2.88), 286.12 (2.57), 388.24 (2.50), 518.19 (2.89), 592.71 (2.67), respectively. The values for allometric condition factors showed that the animals included in the experiments were in good body conditions (P > 0.05). In each phase, fishes were captured and kept in four containers with five liters of water and benzocaine hydrochloride diluted in 20 mL of ethanol, in concentrations of 100, 140, 180, and 220 mg/liter of water. The time of induction in seconds (TI) was registered for each fish, and after the anesthetic induction the biometric analysis was conducted at fixed time of 10 minutes. After, the fishes were transferred to containers with 20 liters of water under constant flow, in order to evaluate the recovering time in seconds (TR). At each phase the minimum dose of benzocaine hydrochloride concentration was calculated using LRP (Linear Response Plateau). The model included the dose of benzocaine (mg/L) and the time of induction in seconds. The values of LRP were, respectively, 146.60 and 67.45, 155.95 and 76.33, 160.45 and 87.42, 167.00 and 108.14, 165.87 and 174.03, 164.00 and 139.80. The optimum dose was related to the mean weight in each phase, resulting in the equation: Dose = 149.65 + 0.03183 x weigh (r2 = 0.73). This equation showed that an increase of 1g in the body weight corresponded to an increase of 0.032 mg/L in the dose of benzocaine hydrochloride.A anestesia em peixes é indicada para auxiliar a realização de diversos procedimentos como: captura, biometria, marcação, transporte, exame físico, procedimentos cirúrgicos e manejo reprodutivo. Neste experimento, determinou-se a dose de cloridrato de benzocaína na anestesia de tilápias (Oreochromis niloticus), com a realização de seis etapas com 240 peixes, sendo 40 peixes em cada etapa, em intervalo de dois meses. O peso médio e o (fator de condição alométrico) das tilápias em cada etapa foram de: 25,64 (2,5635); 167,58 (2,8776); 286,12 (2,5719); 388,24 (2,4955); 518,19 (2,8933); 592,71 (2,6750), respectivamente. O fator de condição alométrico mostrou que os animais utilizados no experimento estavam em boas condições (P > 0,05). Em cada etapa, os peixes foram capturados e colocados em quatro recipientes contendo 5 litros de água com benzocaína diluída em 20 ml de etanol, nas concentrações de 100, 140, 180 e 220 mg/litro de água. O tempo de indução em segundos (TI) foi registrado para cada peixe, e após a indução anestésica foi realizada a biometria no tempo fixo de 10 minutos. Após, os peixes foram transferidos para recipientes contendo 20 litros de água com renovação constante para avaliar o tempo de recuperação em segundos (TR). Em cada etapa, foi calculada a dose mínima de benzocaína através do LRP (Linear Response Plateu) em um modelo que incluiu a dose de benzocaína (mg/l) e tempo de indução em segundos. Os valores do LRP foram respectivamente: 146,60 e 67,45; 155,95 e 76,33; 160,45 e 87,42; 167,00 e 108,14; 165,87 e 174,03; 164,00 e 139,80. A dose ótima foi relacionada com o peso médio em cada fase resultando na equação: Dose = 149,65 + 0,03183 x peso, (r² = 0,73). Esta equação mostra que um aumento em 1g no peso corporal corresponde a 0,032 mg/l na dose de benzocaína.

This experiment was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effects of different levels of concentrate supplement in the pre and post-parturition periods on milk production and body score of dairy cow. 54 cows in a completely randomized design, distributed in 3 x 2 factorial arrangement, with 3 treatments, 2 periods and 9 repetitions for treatment, were used. The treatments with different levels of concentrate supplement (in dry basis) in the pre-parturition periods (PRE), were: PRE1 = 0% of the body weight (BW); PRE2 = 0.5% of the BW; PRE3 = 1.0% of the BW; and in the post-parturition (POS), were: POS1 = 1kg for each 2.5 kg of produced milk; POS2 = 1kg for each 2.0kg of produced milk and POS3 = 1kg for each 1.5kg of produced milk, above 6 kg of milk a day. The milk weight and body condition scores were evaluated every seven days. There was not significant difference among the treatments of PRÉ period for milk production, however, it was verified that the increase in the PRE supplementation, improved the average body condition of animals in post parturition period. In the treatments of POS period, there was positive and increasing effect with the increasing supplementation level, on milk production and medium body score of the animals. Improvement was not observed in the milk production with the increase of supplement in the PRE period, but in the POS period there was higher milk production with the increase supplement. There were not correlation among pre-parturition treatments and milk production, but there was correlation of these with body score to the parturition (r=0.66). There was correlation of supplement levels in the post parturition with medium body score (0.36) and with milk production (0.32). It can be concluded that the increasing supplement level in the pre-parturition period improves the body score but not the milk production of the animals. The increase of supplement in the post parturition period gets better so much the body score as the milk production. Este experimento teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de diferentes níveis de suplementação concentrada nos períodos pré-parto e pós-parto, sobre a produção de leite e o escore corporal de vacas leiteiras. Utilizaram-se 54 vacas em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, distribuídas em esquema fatorial 3 x 2, sendo 3 tratamentos, 2 períodos e 9 repetições por tratamento. Os tratamentos compreenderam diferentes níveis de suplementação de concentrado (em base seca) nos períodos pré-parto (PRE): PRE1= 0% do PV; PRE2= 0,5% do PV; PRE3= 1,0% do PV; e no pós-parto (POS): POS1= 1kg para cada 2,5 kg de leite produzido; POS2= 1kg para cada 2,0kg de leite produzido e POS3= 1kg para cada 1,5kg de leite produzido, acima de 6 kg de leite por dia. A pesagem do leite e a avaliação de escore corporal foram realizadas a cada sete dias. Não houve diferença significativa entre os tratamentos do período PRE para produção de leite, no entanto verificou-se que o aumento na suplementação PRE melhorou a condição corporal média dos animais no período pós-parto (P < 0,05). Nos tratamentos do período POS, houve efeito positivo e crescente com o aumento do nível de suplementação, sobre a produção de leite e escore corporal médio dos animais (P < 0,05). Não se observou melhora na produção de leite com o aumento da suplementação no período PRE, mas nos tratamentos POS houve maior produção de leite com o aumento da suplementação (P < 0,05). Não houve correlação de tratamento pré-parto e produção de leite, mas houve correlação destes com escore corporal dos animais ao parto (r=0,66). Houve correlação de níveis de suplementação no pós-parto com escore corporal médio (0,36) e com produção de leite (0,32). Pode-se concluir que o aumento do nível de suplementação no período pré-parto melhora o escore corporal mas não a produção de leite dos animais, e o aumento de suplementação nos tratamentos pós-parto melhoram tanto o escore corporal quanto a produção de leite.

This study evaluated the influence of rations with different levels of metabolizable energy on the content of total lipids, cholesterol and fatty acid profile of the longissimus dorsi of Santa Ines lambs. Twenty Santa Ines lambs were used, with age and body weight of 50 days and 13.0 kg ± 0.56 kg, respectively, fed rations with different energy levels: 2.08; 2.28; 2.47 e 2.69 Mcal/kgDM. Animals were weighed weekly to follow their body weight gain (BWG); when the mean BW of the treatment reached 28 kg, the animals were slaughtered. The analysis of the lipid profile of Longissimus dorsi presented linear increasing and decreasing for the Cis-10 heptadecanoic acid (C17:1) and eicosatrienoic (C20:3), respectively, with the increasing dietary energy levels (P < 0.05). Cholesterol levels (mg/100g) decreased in relation to the increase in energy levels in the diet. The relations polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA): saturated fatty acids (SFA); PUFA: monounsaturated fatty acids (MUA), MUA: SFA, desirable fatty acids, w-6:w-3, atherogenicity index, thrombogenicity index, relation between hypocholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic fatty acids and the relation (C18:0+C18:1):C16:0 were not affected by energy levels (P>0.05). The dietary manipulation influences the lipid profile in Longissimus dorsi of Santa Ines lambs.O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a influência de rações com diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável sobre o teor de lipídeos totais, colesterol e perfil de ácidos graxos no músculo Longissimus dorsi de cordeiros Santa Inês. Foram utilizados 20 cordeiros, com idade e peso de 50 dias e 13,0 kg ± 0,56 kg, respectivamente, alimentados com rações contendo diferentes níveis energéticos: 2,08; 2,28; 2,47 e 2,69 Mcal/kgMS. Os animais foram pesados semanalmente para acompanhamento do ganho de peso vivo, quando a média do peso vivo do tratamento atingiu 28 kg, os animais foram abatidos. A análise do perfil lipídico do músculo Longissimus dorsi apresentou efeito linear crescente e decrescente para os ácidos Cis-10 heptadecanóico (C17:1) e eicosatrienóico (C20:3), respectivamente, com o aumento nos níveis de energia dietéticos (P 0,05). A manipulação dietética influencia o perfil lipídico no Longissimus dorsi de cordeiros Santa Inês.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of feeding energy levels during the last third of gestation and lactation on performance of ewes and lambs up to weaning. The experiment was carried out in the sheep raising sector of Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), from August to December of 2007. Thirty-two adult lambs with 105 days of gestation, average live weight of 57.55 kg and average body condition scores of 3.42 were used in the beginning of the experiment. The animals were confined in collective pens, distributed randomly in three treatments: 2.4; 2.2 and 2.0 Mcal of metabolizable energy (ME)/kg of dry matter (DM). Feed supply was ad libitum during the last third of gestation and lactation. Weaning occurred at 70 days. Body weight, body condition score and milk production of ewes and body weight of the lambs were analyzed. There were no significant differences for body weight and body condition of ewes at lambing; however, the level of 2.4 Mcal enabled better results for those characteristics at weaning and higher gain in weight and body condition scoring during the experiment. Severe energetic restriction (2.0 Mcal ME/kg DM) determined lower average daily milk production. Lambs from levels 2.4 and 2.2 presented similar weights in all measurements and were superior to those in level 2.0. Lambs from level 2.4 presented higher average weight gain from birth to weaning. The energetic restriction upon lambs at the end of gestation and during lactation limits the performance of ewes and lambs up to weaning.

The objective of this trial was to evaluate the effect of the addition of chemical and bacterial additive in the ensiling of sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum L.) on chemical composition, pH, kinectic fraction and in situ degradation of nutritions components of silages. Five rumen-cannulated ½ Simental + ½ Zebu steers were allotted to a completely randomized design. The steers were placed in individual cages and they were fed with diets with 76% forage (%DM). Five silages were evaluated: control – sugar cane, no additives; urea – sugar cane + 0.5% of urea (wet basis); inoculant – sugar cane inoculated with LactoSilo® (390 g/40 t forage); NaOH – sugar cane + 1.0% of sodium hydroxide (wet basis); CaOH – sugar cane + 0.6% of calcium hydroxide (wet basis). The silage additives with sodium hydroxide showed the highest pH values before (11.20) and after (4.87) for silage. No differences were observed among the silages for dry matter (26.85), crude protein (5.25) and acid detergent fiber (57.21). Fractionation of dry matter and organic matter of silages showed similar behavior, with higher values of the soluble fraction (fraction A) for silages with sodium hydroxide (45.86 and 30.95%) and calcium hydroxide (29.47 and 26.13%). The use of sodium hydroxide allowed obtaining higher values for the degradation of cell wall components of silages from cane sugar. The potencial and effective degradability with 3, 5 and 8%/h of passage rate were respectively 88.44, 64.45, 56.73 and 49.83% for NDF and 82.57, 55.51, 46.72 and 38.83% for ADF, indicating that the use of sodium hydroxide as chemical additives can improve the nutritive value of cane sugar silage.Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da inclusão de aditivos químicos e bacterianos na ensilagem de cana-de-açúcar sobre a composição, pH, fracionamento e cinética de degradação in situ dos componentes nutritivos. Utilizaram-se cinco bovinos ½ Simental + ½ Zebu providos de cânula ruminal, alocados em delineamento inteiramente casualizado e alimentados com dietas contendo 76% de volumoso (% MS). Foram avaliadas cinco silagens: controle – cana-de-açúcar sem aditivo; uréia – cana-de-açúcar acrescida de 1,0% de uréia na massa verde; inoculante – cana-de-açúcar inoculada com LactoSilo® na proporção de 390 g/40 t material ensilado; NaOH – cana-de-açúcar hidrolisada com hidróxido de sódio a 1,0% do material ensilado; CaOH – cana-de-açúcar hidrolisada com hidróxido de cálcio a 0,6% do material ensilado. A silagem aditivada com hidróxido de sódio apresentou os maiores valores de pH antes (11,20) e após (4,87) a ensilagem. Não houve diferença para os teores de matéria seca (MS), proteína bruta e e fibra em detergente ácido entre as silagens avaliadas, com valores médios de 26,85; 5,25 e 57,21, respectivamente. O fracionamento da MS e da matéria orgânica das silagens avaliadas apresentaram comportamento semelhante, com maiores valores da fração solúvel (A) para as silagens aditivadas com hidróxido de sódio (45,86 e 30,95%) e hidróxido de cálcio (29,47 e 26,13%). A utilização do hidróxido de sódio possibilitou obtenção de maiores valores para a degradabilidade dos componentes da parede celular da silagem de cana-de-açúcar. A degradabilidade potencial para a FDN e FDA foram, respectivamente, 88,44 e 82,57% e os valores relatados para degradabilidade efetiva à taxa de passagem de 3; 5 e 8%/h foram, respectivamente; 64,45; 56,73 e 49,83 para a FDN e 55,51; 46,72 e 38,83 para a FDA, indicando que a utilização de hidróxido de sódio como aditivo químico pode melhorar o valor nutritivo da cana-de-açúcar ensilada.

Ingestive behavior of steers grazing in four heights of Tanzânia grass was evaluated. 12 paddocks of one hectare each, with three replicates for each height, and three males Nelore cattle, per paddock, more regulators at the time, were used. Time and time daytime grazing, ruminating and resting, rate of eating and rumination, length of grazing cycles and rumination, were observed. Forage samples were collected at ground level and grazing simulation to assess possible selectivity. The experimental design was completely randomized, and analysis of variance was performed for continuous variables to regression procedures, and discrete variables in tests of means (P < 0.05). The highest heights had high bit rates, while the smallest was higher expenditure of time in search for forage mass. Grazing time decreased linearly as increased the canopy height, however the opposite was observed for rumination. At all canopy heights was observed selectivity of forage for the animals. Foi avaliado o comportamento ingestivo de bovinos em quatro alturas de pastejo do capim Tanzânia. Foram utilizados 12 piquetes de um hectare cada, com três repetições para cada altura, utilizando três bovinos nelore, machos por piquete, mais reguladores de altura. Foram observados horários e tempo diurno de pastejo, ruminação e ócio, taxa de bocados e ruminações, duração dos ciclos de pastejo e ruminação, além de serem colhidas amostras de forragem ao nível do solo e por simulação de pastejo para avaliar possível seletividade de forragem pelos animais. O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, e foi realizada análise de variância, sendo que nas variáveis contínuas aplicaram-se a regressão, e nas variáveis discretas, testes de médias (P < 0,05). A taxa de bocados apresentou comportamento linear crescente conforme aumento da altura do dossel, enquanto que nas menores houve maior dispêndio de tempo na busca por massa de forragem. O tempo de pastejo foi linear decrescente conforme aumento da altura do dossel, mas o contrário foi observado para ruminação. Em todas as alturas foi observada seletividade de forragem pelos animais.

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the energy levels in the diet of ewes in the last third of gestation and lactation on body measurements and weights of lambs from birth to weaning. As secondary objectives were also evaluated the effects of year of birth, sex of the lamb, type of birth and age of the ewe at lambing on the same characteristics. Forty-five Santa Inês lambs were evaluated. They were born from 40 ewes distributed randomly to three treatments: 2.0, 2.2 and 2.4 Mcal of metabolizable energy/kg of dry matter). Ewes were subjected to the experimental diets during the last third of gestation and lactation. Lambs were kept with their mothers until weaning, which occurred at 70 days. Feeding energy level did not affect traits measured on the lambs at birth. Regression analysis showed a linear increasing in all traits at weaning and in average daily gain until weaning as the energy level increased. Male lambs were heavier at birth and at weaning. All morphometric measurements performed were similar between males and females, except for thoracic perimeter at 70 days, which was higher in male lambs. Single lambs were larger and heavier than twin lambs. Lambs born from ewes of intermediate age (4 and 6 teeth) showed higher means for average daily weight gain. Among morphometric measurements, thoracic perimeter showed the best correlation to body weight at birth and at weaning. Besides the nutrition of the ewe, it is important to consider other environmental factors that affect animal’s growth characteristics by acting on the expression of genetic potential.

Consumers believe tenderness to be most important organoleptic characteristic of meat. However, there is great variability in the tenderness of meat available to consumers; one method to reduce the variability and improve tenderness would be to promote meat aging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of aged ewe meat. The experiment was conducted at the State University of Londrina. It was used eighteen Santa Ines ewes. After slaughter, the Longissimus dorsi muscle were collected and subjected to treatment, three different aging times: zero, four and eight days at 5 ± 2°C. The increase in aging time caused a decrease in pH. The L*, a* and c* values increase linearly with the aging period. The b* and h* values showed a quadratic regression. The mesophilic and psychrotrophic count showed a linear increase. The myofibrillar fragmentation index showed a quadratic regression, and the shear force decreased linearly. In a sensory analysis, a difference in the odor intensity of the meat was observed. The microbiological count indicated that the meat was fit for consumption. The aging promoted improvements in the quality of sheep meat. Os consumidores acreditam que a maciez é a característica organoléptica mais importante da carne. No entanto, há grande variabilidade na maciez da carne disponível para os consumidores, um método de reduzir a variabilidade e melhorar a maciez seria promover a maturação da carne. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade da carne maturada de ovelhas. O experimento foi conduzido na Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Foram utilizadas 18 ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Após o abate, o músculo Longissimus dorsi foram coletados e submetidos ao tratamento, três diferentes tempos de maturação: zero, quatro e oito dias a 5 ± 2 ° C. O aumento do tempo de maturação provocou uma redução no pH. Os valores de L *, a * e c* aumentam de forma linear com o tempo de maturação. Os valores b * e h * apresentaram uma regressão quadrática. A contagem de mesófilos e psicrotróficos apresentaram um aumento linear. O índice de fragmentação miofibrilar apresentou uma regressão quadrática, e a força de cisalhamento diminuiu linearmente. Na análise sensorial, uma diferença na intensidade de odor da carne foi observada. A contagem microbiológica indicou que a carne estava apta para consumo. A maturação promoveu melhorias na qualidade da carne de ovelhas.