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Background: There is a growing focus on using various plant-derived agricultural by-products to increase the benefits of pig farming, but these feedstuffs are fibrous in nature. This study investigated the relationship between dietary fiber physicochemical properties and feedstuff fermentation characteristics and their effects on nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and gut microbiota in growing pigs. Methods: Thirty-six growing barrows (47.2 ± 1.5 kg) were randomly allotted to 6 dietary treatments with 2 apparent viscosity levels and 3 β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios. In the experiment, nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, fecal microbial community, and production and absorption of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) of pigs were investigated. In vitro digestion and fermentation models were used to compare the fermentation characteristics of feedstuffs and ileal digesta in the pig's hindgut. Results: The production dynamics of SCFA and dry matter corrected gas production of different feedstuffs during in vitro fermentation were different and closely related to the physical properties and chemical structure of the fiber. In animal experiments, increasing the dietary apparent viscosity and the β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased the apparent ileal digestibility (AID), apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and hindgut digestibility of fiber components while decreasing the AID and ATTD of dry matter and organic matter (P < 0.05). In addition, increasing dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased gas exchange, heat production, and protein oxidation, and decreased energy deposition (P < 0.05). The dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios had linear interaction effects on the digestible energy, metabolizable energy, retained energy (RE), and net energy (NE) of the diets (P < 0.05). At the same time, the increase of dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased SCFA production and absorption (P < 0.05). Increasing the dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios increased the diversity and abundance of bacteria (P < 0.05) and the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. Furthermore, increasing the dietary β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios led to a linear increase in SCFA production during the in vitro fermentation of ileal digesta (P < 0.001). Finally, the prediction equations for RE and NE were established. Conclusion: Dietary fiber physicochemical properties alter dietary fermentation patterns and regulate nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and pig gut microbiota composition and metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global goat population continues to grow, and simultaneously, fodder demand is increasing, despite the fact that feed resources are limited, and thus, new unconventional feed resources should be explored. The present study focuses on the nutrient utilization of ten top feeds viz. Acacia nilotica, Celtis australis, Ficus palmata, Ficus religiosa, Grewia optiva, Melia azadarach, Morus alba, Quercus incana, Salix alba and Zizyphus jujuba. Twelve adult, non-descript local male goats (27.02 ± 2.93 kg, 14 ± 2 months old) were randomly assigned to two equal groups. The control group was fed a conventional concentrate mixture (CON), while the treatment group received a leaf meal-based concentrate mixture (LMM). Both groups were provided ad libitum access to wheat straw as forage. The outcome of body weight changes revealed non-significant (P > 0.05) variations between groups. The dry matter intake (DMI), organic matter intake (OMI), and balance of nutrients (viz. calcium, phosphorus and nitrogen) showed non-significant differences (P > 0.05) between groups. The digestibility of all the nutrients were similar between groups. All the blood biochemicals were within normal physiological range without any significant difference (P > 0.05) between dietary treatments. The animals provided with LMM based rations showed better humoral immune response, however, cell-mediated immune (CMI) response was similar (P > 0.05) among both groups. So, it can be concluded that leaf meal mixture can be incorporated up to 15% level in the concentrate mixture of adult goats without affecting their nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, blood-biochemical profile, and cell-mediated immune response, with better humoral immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Weaning is a critical period for piglets, often associated with reduced growth performance and increased susceptibility to diseases. Dietary supplements such as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and Bacillus licheniformis (BL) may improve piglet health and performance during this transition. Aims: To investigate the effects of dietary FOS and BL supplementation, individually and in combination, on growth performance, health status, nutrient digestibility, hematological parameters, and organ development in weaned piglets. Methods: In total, 240 weaned piglets were allocated into the following six treatments: control, 0.2% FOS, 0.4% FOS, BL, 0.2% FOS + BL, and 0.4% FOS + BL. Growth performance, morbidity rates, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and organ indices were evaluated over the experimental period. Key results: The 0.4% FOS + BL group showed significant improvements in feed conversion ratio, reduced morbidity rates, enhanced nutrient digestibility (crude protein, crude fiber, and phosphorus), increased total protein, albumin, and albumin:globulin ratio, reduced blood urea nitrogen, improved white blood cell and lymphocyte counts, and enhanced spleen and pancreatic organ indices. BL supplementation distinctively influenced liver-enzyme profiles, suggesting metabolic adaptation rather than hepatic stress. Blood urea nitrogen was reduced in BL and 0.4% FOS + BL groups. Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with 0.4% FOS and BL synergistically benefited weaned piglets by improving growth performance, enhancing feed efficiency, and reducing morbidity rates. This treatment also enhanced nutrient utilization, positively affected blood parameters, and promotes the development of spleen and pancreatic organs. Implications: The combination of 0.4% FOS and BL shows potential as an effective feed-additive strategy to enhance growth and immune responses in weaned piglets, potentially reducing the need for antibiotics and promoting sustainable pig production. Weaning stress can severely affect piglet growth, nutrient utilization and immune function. This study found that combining dietary supplements fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and Bacillus licheniformis (BL) significantly improved feed efficiency, nutrient digestibility, protein metabolism, immune-cell counts, and organ developments in weaned piglets. These findings have highlighted a sustainable, antibiotic-free strategy to support piglet development during the critical weaning transition, promoting healthier and more efficient pig-farming practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the effects of supplementing Commelina forage species on nutrient uptake, weight gain, and economic viability in Black Head Ogaden lambs. Twenty yearling lambs were used in four treatments with five replicates in randomized complete block design. The treatments included Teff straw + 120 g dried Moringa stenopetala leaves (DMSL) for treatment 1 (T1), Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g C.benghalensis (T2), Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g C.imberbis (T3) and Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g concentrate (T4). A 60-day feeding trial was followed by a 10-day digestibility investigation. The study used SAS 9.0 for data analysis; the Duncan multiple range test for mean separation and partial budget analysis for financially feasibility testing. With better responses in T4 followed by T3, T2, and T1, supplementation significantly improved total DM, nutritional intakes, and apparent digestibility (P < 0.001). The two Commelina species and conventional concentrate-supplemented treatments resulted in average daily weight gains of 47.58 and 72.69 g, respectively but the former treatments produced higher marginal returns (2.02) than the later ones (0.22). With promising profit, Commelina species could be used as a supplement to improve the animals' nutrient uptake and growth efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

60-days trial was performed to study the effect of inland saline water (ISW) at 10ppt salinity on lipid requirement of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) juveniles. Six purified iso-nitrogenous (37% crude protein) and hetero-caloric (380–430 Kcal DE/100 g) diets having graded levels of dietary lipid viz., 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14% were prepared. Two hundred and seventy acclimated GIFT juveniles (1.90 ± 0.1 g) were randomly distributed (15 fish per 300 L tank) into six different treatments viz., T4, T6, T8, T10, T12 and T14 in triplicates. The increase in dietary lipid resulted in an increase in body lipid and a diminution in moisture levels in fish. There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in weight gain (g), percent weight gain (WG%), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and feed efficiency ratio (FER) with increasing dietary lipid level up to 8% and decreased thereafter, but an opposite trend was noted in the feed conversion ratio (FCR). The serum glucose level linearly elevated with the rise in dietary lipid level, but higher lipid (beyond 8%) fed groups showed significantly (p < 0.05) more total protein in serum. Though there was a significant (p < 0.05) difference in cholesterol levels, no clear trend was observed; while other parameters viz., body indices (VSI and HSI), serum albumin, globulin and A-G ratio was not showed any significant (p > 0.05) variation with varying dietary lipid level. Based on regression models, it was observed that the optimum lipid level required for GIFT in ISW (10ppt) is in the range of 8.35–9.05%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background There is a growing focus on using various plant-derived agricultural by-products to increase the benefits of pig farming, but these feedstuffs are fibrous in nature. This study investigated the relationship between dietary fiber physicochemical properties and feedstuff fermentation characteristics and their effects on nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and gut microbiota in growing pigs. Methods Thirty-six growing barrows (47.2 ± 1.5 kg) were randomly allotted to 6 dietary treatments with 2 apparent viscosity levels and 3 β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios. In the experiment, nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, fecal microbial community, and production and absorption of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) of pigs were investigated. In vitro digestion and fermentation models were used to compare the fermentation characteristics of feedstuffs and ileal digesta in the pig’s hindgut. Results The production dynamics of SCFA and dry matter corrected gas production of different feedstuffs during in vitro fermentation were different and closely related to the physical properties and chemical structure of the fiber. In animal experiments, increasing the dietary apparent viscosity and the β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased the apparent ileal digestibility (AID), apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and hindgut digestibility of fiber components while decreasing the AID and ATTD of dry matter and organic matter (P

Abstract Flavors are widely utilized in the food and oral pharmaceutical industry, particularly in products for children, to enhance palatability and promote ingestion willingness. The complex compositions of flavors potentially induce severer toxicity especially in children. In this study, zebrafish embryos are applied for toxicity screening of flavor and its compounds by immersing in flavor solutions followed by the assessment of morphology of zebrafish larvae. Geraniol is identified as the prominent toxic compound and is considered highly toxic to zebrafish embryo. In further toxicology study, geraniol demonstrates the concentration‐dependent developmental toxicity as the obvious reduction of body and eye lengths, as well as the increased prevalence of tail deformities, pericardial edema, and spine deformation. Zebrafish larvae treated with geraniol exhibit reduction in liver area and exocrine pancreas length, increase in yolk sac area, as well as elevation of triglycerides and total cholesterol, which indicate the inhibited nutrient utilization. Transcriptome analysis reveals that under geraniol treatment, 248 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are downregulated, whereas 23 DEGs are upregulated, and 110 DEGs are related to metabolic process. Biological processes of lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, protein hydrolysis, and transmembrane transport, including their involved functional genes, are all downregulated. These findings reveal the developmental toxicity of geraniol by affecting the nutrient utilization‐related organs development and biological processes. This study establishes an efficient screening model for identifying toxic flavor compounds during developing stages, thereby elucidating the potential safety risks of geraniol exposure in zebrafish and providing a comprehensive understanding of its potential toxicity mechanism.

Abstract This study focuses on the effects of different levels of sodium selenite on the growth, selenium content, and antioxidant capacity of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens). The experiment used different doses of sodium selenite for treatment, including a basic diet with no supplements (control) and diets supplemented with 10 mg/kg (Se10), 20 mg/kg (Se20), 30 mg/kg (Se30), and 40 mg/kg (Se40) sodium selenite, and results show that sodium selenite supplementation significantly increases selenium content and improves selenium utilization and antioxidant capacity (P

Background and Aim: With the increasing cost of bulk raw materials and advancements in the feed enzyme industry, corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) have shown more opportunities for use in broiler diets. Supplementation with multiple enzymes could mitigate anti-nutritional factors in DDGS, enhance nutrient digestibility, and thereby increase its utilization in broiler diets, leading to reduced feed costs. This study evaluated the effects of multienzyme supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilization, intestinal morphology, and pellet quality in broiler chickens fed diets containing conventional levels of DDGS (C-DDGS) and higher levels of DDGS (H-DDGS). Materials and Methods: A total of 800 1-day-old Cobb 500 chicks was assigned to four dietary treatments with eight replicates of 25 birds each: C-DDGS (5% DDGS in Starter and 10% in Grower), C-DDGS + Enzyme (C-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme), H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + Enzyme (H-DDGS diet supplemented with multienzyme, 10% DDGS in Starter and 20% in Grower), and H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + Enzyme. Results: The C-DDGS + enzyme diet increased (p < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG), reduced the feed conversion ratio, enhanced (p < 0.05) digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein, and hemicellulose (HC), and improved (p < 0.05) intestinal villus height and villus: crypt ratio of broilers. The H-DDGS (10% and 20%) + enzyme diet exhibited no difference in (p > 0.05) growth performance, nutrient digestibility (except HC), and intestinal morphological parameters, whereas the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) + enzyme diet decreased (p < 0.05) feed intake and BWG and reduced (p < 0.05) energy and DM digestibility by impact (p < 0.05) intestinal morphology compared with the C-DDGS enzyme-free diet. The H-DDGS diet had lower (p < 0.05) pellet hardness and poorer durability than the C-DDGS diet. Conclusion: Supplementing multienzyme in the C-DDGS (5% and 10%) diet improved growth performance from day 0 to 28 and diminished growth performance in the H-DDGS (15% and 30%) diet by influencing intestinal morphology and feed pellet quality in broiler chickens. In addition, when supplemented with multienzyme, the dietary DDGS level can be safely included at levels of 10% in 0–7 days and 20% in 8–28 days of age.

Objectives: The substitution of chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives presents a viable strategy for enhancing soil quality and boosting agricultural productivity. However, the question remains whether organic–inorganic compound fertilizers (COIFs) can sustain improved soil quality and crop yields while reducing chemical fertilizer use. The underlying mechanisms of COIF's impact still warrant further exploration. Methods: In this study, a long-term fertilization trial was conducted from 2020 to 2023 at two sites with different soil textures and types in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain, China. The experiment involved three fertilization treatments, each replicated three times: (1) LCF (conventional fertilizer treatment); (2) COIF1 (COIF applied at 90% of the recommended rate); and (3) COIF2 (COIF applied at 80% of the recommended rate). The objective was to assess the effects of COIF on summer maize growth, grain yield, nutrient uptake and utilization, and soil quality. Results: Compared to LCF, COIF1 in Yantai and Dezhou increased biomass by 6.4% and 8.1%, grain yield by 5.9% and 4.12%, PFP (N, P, and K) by 17.6% and 15.7%, and soil quality by 563.6% and 462.5%, respectively. No significant differences in biomass and grain yield were observed between COIF2 and LCF, yet COIF1 in Yantai and Dezhou enhanced PFP (N, P, and K) by 19.7% and 18.6%, and soil quality by 109.1% and 175.0%, respectively. In conclusion, COIF improved soil quality by enhancing soil organic matter (SOM), available nutrients, pH, and other soil indices. It promoted summer maize growth, increased grain yield, and improved nutrient utilization. COIF was a practical and effective measure to reduce chemical fertilizer use, enhance field soil quality, and ultimately increase maize yield and nutrient utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Verticillium dahliae, a soil-borne fungal pathogen, can cause cotton Verticillium wilt. In this study, VdP5CDH, the member of the ALDH_F4- 17 family of carboxylate dehydrogenases, was identified in the genome of V. dahliae and investigated function in regulating virulence by generating gene deletion mutants and complementary mutants. Methods: Homologous recombination method was used to construct mutants, transcriptome sequencing revealed gene-related metabolic pathways, and disease degree of cotton was observed through pathogen infection experiments. Results: The conidial surface of VdP5CDH deletion strains was dented and shriveled, and the number of conidial spores increased. Compared with the wild-type (WT), the mycelial diameter of deletion mutants increased by 10.59%-11.16%, the mycelial growth showed irregular branching patterns, and misaligned arrangement. Although capable of penetrating cellophane, deletion mutants were unable to produce melanin. VdP5CDH was mainly associated with glucose metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, ABC transporter activity as well as various amino acid metabolic processes. After gene knockout, raffinose and pectin were used as the main carbon sources to promote the growth of strains and the growth rate of deletion strains in the medium containing raffinose was higher than that of WT. Consequently, the deletion mutant strains decreased utilization efficiency with which they utilized various nitrogen sources. The deletion mutants maintain responsiveness to osmotic stress and oxidative stress stimuli. Additionally, compared to WT strains, the deletion mutant strains exhibited differences in culture temperature tolerance, UV exposure response, and fungicide sensitivity. After cotton was infected with deletion strains conidial suspension, its disease index increased dramatically, while it gradually decreased after spraying with 2 mM glutamate in batches. With the increase of spraying times, the effect was more significant, and the disease index decreased by 18.95%-19.66% at 26 dpi. Discussion: These results indicated that VdP5CDH regulates the pathogenicity of fungi and controls mycelia growth, melanin formation, conidia morphology, abiotic stress resistance, and the expression of infecting structure-related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the effects of supplementing Commelina forage species on nutrient uptake, weight gain, and economic viability in Black Head Ogaden lambs. Twenty yearling lambs were used in four treatments with five replicates in randomized complete block design. The treatments included Teff straw + 120 g dried Moringa stenopetala leaves (DMSL) for treatment 1 (T1), Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g C.benghalensis (T2), Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g C.imberbis (T3) and Teff straw + 120 g DMSL + 300 g concentrate (T4). A 60-day feeding trial was followed by a 10-day digestibility investigation. The study used SAS 9.0 for data analysis; the Duncan multiple range test for mean separation and partial budget analysis for financially feasibility testing. With better responses in T4 followed by T3, T2, and T1, supplementation significantly improved total DM, nutritional intakes, and apparent digestibility (P

The use of agricultural and food industry waste as animal feed is considered as best option to fill feed shortage gap and efficient utilization of available resources within food-feed production circularity. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of combined fruit waste meal utilization between Woyito-Guji bucks’ vs. Doyo-Gena rams in a 2 × 4 randomized crossover design with two species, four diets and four periods. The treatments were grass hay with 0% fruit waste (FW) + 100% concentrate mix (CM) (T1), 25% FW + 75% CM (T2), 50% FW + 50% CM (T3) and 75% FW + 25% CM (T4). Regardless of species variation, T1, T2 and T3 had comparable (p > 0.05) body weight gain and feed conversion efficiency values higher (p

Aim: A study was methodized to evaluate whether supplementation of probiotics could impact the utilization of nutrients and energy in Asian elephants. Materials and Methods: Eighteen elephants were randomly selected for 60 days experiment including five days of the digestibility trial and divided into three groups with six elephants each i.e. control with no probiotic (T1) and the other two with probiotics Lactobacillus acidophilus in T2 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in T3 groups at 1 × 109 CFU/gm concentrate per 50 kg body weight/ day orally. Results: The intakes of ether extract and total ash revealed significant whereas the digestibility coefficients of total ash and acid-insoluble ash exhibited a highly significant effect of treatment. However, other values of intakes and the digestibility coefficients of proximate principles and fibre fractions could not reveal any significant effect. Practical nutritional worth, plane of nutrition and energy balance profile were also found to be nonsignificant among the groups. Increasing trend of intake and the digestibility of energy; and the relative difference was associated with increased DM intake and NDF digestibility. The mean values for TDN%, NR, digestible DM and OM intakes and TDN intake were obtained to be higher for probiotic supplemented groups than the control group. Conclusion: It is concluded that probiotic supplementation could not exhibit any significant effect on nutrients and energy utilization in elephants. However, further research is needed to examine the effects of high doses, strain and viability of the probiotics.

Achyranthes japonica extract (AJE) is derived from a medicinal plant Achyranthes japonica, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. AJE contains multiple bioactive compounds, including saponins, triterpenoids, phytoecdysteroids, 20-hydroxyecdysone, and inokosterone. The aim of this investigation was to examine the impact of AJE as a phytogenic feed additive on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, excreta microbial count, noxious gas emissions, breast meat quality in broilers. About three hundred and sixty, day-old broilers (Ross 308) were assigned into four treatments (five replication cages/treatment, and 18 birds/cage). Dietary treatments: CON, basal diet; 0.02% AJE, basal diet with 0.02%; 0.04% AJE, basal diet with 0.04% AJE, and 0.06% AJE, basal diet with 0.06% of AJE. Body weight gain increased linearly (p < 0.05) through the inclusion of AJE during days 7 to 21, 21 to 35, as well as the entire experimental period. Besides, feed intake increased (p < 0.05) linearly during days 21 to 35 and the entire experiment with the increased AJE doses in broiler diet. Dry matter digestibility was increased (p < 0.05) linearly along with increasing amounts of AJE. With increasing AJE supplementation, nitrogen and energy utilization tended to improve (p < 0.10). In summary, the addition of AJE in the corn-soybean meal diet led to higher body weight gain and increased feed intake as well as enhanced nutrient digestibility, among them the highest improvement was found in 0.06%-AJE indicating the acceptance of AJE as a phytogenic feed additive.

In a 42-day study, 195 [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc)] piglets, weighing 6.52 ± 0.59 kg, were randomly assigned to three treatment groups with 13 replicates and 5 pigs (3 barrows and 2 gilts) per pen, and used to evaluate the impact of weaning pig diets containing almond hulls (AHs) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, faecal microbiome, noxious gas emissions, and faecal score. The following dietary treatment groups were applied: basal diet as control, basal diet + 3% AH as TRT1; basal diet + 6% AH as TRT2. At the end of the experiment, the average daily gain and gain-to-feed ratio showed an increasing trend. However, despite these changes, the average daily feed intake remained constant, as did nutrient digestibility, faecal microbiome (Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Lactobacillus), and faecal score. Among the noxious gases, only NH3 tended to decrease, while other gases (CO2, H2S, methyl mercaptans, acetic acid) remained stable. These findings indicated that the inclusion of AHs in the diet could improve growth performance and reduce NH3 gas production without negative impact on nutrient absorption, microbial populations, and faecal score in weaned piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on eighteen male goats to evaluate the effect of incremental levels of select dietary trace minerals on growth performance, nutrient utilization and minerals balance. Animals (16.65 ± 0.53 kg average BW) were randomly divided into three groups and fed a basal diet to meet the requirement of all the nutrients except select trace minerals for 60 days. Groups were T1 (0.204 ppm Se, 35.29 ppm Zn, 7.37 ppm Cu, 39.79 ppm Mn), T2 (0.504 ppm Se, 55.29 ppm Zn, 17.37 ppm Cu, 59.79 ppm Mn), and T3 (0.804 ppm Se, 75.29 ppm Zn, 27.37 ppm Cu, 79.79 ppm Mn). Daily dry matter intake (DMI) (% BW) was lower (P < 0.05) in T3 as compared to other groups however, average daily gain (ADG) in body weight (P = 0.113) and feed: gain ratio (P = 0.102) showed subtle improvement in T2 and T3 groups. Feeding of higher levels of select trace minerals did not affect the intake and digestibility of nutrients, or plane of nutrition, however, the digestibility of non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) increased (P = 0.004) in T2 and T3 groups than T1. The balance of N, Ca, P and Cu did not differ among the groups but balance of Zn, Mn and Se increased in T2 and T3 groups than T1 group. It is concluded that feeding higher levels of Zn (75.29 ppm), Cu (27.37 ppm), Mn (79.79 ppm) and Se (0.804 ppm) in combination, improved NFC digestibility, retention of Zn, Mn and Se and had subtle beneficial effects on the growth performance of male goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and fertilizer are crucial in rice growth, with irrigation and fertilizer management exhibiting synergies. In a two-year field study conducted in Yiyang City, Hunan Province, we examined the impact of three irrigation strategies—wet-shallow irrigation (W1), flooding irrigation (W2), and the "thin, shallow, wet, dry irrigation" method (W3)—in combination with distinct fertilizer treatments (labeled F1, F2, F3, and F4, with nitrogen application rates of 0, 180, 225, and 270 kg ha−1, respectively) on rice yield generation and water–fertilizer utilization patterns. The study employed Hybrid Rice Xin Xiang Liang you 1751 (XXLY1751) and Yue Liang you Mei Xiang Xin Zhan (YLYMXXZ) as representative rice cultivars. Key findings from the research include water, fertilizer, variety, and year treatments, which all significantly influenced the yield components of rice. Compared to W2, W1 in 2022 reduced the amount of irrigation water by 35.2%, resulting in a 42.0~42.8% increase in irrigation water productivity and a 25.7~25.9% increase in total water productivity. In 2023, similar improvements were seen. Specifically, compared with other treatments, the W1F3 treatment increased nitrogen uptake and harvest index by 1.4–7.7% and 5.9–7.7%, respectively. Phosphorus and potassium uptake also improved. The W1 treatment enhanced the uptake, accumulation, and translocation of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients throughout the rice growth cycle, increasing nutrient levels in the grains. When paired with the F3 fertilization approach, W1 treatment boosted yields and improved nutrient use efficiency. Consequently, combining W1 and F3 treatment emerged as this study's optimal water–fertilizer management approach. By harnessing the combined effects of water and fertilizer management, we can ensure efficient resource utilization and maximize the productive potential of rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Simple Summary: The main objective of this research is to find an effective way to reduce the reliance of broiler chickens on soybean meal. ZBM is a byproduct obtained by squeezing Zanthoxylum bungeanum, which contains high levels of protein, fat, and minerals. Currently, there is no existing research on the application of ZBM in broiler chickens. Therefore, this experiment aims to validate the effectiveness of using ZBM as a substitute for soybean meal in broiler chicken feed. The validation process involves two parts: in vitro biomimetic digestion experiments and broiler production experiments. The results demonstrated that the utilization of 5–10% ZBM led to notable enhancements in the growth and development of broilers. Additionally, it was observed that digestibility and utilization of nutrients were increased. Based on our research findings, we strongly believe that ZBM has the potential to be a suitable replacement for soybean meal in broiler feed. Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed meal (ZBM), a novel plant protein raw material, has shown promising potential in enhancing the growth of broiler chickens as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in feed. In the artificial digestive experiment of vitro experiments, the digestibility of ZBM and SBM were assessed using the SDS-III Single Stomach Animal Biometric Digestion System. Subsequently, 180 1-day old AA chicks were divided into three groups for in vivo experiments: corn–soybean-meal-based diet (CON group); ZBM replacing 5% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-1 group); ZBM replacing 10% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-2 group). The experiment period lasted for 42 days. Compared to SBM, ZBM demonstrated higher crude protein content, dry matter digestibility, and extracorporeal digestible protein. Compared with the CON group, the broilers in the ZBM-2 group showed improved ADG and ADFI during the 1–21 d, 22–42 d, and 1–42 d periods (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ZBM groups exhibited significant increases in slaughter performance compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). The substitution of ZBM for SBM also leads to a significant reduction in serum enzyme indicators (p < 0.05). Additionally, the lipoprotein and total cholesterol of the ZBM groups were significantly lower than those of the CON group (p < 0.05). Substituting SBM with ZBM significantly enhances the activity of superoxide dismutase and the content of immunoglobulin G in broiler serum, while reducing the content of malondildehyde (p < 0.05). The ZBM groups showed significantly higher utilization of dry matter, crude protein, and energy compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the study confirmed that the substitution of SBM with 5–10% ZBM in broiler diets has a significant positive effect on growth, development, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and nutrient utilization. This study not only provides a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ZBM in broiler diets but also offers an effective approach for reducing reliance on soybean meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The fall armyworm, a migratory invasive pest, poses a serious threat to the food security of major crops like maize, wheat, and rice. Understanding its adaptation mechanism to different hosts is crucial for developing effective control technology. This study examined the host fitness and gut microbial diversity of fall armyworms fed four different types of food. Based on life history parameters, pupa weight, and nutrient utilization indexes, the host fitness ranking from high to low was artificial diet, maize, wheat, and rice. Gut microbial composition and diversity varied significantly among fall armyworms fed different foods due to changes in low-abundant bacteria. Fall armyworms fed maize had the highest gut microbial diversity. The functions of gut microbes with significant abundance differences were enriched in nutrient and vitamin metabolism as well as other pathways closely related to host adaptation. Additionally, we identified five genera (Acinetobacter, Variovorax, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Serratia) that positively correlated with host fitness, while one genus (Rahnella) negatively correlated with it. This study reveals the potential role of gut microbes in the host adaptation of fall armyworms. The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, seriously threatens food and cash crops. Maize, wheat, and even rice damage by FAWs have been reported in many areas of China. It is urgent to clarify the mechanism which FAWs adapt to different feeding hosts and develop effective control technologies. Two-sex life tables and 16s rDNA sequencing were used to determine the host fitness and gut microbial diversity of FAWs when fed four different food types. Considering the life history parameters, pupa weight, and nutrient utilization indexes, the host fitness of FAWs when fed different food types changed in descending order as follows: artificial diet, maize, wheat, and rice. The gut microbial composition and the diversity of FAWs when fed different food types were significantly different, and those changes were driven by low-abundant bacteria. The gut microbes of FAWs that were fed with maize had the highest diversity. The functions of the gut microbes with significant abundance differences were enriched in nutrient and vitamin metabolism and other pathways that were closely related to host adaptation. Furthermore, we identified five genera (Acinetobacter, Variovorax, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Serratia) and one genus (Rahnella) that were positively and negatively correlated with the host fitness, respectively. This study revealed the possible role of gut microbes in the host adaptation of FAWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to examine utilization of dried housefly larvae (DFL) meal as an alternative protein source in Asian seabass diet, for effects on growth and nutrient utilization. The housefly larvae were raised in substrates composed of rice bran, discarded vegetables and fruits, molasses, and water, in a practical tropical environment. The obtained fly larvae were washed, dried, ground and analyzed for proximate composition. Four diets were formulated with DFL at 0, 6.78, 13.56 and 20.35 % of diet (with fish meal at 15, 10, 5, 0%, respectively). The diets were fed to triplicate groups of each treatment twice daily for 50 days. The DFL incorporated diets (replacing up to the 15% total of FM) had no negative effects on growth performance and nutrient utilization (p>0.05). Although statistically insignificant, the highest feed intake, final weight, and specific growth rate (SGR), namely 25.80±1.04 (g/fish), 20.55±2.67 (g/fish) and 5.2±0.25 (%/day), respectively, were all in the 13.56% DFL feeding group. The total FM replacement group (DFL at 20.35% of diet) had the lowest protein efficiency ratio (PER) of 1.55±0.06 (p>0.05). Polynomial regression of percentage weight gain revealed that DFL substitution at 8% resulted in the highest growth performance, which would potentially lower the cost per unit of diet for Asian seabass by 8.28%.

Understanding how different livestock species and breeds respond to consumption of brackish water could improve usage of this resource. Therefore, Angora, Boer, and Spanish goat doelings and Dorper, Katahdin, and St. Croix ewe lambs (6 animals per animal type [AT]; initial age = 296 ± 2.1 days) consuming water with varying concentrations of minerals of a natural brackish water source (BR) and sodium chloride (NaCl; SL) were used to determine effects on water and feed intake, nutrient digestion, heat energy, methane emission, ruminal fluid conditions, and blood constituent concentrations. There were 6 simultaneous 6 (water treatments [WT]) × 6 (AT) Latin squares with 3-wk periods. The WT were fresh (FR), BR alone (100-BR), a similar total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration as 100-BR via NaCl addition to FR (100-SL), BR with concentrations of all minerals increased by approximately 50% (150-BR), a similar TDS level as 150-BR by NaCl addition to FR (150-SL), and a similar 150 TDS level achieved by addition of a 1:1 mixture of BR minerals and NaCl to 100-BR (150-BR/SL). Concentrations (mg/kg) in BR were 4928 TDS, 85.9 bicarbonate, 224.9 calcium, 1175 chloride, 60.5 magnesium, 4.59 potassium, 1387 sodium, 1962 sulfate, and 8.3 boron, and TDS in other WT were 209, 5684, 7508, 8309, and 7319 mg/kg for FR, 100-SL, 150-BR, 150-SL, and 150-BR/SL, respectively. There were very few significant effects of WT or AT × WT interactions, although AT had numerous effects. Water intake was affected by AT (P = 0.02) and WT (P = 0.04), with greater water intake for 150-SL than for FR, 100-BR, 100-SL, and 150-BR. Dry matter intake among AT was lowest (P

Feed additives are gaining popularity as dietary supplements with the potential to support growth, immune competence, and the general health of aquaculture species. This study aimed to evaluate growth performance and feed utilization in juvenile Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer, fed experimental diets containing enzymes derived from the solid-state fermentation (SSF) of Aspergillus niger and mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), both individually and in combination. Fish were fed six experimental diets: control (no additives), SSF (0.025% & 0.05%), MOS (0.1% & 0.2%), and combined SSF (0.025%) + MOS (0.05%). The feeding trial was conducted for ten weeks in triplicate for each experimental diet consisting of 51 fish in 120 L tanks. Following the collection of growth performance metrics, proximate analysis of muscle and feces samples was performed, and all datasets were statistically analyzed with One-way ANOVA. The results showed that the highest specific growth rate (SGR = 1.29%) and lowest feed conversion rate (FCR = 1.0) were obtained by fish fed the diet supplemented with SSF (0.025%) + MOS (0.05%). The synergistic effects of SSF as an exogenous enzyme source and MOS in supporting gut health likely facilitated enhanced nutrient digestibility and absorption, which supported the growth of juvenile Asian seabass.

In this study, we established a feasible fertilization programming method for wheat production by exploring the effects of the combined application of chemical and organic fertilizers on wheat yield, nutrient uptake, soil nutrient content, and fertilizer utilization. Six treatments, no fertilizer (CK), conventional fertilizer (CF), optimized fertilizer (with reduced fertilizer amount) (RF), chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer extract (RPAE), partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with raw amino acid powder (RAF), and partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with raw humic acid powder (RHF), were set up for a field experiment. The fertilizer application rates for the RF treatment were calculated based on fertilization-monitoring techniques (30.3% nitrogen and 24.8% phosphorus reductions in 2022 and 23.0% nitrogen and 1.5% phosphorus reductions in 2023). The effects of different fertilizer treatments on yield, dry matter accumulation, plant nutrient accumulation, soil nutrients, and nutrient utilization in wheat were investigated. The results showed that, on the basis of 23% nitrogen and 1.5% phosphorus reductions, there was no significant difference in wheat yield between the RF and CF treatments and that the utilization rate of nitrogen fertilizer was improved. The application of organic fertilizer promoted dry matter accumulation in different organs of wheat; increased plant nutrient accumulation; improved soil nutrient content, nutrient utilization rate, nutrient partial productivity, and nutrient agronomic use efficiency; and ensured stable and increased crop yield. Specifically, compared with CF, the RPAE, RAF, and RHF organic fertilizer treatments increased wheat yield by 3.85%, 1.97%, and 0.67%, respectively, and the utilization of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers induced by these treatments significantly increased by 40.46%, 39.28%, and 37.46% (nitrogen) and by 9.83%, 8.91%, and 7.46% (phosphorus), respectively. As a result of our experiment, we concluded that RPAE exerted the best effects among the three organic fertilizer treatments (RPAE, RAF, and RHF) and that its use can result in a higher wheat yield and fertilizer utilization rate in drip-irrigated wheat fields. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for the combined application of chemical and organic fertilizers, which is conducive to sustainable agriculture development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of dietary sodium butyrate (NaB) on growth, serum biochemical indices, intestine histology, and gut microbiota of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). A basal diet was formulated and used as the control diet (Con), and five additional diets were prepared by supplementing NaB (50%) in the basal diet at 2.0, 4.0, 8.0, 12.0, and 16.0 g/kg inclusion (NaB-2, NaB-4, NaB-8, NaB-12, and NaB-16 diets). Then, the six diets were fed to triplicate groups of largemouth bass juveniles (2.4 ± 0.1 g) for 8 weeks. NaB supplementation linearly and quadratically affected weight gain (WG) and feed intake (FI) (P < 0.05). The NaB-16 group displayed lower WG (− 6.8%) and FI than the Con group (P < 0.05), while no differences were found in WG and feed conversion ratio between the other NaB groups and Con group (P > 0.05). Serum alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activities were higher in the NaB groups (P < 0.05), and D-lactate content was lower in the NaB-12 group (P < 0.05) than the control. Intestinal lipase activity in NaB-2, NaB-4 group, and villi width in NaB-8 group were also higher than those in the Con group (P < 0.05). Compared to the Con group, the intestinal abundances of Firmicutes and Mycoplasma were increased and the abundances of Proteobacteria, Achromobacter and Plesiomonas were decreased in NaB-4 and NaB-16 groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary NaB did not promote the growth of juvenile largemouth bass, but positively modulated the intestinal microbial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Soybean meal is the most widely used plant protein source, but its application in aquaculture is limited by the existence of anti-nutrient factors. Fermentation can degrade the anti-nutrient factors in soybean meal. Yeast culture is a complex fermentation product, which is composed of yeast cells, metabolites and fermentation medium formed by multi-stage fermentation. Yeast culture contains plenty of β-glucan and mannan oligosaccharides, which can promote the growth, intestinal health and immunity of aquatic animals. This study investigated the potential of yeast culture substituting for fishmeal in the diet of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco). The results showed that in the practical diet containing 160 g/kg fishmeal, yeast culture could effectively replace 40 g/kg fishmeal without adverse effects on the growth performance, nutrient utilization, serum biochemical indices, and intestinal and hepatopancreas histology of yellow catfish. Yeast culture is a complex fermentation product consisting of fermentation substrate, yeast cells and their metabolites. This study investigated the potential of yeast culture in replacing fishmeal in the diet of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco). First, a basal diet was formulated to contain 160 g/kg fishmeal (CON), and then the dietary fishmeal was decreased to 120, 80, 40 and 0 g/kg via yeast culture inclusion, respectively, to form another four isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets (YC-12, YC-8, YC-4 and YC-0). Yellow catfish (3.00 ± 0.10 g) were fed with the above five diets with triplicates per treatment and 40 fish per replicate. After 8 weeks of feeding, the weight gain (WG), protein efficiency rate and protein retention in the YC-12 group and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the YC-12 and YC-8 groups showed no significant differences to the CON group (p > 0.05), but the WG in the YC-8, YC-4 and YC-0 groups was significantly lower, and the FCR in the YC-4 and YC-0 groups was significantly higher than in the CON group (p < 0.05). In terms of the whole-body composition, only the crude lipid content in the YC-0 group decreased significantly (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON group, the aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities and D-lactic acid content in the YC-0 group were significantly increased, and the total cholesterol content was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and alkaline phosphatase, as well as the content of complement C3 and immunoglobulin M, were significantly increased, while the MDA content was significantly reduced in the YC-12 and YC-8 groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the intestinal amylase and lipase activity among all the groups (p > 0.05), while the trypsin activity in the YC-12 and YC-8 groups, as well as the diamine oxidase in the YC-4 and YC-0 groups, were significantly higher than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). In the intestine histology, there was a significant decrease in the intestinal villus height in the YC-4 and YC-0 groups as well as in the villus width in the YC-0 group (p < 0.05). In the hepatopancreas histology, lipid droplets appeared in the YC-4 and YC-0 groups, and severe cell vacuolation was observed in the YC-0 group. As a summary, in a practical diet containing 160 g/kg fishmeal, yeast culture can effectively replace 40 g/kg fishmeal without negatively affecting the growth performance, nutrient utilization, serum immune and antioxidant, intestinal and hepatopancreas histology of yellow catfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was aimed to explore the effect of dietary supplementation of soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) powder on nutrient utilization and body weight (BW) in cattle. Fifteen HF crossbred cattle of same age and sex were divided into three equal groups on the basis of BW and were offered three treatments for 70 days. The treatments were; T0: control TMR (roughage: concentrate ratio 65:35), T1: control TMR supplemented with 1% Soapnut powder, and T2: control TMR supplemented with 2% Soapnut powder. Among the treatments BW gain observed was higher with lower level of soapnut supplement compared to higher soapnut level and control diet. The study revealed no adverse effect of dietary supplementation of soapnut powder on dry matter and other nutrient intake. The digestibility of nutrients was also not affected, except fibre fractions. Digestibility of CF, NDF and hemicellulose was adversely affected by 2% followed by 1% soapnut powder supplementation in TMR over the control diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Supplementing laying hen diets with fungal phytase derived from Trichoderma reesei can be a beneficial strategy for improving production and nutrient utilization, particularly in cases where hen diets are deficient in energy, phosphorus, and calcium. The phytase enzyme enhances the birds' ability to digest and absorb essential nutrients, particularly phosphorus and calcium, which are crucial for eggshell formation and overall health. This supplementation addresses deficiencies in conventional diets, promoting optimal egg production and quality. By revealing the nutritional potential of feed through fungal phytase, this approach not only benefits laying hens' performance but also contributes to more sustainable and cost-effective poultry farming practices. A ten-week trial was conducted to evaluate the enhancement of production performance and nutrient utilization of laying hens through augmenting energy, phosphorous, and calcium deficient diets with fungal phytase (Trichoderma reesei) supplementation. 720 Hy-line Brown hens aged 28 weeks were randomly divided into 5 groups; each group had 8 replicates of 18 hens. Five experimental diets were prepared and fed to corresponding groups. A positive control (PC) diet contained 3.50% of calcium (Ca), 0.32% of non-phytate phosphorus (NPP), and apparent metabolic energy (AME) of 11.29MJ/kg, while a negative control (NC) diet contained 3.30% of Ca, 0.12% of NPP, and lower AME of 300 kJ/kg. The other three diets were supplemented with 250 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-250), 1000 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-1000), and 2000 FTU/kg phytase (PHY-2000) in addition to a regular NC diet. Results indicated that the positive control (PC) diet group had higher body weight gain, egg weight, and average daily feed intake. However, laying rate, egg mass, and FCR were most improved in the PHY-2000 group, followed by the PHY-1000 and PHY-250 groups (p < 0.05). Improved yolk color was most notable in laying hens fed the diet with PHY-1000 as opposed to the PC and NC groups (p < 0.05), but no overall difference was found among all of the phytase treated groups. The apparent availability of dry matter, energy, phosphorus, and phytate P was significantly higher in the PHY-2000 group than in the PC and NC groups (p < 0.05). Compared to the PC group, nitrogen retention was significantly higher in the PHY-1000 group, while calcium availability was higher in the PHY-250 group. The results suggested that the addition of phytase to diets with low P, Ca, and AME improved laying performance and apparent availability of dietary nutrients. Thus, it was concluded that the laying hen diet could be supplemented with 1000–2000 FTU/kg phytase for improving laying production and nutrient availability and mitigating the negative impact of reduced nutrient density in laying hen diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of peppermint essential oil (PEO) and an emulsifier called artifier on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens fed low-energy diets. A total of 240 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into five treatments: control, low-energy diet, low-energy diet + 150 ppm PEO, low-energy diet + 300 ppm artifier, and low-energy diet + 150 ppm PEO + 300 ppm artifier. Each treatment was replicated four times in a completely randomized design. The chickens were fed these treatments during the starter, grower, and finisher periods for a total of 42 days. The results indicated that broiler chickens receiving the low-energy diet supplemented with PEO + artifier had similar body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and breast percentage, but exhibited significantly lower abdominal fat percentage compared to those fed the control diet (P < 0.05). Furthermore, birds receiving PEO and artifier in low-energy diets, either individually or in combination, demonstrated higher digestibility of dry matter and fat during the starter and grower periods in comparison to those receiving the low-energy diet without any additives (P < 0.05). Over the entire rearing period, the simultaneous inclusion of 150 ppm PEO and 300 ppm artifier in the low-energy diet resulted in comparable growth performance to the control diet. Additionally, the concurrent use of PEO and artifier in the low-energy diet for broiler chickens led to a decrease in abdominal fat, increased digestibility of fat and dry matter, and enhanced nutrient utilization compared to the control diet.

Aquaculture is the fastest growing animal production sector globally. However, its sustainability heavily relies on the development of nutritionally balanced cost-effective and environmentally friendly aqua feeds for fish and crustacean species that are already being farmed or future candidate species for intensive farming around the world. Therefore, feeds produced for farmed aquatic species should be highly digestible in terms of nitrogen and phosphorous contents in order to avoid excessive release of these nutrients into the water column through solid and soluble discharge. Excessive nitrogen and phosphorous in the water are the main reason for eutrophication occurring and causing severe depletion of oxygen and creating hypoxia for many aquatic organisms living inside a water column. Strategies like formulating aqua feeds on required DP/DE (Digestible Protein/Digestible non-protein Energy) basis for farmed species and using synthetic enzymes as feed additives in order to make plant phosphorous bioavailable for fish are being utilized by the commercial aqua feed producers around the world. Fermenting plant protein ingredients with microorganisms and using prebiotics and probiotics as feed additives are also considered a viable option to reduce the nutrient load of aquafarms since these have been shown to increase the digestibility of feed ingredients via increased gut health maintaining the optimal composition and environmental conditions for gut microbiome. In this regard, this review is intended to emphasize the importance of the sustainability efforts of aquaculture production from the perspectives of environmentally friendly aqua feed formulations and improvements based on recent knowledge gathered for the effects of dietary external enzyme supplementation and fermentation of plant ingredients on the growth and wellbeing of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) throughout the world.