An All-Roughage Ration for Bulls1,2

Abstract

Summary A study has been made of the effects of an all-roughage ration including a high level of silage upon dairy bulls in a controlled experiment for a 12-mo. period. Measurement of the ascorbic acid, total nitrogen and non-protein nitrogen content of semen indicated that there was no observable difference in the levels of these constituents in semen from bulls fed the all-roughage or the control ration. Although the levels of acid and alkaline phosphatases appeared slightly elevated in the semen of the bulls on the all-roughage ration, it was not possible to arrive at a definite conclusion as to the significance of the differences reported. Regardless of the ration fed, the initial motility, density and volume of ejaculates, as well as the longevity of the spermatozoa in storage, were similar. The over-all condition and health of the bulls was maintained on the all-roughage ration. Excessive middle did not develop despite the feeding of high silage levels. On the basis of fertility data it appears that the two rations were equally efficient in maintaining the reproductive ability of the bulls.