Abstract
This study intended to compare the fermentative activity of equine caecal and faecal inocula using the gas production technique. For that purpose, 2 feeds (oats and barley) were used. Caecal and faecal samples were collected from 2 canulated geldings fed with meadow hay (80%) and concentrate (20%) offered as two equal meals per day. Samples of caecal fluid and fresh faeces were collected 2 hours after the morning feed into pre-warmed flasks filled with CO2. Feed samples were incubated in 60 ml of buffered caecal or faecal fluid, in duplicate in 3 series performed on different days for each type of inoculum. The parameters pH, NH3-N and total VFA were measured after 96 h of fermentation. Gas production was recorded for 96 h using a fully automated system. Data were analyzed by ANOVA using feeds and inoculum as the main factors. Differences between feeds concerning pH (P<0.001), total VFA (P<0.001), NH3-N (P<0.001), acetate/propionate ratio (P<0.001) were observed as a result of different types of fermentation patterns. The type of inoculum showed differences in B (time of incubation at which half of the asymptotic gas production has been formed) parameter of gas production (P<0.05). Results presented in this study indicate similar fermentation patterns between faecal and caecal inocula.
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