Abstract
Soybeans in natura can be used in the feed of confined animals as a source of protein and energy. We measured consumption, performance, in vivo biometry, and metabolic profiles lambs fed whole grain soybean in natura. We used Ile de France breed lambs, weaned and confined in a completely randomized design with six repetitions and three treatments: Control, soybean grain (SG) 6.25%, and SG 14% (based on dry matter) in feed. The control and SG 6.25% groups showed higher average daily gain (0.296 kg/day) and total weight gain (17.57 kg) than did the SG 14% group. There were no differences among groups in terms of consumption of dry matter, protein, neutral detergent fiber, acidic detergent fiber, or feed conversion. The inclusion of soybean grain was associated with linear increases in consumption of ethereal extract, and in percentage of live weight. There were no differences among groups in terms of concentrations of studied metabolites. Regarding in vivo biometrics, the control treatment and SG 6.25% groups were superior in terms of conformation and body conditions. Inclusion of soybean whole grain in natura in the feed of confined lambs may be reduced consumption of dry matter and average daily weight gain.
Highlights
Termination of confined sheep in the southeastern and southern regions of Brazil has accelerated with the aim of producing earlier animal carcasses and improved quality meat to the market (Rodrigues et al 2008)
No significant differences were observed with respect to initial live weight and final live weight (Table 3)
We observed a reduction in the average daily weight gain of lambs who consumed greater concentrations of soybean grains in their feed
Summary
Termination of confined sheep in the southeastern and southern regions of Brazil has accelerated with the aim of producing earlier animal carcasses and improved quality meat to the market (Rodrigues et al 2008). It is possible to evaluate metabolic profiles of the animals using biochemical analysis; the results provide information regarding the animal’s blood and nutritional parameters These data provide information regarding whether feed is being offered properly, both in terms of quality and quantity, thereby contributing to determination of the true nutritional requirements of the animals (González, 2000; Barros Brito et al 2016). In this sense, the protein metabolic profile can be understood as the determination of serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin, hemoglobin, and urea. We followed the profile of some blood metabolic components related to energy and protein metabolism
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
