Abstract
The objective of this experiment was to study the effect of DDGS supplementation on feed intake and ruminal fermentation profile by steers (Braford crossbred; 383 ± 100 kg BW) fed low-quality grass hay. Treatments consisted of low-quality hay (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Gatton panic) supplemented with three levels of DDGS: 0 (no supplementation; 0DDGS), 6 (6DDGS) and 12 (12DDGS) g DDGS (DM basis) /kg BW respectively. Total OM intake increased linearly (P < 0.01) while forage OM intake decreased (P < 0.01) to increasing levels of DDGS. A linear decrease was observed in ruminal pH (P < 0.01) with DDGS, whereas N-NH3, lactate and total VFA were not different among supplementation levels. Nevertheless, DDGS increased molar proportions of propionate (P < 0.01; Linear) and butyrate (P < 0.01; Linear), as well as valerate (Quadratic; P < 0.01) and isovalerate (P < 0.01; Quadratic). In contrast, acetate (P < 0.01) and acetate to propionate ratio (P < 0.01) decreased linearly. In summary, low-quality Guineagrass supplementation with DDGS improved total OM intake and favorably altered VFA profile, increasing propionate ruminal proportion. Key Words:
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