Total VFA Production and Protozoa Population with Jengkol (Archidendron jiringa) Peel Powder Supplementation on In Vitro

Abstract

Jengkol (Archidendron jiringa) peel is a by-product that has not been utilized optimally. Some research reported that jengkol peel had potency as a source of fiber and bioactive compound (saponins and tannins) for ruminant. This experiment was designed to evaluate the effects of jengkol peel powder supplementation on total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production and protozoa population on in vitro ruminal fermentation. The treatments were arranged in a randomized block design with three treatments (2%, 4%, 6% DM) and four replications. The variables observed included total VFA production and protozoa population. Data were tested using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the differences among treatments means were examined by Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results showed that increasing supplementation of jengkol peel powder increased total VFA production (P<0.01) but did not affect protozoa population (P>0.05). It is concluded that supplementation of jengkol (A. jiringa) peel powder until 6% DM potentially improved rumen fermentation.