Acid Detergent Fiber Intake Research Articles

Evaluation of coffee pulp as a feed ingredient for ruminants: A meta-analysis

Abstract This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential of coffee pulp as ruminant feed. The database was developed from 22 related articles containing 94 studies, collected from Scopus and Google Scholar. The parameters integrated were ruminant intake, digestibility, ruminant performance, milk production, milk composition, carcass production, and rumen fermentation. The data were analyzed using a mixed model methodology. The level of coffee pulp was considered as a fixed factor and the different studies as random effects. The results revealed that coffee pulp addition had a significant quadratic effect on reducing the intake of dry matter, crude protein, and total digestible nutrients (P < 0.01), and had a linear response to enhance neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber intake (P < 0.05). However, it should be noted that there were no significant differences in performance, nutrient digestibility, milk production and composition, carcass production, and rumen fermentation. by using coffee pulp as ruminant feed. In conclusion, coffee pulp can be used as an alternative feed ingredient for ruminants. However, it should be applied at the right amount to avoid negative effects on animal performance.

Rumen fermentation and nutrient utilization of growing Yankasa rams fed a mixed ration containing tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) residue and cowpea husk (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)

Thirty (30) Yankasa growing rams were used to investigate the effect of feeding cowpea husk and tiger nut residue in a mixed ration on the rumen ecology, nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance of Yankasa rams. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the rumen ecology, nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance between the treatments. Rumen ecology was influenced by the diet, with variations in rumen pH, temperature, and volatile fatty acid production. The results indicated that the highest rumen pH and temperature were observed in Treatment 2, while acetate, butyrate, and propionate levels varied among treatments. Nutrient intake and digestibility were significantly affected by the diet. Dry matter intake, crude protein intake, nitrogen detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake varied among treatments. Treatment 3 showed the highest dry matter intake, while Treatment 5 had the highest NDF intake. Crude protein intake was highest in Treatment 3, and the highest values for most nutrients were observed from the same treatment. The results for nitrogen balance in Yankasa rams indicate a positive nitrogen balance, suggesting that the rams received adequate amounts of nitrogen from the diets fed. Feeding 20% cowpea husk and 20% tiger nut residue provides optimum performance for rams in terms of rumen fermentation, and nutrient utilisation.

Effect of supplementing concentrate mixture with field pea hull on yearling ram lambs of local sheep: Nutrient intake, linear body measurements, and changes in body weight

The fattening of sheep has been recognized as a potentially profitable activity in the highlands of Ethiopia. However, feed shortage and increasing prices for conventional feed ingredients and commercially formulated concentrate mixtures critically affect the fattening practice of sheep in the country. So, this feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding field pea hull at different inclusion levels with a concentrate mixture on feed intakes, nutrient utilization, linear body measurements, and body weight gain. Eighteen yearling ram lambs were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments using a randomized complete block design. The dietary treatments were T1 (control), fed native hay adlibitum + concentrate mixture formulated using only conventional feed ingredients (0% field pea hull); T2 and T3 were fed native hay adlibitum + concentrate mixture formulated with inclusion of 35% field pea hull and 50% field pea hull, respectively along with other feed ingredients. The feeding trial was conducted for 90 days. Data were analyzed using GLM procedures of SAS, and Turkey’s HSD multiple-comparison was used for means separation. The result showed a significant (p<0.001) variation in dry matter and nutrient intake among treatments. The DMI was the highest in T3, followed by T2, while it was the lowest in T1. The average total neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber intakes and metabolizable energy intake were highest in T3 and followed by T2, while they were the lowest in T1. The average total body weight gain (kg) was higher in T3 (9.0kg) and T2 (8.67kg) than in T1 (6.58kg). Similarly, higher average daily body weight gains were recorded in T3 (100g) and T2 (96.3g) than in T1 (73.2g). Sheep that were fed field pea hull by the inclusion of 50 % in concentrate mixtures (T3) were more efficient in feed utilization (p<0.05) than T1 as they consumed significantly less amount of feed per 1 g of body weight gain. Hence, it is concluded that feeding of 50% field pea hull along with concentrate mixture could be used for better fattening performance of sheep.

The Effects of Harvest Maturity of Eragrostis tef 'Moxie' Hay and Supplemental Energy Source on Forage Utilization in Beef Heifers.

The phenological stage of maturity of grasses and supplementation program can impact forage utilization in grazing beef cattle. However, the potential interaction between harvest maturity of Eragrostis tef (teff) hay and energy supplement source was yet to be fully evaluated. Therefore, our objective was to determine the effects of harvest maturity of teff hay and supplemental energy sources on nutrient intake, apparent total-tract nutrient digestion, nitrogen (N) utilization, and ruminal fermentation characteristics in beef heifers. A split-plot design with teff hay harvest maturity as the whole plot and supplemental energy source as the subplot was administered in a three-period (21 d), three × three Latin square design. Six crossbred beef heifers (804 ± 53.6 kg of body weight; BW) were allocated to two harvest maturities (early- (EH]) or late-heading (LH)) and to two supplemental energy sources (no supplement (CON), or rolled corn grain or beet pulp pellet fed at 0.5% of BW). Data were analyzed using SAS. There was no harvest maturity × energy supplement interaction. Although harvest maturity had no impact on total dry matter intake (DMI), crude protein (CP) intake was greater (p < 0.01) for EH than LH heifers. Total intakes of dry (DM) and organic matter (OM) were also greater (p < 0.01) for supplemented than CON heifers, whereas acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake was greater for beet pulp heifers compared to heifers fed the CON diet and supplemental corn grain. Harvest maturity had no impact on ruminal pH. However, mean ruminal pH was lower (p = 0.04), duration pH < 6.2, and molar proportions of butyrate and branched-chain fatty acids were greater (p ≤ 0.049) for heifers fed corn grain compared to CON and beet pulp diets. Heifers fed EH hay had greater (p ≤ 0.02) apparent total-tract DM, OM, CP, NDF, and ADF digestibility than heifers fed LH hay. Although there was no supplemental energy effect on microbial nitrogen (N) flow, it was greater (p < 0.01) for EH than LH heifers. Apparent N retention, which did not differ, was negative across all diets. In summary, delaying the harvest of teff hay from the EH to LH stage of maturity compromised nutrient supply, which was not attenuated by feeding supplemental corn grain and beet pulp at 0.5% of diet DM. Because N retention was negative across harvest maturity, there might be a need to provide both energy and protein supplements to improve growth performance when feeding teff hay to beef cattle.

Effect of wheat middling incorporation into wet corn distillers grains with solubles on apparent diet digestibility and ruminal fermentation characteristics in growing and finishing diets.

Two separate cross-over experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of incorporating wheat middlings into wet corn distillers grains with solubles (WDGS) on apparent diet digestibility and ruminal fermentation characteristics in growing and finishing diets. In experiment 1, four ruminally cannulated heifers (313 ± 42.9kg) were limit fed a high-energy growing diet that included WDGS (CON) or WDGS + wheat middlings (CON + WM) at 40% of diet dry matter (DM). The diet also contained (DM basis) 39.5% dry-rolled corn, 7.5% supplement, and 13% warm-season grass hay. In experiment 2, four ruminally cannulated Holstein steers (321 ± 17.4kg) were fed a finishing diet that included WDGS (CON) or WDGS + wheat middlings (CON + WM) at 30% of diet DM. The diet also contained (DM basis) 60.3% dry-rolled corn, 2.7% supplement, and 7.0% warm-season grass hay. Experiments consisted of two 15-d periods that were conducted concurrently. Each period included 10 d of diet adaptation, 4 d of fecal collection, and 1 d of ruminal fluid collection. Fecal samples were collected on days 11 to 14 of each period and composite samples were analyzed for chromium to estimate apparent diet digestibility. On day 15, ruminal fluid samples were collected prior to feeding and again at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 18, and 24-h post-feeding. In experiment 1, DM, organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake did not differ (P ≥ 0.11) between diets; however, starch intake was greater (P = 0.03) for heifers fed CON + WM compared with CON. Apparent DM, OM, NDF, and starch digestibilities were similar between diets (P ≥ 0.13), but feeding CON + WM tended to lead to lesser (P = 0.06) apparent ADF digestibility. Ruminal pH and total volatile fatty acid concentrations did not differ between diets (P ≥ 0.16); however, ruminal ammonia concentrations tended to be less (P = 0.09) for CON + WM compared with CON. In experiment 2, DM intake did not differ (P = 0.65) between diets. Apparent DM digestibility was greater (P = 0.01) for CON + WM compared with CON but the difference was small. Intake and apparent digestibility of OM, NDF, ADF, and starch did not differ (P ≥ 0.25) between diets. Ruminal ammonia concentrations were lesser (P = 0.03) while ruminal pH was greater (P = 0.02) for CON + WM compared with CON. Overall, incorporation of wheat middlings into WDGS had minimal impacts on feed intake, apparent diet digestibility, and ruminal fermentation characteristics when fed to growing and finishing cattle.

Effect of feeding Pleurotus pulmonarius-treated empty fruit bunch on nutrient digestibility and milk fatty acid profiles in goats.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of feeding P. pulmonarius-treated empty fruit bunch (FTEFB) on the nutrient intakes, digestibility, milk yield and milk profiles of lactating Saanen goats. A total of nine lactating Saanen goats were used in an incomplete cross-over experimental design. The balanced dietary treatments contain different replacement levels of Napier grass with FTEFB at 0% (0-FT), 25% (25-FT) and 50% (50-FT). The FTEFB contained crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) at 4.10, 94.6, 70.8 and 19.4% DM, respectively. The replacement of FTEFB in 25-FT did not alter dry matter, NDF, hemicellulose, ADL, ether extract and gross energy intakes when compared to the control fed group (0-FT). The ADF and cellulose intake was higher in 25-FT than in the others (P < 0.001). The digestibility of hemicellulose, cellulose and ADL were not changed in 25-FT compared to the control group (P < 0.05) whereas when 50% FTEFB was incorporated to the diet, intermediate digestibility was decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Milk yield and protein content did not differ between the goat received 25-FT and the control group (P > 0.05). There are no differences in milk fatty profiles between dietary treatments (P > 0.05), except for OCFA. Goat fed with 25-FT had the lowest OCFA (P < 0.01) and significantly reduced the lauric acid concentration (P < 0 .05) when compared to the control group. Thus, replacement of NG in 25-FT does not adversely affect nutrient intake, fibre digestibility (cellulose and hemicellulose), milk yield, milk composition and milk fatty acid profiles. Overall, FTEFB may have potential to be used in the dairy goat diet as a roughage source to replace Napier grass.

Does macauba cake alter nutrient digestibility and microorganism population in the rumen of sheep?

Twenty Santa Inês male sheep were used in a randomized block design to evaluate the effects of different levels of macauba cake (MC) on nutrient digestibility and the population of microorganism in the rumen. The animals were divided into four groups according to MC levels (0, 10, 20, and 30% of DM) and initial body weight ranging from 32.75 to 52.17kg. Diets were isonitrogenous and formulated to attend metabolizable energy requirements, and feed intake was regulated with 10% allowance for leftovers. Each experimental period lasted 20days, with the final 5days reserved for sample collection. Macauba cake inclusion did not affect the dry matter, organic matter, or crude protein intake but increased the ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber intake, mainly because of changes in the concentrations of these components in diets with a higher level of MC. With MC inclusion, a linear decreasing effect was observed for the dry matter and organic matter digestibility, and a quadratic effect with a maximum point of 21.5% was observed for the acid detergent fiber digestibility. A relative reduction of 73% in anaerobic fungal populations was observed with the lowest level of MC inclusion, and a relative increase of 162% in methanogenic populations was observed with the highest level of MC inclusion. The increasing level of macauba cake up to 30% of the diet of lambs reduced the dry matter digestibility and reduced anaerobic fungi but increased methanogenic population.

Effect of dietary inclusions of different types of Acacia mearnsii on milk performance and nutrient intake of dairy cows

This study investigated the effects of including different types of Acacia mearnsii (tannin extract and forage) on nutrient intake and milk performance in dairy cattle. Holstein-Friesian x Jersey dairy cows (n per Experiment = 24) that had 200 days in milk were selected for this study in a completely randomized study design. This study was conducted under on-farm conditions at Springfontein dairy farm, a farm that lacked a functional bodyweight scale to measure the cow bodyweight and a computer system to register cow parity. Cows were assigned Acacia mearnsii tannin extract (ATE) pellets which were added with 0 (0ATE), 0.75 (0.75ATE), 1.5 (1.5ATE) or 3 (3ATE) % ATE in pellets while 0ATE was a commercial protein concentrate (Experiment 1). Cows were assigned Acacia mearnsii forage (AMF) at a rate of 0 (0AMF), 5 (5AMF), 15 (15AMF) or 25 (25AMF) % AMF inclusion in corn silage-based diet (Experiment 2). For both Experiments, treatments had six cows each, in which they were adapted (14 d) to diets before data collection (21 d). All AMF inclusions decreased (P<0.0001) dry matter intake (DMI), crude protein intake (CPI), neutral detergent fibre intake (NDFI), acid detergent fibre intake (ADFI) and organic matter intake (OMI) at 25AMF. Linear (P<0.0001) and quadratic (P<0.001) effects were observed on DMI, CPI, NDFI, ADFI and OMI. Inclusions of AMF in corn silage diets affected milk yield, protein yield, lactose yield and milk protein percentage (P<0.001). Linear effect was present in milk yield per DMI (P<0.0001). In conclusion, the dairy cow diet supplemented with ATE pellets did not have a beneficial effect on the nutrient intakes and milk yield. However, the AMF supplemented in corn silage of the dairy cow diet, increased milk production due to positive effects on nutrient intake, which was favourably influenced from a nutritional point of view.

Growth performance, blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation, and bacterial community in preweaning dairy calves fed corn silage-included starter and total mixed ration

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) in a starter or total mixed ration (TMR) on growth, blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation, and microbial community in preweaning dairy calves. A total of 45 healthy dairy calves were blocked by date of birth and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: 100% calf starter (CONS), a mix of 85% calf starter and 15% WPCS [dry matter (DM) basis; CSCS], or 100% WPCS-based lactation TMR (CTMR). Pasteurized normal milk was fed to all the animals under the same regimen. The experiment ran from when the calves were 2 d old to weaning at 63 d. Milk and feed intakes were recorded daily. Growth performance data and blood samples were collected on wk 3, 5, 7, and 9 of the experiment. Rumen fluid was sampled at 40 and 60 d. The 3 treatments had different particle size fractions. The CSCS group had greater medium fraction (<19 mm, >8 mm) and particles retained on 8-mm sieves than the other 2 groups, whereas the CTMR group had the greatest long (>19 mm) and fine (<4 mm) fractions and physically effective neutral detergent fiber (NDF) on 8- and 4-mm sieves, but had the smallest short fraction (<8 mm, >4 mm) and particles retained on 4-mm sieves. The 24-h in vitro digestibility of DM, crude protein (CP), NDF, and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were decreased in order by the CONS, CSCS, and CTMR groups. Compared with the CONS group, the digestibility of ether extract (EE) was lower in the CSCS and CTMR groups, whereas the digestibility of starch was similar among treatments. During the experimental period, the DM, CP, and metabolizable energy intakes from milk, solid feed, and total feed were not affected by treatments. The NDF, ADF, and EE intakes and potentially digestible intakes were greater in the CTMR group than in the other 2 groups. With the exception that body barrel was greater for calves fed CSCS, growth parameters and blood metabolites were similar among treatments. Compared with the CSCS group, the CTMR group had greater rumen pH and total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and isovalerate concentrations, but a lower acetate:propionate ratio. The CTMR group had greater relative abundances of some cellulolytic bacteria (Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Christensenellaceae R7, Ruminococcaceae NK4A214, Ruminococcaceae UCG, Ruminococcus, and Erysipelotrichaceae UCG) in the rumen, which may be beneficial for the early acquisition of specific adult-associated microorganisms. In summary, a WPCS-based lactation TMR, but not the WPCS-included starter, had the potential to be an alternative starter in preweaning calves without having significant adverse effects. These findings provide theoretical and practical implications for the rational application of TMR in the early life of dairy calves.

Effect of Brazilian spinach (Alternanthera sissoo) pellet supplementation and dietary ratios on rumen characteristics, microorganisms, methane production, milk yield, and milk composition in dairy cows.

The aim of the previous research was to evaluate the effects of Brazilian spinach pellet (BSP) supplementation and dietary ratios on rumen characteristics, methane estimation, and milk production in dairy cows. Four crossbred Thai dairy cattle, with Holstein Friesian (HF) cows with a body weight of 442 ± 50 kg were assessed in a 2 × 2 factorial in a 4 × 4 Latin square design to obtain diets; factor A was the roughage (R) to concentrate (C) ratio at 40:60 and 30:70, and factor B was level of BSP supplantation at 2% and 6% of dry matter (basis) intake (DMI). R:C ratio and supplementation of BSP had no interaction effect on DMI and nutrient digestibility. On DM, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake, the R:C ratio increased (p < 0.05). The digestibility of OM improved (p < 0.05) when cows were fed a R:C ratio of 30:70. On pH, ammonia-nitrogen, protozoal population, and blood urea-nitrogen, there were no interactions between the R:C ratio and BSP supplementation. Increasing the BSP supplementation to 6% (p < 0.01) decreased the protozoal population. The R:C ratio of 30:70 increased total volatile fatty acid (VFA) and propionate (C3) concentrations while decreasing the acetate (C2) to C3 ratio and methane (CH4 ) estimation (p < 0.01). The average concentration of total VFA has increased by 114.46 mmol/L for 6% of BSP supplementation. Increased BSP supplementation increased the C3 concentration while decreasing the C2:C3 ratio and CH4 emissions (p < 0.05). The R:C ratio and BSP supplementation had no interaction effect on milk yield, 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM), or milk composition. The R:C ratio of 30:70 increased milk yield (p < 0.05) to the highest level of 12.18 kg/day. In conclusion, the diet containing a R:C ratio of 30:70 increased feed intake, milk yield, BUN, total VFA, and C3 concentration, and decreased the C2:C3 ratio and CH4 emission. BSP supplementation at 6% could increase TVFA and C3 concentrations while decreasing the protozoal population and CH4 estimation.

Effect of propionate, monensin, and saccharomyces cerevisiae or their combination on production and rumen fermentation of holstein steers

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of calcium propionate (PrCa), PrCa + monensin sodium (PrCa + Mon), and PrCa + Saccharomyces cerevisiae (PrCa + Sc) on the productive performance of Holstein steers. Twenty-four Holstein steers (270.0 ± 25.85kg) were distributed individually into four treatments of six replicates. The treatments were control (no additives), PrCa (10g/kg), PrCa + Mon (10g/kg + 30mg/kg), and PrCa + Sc (10g/kg + 12.8 × 109cfu). The steers were fed for 43days, and afterwards, nutrient intake and digestibility as well as volatile fatty acids were determined, while the weight gained, feed efficiency, and CH4 production were calculated. Diet of PrCa + Sc had the highest (P < 0.0001) acid detergent fiber intake and propionate acid as well as the nutrient digestibility, with lowest (P < 0.0001) rumenacetic acid, methane, and protozoa concentrationversusother diets. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of PrCa + Sc (10g/kg + 12.8 × 109cfu) improved nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and reduced methane emission, thereby enhancing the possibility of ecofriendly ruminant farming.

Consumo e digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes, parâmetros ruminais e balanço de N de cordeiros confinados recebendo dietas com milho e sem forragem com bicarbonato de sódio

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated forage-free diets supplemented with sodium bicarbonate (SB) based on ground flint corn on intake, apparent nutrient digestibility, ruminal parameters, and N balance. Four rumen-cannulatedDorper × Santa Inês lambs, with a body weight of 43.4 ± 0.85 kg (mean ± standard deviation) were used. The experimental design was a 4×4 Latin square. Each experimental period lasted 21 days. Experimental diets were: positive control, a diet without SB containing 400 g/kg DM of soybean hulls (CONT), and three diets based on ground flint corn, containing 10 (10SB), 20 (20SB) or 30 (30SB) g/kg DM of SB. Intake of neutral and acid detergent fiber was greater for CONT (P &lt; 0.01) when compared to SB. Intake and apparent nutrient digestibility of dry and organic matter, ether extract, and crude protein did not differ. Intake (P = 0.01) and digestibility (P &lt; 0.01) of non-fiber carbohydrates were greater for SB diets and neutral detergent fiber digestibility was greater (P = 0.03) for CONT. The total digestible nutrients and metabolizable energy were greater for SB (P = 0.04). Rumen concentrations of acetate (P &lt; 0.01), isobutyrate (P &lt; 0.01), butyrate (P &lt; 0.01), isovalerate (P &lt; 0.01), and total short-chain fatty acids (P &lt; 0.01) were greater for CONT. Ruminal pH showed a quadratic (P = 0.05) response to SB levels, with greater values for 20SB. Sodium bicarbonate was efficient in increasing ruminal pH at the level of 20 g/kg DM without interfering with the intake and apparent nutrient digestibility characteristics.

Nutrient intake, body weight changes, digestibility and nitrogen utilisation of West African dwarf goats fed Pleurotus tuber-regium treated cassava root sievate based diets

Context Biodegradation of agricultural wastes by enzyme from microorganisms, especially white rot fungi has been promising in degrading structural carbohydrates or structurally modifying proteins and their anti-nutritional properties thereby producing high quality products. Aims To evaluate the nutrient intake, body weight changes, digestibility and nitrogen utilisation of West African dwarf goats (WADG) fed Pleurotus tuber-regium treated cassava root sievate (PTRCRS) based diets. Methods The experimental diets were formulated such that PTRCRS was included in the different diets at 0, 20, 40 and 60% inclusion levels. Thirty-two WADG between six and eight months old averaging 5.26 kg in weight were randomly divided into four groups of eight goats each. The groups were randomly assigned to four experimental diets {T1 (0%), T2 (20%), T3 (40%) and T4 (60%)} in a completely randomized design. Each animal received a designated treatment diet in the morning (08:00 h) for 90 days. Feed offered was based on 3.5% body weight per day in addition to 1 kg wilted chopped Panicum maximum which was fed at 16:00 h. Fresh drinkable water was provided ad libitum. Key results There were significant (P &lt; 0.05) differences for dry matter intake (DMI), DMI as percentage of body weight (% BW), crude protein (CP), organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) intakes. Daily weight gain was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) improved in T3 and T4. Feed conversion ratio decreased (P &lt; 0.05) with increasing levels of PTRCRS. Dry matter, CP, crude fibre, NDF and ADF were better (P &lt; 0.05) digested in T4. Nitrogen intake was higher (P &lt; 0.05) in T4 (19.62 g/day) and lowest in T1 (12.39 g/day). Nitrogen balance, nitrogen retention and nitrogen absorbed were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher for T4 goats. Conclusion Incorporation of PTRCRS in WAD goat diets generally enhanced intakes, body weight gain, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen utilisation. Implications The treatment of cassava root sievate, which is in abundance and hitherto without any known economic value other than causing environmental nuisance with PTR, could solve the challenges of feed scarcity which has been a major factor in ruminant production. The feeding of WAD goats with PTRCRS generally enhance their performances.

Digestibility, Blood Parameters, Rumen Fermentation, Hematology, and Nitrogen Balance of Goats after Receiving Supplemental Coffee Cherry Pulp as a Source of Phytochemical Nutrients.

Simple SummaryCoffee pulp is a typical byproduct in nations where coffee is cultivated, particularly Thailand. Such phytonutrients as tannin, saponin, and chlorogenic acid are abundant in this residue. Ruminants’ rumen fermentation and feed utilization may both be improved by these substances. Our study demonstrates that feeding goats coffee pulp improved animal digestibility and rumen fermentation activity without affecting feed intake or blood metabolite levels.This research examines the impact of adding dried coffee cherry pulp (CoCP) to goat feed on the digestibility of the feed, rumen fermentation, hematological, and nitrogen balance. A goat feeding experiment employed four male crossbreds (Thai Native × Anglo Nubian) aged 12 months and weighing 21.0 ± 0.2 kg each. The treatment was conceived as a 4 × 4 Latin square with four specific CoCP levels at 0, 100, 200, and 300 g/day. Dry matter intake (DMI), organic matter intake (OMI), and crude protein intake (CPI) were unaffected by the addition of CoCP. However, across treatment groups, there was a linear increase in ether extract intake (EEI) (p < 0.01), neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) (p = 0.06), and acid detergent fiber intake (ADFI) (p = 0.04), as well as a quadratic effect on DMI% BW (p = 0.04). The findings showed that rumen temperature, pH, ammonia-nitrogen, or pack cell volume did not change with CoCP supplementation. Total volatile fatty acid showed linear effects on acetate (p = 0.03) and was quadratically affected by propionate concentration (p = 0.02), acetate to propionate ratio (p = 0.01), acetic plus butyric to propionic acid ratio (p = 0.01), and methane estimation (p = 0.01). With increased CoCP supplementation, there was a linear decrease in protozoa count by about 20.2% as the amount of CoCP supplemented increased (p = 0.06). CoCP supplementation in animal feed resulted in a linear decrease in urinary nitrogen (p = 0.02) and a quadratic effect on absorbed nitrogen (p = 0.08) among treatment groups, with greater N utilization values found in goats fed 200 g/d CoCP. In light of this, supplementing CoCP into animal feed may improve animal digestion and rumen fermentation effectiveness while having no effect on feed intake, rumen microbes, or blood metabolites.

Effect of forage to concentrate ratio on growth performance and feeding behavior of Thalli lambs.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of forage to concentrate ratio (F:C) on growth performance and feeding behavior of Thalli lambs. For this purpose, twenty-one male Thalli lambs with initial live body weight (26.30 ± 3.02kg) were selected and divided into three experimental groups in a randomized complete block design. The experimental duration was 12weeks. The experimental diets were F:C (100:0), F:C (80:20), and F:C (60:40). Alfalfa hay was used as forage source. Lambs fed F:C (60:40) and F:C (80:20) diets showed higher dry matter intake (DMI), total dry matter intake (TDMI), organic matter intake (OMI), weight gain, growth rate, better feed conversion ratio, and feed efficiency as compared to the lambs fed F:C (100:0) (P < 0.05). The results also showed that crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), and total digestible nutrient (TDN) intake were maximum in F:C (60:40)-fed lambs (P < 0.05). However, higher crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intakes were seen in the F:C (100:0)-fed lambs (P < 0.05). The results of nutrient digestibilities revealed the improved OM, DM, CP, and ADF digestibilities in lambs fed with F:C (60:40) and F:C (80:20) (P < 0.05). The digestibility of NDF and CF were not affected by the all-dietary treatments (P > 0.05). Behavior results explored that eating time, and chewing time was higher in F:C (100:0)-fed lambs (P < 0.05), while standing time, lying time, and abnormal behavior were increased in lambs fed with F:C (60:40) and F:C (80:20) (P < 0.05). Based on the results, it is concluded that the addition of concentrate at 20% and 40% improves growth performance and increases DMI, TDMI, OMI, and nutrient digestibility. However, standing time, lying time, and abnormal behavior increase by feeding of the 20% and 40% concentrate. Therefore, it is suggested that the concentrate should be supplied in restricted amounts to improve lambs' welfare and normal behavior without influencing their performance.

Effect of Lippia alba hay as phytogenic feed additive on the lactation performance, milk composition, and rumen and blood parameters of Alpine goats

The objective of the study was to evaluate the intake, rumen and hematological parameters, milk composition and milk yield of dairy goats fed diets containing Lippia alba hay as phytogenic feed additive. Eight multiparous crossbred Alpine goats, at an average lactation stage of 50 ± 4.5 days after kidding were used, distributed in a double Latin square design with four treatments [Lippia alba hay as phytogenic feed additive included at levels 0, 30, 60, and 90 g/kg of total dry matter (DM)]. Lippia alba inclusion linearly increased (P < 0.05) the daily intake of DM and acid detergent fiber, milk yield (MY), corrected MY3.5%, corrected-solids, and milk contents (g/d) of protein, fat, total solids, and defatted dry extract daily yield, feed efficiency (MY/DMI ratio) and MY/CP (crude protein) intake ratio of the dairy goats. In contrast, the intake of NFC, NDFap and total carbohydrates reduced (P < 0.001) due to Lippia alba hay as phytogenic feed additive in the goats’ diet. The inclusion of Lippia alba as phytogenic feed additive in the diet of the dairy goats did not affect (P > 0.05) the CP, ether extract and crude ash intake, goat milk concentrations (%) of protein, fat, total solids and defatted dry extract, as well as cryoscopic index, pH, density and acidity of milk, red blood cells count, leukocytes count, packed cell volume, total plasmatic proteins, and rumen values of temperature (°C), pH, and methylene blue reduction, flotation/sedimentation time, color, and consistency of goat rumen fluid. However, the inclusion of Lippia alba hay as a microbial additive reduced moderate (++) and increased abundant (+++) protozoa motility and reduced the density of medium size protozoa, and increased large size protozoa count (P < 0.05). The addition of moderate amounts (up to the level of 90 g/kg total diet) of Lippia alba hay as a phytogenic feed additive in the diet of dairy goats is recommended because it has favorable effects on intake, milk yield, and solids content, with no negative effects on rumen and hematological parameters.

Effects of Rubber Seed Kernel Fermented with Yeast on Feed Utilization, Rumen Fermentation and Microbial Protein Synthesis in Dairy Heifers

Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) has been used to improve the nutritive value of feedstuffs, especially rubber seed kernel. In the current study, rubber seed kernel was grated and subjected to solid-state fermentation with yeast to enhance the nutritive value. The yeast-fermented rubber seed kernel (YERSEK) was substituted for soybean meal in ruminant diets to evaluate the effect of YERSEK on feed intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation and microbial protein synthesis in dairy heifers. Five Holstein Friesian crossbred heifers with an initial body weight (BW) of 215 ± 20 kg were used in this research. The experimental design was a 5 × 5 Latin squared design and the dietary treatments were five levels of YERSEK at 0, 100, 150, 200 and 250 g/kg dry matter in concentrate at 1% of BW, with rice straw fed ad libitum. The supplementation with YERSEK reduced rice straw and total DM intake linearly (p &lt; 0.05). The intake of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber decreased linearly (p &lt; 0.05), while ether extract intake increased linearly (p &lt; 0.01) with YERSEK supplementation. The ether extract digestibility tended to be high (p &lt; 0.01) with increasing levels of YERSEK. Supplementation with the YERSEK did not change (p &gt; 0.05) ruminal pH and blood urea nitrogen in this study, but ruminal ammonia nitrogen was increased (p &lt; 0.01) in the heifers receiving YERSEK. Increasing the YERSEK levels did not adversely affect the proportion of volatile fatty acids (VFA), which included acetate, propionate and butyrate and the microbial population (p &gt; 0.05). Microbial protein synthesis was similar among the treatments (p &gt; 0.05). The inclusion of YERSEK at 250 g/kg DM in concentrate feed had no effect on the utilization of feed, rumen fermentation characteristics and microbial protein synthesis. The YERSEK could be used as a protein replacement for up to 86% of the soybean meal in feed concentrate for dairy heifers.

The Impact of Enhancing Diet Quality or Dietary Supplementation of Flavor and Multi-Enzymes on Primiparous Lactating Sows.

Simple SummaryInsufficient energy and nutrient ingestion of primiparous lactating sows causes excess body weight loss and oxidative stress and compromises piglet growth. Two strategies to enhance the daily intake of dietary energy and nutrients were compared with a standard lactation diet to understand the potential modes of action. We found that feeding on either high-quality or flavor plus multi-enzyme diets both improved sow feed digestibility and consequently increased the growth of piglets. In addition, the flavor plus multi-enzyme diet also improved the antioxidant capacity and health of sows. The data suggest that dietary supplementation with flavor and multi-enzymes may be more promising than a high-quality diet from a health and economic perspective like enhancing utilization of cereal byproducts and thus reducing expenditure of corn and soybeans.This study was aimed to explore how a high-quality diet or a flavor plus multi-enzyme diet affects the feed intake, nutrient digestibility and antioxidation capacity of lactating sows and the growth of their progeny. Thirty primiparous sows were randomly assigned to three treatments from d 2 of lactation until weaning (d 21): control (CON), with a basal diet; high quality (HQ), with 200 kcal/kg higher net energy than CON; or the CON diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg flavor and 100 mg/kg multi-enzymes (F + E). Sows fed with the HQ or F + E diets improved piglets’ live weight (p < 0.05) and average daily weight gain (p < 0.10), litter weight gain (p < 0.10) and piglet growth to milk yield ratio (p < 0.10). Compared with CON, the HQ and F + E groups increased the digestibility of ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fiber, crude fiber and phosphorus (p < 0.10), and the HQ group also increased dry matter, gross energy, crude protein, acid detergent fiber and energy intake (p < 0.05). Compared with CON, the F + E group decreased serum urea nitrogen and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05) and enhanced superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, but it decreased malondialdehyde in milk supernatant (p < 0.05).

Nutritional value, feeding behavior, physiological parameters, and performance of crossbred Boer goat kids fed butterfly pea hay and cactus pear meal

Aim of study: To evaluate diets with different proportions of butterfly pea hay (BH) and cactus pear meal (CM) on the intake and digestibility of nutrients, productive performance, feeding behavior and physiological parameters of crossbred Boer kids. Area of study: Northwest of Brazil. Material and methods: 32 crossbred Boer intact male goats were distributed in a randomized block design, with four treatments with different proportions of BH and CM in the diets, partially replacing elephant grass on a total dry matter (DM) basis: 0% BH + 0 % CM as a control, 83% BH + 17% CM, 67% BH + 33% CM, and 50% BH + 50% CM. Each treatment group included eight animals. The experiment lasted 84 days preceded by 15 days of adaptation. Main results: Kids fed the control diet had the greatest intake of neutral detergent fiber, hemicellulose, water intake via food, time to feed and the lowest feed conversion (p&lt;0.05) compared to BH+CM diets. Diet 83% BH+17% CM provided less digestibility of neutral detergent fiber, greater efficiency of DM intake and lower efficiency of DM and neutral detergent fiber rumination (p&lt;0.05) compared to other diets. Diet 67% BH+33% CM resulted in greater digestibility of dry and organic matter, weight gains and longer (p&lt;0.05) chewing time (seconds/cud) compared to other diets. Diet 50% BH+50% CM showed lower (p&lt;0.05) intake of acid detergent fiber, time for rumination, efficiency of ingestion of neutral detergent fiber and rectal temperature, and longer (p&lt;0.05) idle times compared to other diets. Research highlights: Partial substitution of elephant grass with 67% BH and 33% CM increased digestibility and weight gain of crossbred Boer kids, without changing nutrient and water intake in the finishing.

Impacts of added roughage on growth performance, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and ruminal pH of feedlot steers fed wheat-based feedlot diets containing 30% modified distillers grains with solubles.

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the inclusion rate roughage in wheat-based diets containing modified distillers grains with solubles (MDGS) on feedlot performance (Feedlot Experiment), as well as digestibility, ruminal pH, and ruminal fermentation characteristics (Digestibility Experiment). The feedlot experiment utilized 72 Angus steers (392 ± 46.3 kg initial body weight) which were randomly assigned to 1 of 12 pens, 3 pens per treatment, to evaluate feedlot performance and carcass characteristics. Dietary treatments were 1) control; 10% roughage, 2) 12% roughage, 3) 14% roughage, and 4) 16% roughage. The digestibility experiment used four ruminally and duodenally cannulated steers (393 ± 33.0 kg) in a 4 × 4 Latin Square with either 10%, 12%, 14%, or 16% roughage as in the feedlot experiment. However, dietary roughage source was different between these two experiments and included a combination of grass hay and wheat straw (Feedlot Experiment), and corn silage (Digestibility Experiment). All data were analyzed with the Mixed Procedures of SAS. Feed intake was recorded, with duodenal and fecal output calculated using chromic oxide. Ruminal pH and fermentation were assessed. Growth performance and most carcass characteristics were not affected by increasing roughage (P ≥ 0.11). Marbling tended to decrease linearly (P = 0.10) with increasing roughage inclusion. Increasing dietary roughage content had no effect on organic matter intake (P = 0.60) in the digestibility experiment. Intake, duodenal flow, and digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber were not affected by treatment (P ≥ 0.16). Ruminal pH increased linearly (P < 0.01) as rate of roughage inclusion increased. Ruminal concentrations of acetate and butyrate increased, and propionate decreased in a linear fashion (P < 0.01) thereby increasing (P < 0.01) acetate and butyrate to propionate ratio with increasing dietary roughage. Our data indicate that increasing roughage inclusion in wheat-based diets including 30% MDGS increased ruminal pH and shifted ruminal fermentation patterns. Additionally, increasing roughage inclusion did not affect feedlot performance in steers fed wheat at 36% to 42% of dietary dry matter in combination with 30% MDGS.