Alfalfa Supplementation Research Articles

246 The influence of supplemental alfalfa pellet levels on beef cattle grazing winter foothill rangelands

246 The influence of supplemental alfalfa pellet levels on beef cattle grazing winter foothill rangelands

Initial timing of alfalfa hay supplementation manipulates blood parameters, rumen gene expression, and epithelial microbiota in pre-weaning lambs.

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of initiating alfalfa supplementation at either 14 or 42 days of age on growth performance, blood parameters, rumen tissue gene expression, and epithelial microbiota in pre-weaning lambs. A total of 42 seven-day-old male Hu lambs (3.88 ± 0.92kg) were selected for this study. After 7 d of adjustment period, six lambs were slaughtered at 14 d of age to establish a baseline control. The remaining 36 lambs were randomly allocated to two treatment groups, every three lambs were considered a unit, including fed milk replacer, starter pellets, and either alfalfa hay fed at 14 (EAF) or 42 d of age (LAF). Body weight and feed intake were recorded for lamb until 70 d of age. Blood samples, rumen tissue samples, and epithelial microbiota samples were collected from the lambs at 42, 56, and 70 d of age. The results indicated that average daily gain, starter intake, and total dry matter intake were greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group from 14 to 42 d of age (P < 0.01), but no significant differences from 43 to 70 d of age or during the entire trial. Treatment and age interactively affected the alfalfa intake (P = 0.02) from 43 to 70 d of age. The concentration of serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) (P < 0.01) and the expression of the rumen gene insulin-like growth factor 1 (P < 0.01) were greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group at 42 d of age. Furthermore, the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.03), albumin (P < 0.01), total protein (P = 0.03), urea (P = 0.04), lipopolysaccharide (P < 0.01), β-hydroxybutyric acid (P = 0.02), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (P < 0.01), IL-4 (P < 0.01), and tumor necrosis factor α (P < 0.01) were affected by age. The abundance of Prevotella was lower (P < 0.05), whereas Megasphaera (P < 0.05) was greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group at 42 d of age. The early addition of alfalfa promotes rumen epithelial microbiota colonization. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that alfalfa provision at 14 d of age promotes growth performance in lambs, but this effect disappeared at 43 to 70 d of age. Moreover, provision of alfalfa at 14 d of age enhances the immune response, promotes rumen tissue cell proliferation, and affects dynamical changes of rumen epithelial microbiota. Meanwhile, our findings showed that the rumen undergoes significant physiological challenges during the transition from a liquid diet to a solid diet.

Alfalfa supplementation timing changes the rumen archaeal and fungal community composition and colonization in pre-weaning lambs.

The establishment of the rumen microbiota plays an important role in the rumen development. However, little is known about the effects of alfalfa supplementation time on rumen microbiota establishment. Here, a total of 42 Hu lambs, seven-day-old, were chosen for the study. After a week of adjustment, six lambs were sacrificed to establish a baseline. The remaining 36 lambs were randomly split into two groups: one receiving alfalfa hay at 14 days (EAF), the other at 42 days (LAF), both groups received milk replacer and starter pellets. Introducing alfalfa at 14 days of age significantly improved total dry matter intake between 28 and 42 days (p = 0.04) and average daily gain from both 14 to 28 days (p = 0.04) and 28 to 42 days (p < 0.01), but this effect disappears from 56 to 70 days (p > 0.05). At 42 days, the abundances of Naganishia, Ascochyta, and Neosetophoma in the EAF group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the LAF group (17.8% vs. 3.97, 10.89% vs. 1.77, and 1.27% vs. 0.09%, respectively). At 56 days, the abundances of Ascochyta, Wallemia, and Aspergillus in the EAF group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than in the LAF group (3.53% vs. 16.40, 8.78% vs. 18.89, and 2.14% vs. 4.69%). At 70 days, Aspergillus abundance in the EAF group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the LAF group (2.69% vs. 0.85%). The LEfSe analysis showed that Methanobrevibacter_smithii was the archaeal biomarker at 14 days in both groups. Methanobrevibacter_sp_AbM4 was enriched at 56 days in the LAF group. Compared to the LAF group, the specific fungal biomarkers in the EAF group included Sporobolomyces and Bullera at 14 days, Naganishia, Didymella, Cleistothelebolus, and Alloleptosphaeria at 42 days, Ascochyta, Neoascochyta, and Alfaria at 70 days. Correlation analysis results showed strong patterns of association both within and between archaea and fungi, which were influenced by alfalfa supplementation time. In summary, alfalfa supplementation at 14 days of age promotes the growth performance of lambs before weaning, and alfalfa supplementation timing significantly affects rumen archaeal and fungal communities and dynamical changes.

The effect of alfalfa supplementation during the peripartum period on udder oedema and fertility in dairy sheep

AbstractIn recent years, there has been a trend towards hyperoestrogenic feeding methods in field conditions, particularly in dairy small ruminants. This study aimed to investigate the effect of alfalfa supplemented ration in the prepartum period on the occurrence of udder oedema in dairy ewes and its impact on fertility problems (dystocia, vaginal prolapse, uterine prolapse, retained placenta) and diseases (mastitis, udder dermatitis) occurring in the postpartum period. In addition, it aimed to follow up the data on maternal rejection behaviours and litter viability, which are believed to affect the future productivity and fertility of the herd. The ewes were divided into two groups: the oedema group (n = 20) and the control group (n = 23). For trial purposes in the oedema group, primiparous animals were provided with alfalfa supplementation. The control group consisted of ewes fed the same ration but without alfalfa supplementation. Ingredient analysis of the rations was performed in the groups. In biochemical analyses, the oedema group demonstrated significantly higher levels of serum urea (p &lt; .05), Ca (p &lt; .000) and Ca/P ratio (p &lt; .01) compared to the control group. Clinical mastitis (0–7 days, p = .051) and (8–30 days, p = .149) were reported at a higher rate in the oedema group compared to the control group. Udder dermatitis cases were more common in the oedema group (p = .005). The mother's rejection of the lamb was higher in the oedema group. Dystocia was determined to be 30% in the oedema group (p = .023). In conclusion, applying hyperoestrogenic feeding strategies during the periparturient period firstly exacerbates physiological udder oedema in ewes, thus predisposing them to various herd fertility problems. This feeding strategy, frequently encountered in field conditions, seriously harms the physiological fertility process.

362 The Influence of Supplemental Protein Level on the Intake, Digestion, and Metabolism of Beef Cattle Consuming Low-Quality, High-Fiber Roughages

Abstract Two studies were conducted to evaluate the influence of graded levels of supplemental protein on the intake, digestion, ruminal fermentation, and metabolism of beef cows consuming low-quality forage base diets (6% CP and 74% NDF). For both studies, 15 ruminally cannulated cows (4/5 yrs age, 803 and 757 kg = avg BW for study 1 and 2, respectively) were stratified by BW and, within stratum, randomly assigned to three supplemental treatment groups (n = 5). In study 1, cows were assigned to the following treatments: 1) control, no supplement; 2) 0.25 % BW of a 20% CP supplement; and 3) 0.25 % BW of a 40% supplement. Both supplements were composed of soybean meal and ground corn with the composition adjusted to hit the target CP level. In study 2, cows were assigned to the following alfalfa pellet supplement treatments: 1) control, no supplement; 2) 0.20 % BW of alfalfa pellets, and 3) 0.40 % BW of alfalfa pellets. In study 1, forage intake, DM fill, liquid fill and total tract digestibility were not influenced by supplemental treatment (P ≥ 0.49). However, total DM intake increased linearly (P = 0.02) with increasing supplemental protein, with the 40% CP supplemented cows consuming 39% more DM than control cows. No treatment differences (P ≥ 0.97) were observed for heart rate or surface temperature just before feeding (hour 0) nor 5 hours post-feeding averaging 46.0 bpm, 15.3°C, and 35.2°C, respectively. In study 2, both forage intake and total intake increased linearly (P ≤ 0.02) with increasing amounts of supplemental alfalfa. Cattle supplemented alfalfa pellets at 0.4% of BW had 33 and 71% greater forage and total DM intake compared with non-supplemented control cows, respectively. In contrast, there were no treatment effects (P ≥ 0.11) on DM fill and total tract digestibility averaging 15.73 kg and 44.99%, respectively. In contrast, liquid fill tended to increase (P = 0.08) linearly with increasing levels of supplemental alfalfa. Heart rate nor surface temperature prior to feeding and 5-hours post feeding were influenced (P ≥ 0.83) by the addition of supplemental alfalfa averaging 51.91 bpm, 15.05°C and 31.75°C, respectively. In summary, overall total DM intake was enhanced with the addition of supplemental protein, however, only modest effects were observed in ruminal fill and total tract digestion. Additionally, heart rate and surface body temperatures were not influenced by supplemental treatments under the conditions of these studies.

Riboflavin supply strategies in male turkey production including either supply of alfalfa silage or free-range access in organic farming

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine an optimal riboflavin supply strategy for an organically reared and fattened male fast-growing turkey line including supply of silage and free-range access. A total of 768 one-day old B.U.T. 6 turkey poults were allocated to one out of four riboflavin supply strategies and raised in 5 feeding phases (P1-P5). In each phase, concentrate based diets were formulated with different riboflavin contents. In the “Low” diet (L) riboflavin content was according to the NRC/GfE riboflavin recommendations (4.0, 4.0, 2.9, 2.4 and 2.4Â mg/kg diet in P1-P5) and the “High” diet (H) it was twice the level of the L diet. In the rearing (P1Â +Â P2) and fattening period (P3-P5) animals received either the L or H diet resulting in 4 riboflavin supply strategies (LL, LH, HL and HH). From day 56 (P3-P5) different feeding strategies were provided: concentrate based diets only (C), C with additional alfalfa silage (C+Si) or C with free-range access to pasture (C+Pa). Results showed that the riboflavin strategy had no influence on growth and slaughter performance or on the liver measurements (PÂ >Â 0.05). As compared to C, supplemental silage or free-range access decreased the total concentrate feed intake by about 5Â kg (8%) and 10Â kg (16%) for the C+Pa and C+Si groups, respectively (PÂ <Â 0.05). However, at day 140 final body weights of all treatments were on a high level. The dressing percentage of all groups was equal, but the breast muscle portion of the C+Pa treatment was significantly higher than in the other groups (PÂ <Â 0.05). In conclusion riboflavin recommendations on the level of NRC/GfE are sufficient for fast growing male turkeys in organic farming systems. High performance levels can be realized using supplemental alfalfa silage or pasture from free-range access with a simultaneous reduction in concentrate feed intake.

"King of the forage"-Alfalfa supplementation improves growth, reproductive performance, health condition and meat quality of pigs.

As one kind of high-quality feed with rich nutrients, including high quality protein and amino acids, dietary fiber, enriched vitamins and mineral elements and bioactive molecules, alfalfa has been widely used in the production of ruminant livestock. As the understanding of alfalfa becomes more and more comprehensive, it is found that the high-quality nutrients in alfalfa could have positive effects on pigs. An increasing number of researches have shown that supplementing dietary alfalfa to the diet of gestating sows reduced constipation, alleviated abnormal behavior, improved satiety and reproductive performance; supplementing dietary alfalfa to the diet of piglets improved growth performance and intestinal barrier function, reduced intestinal inflammatory response and diarrhea; supplementing dietary alfalfa to the diet of growing-fattening pigs improved production performance and pork quality. Moreover, the mechanisms by which various nutrients of alfalfa exert their beneficial effects on pigs mainly including dietary fiber stimulating intestinal peristalsis, enhancing the activity of digestive enzymes, and promoting the colonization of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract through fermentation in the intestine, producing short-chain fatty acids and thus improving intestinal health; high quality protein and amino acids are beneficial to improve animal health condition; rich vitamins and mineral elements play an important role in various physiological functions and growth and development of the body; and bioactive molecules can improve the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory level. Therefore, alfalfa could be used as pig feed ingredient to alleviate various problems in the pig industry and to improve pig production performance. In this review, we detail the current application of alfalfa in pigs and discuss the potential mechanisms involved in how alfalfa improves growth and reproductive performance, pork quality, and intestinal health of the animals, thus laying the foundation for the increased application of high-quality forage in pig production.

Alterations in gut microbiota improve SCFA production and fiber utilization in Tibetan pigs fed alfalfa diet.

Tibetan pigs were thought to have good performances of rough feeding tolerance, which may be related to the gut microbiota. This study was conducted to investigate the changes of colonic microbiota contribute to fiber utilization in Tibetan pigs fed alfalfa supplementation diet compared with basal diet, and verified whether the microbial community in Tibetan pigs fed alfalfa diet was beneficial to utilize fiber using in vitro fermentation. A total of 40 Tibetan pigs were allocated into two groups and fed with a corn-soybean meal basal diet (CD) or a 50% alfalfa supplementation diet (AD) for 42d. Our results showed pigs fed CD diet improved carcass weight compared to pigs fed AD diet (p < 0.05), yet reduced the bacterial diversity (p < 0.05). Tibetan pigs fed CD diet increased certain pathogenic bacteria (Streptococcus) abundance (FDR < 0.05). Alfalfa consumption increased fiber-degrading bacteria abundance (UCG-005, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Prevotellaceae_UCG-003, Alloprevotella, Marvinbryantia, and Anaerovibrio) in the colonic digesta (FDR < 0.05) and improved concentrations of acetate, propionate, butyrate, and total SCFA in colonic content (p < 0.05). Higher fermentation capacity of fecal microbiota from pig fed AD diet was verified by in vitro fermentation. Collectively, our results indicated that alfalfa supplementation in diets improved the abundance of fiber-degrading bacteria and SCFA production in the hindgut of Tibetan pig, as well as enhanced the fermentation capacity of fecal microbiota.

Tropical alfalfa (Medicago sativa cv. Kacang Ratu BW) supplementation for reducing cholesterol and improving quality of carcass and meat of hybrid duck

Context Duck meat is a good source of protein (21.4%) but it is high in cholesterol, with a standard range of 125–200 mg/dL. Alfalfa is a legume that contains saponins, which have been shown to reduce the cholesterol content of meat. Aim We aimed to determine the effect of alfalfa on the weight of the internal organs and carcass, the physicochemical quality of meat, and the cholesterol of hybrid ducks in Indonesia. Methods Ninety 1-day-old Indonesian hybrid ducks were fed basal rations supplemented with 0% (control), 3%, or 6% fresh alfalfa (n = 5 per group), calculated on a dry matter basis. Five replicates were made for each dietary treatment. Dietary treatments were administered to the ducks from 8 to 35 days of age. The parameters measured were the internal organ weight, carcass quality (live weight, carcass weight, carcass percentage, and abdominal fat), physicochemical quality of meat (water content, crude protein, crude fat, pH, water holding capacity [WHC], cooking loss, and tenderness), and the cholesterol content of the liver, breast meat, thigh meat, and blood (including the high-density lipoprotein/HDL and low-density lipoprotein/LDL). Analysis of variance and Duncan’s multiple range tests determined the significance of results. Key results Supplementation of rations with up to 6% of alfalfa did not significantly affect the weight of the internal organs, but reduced the cholesterol content in the liver, meat, and blood. In addition, the physicochemical parameter of alfalfa supplementation in the rations, up to a level of 6%, had no effect on carcass quality, moisture content, crude protein or pH of hybrid duck meat. Moreover, supplementation with 6% of alfalfa significantly reduced the LDL levels while increasing the HDL and affecting crude fat, WHC, cooking loss, and tenderness of hybrid ducks. Conclusions Supplementation with up to 6% of alfalfa did not affect the weight of key internal digestive organs, but reduced the cholesterol content, and increased the HDL levels of blood. Alfalfa supplementation affected the physicochemical quality of hybrid duck meat. However, the optimum level (production parameters observation) of alfalfa supplementation in the diet was at 3%. Implications Hybrid duck meat exhibits lower cholesterol, higher HDL, and lower LDL when the diet is supplemented with alfalfa, whereas other parameters were largely unchanged.

Effects of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) supplementation in the diet on the growth, small intestinal histomorphology, and digestibility of hybrid ducks.

Background and Aim:Feed plays the most important role in supporting livestock productivity. There is a need for studies on the nutrient levels in feed absorbed by the body of livestock. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) supplementation in feed on growth, small intestinal histomorphology, and digestibility in hybrid ducks.Materials and Methods:The study was conducted in vivo using 75 hybrid ducks, with three treatments and five replications. Each replication consisted of five ducks. The treatments were: T0=basal ration without any alfalfa supplementation; T1=basal ration+3% fresh alfalfa supplementation; and T2=basal ration+6% fresh alfalfa supplementation. Fresh alfalfa was quantified on the basis of dry matter content. Drinking water was provided ad libitum. The observed variables were growth performance, measured in terms of feed consumption, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio; duodenum histomorphology, measured in terms of villus height, villus width, and crypt depth; digestibility, measured in terms of dry matter digestibility; and organic matter, crude protein, and crude fiber concentrations. The data were analyzed using variance analysis with a completely randomized design of one-way pattern with Statistical Product for Service Solution application of version 22. The data with significant differences were further analyzed using Duncan’s new multiple range rest.Results:The results of the study showed that 3% alfalfa supplementation increased feed consumption and body weight gain of the hybrid ducks at 35 days of age compared with 0% and 6% supplementation. Furthermore, 3% alfalfa supplementation presented the best result in terms of villus height and duodenal crypt depth. Meanwhile, 6% alfalfa supplementation decreased nutrient digestibility in the ducks.Conclusion:These findings show that supplementation of feed with fresh alfalfa could have a significant effect on hybrid ducks in terms of growth performance, small intestinal histomorphology, and digestibility.

The effect of hay alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) supplementation in different basal feed on the feed intake (FI), body weight, and feed conversion ratio of hybrid ducks

This study was conducted to determine the effect of hay alfalfa supplementation (Medicago sativa L.) in different basal feeds on the feed intake (FI), live weight (LW), Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), and income of Hybrid Duck. In vivo trial was conducted with 120 MA hybrid ducks (Mojosari x Alabio), based on completely randomized design (CRD). Three (3) treatments and 6 replications with each repetition consisted of 5ducks. The treatments were P1 = radom mixed feed, P2 = 90% radom mixed feed + 10% hay alfalfa and P3 = 90% alternative feed + 10% alfalfa hay. Feed was obtained in dry matter but offered as fed. Feed and drinking water was offered ad libitum. The observed variables included feed consumption, live weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and income over feed cost. The data obtained were analyzed with the application of Statistical Product for Service Solution (SPSS) version 22 and if there was significant differences in treatment it would be further tested using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results showed that 10% alfalfa supplementation in free mixed feeds and alternative feeds showed a significant effect (P <0.05) on the value of feed consumption, but not with the other variables. Based on these results it can be concluded that three type of feed has similar potential as feed for duck. However, radom mixed feed treatment with 10% alfalfa hay supplementation (P2) is the most optimum treatment among the other treatment feeds, due to the highest live weight income value.

Soybean oil supplementation and alfalfa hay inclusion in starter feed of Holstein dairy calves: growth performance, digestibility, ruminal fermentation and urinary purine derivatives

Forty newborn Holstein female calves (BW = 39.9 ± 2.1 kg) were assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups (each consisting of 10 animals) in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of supplemental soybean oil [0 vs. 3% soybean oil (SBO) on dry matter basis] and forage level [0 vs. 15% alfalfa hay (AH) on dry matter basis] to evaluate the interaction effect of supplemental fat and forage feeding level in starter feed of dairy calves. Treatments were; (1) neither SBO supplementation nor AH inclusion (NSBO-NAH); (2) SBO supplementation but no AH included (SBO-NAH); (3) no SBO supplementation but AH included (NSBO-AH); and (4) SBO supplementation with AH (SBO-AH). Calves had ad-libitum access to water and starters throughout the study and weaned on day 63 of age but remained in the study until day 73 of age. The results showed that SBO supplementation reduced starter intake, average daily gain (tendency) and faecal consistency compared to un-supplemented diets. The lowest digestibility for neutral detergent fibre and crude protein, as well as the lowest wither height and volatile fatty acid production, were found for SBO-AH diet among experimental treatments. Moreover, the lowest urinary purine derivatives excretion but the highest urinary nitrogen excretion found in SBO-AH diet indicated the lowest nitrogen utilisation efficiency among experimental treatments. In summary, based on the current study condition, because the negative effects of SBO supplementation were exacerbated when AH was incorporated in the starter feed, concurrent feeding of SBO and AH is not recommendable in young calves. HIGHLIGHTS Supplemental soybean oil and alfalfa hay inclusion in starter feed of dairy calves was evaluated. Supplementation of SBO reduced crude protein digestibility and ruminal propionate concentration and caused looser faecal consistency. The inclusion of AH exacerbated the negative effects of SBO supplementation on ruminal fermentation and microbial activity. Concurrent supplementation of SBO and AH inclusion is not recommendable in dairy calves.

249 Evaluation of FluidQuip Dried Distillers Grains plus Solubles in Cattle Finishing Diets

Abstract A 112 d finishing study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding dried distillers grains plus solubles (DDGS) from the MSC-Fiber stream of the FluidQuip post-fermentation fiber separation process compared to conventional DDGS. Yearling crossbred steers (n = 240, initial BW = 463 ± 35kg) were blocked by initial BW, stratified by BW, and assigned randomly to pen (n = 30; 8 steers/pen). Treatments were arranged as a 2×2 + 1 factorial with DDGS type (MSC DDGS [MSC]; Conventional DDGS [CONV]) and inclusion level (20 or 40% diet DM) as the factors. All treatments were compared to a corn-based control (CON). DDGS replaced a 60:40 blend of high-moisture corn and dry-rolled corn. All diets contained 7.5% alfalfa hay and supplement. Data were analyzed as a randomized block design with pen as experimental unit and block as fixed effect. Increasing concentrations of CONV or MSC resulted in a linear increase in DMI (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Steers fed 40% MSC had the greatest DMI (P &amp;lt; 0.01) while CON steers had the least (P &amp;lt; 0.02). Daily gains for MSC steers linearly increased (P = 0.03), while CONV steers showed a tendency for a quadratic response to ADG (P=0.08). Feed efficiency of CONV steers increased quadratically (P = 0.04) and tended to decrease linearly (P = 0.09) for steers fed MSC. Efficiency was greatest for 20% CONV but not different (P &amp;gt; 0.16) than CON, or 20% MSC. Steers fed 40% MSC or 40% CONV were not different in feed efficiency. Inclusion of MSC DDGS resulted in linear increases in DMI and ADG over CON, but decreased feed efficiency by 1.0 and 5.3% resulting in MSC DDGS having a relative feeding value of 95.0 and 86.7% of corn at 20 and 40% DM, respectively.

PSIV-29 The effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product on the performance of creep fed Boer cross kids in regards to average daily gain and weaning weights on alfalfa and grain supplementation

Abstract The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product on creep fed kids and to determine their average daily gain (ADG) to improve the final weaning weights. Boer-cross kids and nannies were used for the study. This study was conducted over a period of five weeks from April to May 2019 at Sul Ross State University feedlot. Animals were divided into two groups based on birth weights and twinning with 4 nannies and 6 kids per group. Both groups were fed a base diet of Bermuda/alfalfa hay and a 14% CP goat pellet at rate 0.11kg/h/d and 12% sweet feed for the kids was offered with top-dress and ad libitum alfalfa hay in creep feeders. The fermentation product Saccharomyces cerevisiae was offered in a top-dress with 0.11 kg of ground corn to the treatment kids at 4g per head per day. The body weight (BW) were measured 1x a week to calculate ADG on kids and feed samples were collected 2x a week and dried in a 55C oven and ground through a 1mm Wiley mill screen for later analysis for DM, NDF, ADF, ash, and CP. We observed a significant effect in overall group feed intake (P &amp;lt; 0.001) with the treatment group consuming more than the control, but there was not a significant difference in ADG of kids between the groups (P &amp;gt; 0.23). The small sample size may have hindered the experiment, and it would be beneficial to repeat the experiment with a larger number of animals. Overall, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product did not significantly improve ADG or weaning weights in creep-fed Boer-cross kids.

Quebracho tannins aid in the control of Eimeria spp. and gastrointestinal nematodes in lambs and goat kids

The objective was to examine the effects of supplementary quebracho on control of coccidiosis and gastrointestinal nematodes in lambs and kids. In Exp. 1, naturally infected lambs weaned (87.8 ± 0.4 days of age; day 0) in January (winter) were blocked by sex and randomly assigned (n = 10/treatment) to receive supplement with or without 100 g/lamb of quebracho for 28 days. In Exp. 2, single or twin rearing ewes were randomly assigned into two groups, and naturally infected lambs were fed control (n = 28) or quebracho (100 g/lamb of quebracho tannins in feed; n = 27) between -28 and 21 days (weaning = day 0; 70.8 ± 0.1 days of age). In Exp. 3, weaned doe kids (57.6 ± 2.0 days of age) were randomly assigned to receive alfalfa (Medicago sativa) supplement with (n = 9) or without (n = 8) 50 g/kid quebracho or sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) with quebracho (n = 8) for 21 days. Fecal oocyst count (FOC), nematode egg counts (FEC), fecal score, dag score (soiling around rear quarters), and blood packed cell volume (PCV) were determined every 7 days. Data were analyzed as repeated measures using mixed models. In Exp. 1, FOC decreased in quebracho-fed lambs (diet × time, P < 0.001) but FEC was similar between treatments during the feeding period (P = 0.19). Packed cell volume (P = 0.19) and fecal score (P = 0.42) were similar between groups. Quebracho-fed lambs had a greater dag score initially (diet × time, P = 0.02), but were similar by day 42 (P = 0.72). In Exp. 2, FOC remained low (P = 0.02), PCV tended to decrease (P = 0.06), but FEC increased on days 14 and 21 (diet × time; P < 0.001) in quebracho compared with control-fed lambs. Quebracho-fed lambs had lower fecal score (diet × time; P = 0.005) but higher dag score (diet × time; P < 0.001). In Exp. 3, FOC of kids fed quebracho (alfalfa or sericea lespedeza supplement) was lower than control (P < 0.001). Fecal score of kids fed sericea lespedeza compared with alfalfa were lower regardless of quebracho (P = 0.01). There were no differences among treatments for dag, FEC, PCV, or body weight (P> 0.10). Quebracho was effective in reducing FOC but not clinical signs of coccidiosis in both lambs and kids, and may not be highly digestible in lambs as it caused loose stools.

Host immunity and the colon microbiota of mice infected with Citrobacter rodentium are beneficially modulated by lipid-soluble extract from late-cutting alfalfa in the early stages of infection.

Alfalfa is a forage legume commonly associated with ruminant livestock production that may be a potential source of health-promoting phytochemicals. Anecdotal evidence from producers suggests that later cuttings of alfalfa may be more beneficial to non-ruminants; however, published literature varies greatly in measured outcomes, supplement form, and cutting. The objective of this study was to measure body weight, average daily feed intake, host immunity, and the colon microbiota composition in mice fed hay, aqueous, and chloroform extracts of early (1st) and late (5th) cutting alfalfa before and after challenge with Citrobacter rodentium. Prior to inoculation, alfalfa supplementation did not have a significant impact on body weight or feed intake, but 5th cutting alfalfa was shown to improve body weight at 5- and 6-days post-infection compared to 1st cutting alfalfa (P = 0.02 and 0.01). Combined with the observation that both chloroform extracts improved mouse body weight compared to control diets in later stages of C. rodentium infection led to detailed analyses of the immune system and colon microbiota in mice fed 1st and 5th cutting chloroform extracts. Immediately following inoculation, 5th cutting chloroform extracts significantly reduced the relative abundance of C. rodentium (P = 0.02) and did not display the early lymphocyte recruitment observed in 1st cutting extract. In later timepoints, both chloroform extracts maintained lower splenic B-cell and macrophage populations while increasing the relative abundance of potentially beneficially genera such as Turicibacter (P = 0.02). At 21dpi, only 5th cutting chloroform extracts increased the relative abundance of beneficial Akkermansia compared to the control diet (P = 0.02). These results suggest that lipid soluble compounds enriched in late-cutting alfalfa modulate pathogen colonization and early immune responses to Citrobacter rodentium, contributing to protective effects on body weight.

Effect of Alfalfa Hay and Starter Feeding Intervention on Gastrointestinal Microbial Community, Growth and Immune Performance of Yak Calves.

The present study aims to evaluate the effects of different early weaning paradigms, which supplied with extra alfalfa hay, or starter feeding, or both alfalfa hay and starter feeding, along with the milk replacer, on the gastrointestinal microbial community, growth, and immune performance of yak calves. Twenty 30-day-old male yak calves were randomly assigned to four groups, including the control (CON), alfalfa hay (A), starter feeding (S), and starter plus alfalfa hay (SA) groups. The gastrointestinal microbial colonization, the gastrointestinal development and function, and the growth and immune performance of all the yak calves were separately measured. Supplementation with alfalfa and starter feeding during the pre-weaning period significantly increased body weight, body height, body length, and chest girth. The significantly improved rumen fermentation and promoted intestinal digestion-absorption function in alfalfa and starter feeding groups, including the identified significantly increased concentrations of ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA); the significantly increased concentrations and proportions of acetate, butyrate, and isovalerate; the increased α-amylase activities in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum; the increased papillae length and width of rumen epithelium and rumen wall thickness; and the increased villus height and crypt depth of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, could all contribute to promote the growth of calves. These significant improvements on rumen fermentation and intestinal digestion-absorption function could be further attributed to the increased proliferation of starch-decomposing, and cellulose- or hemicellulose-decomposing bacteria identified in the rumen, jejunum, and ileum. Furthermore, based on the expression of intestinal inflammatory cytokines and the rumen epithelial RNA sequencing results, alfalfa supplementation reduced the occurrence of ruminal and intestinal inflammation, whereas starter feeding supplementation was mainly beneficial to the differentiation of immune cells and the improved immune function. Meanwhile, the significantly altered relative abundances of genera in the SA group, including increased relative abundance of Limnobacter, Escherichia/Shigella, and Aquabacterium in the rumen and increased relative abundance of Coprococcus, Pseudobutyrivibrio, Flavonifractor, Synergistes, and Sutterella in jejunum, were able to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and enhance the immune function, which enhanced the immune function of the yak calves fed with alfalfa and starter feeding. Overall, milk replacer supplemented with alfalfa and starter feeding during the pre-weaning period could alter gastrointestinal microbiota and then benefit the gastrointestinal development, digestion-absorption function, growth, and immune performance of the yak calves.

The Effect of Fresh and Hay Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Supplementation on Carcass Quality of Hybrid Duck

This study aimed to determine the effect of alfalfa fresh or hay supplementation in the diets on the meat quality of hybrid duck. 75 hybrid ducks with 3 treatments and 5 replications were used in this study. Each replication consisted of 5 ducks. The diets were used in the trial consisted of P0 = Basal diets without alfalfa supplementation, P1 = Basal diets + 6% fresh alfalfa supplementation and P2 = Basal diets + 6% alfalfa hay supplementation. Either fresh or hay alfalfa was computed based on dry matter. Drinking water was given in ad libitum. Parameters observed were live weight, carcass weight, carcass percentage, and income. This study was designed with Completely Randomized Design. Data collected were analyzed (Anova) with Statistical Product for Service Solution version 22. Duncan’s new Multiple Range Test was used in the analysis with significant results. Supplementation of 6% fresh and hay alfalfa did not increase live weight, carcass weight and carcass percentage of hybrid duck until the age of 35 days. However, supplementation of alfalfa (fresh or hay) can reduce the feed cost, thus giving impact to income. The highest income was earned from the duck with 6% alfalfa hay supplementation followed by 6% alfalfa fresh and control. It is recommended to sell the live weight of 35 days harvested duck instead of the carcass to raise the income.

The effect of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) on different basal feeds for hybrid duck performance

The aimed of this research was to determine effect of Supplementation of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) on different basal feeds for hybrid duck performance. This research was conducted by in vivo method with 120 MA (Mojosari x Alabio) of hybrid ducks type. The method was being used in this research include 4 treatments and 6 repetitions with 5 ducks each repetition. The treatment consisteds of P1 = Commercial feed 100 %, P2 = Alternative feed 100 %, P3 = Commercial Feed 90 % + supplementation of fresh alfalfa 10 % and P4 = Alternative feed 90 % + supplementation of fresh alfalfa 10 %. Feed and water was offered Ad libitum. The Observed variables were feed consumption, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR). The data was analyzed by the Program of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22. Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) analyzed was implanted for significant differences data. The results showed that 10 % alfalfa supplementation in commercial feeds and alternative feeds have significant lower/higher (P &lt;0.05) value of feed consumption, weight gain and FCR value. Based on these results it can be concluded that commercial feed without alfalfa supplementation was the most optimal treatment of other treatment feeds for hybrid duck performance.

The effect of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) supplementation on hybrid duck performance

This research was aimed to determine the effect of alfalfa supplementation in the diets on hybrid duck performance. Ninety male hybrid ducks were distributed into 3 treatments and 5 replications. Each replicate consists of 6 ducks. Three types of diet were used in the study namely T0 = Basal diet 0% alfalfa supplementation, T1 = Basal diet + 3% alfalfa supplementation and T2 = Basal diet + 6% alfalfa supplementation. The alfalfa supplementation was calculated based on dry matter and given to duck in fresh condition. Water was given ad libitum. Parameters observed were feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, followed with Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test. Results showed that 3% alfalfa supplementation significantly affected (P<0.05) to feed intake and body weight gain in weeks 2 and 3 but not 6% supplementation. The conclusion from this study is that 3% alfalfa supplementation able to increase feed intake and body weight gain of hybrid ducks.