Average Dry Matter Research Articles

Greenhouse gas emissions during alfalfa cultivation: How do soil management and crop fertilisation of preceding maize impact emissions?

ContextThe use of alfalfa in rotation with intensive crops is common practice to mitigate the physical and chemical issues arising from intensive farming practices. However, there is a dearth of studies on this practice. Given the current concern regarding climate change and the significant impact agriculture has on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, understanding the emissions associated with this practice, as well as the most suitable soil and crop management techniques for their mitigation, is of paramount importance. ObjectiveThe present study aimed to (i) quantify emissions of N2O, CO2 and CH4 in an alfalfa crop following a maize cropping scenario; (ii) to determine which tillage system generates the lowest GHG emissions, and; (iii) to determine how N fertilisation from a preceding intensive maize crop affects GHG emissions during alfalfa cropping period. MethodsA three-year field experiment (2019, 2020 and 2021) was conducted to assess the emissions of N2O, CO2 and CH4 from alfalfa cultivation following a three-year period of irrigated maize. Two soil management practices (no-tillage and conventional tillage) were implemented during both the maize cropping period and the alfalfa establishment. Additionally, the nitrogen (N) fertilisation rates applied to the preceding maize crop were included as a treatment (0, 200, and 400 kg N ha⁻¹, corresponding to zero, medium, and high fertilisation levels, respectively) in a randomized block design with two factors. ResultsEmissions of N2O in alfalfa ranged from 0.05 to 0.32 mg N2O-N m⁻² day⁻¹, being significantly higher only during first month of sampling in the treatments that had received fertilisation. CO2 emissions ranged from 1158 to 4258 mg CO2-C m⁻² day⁻¹. Year-average CH4 fluxes were −0.27 g C ha⁻¹ day⁻¹. The average total dry matter produced by alfalfa was 17700 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹, being higher for the no-tillage treatment, though significantly so only during first month of sampling. ConclusionsUnder Mediterranean conditions, the tillage system and mineral N fertilizer rates have a relative effect on greenhouse gas emissions during the alfalfa cropping period. Plots without N fertilization initially produced lower N2O emissions and higher total dry matter, resulting in the lowest scaled emissions. For the tillage treatment, no significant differences were found in emission dynamics, which may be due to the fact that alfalfa does not involve soil disturbance, leading to a homogenization of the treatments. However, the NT treatment showed lower scaled emissions due to higher yields in the first year. Therefore, alfalfa cultivation is characterized by low GHG emissions, high yields, and a notable capacity to mitigate the negative effects of previous intensive crops. SignificanceThis study provides data on GHG emissions during alfalfa cropping in the typical Maize-alfalfa crop rotation under Mediterranean irrigated systems, which is useful for new agricultural policies aimed at reducing pollution in the agricultural sector. Additionally, it demonstrates the capability of this crop to mitigate adverse agronomic and environmental conditions caused by preceding intensive farming practices.

353 Zinc supplementation prior to transit and transit duration effects on feedlot performance and muscle fatigue of beef steers: Part I – Performance and Muscle Fatigue

Abstract This study investigated zinc (Zn) as a mitigation strategy for transit-induced muscle fatigue. Recently weaned Angus-cross steers (n = 80) were stratified by body weight (BW = 265 ± 18.0 kg) to a 2×2 factorial. Dietary (DIET) treatments of no supplemental Zn (Zn0) or 100 mg supplemental Zn/kg DM (Zn100; Zn as ZnSO4), were fed for 42 d before transit. Along with a transit duration (DUR) of 8 h (~707 km; 8H) or 18 h (~1,608 km; 18H) on d 0. Upon return, and for 56 d post-transit, all steers received Zn100. Individual feed disappearance was monitored using GrowSafe bunks (1 bunk/pen; 5 steers/pen). Body weights were collected on d -42, -41, -1, 0 (on truck), 1 (off truck), 2, 7, 28, 55, and 56. Blood samples for analysis of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and serum L-lactate were collected on d -1, 1, 2, and 7. Data were analyzed via ProcMixed of SAS (experimental unit = steer; 15 to 20/treatment) as a 2 × 2 factorial, with fixed effects of DIET, DUR, and the interaction. Individual initial (d -42) BW was used as a covariate in BW analysis. Average DMI of d -11 to d -2 (pre-trucking) was used as a covariate in post-transit DMI analysis. Blood parameters were log-transformed and analyzed as repeated measures with repeated effect of day. Pre-transit (d -1) concentrations were used as a covariate. Pre-transit average daily gain (ADG) and dry matter intake (DMI) were greater (P ≤ 0.02) and feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F) tended to be greater (P = 0.10) in Zn100 vs. Zn0. BW on d -1 and 7 (P = 0.01) was greater for Zn100 than Zn0. There was a DIET effect and DUR tendency on post-transit G:F where Zn0 was greater than Zn100 (P ≤ 0.01) and 18H tended to be greater than 8H (P = 0.05). 56-d post-transit ADG was least for Zn100-8H (DIET×DUR, P = 0.02). Post-transit DMI was greatest for Zn0-8H with Zn100-8H being the lowest and other treatments being not different (DIET × DUR, P = 0.04). Diet did not affect L- lactate or NEFA concentrations (P > 0.13). NEFA was greater for 18H vs. 8H on d 1 and 2 but less on d 7 (DUR×DAY, P < 0.01). There was a DUR×DAY effect (P ≤ 0.01) for L-Lactate where 8H tended to be greater than 18H on d 1, but by d 2 8H was lesser than 18H, and on d 7 they were not different. In conclusion, longer transit duration increases some indicators of muscle fatigue and Zn supplementation improved pre-transit performance. Receiving Zn supplementation after trucking also improved the post-transit performance of those not previously supplemented with Zn.

18 Impacts of supplementing sulfate vs. hydroxychloride sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn on heifer growth performance and physiology during feed restriction and high-starch challenge periods

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of supplementing different sources (sulfate vs. hydroxychloride) of Cu, Mn, and Zn during feed restriction and high-starch challenge periods on heifer growth performance and physiology. On d 0, Nelore heifers (n = 40) were stratified by body weight (BW = 238 ± 38 kg) and age (21 ± 1 mo), and individually allocated into 1 of 40 drylot pens. The study was divided: washout (d 0 to 27), nutrient surplus (d 28 to 55), nutrient restriction (d 56 to 83), and high-starch challenge (d 84 to 112). The washout period consisted of limit-feeding Tifton hay (2.5% of BW; DM basis) and providing free choice access to white salt only. On d 28, heifers were randomly assigned to receive protein DM supplementation (0.10 to 0.20% of BW) added with sulfate (SUL) or hydroxychloride (HYD) sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn (≥ 260, 200, and 960 mg of Cu, Mn, and Zn per kg of supplement DM) from d 28 to 112 (n = 20 heifers/treatment). From d 28 to 55, heifers were offered ad libitum Tifton hay. From d 56 to 83, heifers were limit-fed 50% of average hay DM intake consumed in the last 6 d of the previous phase (d 50 to 55). From d 84 to 112, each respective protein supplement was mixed with a starch-based total mixed ration (TMR). Heifers were gradually adapted to the starch-based TMR by increasing the concentrate DM amount while simultaneously decreasing the hay DM amount by 20% every 7 d (starting with 35% concentrate and 65% hay on d 84 and ending with 80% concentrate and 20% hay from day 106 to 112). Individual heifer shrunk BW were collected on d 0, 28, 56, 84, and 112, following 12 h of feed and water withdrawal. Effects of treatment × day and treatment were not detected (P ≥ 0.37) for heifer BW, average daily gain (ADG), and dry matter (DM) intake, except for ADG from d 28 to 56, which was less (P = 0.05) for SUL vs. HYD heifers (-0.21 ± 0.05 vs. -0.10 ± 0.05 kg/day, respectively). Effects of day, but not treatment × day and treatment (P ≥ 0.43), were detected for fecal pH, which remained relatively constant from d 0 to 84, and then decreased (P < 0.01) from 7.2 on d 84 to 5.8-6.0 on d 110. Overall, protein supplementation added with hydroxychloride sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn had minor positive effects on heifer growth performance immediately following a washout period, but did not improve heifer growth performance and fecal pH during nutrient restriction and high-starch challenge periods, compared with protein supplementation added with sulfate sources of same metals.

Does Nitrogen Fertilization Improve Nitrogen-Use Efficiency in Spring Wheat?

To investigate the effects and mechanism of prolonged inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilization on the N-use efficiency of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), a long-term study initiated in 2003 was conducted. The study analyzed how N fertilization affects dry matter translocation, N translocation, soil NO3-N, and N-use efficiency. Five different N-fertilizer rate treatments were tested: N0, N52.5, N105, N157.5, and N210, corresponding to annual N fertilizer doses of 0, 52.5, 105.0, 157.5, and 210.0 kg N ha−1, respectively. Results showed that increasing N-fertilizer rates significantly enhanced the two-year average dry matter accumulation amount (DMA) at maturity by 22.97–56.25% and pre-flowering crop growth rate (CGR) by 17.11–92.85%, with no significant increase beyond 105 kg N ha−1. However, no significant correlation was observed between the dry matter translocation efficiency (DTE) and wheat grain yield. Both insufficient and excessive N applications resulted in an imbalanced N distribution favoring vegetative growth over reproductive growth, thus negatively impacting N-use efficiency. At maturity, the N-fertilized treatments significantly increased the two-year average N accumulation amount (NAA) by 52.04–129.98%, with no further increase beyond 105 kg N ha−1. N fertilization also improved the two-year average N translocation efficiency (NTE) by 56.89–63.80% and the N contribution proportion (NCP) of wheat vegetative organs by 27.79–57.83%, peaking in the lower-N treatment (N52.5). However, high-N treatment (N210) led to an increase in NO3-N accumulation in the 0–100 cm soil layer, with an increase of 26.27% in 2018 and 122.44% in 2019. This higher soil NO3-N accumulation in the 0–100 cm layer decreased NHI, NUE, NAE, NPFP, and NMB. Additionally, N fertilization significantly reduced the two-year average N harvest index (NHI) by 9.89–12.85% and N utilization efficiency (NUE) by 11.14–20.79%, both decreasing with higher N application rates. The NAA followed the trend of anthesis > maturity > jointing. At the 105 kg N ha−1 rate, the highest N agronomic efficiency (NAE) (9.31 kg kg−1), N recovery efficiency (NRE) (38.32%), and N marginal benefit (NMB) (10.67 kg kg−1) were observed. Higher dry matter translocation amount (DTA) and N translocation amount (NTA) reduced NHI and NUE, whereas higher NTE improved NHI, NUE, and N partial factor productivity (NPFP). Overall, N fertilization enhanced N-use efficiency in spring wheat by improving N translocation rather than dry matter translocation.

Effect of Pinus halepensis Mill. Reforestation on the Above-Ground Biomass and Internode Elongation and Leaf Size of Native Species in Morroco

This study aims to determine the effect of the reforestation of Pinus halepensis Mill. on the above-ground biomass and morphological characteristics of native species (internode elongation and leaf size) in the Beni Sohane forest. Plant biomass of the herbaceous layer was harvested on randomly selected 2 m2 quadrats in reforested plots of ± 12, ± 25, and ± 45-year-old, and native forest controls. The internode length and leaf size (length and width) were measured on plants randomly selected belonging to four native species Quercus ilex L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Phillyrea angustifolia L., and Cistus creticus L.. The results showed that P. halepensis reforestation had no significant effect on the above-ground biomass and the leaves and internodes dimensions in the young plantations ± 12-year-old. However, as the pine trees mature, the average dry matter weight decreases, especially in stands 45 years old, where this weight was significantly lower than that of natural forests. This fact has led to herders abandoning important pastures previously used by their cattle. In addition, the fast growth of P. halepensis trees formed a canopy above all indigenous species resulting in changes in the dimensions of internodes and leaves. For the two oldest plantations, the internode length, leaf width, and length of the 4 species have been significantly increased. However, the leaf length-to-width ratio decreased significantly, with leaves in reforested plots being larger rather than longer compared to control samples in native forests. Planting P. halepensis can negatively impact the long-term growth of native plants, so we recommend periodically removing some of the pines (thinning) to restore the balance of these ecosystems. Thus, species selection for reforestation should consider maximizing rather than destroying ecological and socioeconomic services.

Effect of Pinus halepensis Mill. Reforestation on the Above-Ground Biomass and Internode Elongation and Leaf Size of Native Species in Morroco

This study aims to determine the effect of the reforestation of Pinus halepensis Mill. on the above-ground biomass and morphological characteristics of native species (internode elongation and leaf size) in the Beni Sohane forest. Plant biomass of the herbaceous layer was harvested on randomly selected 2 m2 quadrats in reforested plots of ± 12, ± 25, and ± 45-year-old, and native forest controls. The internode length and leaf size (length and width) were measured on plants randomly selected belonging to four native species Quercus ilex L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Phillyrea angustifolia L., and Cistus creticus L.. The results showed that P. halepensis reforestation had no significant effect on the above-ground biomass and the leaves and internodes dimensions in the young plantations ± 12-year-old. However, as the pine trees mature, the average dry matter weight decreases, especially in stands 45 years old, where this weight was significantly lower than that of natural forests. This fact has led to herders abandoning important pastures previously used by their cattle. In addition, the fast growth of P. halepensis trees formed a canopy above all indigenous species resulting in changes in the dimensions of internodes and leaves. For the two oldest plantations, the internode length, leaf width, and length of the 4 species have been significantly increased. However, the leaf length-to-width ratio decreased significantly, with leaves in reforested plots being larger rather than longer compared to control samples in native forests. Planting P. halepensis can negatively impact the long-term growth of native plants, so we recommend periodically removing some of the pines (thinning) to restore the balance of these ecosystems. Thus, species selection for reforestation should consider maximizing rather than destroying ecological and socioeconomic services.

PERFORMANCE OF SOKOTO RED GOAT FED UREA TREATED GROUNDNUT (ARACHIS HYPOGAEA) SHELL

The study that assessed the impact of treatment of groundnut shell on performance, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen utilization by Sokoto red goats was carried out at Professor Lawal Abdu Saulawa Livestock Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University Dustin-Ma, Katsina State. Fifteen growing male goats used for the experiment were allotted to three treatments at five for each treatment in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with each one serving as a replicate. The experiment comprised of three treatments namely T1, T2 and T3 at inclusion levels of urea treated GNS at 0%, 10% and 20% respectively. The feeding trial was carried out for 84 days. Growth, digestibility, and nitrogen utilization parameters were measured. The proximate analysis revealed slight increase in crude protein while crude fibre decreased with increased level of inclusion of GNS. Lignin composition also slightly reduced from 11.90% in T1 to 10.90% (T3). There were significant differences (P<0.05) in weight gain per day, daily feed intake and feed efficiency. Average daily weight gain (75g/day) and feed efficiency (0.15) were higher in treatment T3 than those of other treatments but with lower average dry matter intake (490.83g/day). The nitrogen intake, faecal nitrogen, urine nitrogen, nitrogen absorbed, nitrogen balance, and nitrogen retained were significantly different (P<0.05) across the treatments. Treatment T3 which contained 20% inclusion level of UGNS was the best among all the diets because it contained 86.90% CPD, 95.66% EED, 92.76%, CFD 17.45%, 14.27 g/day nitrogen balance and 81.82% nitrogen retention. The feed cost per kg liveweight gain was significantly less (P<0.05) in treatment T3. The conclusion of the study was that treatment T3, which contained 20% urea treated GNS performed better than others.

Analysis of Physiological and Biochemical Parameters in the Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Obtained in Different Cultivation Systems

This paper presents the results obtained from the analysis of physiological and biochemical parameters in the radish, species Raphanus sativus L., variety Rond Ecarlate, which was grown in three different systems (in the field, in the solarium and in the climate chamber). Several parameters necessary for the evaluation of biomass, physiological processes and nutritional values were determined. Regarding the biometric parameters, it was noticed that in the field cultivation the plants formed 11-12 leaves, in the solarium average 12-13 leaves, and in the climatic chamber the analyzed plants formed 7-9 leaves, on an average. The total biomass of the plant was recorded with the following average values: in the field 70.05 grams, in the solarium 92.3 grams and in the climate chamber 32.9 grams. Regarding the circumference of the tuberous hypocotyl axis, the values are higher in plants grown in solarium (16.9 cm), with the smallest dimensions being recorded in plants grown in the climate chamber (7.2 cm). The highest average pulp firmness value was observed in plants grown in the solarium (0.27 kg force), and the lowest values were seen in plants grown in the climate chamber (0.14 kg force). Regarding the amount of water lost through perspiration by the leaves of radish plants, the highest average values were recorded at plants grown in the solarium, and the lowest at plants grown in the climatic chamber. The average soluble dry matter content was higher (over 4%) in plants grown in the climate chamber compared to other harvesting systems. The analysis of the average carbohydrate content shows that the total soluble carbohydrates were present only in the hypocotyl axis and glucose was found both in the hypocotyl axis of the studied plants and in the leaves. Vitamin C was present in variable amounts, both in the hypocotyl axis and in the leaves. The average amino acid content (expressed in amino nitrogen) was between 0.003% and 0.006%. The anthocyanin was present with highest values (54.5 mg) in field-grown plants, and catalase activity was present both in the hypocotyl axis and in the leaves and roots. Air humidity and temperature had a high influence on the development of plant biomass, on the content of dry matter and on the loss of water through transpiration. The biometric, physiological and biochemical parameters varied depending on the cultivation system.

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.

Mealworm Larvae Frass Exhibits a Plant Biostimulant Effect on Lettuce, Boosting Productivity beyond Just Nutrient Release or Improved Soil Properties

There is a need for alternatives or complements to synthetic fertilizers to enhance agricultural sustainability. Applying organic amendments can play a significant role in this. Insect droppings show high potential, though studies evaluating their agronomic value have only recently begun to emerge. This study compared black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) and mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) larvae frass with another organic amendment (Nutrimais) derived from composting forestry, agro-industrial, and domestic waste. The experiment also included ammonium nitrate at two rates [the same as the organic amendments, 50 kg ha–1 nitrogen (N) (FullR), and half that rate (HalfR)] and an unfertilized control. The study spanned two growth cycles of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) grown in pots, followed by unfertilized oats (Avena sativa L.) to assess the residual effects of the fertilizing treatments. Mealworm larvae frass mineralized rapidly, with an apparent N recovery of 37.4% over the two lettuce growth cycles, indicating its high availability to soil heterotrophic microorganisms. The average dry matter yield (DMY) of lettuce was the highest among all treatments (12.8 and 9.8 g plant–1 in the first and second lettuce cycles), even compared to the FullR treatment (12.2 and 7.8 g plant–1), though without significant differences. Although mealworm larvae frass exhibited a high mineralization rate, the DMY cannot be attributed solely to N supply, as plants in the FullR treatment showed better N nutritional status. Mealworm larvae frass provided strong evidence of a plant biostimulant effect, not explained by the variables measured in this study. Black soldier fly larvae frass exhibited typical behavior of a moderately reactive organic amendment, while Nutrimais showed low reactivity, with a near-neutral mineralization/immobilization balance. The results suggest mealworm larvae frass is recommended for early maturing vegetable crops, whereas Nutrimais appears more suitable for perennial crops with low short-term nutrient requirements.

Valorization of the complex organic waste in municipal solid wastes through the combination of hydrothermal carbonization and anaerobic digestion

Municipal Solid Wastes (MSW) consist of the valorizable inorganic fraction, i.e., Refuse Derived Fuel, and the organic fraction which also can be valorized. However, the separated organic fraction, which is known as Complex Organic Waste (COW), contains traces of glass, plastics, non-ferrous metals, and stones. Thus, the aim of this work was to determine the value of the COW that comes from a MSW separation plant through the combination of Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) and Anaerobic Digestion (AD) for the production of biofuels. COWs were conditioned to undergo HTC for 1 h at 180 °C and 190 °C. HTC liquid was used as a substrate operating an Anaerobic Hybrid Reactor (AHR) in continuous mode with 5 gCOD/Ld at 35 ± 2 °C. The hydrochar contained on average (dry matter): (180 °C) 30.44 % carbon and 15.47 MJ/kg and (190 °C) 40.44 % carbon and 17.60 MJ/kg. The AHR removed more than 93 % (COD) reaching 0.34 LCH4 at STP/gCODrem, and no inhibitory effects were observed. The coupling of HTC with AD at low temperatures for short times turned out to be a promising alternative for the valorization of COW, i.e., it produced 10,888 MJ (94 % HTC and 6 % AD) per metric ton of COW.

Chemical composition, energy content, and nutrient digestibility of rye grain in broiler chickens

The development of livestock farming is always associated with the search for new dietary components that increase feed efficiency or reduce feed costs. The maximum use of regional, conventional feed in the feeding of farm animals is quite relevant today. Furthermore, certain feeds, the production of which is accompanied by low greenhouse gas emissions, help reduce the carbon footprint of the diet as a whole. The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional value of rye grain of the modern hybrid KWS Tayo and the digestibility of nutrients in poultry. The chemical composition of grain, digestibility of nutrients in broiler chickens, and total energy content were investigated. The chemical composition of feed, compound feed, and litter was determined according to the Wende method. Nutrient digestibility studies were conducted on broiler chickens of the ROSS-308 cross. For the physiological experiment, 5 chickens aged 22 days were selected. The experiment was carried out using a complex method, by replacing part of the basic diet. The experiment consisted of 2 parts. In the first experiment, the nutrient digestibility of the main diet was determined – compound feed containing 5% rye grain; in the second, the main diet with an additional 5% rye grain was used. The calculation was made on the assumption that the digestibility of nutrients in the main diet was the same in both experiments. The compound feed was balanced according to the recommendations of the cross developer. The energy content of rye grain was calculated in J of metabolisable energy by the regression equation, based on the data on the content of digestible protein, fat, fibre, and NFES determined in the physiological experiment. The average dry matter content of the rye samples was 87.4%. The content of the main nutrients in the grain of natural moisture was as follows: crude protein – 8.87±0.484%; crude fat – 1.63±0.105%; NFES – 73.95±0.494%, and crude ash – 0.53±0.109%. The nutrient digestibility of rye grain was as follows: crude protein – 76%; crude fat – 82%, crude fibre – 8%; NFES – 81% and organic matter – 78%. The total energy value of rye grain was 12.420±0.2573 MJ/kg of metabolic energy for poultry. Nutritionists can use the nutritional and nutrient digestibility data of rye grain to develop practical recipes for poultry compound feed

Lycium barbarum (Wolfberry) Branches and Leaves Enhance the Growth Performance and Improve the Rumen Microbiota in Hu Sheep.

The Lycium barbarum branches and leaves (LBL) are known to contain a range of active substances that have positive effects on animal immunity and antioxidation. This study aimed to examine how LBL impacts the growth and slaughter performance as well as rumen fermentation and microbiota in Hu sheep. A total of 50 male Hu sheep of indigenous origin, aged 3 months, were randomly divided into 5 groups of 10 sheep each. The groups were given different levels of LBL supplementation (0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%) to evaluate growth performance and nutrient apparent digestibility. Rumen fluid samples were collected for analysis of the fermentation parameters and rumen chyme was examined to study the rumen microbiota. The slaughter performance, meat quality, and organ index were evaluated at the conclusion of the experiment. The results showed that the final body weight and average daily gain of the LBL1 group were significantly higher than those of the CON group, LBL3 group, and LBL4 group (p < 0.05). The average dry matter intake of the LBL4 group was significantly lower than that of other experimental groups (p < 0.05). The apparent digestibility of CP in the LBL1 and LBL2 groups was higher than that in other experimental groups (p < 0.05). At the same time, the eye muscle area and grade-rule (GR) value of Hu sheep in the LBL1 group significantly increased and the quality of Hu sheep meat improved (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in organ weight and organ index between the experimental groups (p > 0.05). The pH of the rumen fluid in the LBL1 group was significantly lower than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the NH3-N content between the experimental groups (p > 0.05). The propionate and valerate in the rumen fluid of Hu sheep in the LBL2 group were significantly higher than those in other experimental groups (p < 0.05). In addition, this had no significant effect on the structure and abundance of the rumen microbiota (p > 0.05). LBL is a promising functional feed. Adding an appropriate amount of LBL to the diet can improve the feed efficiency, growth performance, and meat quality of Hu sheep but has no adverse effects on the rumen. In this experiment, the appropriate supplemental level of LBL in the diet was 3%.

Potential Health Risks for Consumers and Handlers of Poultry Products Fed with Poor Quality Feeds

In Burkina Faso, livestock farming contributes to the supply of animal protein and the improvement of household incomes. However, the poor quality of poultry feed not only leads to economic losses but also risks of microbial transmission to consumers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess potential health risks to consumers and handlers of poultry products according to the physicochemical and microbiological quality of poultry feed. Physicochemical and microbiological parameters analysis was performed using standard methods. Mean calculations, ANOVA and Tukey tests were performed using Excel 2016 XLSTAT 2016 software. The average water content was 5.42% for broiler feed and 5.03% for layer feed. The average dry matter was 94.58% for broiler feed and 94.77% for layer feed. The average pH was 7.44 for the broiler feed and 7.3 for the layer feed. The average acidity was 0.5% for broiler feed and 0.39% for layer feed. Microbiological analyses showed for broiler and layer feeds, mean loads respectively of 7.64x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g and 2.82x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g for Total Aerobic Mesophilic Flora, 7.76x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g and 1.58x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g for Sporulating Flora, 1.44x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g and 1.22x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g for yeast and Molds, 7.89x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g and 9.47x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g for Total Coliform, 2.27x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g and 8.38x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;3&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; CFU/g for Thermotolerant Coliforms, and the presence of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Salmonella&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;. Compliance evaluation showed the following results: 100% of feeds analyzed were satisfactory in terms of Total Aerobic Flora, Total Coliforms, Yeasts and Molds. However, 100% of foods assessed were contaminated with Thermotolerant Coliforms and 40% with &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Salmonella&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;. These high levels pose obvious risks to both poultry and consumers of poultry products. Therefore, compliance with good hygiene practices remains an absolute necessity for the protection of poultry and consumers of poultry products.

Effect of Varying Feeding Formulas on The Growth Performance of Buffalo Heifers

The present experiment was conducted at dairy farm during the year 2020-21 at CSAUA&amp;T Kanpur. The growth rate of buffalo heifers is a major problem at dairy farms. Twelve buffalo heifers were selected for digestibility that on a nutrition slide sample contains 86.50% DM, 20.10 %CP, 2.00 EE, 15.5% CF, 52.70% NFE and 9.50%Ash. The average dry matter intake per 100 kg body weight was (6.34, 5.44, 7.06 kg) the digestibility coefficient of DM was recorded (61.40, 59.95, 62.77) and digestibility coefficient of CP (63.55, 61.78, 65.77) and digestibility coefficient of CF (56.11, 54.75, 58.99) and digestibility coefficient of EE (64.89, 64.39, 67.52) and digestibility coefficient of NFE (64.06, 62.58, 65.75) and digestibility coefficient of Organic matter (64.45, 62.75, 66.99). The average live weight in buffalo heifers was increased (627.04, 610.44, 687.73) g per day in group I, II and III groups respectively. The growth parameters were statistically significant. Group III was shown better performance in respect of growth parameters in other groups I and II from the present study, it was apparent that the extra concentrate to be added in diet for proper development of growing heifers, III group was higher in growth. Digestibility coefficients of Dry matter, Crude Fiber, Ether extract, Nitrogen free extract and Organic matter were also higher in group III.

Influence of Silicon Supplementation on Growth, Immunity, Antioxidant, Hormonal Profile and Bone Health Biomarkers in Pre-ruminant Crossbred Calves.

Silicon (Si), a newer trace element, is believed to be important for healthy bone formation and to decrease bone resorption, improving the quality of bone by manipulating several hormones and enzymes. Therefore, the current investigation was conducted to determine the impact of Si supplementation on growth, immunity, antioxidant, hormonal profile and biomarkers of bone health in pre-ruminant crossbred calves. Twenty-four crossbred calves (5-7 days) were selected on the basis of their body weight (BW 31.65 ± 0.46 kg) and divided into 4 groups (n = 6) and fed as per ICAR (2013) feeding standards except that these were additionally supplemented with 0 (Si0), 50 (Si50), 100 (Si100) and 150 (Si150) mg of Si/kg dry matter (DM) in four respective groups for 90 days. Every month, peripheral blood samples were drawn (0, 30, 60 and 90 days post supplementing with Si) and analysed for antioxidant status, hormonal profile and bone health biomarkers. It is reported that dietary Si supplementation improved (P < 0.05) net body weight gain (kg), average daily gain (g) and average dry matter intake (kg), whereas feed intake (kg/100 kg BW), was not altered due to Si supplementation. Structural growth measurements were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in Si100 and Si150 groups as compared to Si50 and control groups. However, immune response (humoral as well as cell-mediated immunity), erythrocytic antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD, glutathione peroxidase, GPx and catalase), plasma ferric reducing total antioxidant power (FRAP) activity and the plasma concentration of total immunoglobulins (TIg) remained unaffected by Si supplementation. Silicon increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of plasma growth hormone (GH), vitamin D3, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) in Si100 and Si150 groups, but the levels of calcitonin, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and hydroxyproline (HYP) remained similar among all the groups. As a result of the current investigation, it can be inferred that the inclusion of 100 and 150 mg of Si/kg DM was effective in improving the growth performance, growth hormone, vitamin D3 and bone health status in pre-ruminant calves. However, supplementation of 150 mg of Si/kg DM had no additional benefit; therefore 100 mg of Si/kg DM is the optimum level of Si supplementation in pre-ruminant calves.

Canteen waste as food for black soldier fly larvae: risk of heavy metals accumulation? Variability during one year of rearing

Abstract Worldwide, about 244 million t/yr of waste are produced by canteens and restaurant, of which 4.7 million t/yr are generated at the Italian level. Canteen waste (CW) could be used for feeding larvae of insect to obtain new marketable products (e.g. protein meal, frass and chitin). Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) are voracious and polyphagous species, and CW is a complete food for them. Furthermore, BSFL are capable to bioaccumulate some heavy metals thus allowing to obtain safe organic frass, but the bioaccumulation in larvae intended for feed purpose needs to be evaluated. The CW was sampled once a month and the sampling was carried out for a year from a local canteen, located in the northern part of Italy. The feeding was conducted in quadruplicate in plastic containers (12 l) and 2,000 g of CW and 2,000 5 days-old larvae were allocated in each box. Each trial ended after 7 days and growth performances were evaluated. The results reported an average dry matter final larval biomass, along the year, of 83.8 ± 46.05 g and an average dry matter frass quantity equal to 199.9 ± 140.32 g. The percentage of dry matter for initial diet was 21.7 ± 14.10, for final larval biomass was 34.3 ± 7.39%, and for the residue of 62.2 ± 17.01%. The initial diet, BSFL before and after feeding, and the residue were sampled and oven dried. Elemental analyses were performed with a mass spectrometer in triplicate for evaluating arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury quantities within CW, residues and BSFL before and after feeding. This trial certifies the ability of BSFL to accumulate (BAF &gt; 1) arsenic (average of 0.165 ± 0.1480 ppm), lead (average of 0.238 ± 0.1562 ppm), cadmium (average of 0.077 ± 0.0367 ppm), and mercury (average of 0.008 ± 0.0043 ppm) during feeding, and it proves that the bioaccumulation complies with European legal limits on the amount of heavy metals in larvae.

Handmade fish meal as a partial replacement of soybean meal in diets for feedlot lambs: Effects on growth performance, dietary energy and meat quality

With the aim to evaluate a handmade fishmeal (HFM) as a partial replacement of soybean meal (SBM) in finishing diets, 36 intact male Dorper × Pelibuey lambs (41.43±7.38 kg of initial weight) were used in a completely randomized block design to test the following treatments: 1) Cracked corn-based diet containing 12% SBM, 2) inclusion of 3.5% of HFM partially replacing SBM, and 3) inclusion of 7% of HFM partially replacing SBM. Urea and limestone were utilized to balance diets in CP and calcium content. The feeding trial lasted 30 days. Replacement of SBM with HFM did not modify the effects on average daily gain (ADG) and dry matter intake (DMI), but there were numerical differences in ADG; HFM inclusion linearly improved gain-to-feed ratio; dietary net energy (NE) and observed-to-expected diet NE. Hot carcass weight and dressing percentage were not affected by HFM. Except a linear increase on C22:6, the effect of SBM replacement on fatty acid profile in meat was not significant. The meat pH registered at 24 h post-mortem linearly increased with HFM inclusion, but meat colour and sensorial values were unaffected. It was concluded that inclusion of up to 7% of HFM in diet as partial replacement of soybean meal did not negatively affect DMI and ADG, but can increase feed efficiency and dietary energy utilization. The effects of HFM on carcass and meat quality were inappreciable. Due to variations in handmade processing, it is important to verify its chemical composition before HFM can be incorporated into diets.

Evaluasi Kualitas Nutrien Hydroponic Corn Green Fodder Jagung Putih Sebagai Pakan Ternak Pada Umur Panen Yang Berbeda

This study aims to evaluate the effect of differences in harvest age on the characteristics of fodder of corn plants that are maintained hydroponically. This research will be carried out using a completely randomized design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 4 replications, so that the experimental units used are 20 units to get a good harvest time. The treatments used in this study were P1 (Hydroponic growing media at harvesting age of 7 days), P2 (Hydroponic growing media at harvesting age of 9 days), P3 (Hydroponic growing media at harvesting age 11 days), P4 (Hydroponic growing media at harvesting age 13 days), P5 (Hydroponic growing media, harvesting age 15 days). The parameters evaluated were (a) dry weight (BK), (b) organic weight (BO), (c)crude protein content (PK), (d) crude fiber content (SK) and (e) crude fat content (LK). The results revealed that the average dry matter ranged from 12.98–6.27%, while the average organic weight ranged from 96.90–93.52%, the protein content ranged from 23.30–10.14%, the crude fiber content ranged from 2.65–20.28%, and the results of crude fat content ranged from 2.65–2.86%.Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that hydroponic corn green fodder white corn with different harvest ages can have a significant effect on the production of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein and crude fiber. The best harvest was found in the P1 treatment, namely at 7 days of harvest it was able to produce 23% crude protein content. The longest harvest age (15 days) resulted in the lowest dry matter, organic matter and crude protein content and the highest crude fiber content.

The quality evaluation of 30 Asparagus officinalis L. varieties.

Asparagus, a vital economic contributor, is a well-liked vegetable grown around the globe, and some secondary metabolites in its spear are beneficial to human health. Asparagus spears possess a significant quantity of nutrients and phytochemicals; however, the difference in these chemical compositions among various varieties has not been sufficiently studied. This work aimed to detect the chemical compositions of 30 varieties of asparagus and to assess them by principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the contents of these chemical compositions varied in varieties. Selenium (Se, 1.12-2.9 μg/100 g dry-weight [DW]) was abundant in asparagus, with an average dry matter content of 8.25%. Free amino acids (5.60-9.98 g/100 g DW) and polyphenols (6.34-8.67 mg/g DW) were both present in high amounts, along with flavonoids (4.218-8.22 mg/g DW) and protodioscin (0.44-1.96 mg/g DW). Correlation analysis, PCA, and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of asparagus. Atlas, Appolo, Jinggang 111, Jingke 2, and WS-1 were the top five varieties with comprehensive scores. This study provided valuable data for the breeding, quality improvement, processing, and utilization of asparagus varieties in the future.