Concentrate Feed Mixture Research Articles

CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND MEAT QUALITY OF BARKI LAMBS FED RATIONS CONTAINING DRIED SUGAR BEET PULP WITH OR WITHOUT FIBROLYTIC ENZYMES

Twenty-five Barki lambs with an average body weight of 25 ±0.5Kg, at 8-months of age, were divided into 5-groups of 5-animals each, according to their live body weight in growth trial lasted for 90 days to study effect of replacing yellow corn by beet pulp in lambs diets with or without fibrolytic enzymes on carcass characteristics and meat quality. First group (G1) was fed the control ration, which consisted of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) and Alfalfa hay; second group (G2) was fed a ration where 50 % of the corn was replaced with sugar beet pulp (SBP); third group (G3) was fed a ration where 75 % of corn was replaced with SBP; fourth group (G4) was fed the same ration as G2 but supplemented with 4 g/head/day of fibrolytic enzymes and fifth group (G5) was fed the same ration as G3 but supplemented with 4 g/head/day of fibrolytic enzymes, like G4. Result showed that final slaughtered body weight (FSBW) was higher in G5 and G4 compared to other groups. However, the difference was significant (P<0.05) for G5 (45.2Kg) compared with the other groups. Significant main effects for enzyme supplementation, and SBP substitution at 50% and 75%, were noted on FSBW. Dressing percentage was similar for all groups, but the amount of protein in meat was higher in animals fed rations without enzymes compared to the control group. Eye muscle (longesmus dorsi) was significantly different for G5 compared with the control group. The colour of meat was the same for all groups, but protein content in meat was significantly higher for G5 compared to the other groups. It may be concluded that SBP may substitute yellow corn at 50 and 75 % in Barki lambs ration with enzyme positively effecting FSBW, as well as protein content in meat.

USING OF BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL TREATED OLIVE TREES BY-PRODUCTS TREATED FOR LACTATING DAMASCUS GOATS FEEDING

his study was conducted to evaluate changes in productive performance, in terms of milk yield and its composition, of lactating Damascus goats, resulted of feeding three rations. The three respective rations composed of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + olive trees by-products, the control ration (R1) contained untreated olive tree by-products; (R2) treatedolive trees by-productswith EM1 (product of EMRO Organization in Japan) and (R3)treated olive trees by-products withEl-mofeed. Eighteen lactating Damascus goats (within three seasons of lactation) aged 24 - 30 months, weighed 37.20±0.2 kg and were in 2nd - 3rd season of lactation were distributed according to their live body weight and milk production into three similar groups, (6 goats each). The experiment lasted for 120 days after the does weaned their offspring. Milk yield was significantly (P 0.05) values of total protein, albumin and globulin, cholesterol, triglyceride, total antioxidant capacity and urea concentrations. It could be concluded that biological treatments (EM1) and chemical treatments (El-mofeed) to rations of lactating Damascus goats improved milk yield, milk composition and feed conversion.

IMROVING NUTRITIVE VALUE OF OLIVE TREES BY-PRODUCTS BY BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL TREATMENTSAND ITS EFFECT ON SHEEP PERFORMANCE

his experiment was conducted to study the effect of biological and chemical treatments of olive trees by-products on chemical composition, degradability, cell wall constituents, digestibility and nutritive value and its feeding effect on productive performance of growing sheep. Eighteen (½ Finnish Landrace × ½ Rahmani) lambs with average body weight 18.00±0.40 kg and 4 months old were used in this study for 120 days. Lambs were distributed into three similar groups (6 lambs each) and randomly assigned to three experimental rations. The three respective rations composed of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + olive trees by-products, the control ration (R1) contained untreated olive tree by-products; (R2) treatedolive trees by-productswith EM1 and (R3)treated olive trees by-products with El-mofeed. The digestibility and nutritive values of experimental rations were determined using nine adult Ossimi rams. Rumen liquor and blood samples were collected at the end of collection period. The results showed that nutrient digestibility and feeding values (TDN and DCP) were higher (P 0.05) differences were found in blood constituents (total protein, albumin, globulin, GOT, GPT and urea) among the different experimental groups. Blood sereum constituents were generally normal in all experimental groups. Growth performance with respect to total body weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) were improved by biological and chemical treatments. The same trend was observed for feed conversion and economic efficiency and the best values were recoded with R2. It was concluded that inclusion of biologically treated olive trees by-products to rations of growing (½ Finnish Landrace × ½ Rahmani) lambs could improve their performance especially treatment of olive trees by-products.

Studies on Digestion Coefficients and Rumen Fermentation of some Improved Rations by Males of Sinai Sheep and Goats

In order to improve the productivity of Sinai sheep and goats, the effects of feeding with mineral mixture additives (experiment 1) and the mixture of mineral with alfalfa (experiment 2) on the digestion coefficients (dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE) and nitrogen free extract (NFE)), nutritive values (total digestible nutrients (TDN) and digestible crude protein (DCP)) and rumen fermentation were evaluated. Experiment 1 was applied to evaluate two rations (1 and 2). Ration 1 contained concentrate feed mixture (CFM) and wheat straw (ratio 2:1) and ration 2 contained CFM with additive of 0.2% mineral mixture and wheat straw. Experiment 2 was applied to evaluate two rations (A and B). Ration A contained CFM, Alfalfa and wheat straw and ration B contained CFM mixed with 0.2% mineral mixture additive, Alfalfa and wheat straw. Three Sinai rams and three Sinai bucks aged 2-3 years were used. The rumen parameters as pH, ammonia-N, Volatile fatty acids, microbial protein and protozoa were measured in rumen fluid at 0, 2 and 4 hours after feeding. Results of experiment 1 indicated that the differences of digestion coefficients of nutrients between ration 1 and ration 2 were not significant, while the EE digestibility in ration 2 (55.6%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than ration1 (53.3%) in the sheep. The digestion coefficients of DM (65.1%) and OM (67.1%) in ration 2 were significantly higher (P<0.05) than ration 1 (62.5% and 64.1%, respectively) in the goats. The digestion coefficients of CF (58.6%) and EE (58.5%) of ration B were significantly higher (P<0.05) than ration A (56.5% and 56.2%, respectively) in the sheep. The digestion coefficients of DM (67.4%) and OM (68.6%) in ration B were significantly higher (P<0.05) than ration A (65.7% and 67.1%, respectively) in the goats. In sheep, NFE of ration B was significantly (P<0.05) lower than ration A (70.4% and 72.9%, respectively). In goats, TDN values were significantly (P<0.05) higher in ration 2 than ration 1 (64.3% and 63.1%, respectively) and also in ration B than ration A (64.9% and 62.4%, respectively). The difference of NH3-N at 4h post feeding in rumen of goats was significantly (P<0.05) lower in ration 2 than ration 1 (17.7 mg and 21mg per 100 ml rumen liquid, respectively). The lowest values (P<0.05) of pH were recorded at 4 h after feeding in both breeds. In sheep, microbial protein (MP) in the rumen fluid was significantly (P<0.05) higher in ration B than ration A (0.90 g and 0.84 g per 100 ml rumen liquid, respectively). It could be concluded that using of the mixture of mineral additives (N.Candles© Pharm) in feeding Sinai sheep and goats can improve the digestion coefficients, nutritive values and rumen fermentation. Further studies in this area are recommended to evaluate effect of mineral additives on animal performance and its economical return.

EFFECT OF SPROUTED GREEN FODDER ON GROWING LAMBS’ PERFORMANCE

Twenty-eight Rahmani lambs were used in growth trial to examine effect of sprouted barley grain in sheep ration. Trials lasted to 90 days to investigate growth performance, digestion coefficients, rumen and blood parameters. Animals in control ration (G1) were fed clover hay (CH) plus concentrate feed mixture (CFM) (30 CH:70 CFM), where animals in in G2, G3 and G4 were fed 20%, 40% and 60% from dry matter intake green barley, respectively plus clover hay and CFM. Results indicated that G4 recorded higher significant digestibility of crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber and hemi-cellulose followed by G3, G2 and G1, respectively. Ruminal pH values were significantly higher with G1 compared with other groups at 4 hours and overall mean values. No significant differences were recorded in TVFA’s concentration among all groups in all sampling times. Groups fed rations contained green barley recorded higher values of average daily gain by 15%, 27% and 31% with G2, G3 and G4 respectively compared with control. Generally, there were positive effects on performance of growing lambs fed on sprouted grains

EFFECT OF LINSEED OIL BEADS ADDITION WITH VITAMIN E ON PERFORMANCE, BLOOD METABOLITES AND MILK YIELD OF LACTATING GOATS

This study aimed to determine the effects of addition of capsulated linseed oil (beads) alone or in combination with vitamin E (α-tocophyrol acetate) as feed additives on animal performance, blood plasma and milk fatty acid (FA) profiles during lactation period. Twenty four Damascus pregnant doses of about 44.5 ± 1.2 kg live body weight were randomly allotted to 3 groups of 8 doses each and assigned to receive one of three experimental diets: control group: where goats were received berseem hay and concentrate feed mixture (50:50) without any additives, (CON), LO group: goats were offered control diet plus 2.5 gm beads/head/day and LO+VE group: goats were offered control diet plus 2.5 gm beads plus 600 IU VE/head/day. The experiment lasted for about 135 days (from mid pregnancy and lasted 60 days post-partum). Results showed that LO beads inclusion strongly increased milk yield, fat (P<0.01), protein, lactose, total solids yield (P<0.05) and milk fat % (P<0.05) compared with control. Blood plasma γ-linolenic acid was positively affected by beads while C20:2ω6 was increased (P<0.05) by beads plus VE. Moreover, beads inclusion reduced lauric (C12:0), myristic (C14:0) and palmitic (C16:0) (P<0.05) acids while increased contents of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) as oleic (C18:1ω9) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) as γ-linoleic (C18:3ω3) (P<0.01) and C18:4ω3 (PP<0.05) compared with control milk. As a consequence reduction of the proportions of total SFA (P<0.01), total omega-6 FAs (P<0.05) and omega-6: omega-3 ratio and enhanced the proportions of unsaturated FAs (UFA) and omega-3 FAs (P<0.01) resulted in health quality of goat’s milk was improved. In addition, some of blood plasma metabolites were improved with beads where plasma createnine, cholesterol (PP<0.05) and lipase activity (P<0.01) were decreased compared with control animals. Plasma urea (P<0.05), triglycerides (TG) (P<0.01), low density lipoprotein (LDL) (P<0.05), high density lipoprotein (HDL) (P<0.01) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (P<0.05) were increased while lipase activity was decreased with VE addition. The inclusion of VE combined with LO beads didn’t result in benefits in goat’s products. Further in vivo studies should be undertaken to explore suitable level of vitamin E in association with protected form of useful and healthy fatty acids.

NUTRITIONAL STUDIES ON COMPENSATORY GROWTH PHENOMENON IN FATTENING BUFFALO CALVES

This study was conducted to investigated the effects of feed restriction at early age and re-alimentation (compensatory growth phenomenon) on growth and fattening buffalo calves performance. Twenty four buffalo calves with an average 123±1.05 Kg live body weight (LBW) and aged six months old were used in a feeding trial lasted for (150 – days) as restricted feeding period followed by (90- days) as re-alimentation period using randomized complete block design. Animals were divided into four similar groups (six calves per group) according to their LBW. During the feed restriction period, all animals’ groups were fed the roughage portion (50% corn silage, 40% ammoniated – treated rice straw and 10% berseem hay) at the ad libitum level with supplementation of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) at the levels of 1.5% (T1) as control, 1% (T2), 0.5 (T3) and 0.00% (T4) as tested rations, based on their (LBW). Following, the restriction period, all calves were fed on 2.5% CFM of their LBW plus 1% ammoniated treated rice straw (TRS) over re-alimentation period. In the restricted feed period, results indicated that most of nutrient digestibilities were significantly (P<0.05) lower with the restricted rations (T2, T3 and T4) than those of control group (T1). Vice versa trend was associated with CF digestibility among the dietary treatments. The feeding values as TDN, DCP and DE were followed comparable trends to those of nutrient digestibilities among treatments. Also, the DMI of calves fed restricted (T3 and T4) rations were significantly (P<0.05) lower than those calves fed restricted rations (T2) and unrestricted ration (T1). Daily gain was decreased significantly (P< 0.05) with calves restricted feed rations (T3 and T4) than those of the restricted ration (T2) and control groups (T1), but no significantly difference was found between T1 and T2 in this item. Likewise, feed conversion (as Kg DM or TDN /kg gain) was decreased significantly (P<0.05) with all calves fed restricted (T2, T3 and T4) rations compared with non-restricted (T1). Blood serum total protein and albumin concentrations were significant lower (P<0.05) for all restricted rations than that of control one. During re-alimentation period, results indicated that calves fed restricted rations (T2, T3 and T4) consumed significant lower DMI and achieved significant higher daily gain in comparison with those of unrestricted group (T1). Also, feed conversion ratio was significantly better with restricted groups vs. the unrestricted one (control). Over the whole experimental period (240 - days), DM intake of calves fed restricted rations (T2, T3 and T4) were significantly (P<0.05) lower than that of non-restricted (T1). Average daily gain of calves fed unrestricted rations (T1) and restricted ration (T2) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of restricted rations (T3 and T4). Calves fed restricted ration (T2) was significantly (P<0.05) better in feed conversion than those of the restricted rations (T3 and T4) and control one (T1). The improvement of economic efficiency based on control ration (100%) were 108.19, 113.31 and 125.26% % for the tested rations (T2, T3 and T4), respectively. Based on this study, results indicated that all calves fed restricted rations (T2, T3 and T4) in re-alimented period gave significant better growth performance, daily gain and feed conversion ratio over the re-alimented period, being incidencing the compensatory phenomenon which led to potential positive effect on economical efficiency over the whole period of fattening calves.

Effect of Humic and Fulvic Acids Mixture Treatment on Productive and Reproductive Performance of Damascus Goat Bucks: 1. Thermoregulation, Body Weight, Sexual Desire and Semen Quality under Heat Stress Condition

The objective of this study was to determine effect of humates, HTs (humic and fulvic acid mixture) on thermoregulation, body weight, sexual desire and semen quality of Damascus goat bucks under summer hot condition. The experimental work of this study was carried out at Sheep and Goats Breeding Research Department, Animal Production Research Institute. The experimental period lasted for 5 months, two months as primary period (April-May) and three months (Jun-August, 2017) as a semen collection period. During an experimental period of 5 mo, fifteen Damascus goat bucks weighing 31-33 kg and with 14-15 mo old were divided to three groups (n=5). Bucks of the 1st group (G1) had no treatment (control), but bucks in the second and third groups were daily administrated orally with 50 mg HTs (G2) and 100 mg HTs (G3) per kg live body weight of buck, respectively. The determined amount of humic and fulvic acids mixture in powder form was mixed with distilled water in an emulsion dose of 5 ml/buck during treatment period. Throughout the experimental period, ambient temperature (AT) and relative humidity (RH %) were recorded weekly and the physiological measurements were determined (13:00-14:00 h) and temperature-humidity index (THI) was estimated. All bucks were fed the same ration (concentrate feed mixture, berseem hay and rice straw and kept under the same housing and managerial conditions. Hair (HT), skin (ST), rectal (RT), scrotal (SCT) and ear (ET) temperature degrees, respiration (RR) and pulse (PR) rates were determined. Live body weight of bucks (LBW) was determined during the experimental period. Body measurements (length, depth and chest circumference), and ear length were determined pre-treatment (initial) and at the end of experiment (final). Scrotal circumference (SC) and testicular length (TL) and volume (TV) were measured. Reaction time was determined and semen was collected by artificial vagina. Results indicated that bucks in all groups exposed to very severe heat stress during the experimental months from Jun to August. Both RT and SCT reduced (P<0.05) in G2 and G3, while RR and PR decreased (P<0.05) in G3 only. However, the effect of HTs on HT, ST, ET, internal gradients between RT-ST, ST-HT, RT-SCT and ST-SCT was not significant. External gradient between each of HT, ET and RT, and AT was lower (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 than in G1, but gradient between ST-AT was not affected by HTs treatment. Slight differences between groups in buck weights from April up to 1st Jun, then bucks in G2 were heavier (P<0.05) than in G1 and G2 during July and August. The effect of HTs treatment on body measurements, TV and SC was not significant. Allici treatment increased (P<0.05) testicular length and plasma testosterone concentration, while decreased (P<0.05) reaction time as compared to control. Treatment with HTs improved (P<0.05) all physical semen characteristic and sperm outputs in G2 and G3 compared with G1. In conclusion, bucks in G3 receiving orally dose of 100 mg humic and fulvic acids mixture/kg LBW in hot months of summer season showed highest thermal regulation, which maintain live body weight, improve sexual desire and semen quality under heat stress condition.

Influence of dietary probiotic inclusion on growth performance, nutrient utilization, ruminal fermentation activities and methane production in growing lambs

The use of two probiotic products as a means of improving in vitro and ruminal dry matter digestibility, fermentation characteristics and growth performance of Barki lambs were evaluated. The probiotic products in powder (PP) or liquid (PL) forms were produced from Ruminococcus flavefaciens, through an anaerobic fermentation process. Barki lambs (n = 30; 24.5 ± 0.5 kg body weight) were used in a completely randomized block design and randomly assigned among three experimental groups and fed for 75 days. Lambs were fed an equal amount of concentrate feed mixture with either no probiotic product (control), or with 20 g of PP, or 10 ml of PL per animal/d, with rice straw ad libitum. Both PP and PL treatments resulted in an increase (p < 0.05) in nearly all of the digestibility coefficients, nitrogen utilization, cell wall constituents, total volatile fatty acids, rumen volume, microbial nitrogen synthesis, gas production and average daily gain compared to the control group. Ruminal ammonia nitrogen, acetic acid and in vitro methane concentrations and protozoa count decreased (p < 0.03) in the treatment groups. Overall, the probiotic in a powder or liquid form increased in vitro dry matter digestibility, improved lambs daily gain and nutrient digestibility.

Effect of selenium supplementation of the diet on wool production during pregnancy in Ossimi ewes

A trial was carried out on thirty pregnant Ossimi ewes aged 3-4 years, belonging to the Animal Production Research Station at Sids, with live weight ranging between 45 to 50 kg. The animals were divided at randomly into 3 groups of 10 ewes each with almost equal mean live body weight. Animals were given maintenance and production diets according to their average body weight (NRC 1988). Concentrate feed mixture composed of 22% decorated cotton seed cake, 20% molasses, 44% wheat bran, 10% yellow maize, 2.5% ground limestone and 1.5% common salt. Water was provided ad-libitum during the whole experimental period with clover hay and rice straw. The trial started 1st January and ended 1st June 2018 (5 mo. /wool growth) and included 3 groups; Control group; received the basal diet only without any supplements, the first group; was given the basal diet plus 0.23 gm selenoprotein / kg dry matter/ head/day (0.5mg available selenium), the second group; was given the basal diet plus 0.33 gm selenoprotein / kg DM /head /day (0.7mg available selenium). The trial included two periods, the first three months of pregnancy and the last two months of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to study the effect of adding selenium to the diet of pregnant Ossimi ewes on wool growth. Physical and mechanical wool properties were assessed besides estimation of Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) enzyme activity. Results showed that during the first 3 months of pregnancy, there was significant difference (P≤0.05) among groups in FD, SST, ELO % and GPX enzyme activity, while there was no significant difference in STL. But in the last two months of pregnancy there was significant difference (P≤0.05) among groups in STL, FD, SST, ELO % and GPX enzyme activity.

Response of lactating Zaraibi goats fed with berseem and/or triticale forage on milk production, feed utilization and economic efficiency

Twenty eight female Zaraibi goats in 2nd, 3rd and 4th season of lactation with average body weight of 33.0 kg were divided randomly into 4 groups (7 does in each) to study the effect of substitution of berseem forage by triticale forage in diets of lactating Zaraibi goats on their performances for milk yield and composition. In addition, twelve Rahmani rams average body weight of 50 kg were used to evaluate the feeding value of tested diets. Half the crude protein (CP) requirements of lactating goats were covered from concentrate feed mixture (CFM) while other 50% of CP was covered from triticale forage in the first group (G1), mixture forage (50% triticale- 50% berseem) in the second group (G2), mixture forage (70% triticale- 30% berseem) in the third group (G3), and berseem forage in (G4). The obtained results showed that the dry matter (DM) percent of triticale was higher than berseem (16.50 vs. 13.98). Moreover, the ether extract (EE) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) were higher while CP and ash were lower in triticale forage than berseem. But, crude fiber (CF) was nearly similar in both forages. The daily dray mater intake (DMI) as g/ kg w0.75 and body weight (BW) tended to increase with mixture forage G2 (99.10 and 4.07, respectively) compared with G3(98.75 and 4.06, respectively) and G4 (95.27 and 3.91, respectively) and G1 (91.79 and 3.77, respectively). Ammonia-N (NH3-N) level and pH values tended to decrease in the rumen of Rahmani sheep fed triticale forage (G1) compared with other forages (G2, G3, and G4). Rumen volatile fatty acids (TVFA's) concentrations as well as microbial protein (MP) were higher with 50% triticale - 50% berseem than with other rations. The digestion coefficients of OM, CF and NFE were significantly improved with G2 and G3 compared with G1 and G4. The CP, DM and OM digestibility recorded the lowest values (P<0.05) with triticale forage. The total digestible nutrients (TDN) showed the higher estimates (P<0.05) with the mixture rations (G2 and G3), while digestible crude protein (DCP) was significantly higher with increasing berseem in the rations. Whereas, serum protein, albumin, globulin, urea-N and glucose did not significantly differed among the tested diets. Concerning milk production, the obtained data indicated that milk yield of Zaraibi goats was significantly (P<0.05) higher with mixture forage (1.350 kg/ h/ d) G2 and (1.310 kg/h/d) G3 compared with the other groups (1.230 and 1.260 for G1 and G4, respectively). The effect of experimental treatments on milk fat percentage was significant (P<0.05). While, other milk contain and milk quality parameters (such as pH value and acidity %) were not significant. Accordingly, it could be concluded that using mixture forage (triticale and berseem) in feeding Zaraibi goats has positive effect on feeding value, milk yield and milk composition as well as feed utilization efficiency. Triticale forage could be safety use in feeding Zaraibi goats as it is or mixed with berseem.

IN VITRO EVALUATION OF ENCAPSULATED PROBIOTIC BACTERIA SUPPLEMENTATION TO RUMINANT RATIONS

The aim of this study was to in vitro evaluate encapsulated probiotic supplementation to ruminant rationson degradation and fermentation parameters. The ration consisted of 40% alfalfa hay and 60% concentrate feed mixture. Encapsulated and not encapsulated probiotic were supplemented with level of 106cfu/kg of the total dry matter of ration (DM) and compared with encapsulation media (Sodium Alginate, SA) and control (not supplemented ration). DM and OM degradation and total gas production as well as fermentation parameters of the incubated samples were determined after 24 h of fermentation. Significant (P<0.01) increases in in-vitro DM degradability was observed for the experimental ration supplemented with encapsulated or not encapsulated probiotics at levels (106 CFU/ kg DM) and SA treatment compared to control ration. Also, significant (P<0.05) improvement in OM degradability was recorded for the ration supplemented with not encapsulated probiotics bacteria compared to the other treatments. Moreover no significant differences were observed between the control ration and the rations supplemented with encapsulated probiotics or SA only, as well as no significant difference was recorded between the ration supplemented with encapsulated probiotics and the ration supplemented with SA only. Probiotics bacteria supple mentation in the form of not encapsulated probiotic resulted significant increases in in vitro total gas production per sample and per g DM, OM, dDM, NDF and ADF after 24 hours incubation period compared to the other experimental rations (control, encapsulated probiotic and SA). While significant increase in total gas production per g dOM was observed for not encapsulated probiotic compared to encapsulated probiotic only. It could be concluded that, using encapsulated probiotics bacteria had no significant effect on DM degradability and may be induce decrease in gas production and fermentation parameters.

IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF PROBIOTIC BACTERIA SUPPLEMENTATION TO RUMINANT RATIONS

The aim of this study was to evaluate effect of different level of probiotic supplementation to ruminant rations, using in-vitro batch culture technique to determine degradation and fermentation parameters. In vitro experimental ration was formulated, the ration consisted of 40% alfalfa hay and 60% concentrate feed mixture. Three level of probiotic supplementation (106, 108, 1010 cfu/kg DM) were evaluated. DM and total gas production as well as fermentation parameters of the incubated samples were determined after 24 hrs. of fermentation. Slightly increases (P>0.05) in in-vitro dry matter degradability were observed for the ration supplemented with probiotics bacteria at different levels (106,108 and 1010 cfu/ kg DM) compared to control ration. Probiotics bacteria supplementation with different level (106,108 and 1010 cfu/ kg DM) led to significant (P<0.001) increases in organic matter degradability and total gas production per sample and per g DM, OM, NDF and ADF compared to the not supplemented ration (control ration), and no significant differences were observed among the different levels of probiotics supplementation. Significant increase in total volatile fatty acid concentration after 24 hours' incubation period compared to the not supplemented ration. On the other hand, the treatment supplemented with probiotic recorded lower ammonia concentration compared to the control group. It could be concluded that, adding probiotics bacteria supplementation to experimental ration resulted increase DM and OM degradability and using dose 106 CFU/kg DM feed is sufficient to induce improvement in degradability and fermentation parameters

Impact of Propylene Glycol on some Nutritional, Chemical and Technological Properties of Dairy Zaraibi Goats

To evaluate the effects of propylene glycol (PG as powder) on some nutrition parameters (digestion coefficient and nutritive values) and some productive parameters (milk yield and composition) and its effects on the quality of milk processing forDomiatti cheese). An experiment was conducted by eighteen lactating Zaraibi goats in 3rd lactation season with an average body weight of 36±5.46 Kg and aged 39 months. In this experiment, three treatments were employed as six does in each treatment. The treatments done up to 21 weeks during lactation season and included: (1) control without PG (PG0), (2) 10g PG /doe/day (PG1) and (3) 20 g PG/doe/day. All treated goats were received basal ration contained 50% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 50% roughage (as berseem hay and rice straws) through lactation period up to 21 weeks. Apparent digestibility of CP, TDN and DCP was affected (P<0.05) by PG administration. Acetate and propionate were increased by using PG, but level of butyrate has increase significant for PG0. Moreover, the results could be showed that milk yield and milk compositions were affected (P<0.05) by the PG addition compared to control. Also, increasing PG levels from 10 to 20 g /does/day did not have any significant effect on milk yield, milk composition and other nutrition parameters. The cheese sample yield was slightly decreased particularly within PG1 and PG2 compared to PG0 cheese. The total solids and titratable acidity were slightly increased and pH values were slightly decreased by using PG milk. The PG cheese samples had significant (P<0.05) differences in TN/DM%, FA/DM% during the ripening period. The cheese made from PG1 and PG2 had the higher (P<0.05) score points for organoleptic properties than PG0 after continually storage period for 60 days. The results indicate that PG is an appropriate alternative for goats to prevent energy deficiency in the lactation period, while increasing the daily PG dose from 10 to 20 g has no significant but observed beneficial effect.

Effect of Spirulina platensis Microalga Additive on Performance of Growing Friesian Calves

The current work was done to study the impact of supplementation Spirulina platensis alage into the rations of growing Friesian calves on feed intake, rumen fermentation activity, digestibility, growth performance and economic efficiency. Eighteen Friesian calves aged 12 months with initial live body weight of 219.06 ± 5.35 kg were divided into three groups for 150 days feeding trial. Calves were individually fed a basal ration composed of 50% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 30% corn silage (CS) + 20% rice straw (RS) on dry matter basis without supplementation (control, R1) or with 1 g (R2) and 2 g (R3) dry Spirulina alage/ head/ day. Results showed that calves fed R3 recorded significantly (P<0.05) the highest nutrients digestibility and feeding values compared with R2 and the control one (R1). Intake of total dry matter (DM), digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) were nearly similar for the different groups. The concentration TVFA’s was significantly higher, while pH values and NH3-N concentration were significantly lower (P<0.05) in rumen liquor with the two Spirulina rations compared with the control one. Total protein concentration in plasma increased significantly (P<0.05) with Spirulina rations compared with the control one, while the rest of blood metabolities did not affected by the dietary treatments. Final live body weight, total and daily weight gain, as well as the improvement of daily gains were significantly higher (P<0.05) for the high level of dry Spirulina compared with the low level of dry Spirulina and also the control one. Feed conversion as DM, TDN and DCP required for producing one kg weight gain were lower significantly (P<0.05) for calves with Spirulina rations compared with those of control. Average feeding cost was nearly similar for the different groups. Whereas, feed cost per one kg live weight gain was significantly lower (P<0.05) for the two Spirulina rations than that of the control one. As well as, total revenue of body weight gain and net revenue as well as economic efficiency were significantly higher (P<0.05) for calves fed Spirulina rations than those of control ration.

IMPACT OF FLAXSEED INCLUSION IN DAMASCUS GOAT'S RATION ON DIGESTIBILITY, SOME BLOOD PARAMETERS AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE

Feeding flaxseed to dairy animals improve milk production and reproductive performance. So, the objective of our study was to investigate effect of inclusion flaxseed in Damascus goat's ration on its reproductive performance. Twenty-four Damascus goats (31.40 ±0.50 kg weight and 2-3 years old) were divided into three groups (randomly, eight animals each). The basic diet of control group (T1) consisted of 56.67% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) and 33.33% Alfalfa hay, while the groups T2 and T3 supplemented with 10% full fat soya, 5% flaxseed + 5% full fat soya and 10% flaxseed, respectively. Inclusion flaxseed in goat’s ration at rate of 5 and 10% resulted in significant increase in all nutrients digestibility, except nitrogen free extract digestibility (NFE) as well as the nutritive values as total digestible nutrients (TDN). Dry matter intakes (DMI) of the different experimental groups were comparable. Goats in T3 recorded the highest does conceived, twinning, conception and kidding rates % as well as total kids born, than other groups (T1 and T2). On the hand T3 recorded the lowest aborted does and barren does (Zero) compared to T1 and T2. Animals of T3 recorded significant higher of total protein, globulin, Albumin and urea concentration than T1 and T2. Concerning lipids profile, the animals of T3 recorded significant lower triglycerides, cholesterol and Low-density lipoprotein concentration than those of T1 and T2. While the animals of T3 recorded significant higher High-density lipoprotein concentration compared to T2 and T1. The body weight of does is not significantly affected by any of three treatments. In conclusion, flaxseed supplementations in Damascus goat's diets during the gestation period lead to improve total tract digestibility, reduced blood lipids and normalize renal and hepatic functions and improved its reproductive performance, especially those fed on diets containing 10% flaxseed.

IMPACT OF UREA-TREATED OLIVE TREES BY-PRODUCTS ON BARKI EWE’S NUTRIENTS DIGESTIBILITY AND MILK PRODUCTIVITY

Olive trees by-products (OTB) has high fiber and low protein content that could limit its use for feeding animals. This work aimed to investigate the effect of replacement of berseem hay in the diet of lactating Barki ewes by OTB treated with increasing levels of urea on Animal’s nutrient digestibility, milk yield and milk composition. Thirty-five of lactating Barki ewes after one week of parturition were randomly assigned to five groups (seven each). The first; control group (CBH) was fed concentrate feed mixture (CFM) plus berseem hay. The second group (UOTB) was fed CFM + untreated OTB as a replacement of berseem hay. While, OTB2, OTB4 and OTB6 groups were fed CFM + OTB treated with 2%, 4% and 6% urea (on DM), respectively. Urea treatment significantly improved the crude protein (CP) while decrease fiber fractions content of the treated OTB. Total volatile fatty acids (TVFA’s), total protein, NPN and ammonia N levels in the rumen were increased (p<0.05) in all groups fed OTB treated with urea. Daily milk yield, fat corrected milk (FCM) and composition were slightly increased in groups fed treated OTB compared to both untreated OTB and control group. Ewes fed OTB treated with 4% urea had the highest values (p<0.05) for milk production and it’s composition. Feeding olive trees by-products treated with 4% urea as a replacement of berseem hay significantly improved nutrients digestibility and milk production performance of Barki ewes.

EFFECT OF FEEDING MORINGA OLIEFERA STEMS ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF LACTATING FRIESIAN COWS

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of partial or all replacement of berseem hay by Moringa oliefera stems. Fifteen of lactating Friesian cows with average live body weight of 500 kg (2-4 seasons of lactation after the peak milk yield) were fed covering their requirements recommended feeding allowances for dairy cows. Animals were divided into three groups (5 each) assigned randomly to three experimental rations. Control ration (R1) consisted of 40% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 20% corn silage (CS) + 20% rice straw (RS) + 20% barseem hay (BH), While the other rations contained 10 and 20% Moringa oliefera stems (MS) instead of 50 and 100% of BH in R2 and R3, respectively. Results revealed that the contents of CP, CF and ash tended to increase, however the contents of OM, EE and NFE tended to decrease with increasing the level of Moringa oliefera stems in the rations. Digestibility of DM, OM and CP of 10% MS-ration (R2) were significantly higher than those of control ration (R1) and insignificant higher than those of 20% MS-ration (R3). Otherwise, digestibility of CF and NFE as well as TDN value did not affected significantly by treatments. The value of DCP was significant higher with both tested rations than that of control. Totally, digestibility of most nutrients and feeding values were the highest with R2 and the lowest with control (R1). Daily feed intake and rumen fermentation activities were nearly similar trend among the different groups. Total protein, albumin and globulin concentrations increased significantly (P 0.05) with 10% MS-ration (R2) and significant increased (P<0.05) with 20% MS-ration (R3) compared with control ration (R1). Feed conversion was insignificant improved by the ration included the low level of MS (R2), but the improvement was significant with the ration having the high level of MS (R3) than that of control one (R1). Also, Moringastems reduced the average daily feed cost and feed cost per one kg 4% FCM, but increased the price of 4% FCM yield and subsequently economic efficiency.

IN VITRO STUDIES TO EVALUATE SUGAR BEET PULP UNTREATED, SUPPLEMENTED WITH UREA OR TREATED WITH FUNGUS AS A FEED INGREDIENT FOR RUMINANTS

Sugar beet pulp (SBP) is the by-product of sugar extracting industry from sugar beet. The crude protein content of SBP is 9.16% ±1.21. While it’s In-vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) is 58.85% ±0.76. Increasing the IVDMD and organic matter disappearance (IVOMD) of SBP either by fungus treatment (Trichoderma Harzianum, T.H) or supplementation with urea (2%) to in rich it’s N content was the aim of this work. Three in-vitro experiments were conducted in this study. The objective of first experiment (EXP.1) was to determine the IVDMD, IVOMD, In Vitro crude protein disappearance (IVCPD) and in-vitro crud fiber disappearance (IVCFD) of SBP (T1), SBP plus media (2% urea, 1.5% ammonium sulphate, 1% live dry yeast, saccharomyces Cerevisiae and 0.5% magnesium sulphate as percentages of SBP, T2) and SBP plus media treated with T.H fungi, (T3). The results indicated that treatment with T. H (T3) was the most effective in increasing IVDMD, IVOMD, IVCPD and IVCFD above both T1 and T2. The figures were 63.97, 68.30 and 41.24% for IVDMD, IVOMD and IVCFD of T3. The respective values for T2 were 62.05, 64.70 and 36.45%, while the values for T1 (the untreated SBP) were 58.85, 62.87 and 34.98% for IVDMD, IVOMD and IVCFD, respectively. Differences among treatments in each nutrient were significant (P<0.01). The objective of second experiment (EXP.2) was to find out the best inclusion (level) proportion of USBPin the concentrate feed mixture contained 20% wheat straw (total mixed ration, TMR), that increase IVDMD and IVOMD. The third experiment (EXP.3) was to find out the best inclusion (level) proportion of SBPT.H. that increase IVDMD and IVOMD. The tested inclusion proportions were 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% SBPT. H. The results indicated that 40% inclusion level showed the best value for IVDMD 71.68% ±0.65 and 74.35% ±0.78 for IVOMD, while the respective values of 100% total mixed ration (TMR) were 68.39% ±0.65 and 71.86% ±0.78 for IVDMD and IVOMD, respectively. The differences were significant (P<0.01). The results showed that the 40% inclusion was the best level of USBP in the TMR. The IVDMD was 69.64% ±0.59, while the IVOMD was 72.68% ±0.76. While, the respective values for the concentrate feed mixture (100% TMR) were 67.53% ±0.59 and 71.19% ±0.76 for IVDMD and IVOMD, respectively. Differences were significant (P<0.01). It could be concluded that SBPT. H was the most effective treatment in improving both IVDMD and IVOMD of sugar beet pulp. The improvement achieved was 8.70% for IVDMD and 8.64% for IVOMD than the untreated SBP. The best inclusion level of SBP T. H. in the TMR was 40% as the improvement achieved above the TMR alone was 4.81% for IVDMD and 3.47% for IVOMD.

INFLUENCE OF SUPPLEMENTALSHEEP RATION WITH ZINC SOURCE (INORGANIC VS. ORGANIC) ON THEIR DIGESTIBILITY AND RUMINAL FERMENTATION.

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of zinc sulfate and zinc methionine supplementation on the nutrients digestibility, nutritive values of feeds and ruminal fermentation of sheep. Fifteen sheep averaged (52.2 ± 1.40 kg)were divided into five similar groups (three animals each),they were fed basal diet containing 33.34 mg Zn/kg dry matter (DM) with no supplemental Zn (control). Control group was consulted of concentrate feed mixture (CFM), corn silage and rice straw without zinc supplementation. The other four experimental groups supplemental with 30 or 60 mg of Zn/kg of DM from Zn sulfate (ZnS) or zinc methionine (ZnMet) to control diet. Results indicated that zinc addition either as zinc sulfate or zinc methionine increased (P<0.05) the digestibility of all nutrients which were reflected on the nutritive values (as TDN and DCP) of diets. Addition of zinc sulfate or zinc methionine reduced ammonia-N and increased both TVFA's rumen volume, rumen digesta and microbial protein synthesis of sheep.