Crude Protein Digestibility Research Articles

Agroecological mapping of livestock feed resources for sustain productivity and climate resilience in Benin (West Africa)

Feed availability and accessibility are two of the main challenges for Benin livestock systems, which are currently subject to environmental stress and changing climatic conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the main fodder resources used by livestock in Benin by estimating fodder supply and demand for livestock in Benin's agroecological zones (AEZs) and establishing a fodder balance. A total of 314 agrofarmers were surveyed using simple random sampling. Data were collected through discussions with agropastoralists, structured questionnaires, secondary data and observations. The survey in the eight AEZs of Benin revealed that maize residues are the main crop residues used in livestock feed (53.14%), followed by sorghum residues (8.41%), millet (5.91%), soya (8.1%) and rice (5). It also found that natural grazing areas are the main fodder resources used in Benin, with a dry matter contribution of 74% compared with 26% for crop residues. The study of the availability of fodder resources revealed a positive fodder balance for dry matter (DM) in each agroecological zone, but a negative balance in all AEZs for metabolizable energy (ME) and digestible crude protein (DCP). Thus, with an average annual availability of almost 3.15 million tons of DM across all Benin AEZs, zones 2, 3 and 5 had the highest DM availability rates, while AEZs 1, 7 and 8 had the lowest DM availability. To alleviate this problem of food shortages for livestock, we suggest interventions to improve the productivity of grazing areas; The introduction of fodder crops with the emphasis on legumes and efficient use of available fodder resources, such as the treatment of livestock feed (treatment of poor fodder with urea is one example).

Effects of Different Molasses Levels and Slow-Release Urea Combinations on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Rumen Fermentation, and Microflora of Holstein Fattening Bulls

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different combinations of molasses levels and slow-release urea on Holstein fattening bulls. Sixty Holstein fattening bulls of a similar age, weight, and health status were randomly divided into four groups of fifteen Holstein fattening bulls each. All of the treatments were as follows: (1) basic diet group (CON); (2) 2% molasses slow-release urea group (LMU); (3) 4% molasses slow-release urea group (MMU); and (4) 6% molasses slow-release urea group (HMU). The results of the study showed that the MMU had an outstanding performance, with a 13.3% increase in average daily weight gain compared with the control group, a significant decrease in feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05), and a significant increase in apparent digestibility of crude protein (p < 0.05). In terms of serum biochemical indices, blood ammonia and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentrations were significantly higher in the MMU than in the CON (p < 0.05). The rumen pH of all treatment groups was lower than that of the CON (p < 0.05), whereas the concentrations of microbial crude protein (MCP), as well as acetic acid, propionic acid, and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) were significantly higher in both the MMU and HMU (p < 0.05). The dominant phyla in each group were Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Patescibacteria, and the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in the MMU increased by 5.47% compared with that in the CON. In the MMU, Prevotellaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Ruminococcaceae increased by 9.03%, 0.67%, and 3.43%, respectively, compared with the CON. The economic benefit analysis showed that the daily feeding cost of fattened cattle in the MMU was reduced by RMB 1.62 yuan, and the daily farming benefit of each cow was increased by RMB 7.19 yuan. In conclusion, the MMU was effective in improving the growth performance of fattening cows, optimizing rumen fermentation, reducing cost, and increasing profit, which is a nutritional strategy with great application value.

Dietary Fiber-Rich Spartina anglica Improves Intestinal Health and Antioxidant Capacity of Zhedong White Geese

Spartina anglica (SA), a plant rich in dietary fiber, has demonstrated considerable potential for enhancing gut health and antioxidant capacity in animals. This study investigates the integration of SA as a novel dietary ingredient for Zhedong white geese, with a specific focus on evaluating its effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and cecal microbiota composition. A total of 360 1-day-old Zhedong white geese with an average weight of 114.94 ± 0.81 g were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments, with 6 replicates per treatment and 15 geese per pen. The 4 dietary treatments included different SA supplement levels: a control group receiving a basal diet (CON), and three experimental groups supplemented with 3% SA (SA3), 6% SA (SA6), and 12% SA (SA12). Supplementation with 6% SA significantly enhanced the final body weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the SA12 group exhibited reduced digestibility of crude protein and ether extract, relative to the SA3 and SA6 groups (p < 0.05). The highest antioxidant capacity was observed in the SA6 and SA12 groups, while the lowest was recorded in the CON group. SA supplementation did not significantly influence serum biochemical parameters or organ indices but increased cecum length (p < 0.05). Notably, SA supplementation markedly improved intestinal morphology, although excessive levels appeared to compromise these benefits. Additionally, SA supplementation significantly enhanced the richness and diversity of cecal microbiota and increased short-chain fatty acid concentrations. In conclusion, SA at an optimal supplementation level of 6% may be effectively utilized in Zhedong white geese diets to improve growth performance, gut health, and antioxidant capacity.

Exploring the Potential Effects of Soybean By-Product (Hulls) and Enzyme (Beta-Mannanase) on Laying Hens During Peak Production.

This study determined the interaction between soybean hulls (SHs) and enzymes (β-mannanase) to improve the sustainability and efficacy of feeding programs for laying hens during peak production while ensuring the best health and efficiency. In a completely randomized design (CRD), 200 golden-brown hens were fed for four weeks (33 to 36 weeks) and randomly distributed into four groups, each containing four replicates of ten birds, with one group receiving a control diet (P0) and the others receiving diets that contained four combinations of SHs and enzymes (ENZs). e.g., 3% SHs and 0.02 g/kg ENZs (P1), 3% SHs and 0.03 g/kg ENZs (P2), 9% SHs and 0.02 g/kg ENZs (P3), and 9% SHs and 0.03 g/kg ENZs (P4). Although most egg quality measures remained similar, the P2 group showed enhanced (p = 0.630) egg weight, albumen weight, and height. Moreover, the P2 group improved gut (p < 0.05) shape by increasing villus width, height, crypt depth, and surface area throughout intestinal sections, while the P4 group markedly improved total cholesterol and LDL (p = 0.022) levels. The P1, P2, and P4 groups exhibited a significant enhancement in dry matter (p = 0.022) and crude fiber (p = 0.046) digestibility, while the P2 group demonstrated superior crude protein digestibility (p = 0.032), and the P1 and P2 groups showed increased crude fat digestibility compared to the other groups. In conclusion, adding 3% of SHs and 30 mg/kg of ENZs (β-mannanase) to the feed may help laying hens, enhance gut health and some egg quality indices, and decrease blood cholesterol and LDL levels without compromising nutrient digestibility.

The effects of poultry by-product meal and multi-strain probiotics on production performance, immune response, gut health and nutrient utilisation of broilers

This study assessed the potential of a commercial probiotic mixture on performance, gut health and nutrient utilisation of broilers-fed poultry by-product meal (PBM)-based diet. Three-hundred-and-twenty Ross-308-day-old broiler chicks were obtained from a commercial poultry hatchery. The chicks were randomly assigned to four different treatment groups, each consisting of four replicates (n = 10) in a randomised complete design. The positive control group (CON) was fed commercial poultry ration, and the negative control group (N-CON) was fed PBM partially replacing soybean meal at a 65% level. The MSP1 and MSP2 groups contained the same diet as the N-CON group but supplemented with multi-strain probiotics (MSP) at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg. Overall N-CON group performed poorly, but the addition of probiotics in group MSP1 and MSP2 diets significantly improved performance. Feed efficiency and bird weight gain were improved (p < .05) by multi-strain probiotics supplementation in MSP1 and MSP2 groups compared to N-CON. The highest weight gain was observed in MSP2 and lowest in the N-CON group. Increasing levels of probiotics significantly increased villi length, width and surface area in probiotics-supplemented groups compared to non-supplemented groups. Dry matter and crude protein digestibility were improved (p < .05) in probiotics-supplemented groups compared to N-CON. In conclusion, PBM at a 6.5% level was successfully used to replace soybean meal with multi-strain probiotics supplementation without compromising broiler health.

Effect of multi-strain probiotic supplementation as alternative to antibiotics on growth, blood biochemistry, ileal digestibility, bacterial growth, and gut histomorphology of broiler fed on poultry byproduct meal

ABSTRACT The study aimed to evaluate the effects of multi-strain probiotic (MSP) on broiler growth, health, and nutrient utilization under high animal protein concentrate conditions. Male Ross-308 broilers were assigned to four groups: a control (C), MSP at 50 mg/kg (MSP50), MSP at 100 mg/kg (MSP100), and Zinc bacitracin (ZB) as a positive control. MSP supplementation significantly improved feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency, with MSP100 demonstrating the best feed conversion ratio during both starter and finisher phases. MSP also enhanced dressing percentages and positively influenced blood lipid profiles. The supplementation reduced harmful bacterial growth (E. coli, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens) while promoting beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus). Moreover, MSP positively impacted gut histomorphology, showing higher villus height, width, and crypt depth in the MSP100 group. Digestibility of dry matter and crude protein was enhanced in birds fed the MSP100 diet. Overall, MSP supplementation exhibited positive effects on broiler performance, health, and nutrient digestibility, indicating its potential as an antibiotic alternative for improving practices in the poultry feed industry.

Exploring Feed Digestibility and Broiler Performance in Response to Dietary Supplementation of Chlorella vulgaris.

This study evaluated the feed digestibility of diets including autotrophic Chlorella (C.) vulgaris in 252 male broilers (Ross 308), comparing unprocessed biomass (trial 1) and pulsed electric field (PEF) processed biomass (trial 2) at inclusion levels up to 20%. In trial 2, performance and meat color were also evaluated. Each trial included seven treatments (0%, 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% (%w/w on dry matter (DM)) C. vulgaris) with six replicates (three birds per replicate) per treatment. Data were analyzed using linear, quadratic, and broken-line models. Control feeds without microalgae inclusion achieved a crude protein digestibility of 82.04 ± 1.42% (trial 1) and 81.63 ± 1.90% (trial 2), while feed with 20% non-processed microalgae inclusion only had a protein digestibility of 66.96 ± 1.16% (trial 1) and feed with PEF processed microalgae at 20% had a protein digestibility of 72.75 ± 0.34% (trial 2). In general, increasing inclusion levels of C. vulgaris impaired nutrient digestibility, significantly reducing crude protein, crude fat, gross energy, and crude ash digestibility (p < 0.001). Broken-line models identified critical inclusion thresholds beyond which digestibility declined significantly, i.e., at 10% for crude protein, 12.53% for crude fat, and 9.26% for gross energy in unprocessed microalgae feeds (trial 1). For PEF-processed microalgae, only a broken line fit was obtained for gross energy, with a breakpoint at 5% (trial 2). Furthermore, a significant linear decrease in body weight (BW) (p < 0.001), average daily gain (ADG) (p < 0.001), average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p = 0.006), and relative and absolute breast filet weight was observed as microalgae inclusion level increased (trial 2). Color parameters also changed significantly with increasing microalgae inclusion level: L* showed a significant linear decrease (p = 0.029), b* and a* showed a significant linear increase (p < 0.001) (trial 2). This research advances the exploration of sustainable protein alternatives, highlighting the potential of microalgae in broiler feed and the benefits of processing methods such as PEF to enhance nutrient utilization.

Phytobiotic effects of Guinea grass supplementation on production and health performances of coloured-broilers

Growing concerns about antibiotic resistance in the livestock industry have prompted researchers to explore alternative solutions. This study investigated the effects of Megathyrsus maximus as a phytobiotic supplement on the production performance and health of Sasso broilers raised in tropical environments. 216 Sasso mixed-sex broiler chicks were randomly assigned to six treatment groups (six replicates per treatment): Treatment 1 (T1) as a negative control (no antibiotics), Treatment 2 (T2) as a positive control (100 mg/kg oxytetracycline), and Treatments 3–6 received 1.25, 2.50, 3.75, and 5.00 g/kg of M. maximus grass meal on top the basal diet, respectively, without antibiotics. At day 56, broilers in T6 had the highest final body weight (1.87 kg) and superior FCR of 1.93. Nutrient digestibility was optimised at higher doses of M. maximus, with the highest CP (67.68%) and EE (74.50%) digestibility in the T6 group (p < 0.001). Megathyrsus maximus also improved intestinal morphology, with higher VH:CD in all segments. However, microbial counts and carcase characteristics remained largely unaffected, though meat quality was significantly improved in terms of reduced drip loss and shear force at supplementation levels of 5.00 g/kg. Blood biomarkers analysis and decreased liver enzyme activity in the M. maximus groups, particularly in T6, suggests lowered inflammation and enhanced liver function. This study concludes that M. maximus supplementation, particularly at the highest inclusion level (T6) shows potential as an effective antibiotic replacement in tropical poultry production.

Effects of Medium- and Short-Chain Fatty Acids on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Gut Microbiota and Immune Function in Weaned Piglets

The aim of this study was to investigate the combination effects of α-glycerol monolaurate (GML) and glyceryl tributyrate (TB) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, gut microbiota, and immune function in weaned piglets. A total of 120 weaned piglets with an average body weight (BW) of 6.88 kg were randomly allocated to one of the three dietary treatments: (1) CON: a basal diet; (2) 0.1%: a basal diet with 0.1% MSCFA (GML/TB = 1:1); (3) 0.2%: a basal diet with 0.2% MSCFA (GML/TB = 1:1). The experiment lasted 28 days. There were no differences on average daily growth (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Supplementation with 0.1% MSCFA increased apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of crude protein (CP) and gross energy (GE, p &lt; 0.05) on d 14 and increased GE (p &lt; 0.05) on d 28 compared with the CON group. The ATTD of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) of piglets supplemented with 0.1% MSCFA was higher (p &lt; 0.05). Compared with the CON group, supplementation with 0.1% MSCFA increased immunoglobulin M (IgM) concentration, decreased interleukin-6 (IL-6) content (p &lt; 0.05) on d 14 and decreased malonaldehyde (MDA), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), IL-6 concentrations (p &lt; 0.05) on d 28. Supplementation with 0.1% MSCFA increased total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) concentration (p &lt; 0.05), decreased GSH-Px, MDA content (p &lt; 0.05) in jejunum compared with the CON group. Moreover, supplementation with MSCFA increased the activity of duodenal lipase (p &lt; 0.05) and the abundance of firmicutes and decreased the abundance of proteobacteria compared with the CON group. Overall, supplementation with MSCFA can improve nutrient digestibility, enhance immunity and antioxidant capacity, and improve the intestinal health of piglets. The combined use of MSCFA is a nutrition regulation strategy worthy of further exploration in modern animal husbandry.

Comparison of average daily gain, apparent digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters and bacterial communities, and serum antioxidant indices in Leizhou goats fed with or without rumen-protected fat

IntroductionRumen-protected fat (RPF) is a vital dietary energy source for dairy cows. However, the influences of RPF on rumen volatile fatty acid (VFA) content and bacterial communities in goats are poorly documented.MethodsIn this study, 12 castrated male goats (body weight [BW]: 13.3 ± 0.02 kg; 6 months of age) were used as the experimental animal and then allocated into two groups (n = 6): a control group, fed a basal diet without RPF supplementation, and the RPF supplementation group, fed a basal diet with 2.4% RPF supplementation.ResultsThe final BW and ADG were higher (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and the ratio of dry matter (DM) intake to ADG was lower (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in the 2.4% RPF supplementation group compared with those in the control group. The 2.4% RPF supplementation group showed a higher total tract digestibility of DM, CP, OM, neutral and acid detergent fiber compared with that of the control group (p &amp;lt; 0.05). The proportion of acetate was higher (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and that of propionate was lower (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in the 2.4% RPF supplementation group compared with those in the control group. The relative abundances of Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, unclassified_f__Selenomonadaceae, norank_f__Selenomonadaceae, Quinella, norank_f__Bacteroidales_RF16_group, and unclassified_o__Bacteroidales were higher (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and those of Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group, norank_f__F082, Olsenella, Erysipelatoclostridiaceae_UCG-004, and Syntrophococcus were lower (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in the 2.4% RPF supplementation group compared with those in the control group.DiscussionIn conclusion, 2.4% RPF supplementation can improve the ADG and antioxidant capacity by regulating the rumen bacterial communities and enhancing the apparent total tract digestibility in growing Leizhou goats.

Effects of Substitution of Wheat Straw by Giant Reed on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemical Parameters, Nutrient Digestibility, and Antioxidant Properties of Sheep.

The development and utilization of unconventional forage resources is crucial to alleviating the current situation of shortage of forage resources. Giant reed (Arundo donax) is a promising forage resource from the Poaceae family, one of the largest herbaceous plants globally, with fast growth, high biomass yield, and strong ecological adaptability. However, there are still very few reports on the use of giant reed in livestock and poultry production. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of adding giant reed instead of wheat straw in total mixed ration (TMR) diets on growth performance, blood biochemical indexes, nutrient digestibility, and antioxidant properties of sheep, thereby providing a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of giant reed herbage resources. A total of 24 fattening sheep (Han × Duper) with similar body weight (20 kg), age (2 months), and health status were randomly divided into four groups with six replicates per group. Sheep in the control group were fed a basal diet (CON), and those in the experimental groups were fed giant reed Lvzhou No. 1 instead of wheat straw, with replacement proportions of 10% (GR10), 20% (GR20), and 30% (GR30) of the total diet, respectively. The results showed that (1) the body weight (FBW) and average daily gain (ADG) of sheep in the GR20 and GR30 groups were higher than those of sheep in the CON and GR10 groups (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the feed to gain ratio (F/G) of sheep in the GR20 and GR30 groups was lower than those sheep in the CON and GR10 groups (p < 0.05), and the F/G of the GR30 group was lower than that of the GR20 group (p < 0.05). (2) The apparent digestibility of DM and CP in groups GR10, GR20 and GR30 was significantly higher than that in group CON (p < 0.005). The digestibility of NDF and ADF in groups GR20, and GR30 was significantly higher than that in the CON and GR10 groups (p < 0.05). (3) dietary substitution of giant reed for wheat straw had no effect on serum biochemical indices, except serum glucose (GLU, p = 0.014) of sheep. In addition, the substitution of giant reed for wheat straw had a tendency to decrease serum urea content of sheep (p = 0.098). (4) Dietary substitution of giant reed for wheat straw significantly improved serum T-SOD (p < 0.001) and T-AOC (p < 0.001), and significantly decreased MDA (p < 0.001) of sheep. In conclusion, replacing wheat straw with giant reed can significantly enhance growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and antioxidant capacity in sheep without adverse effects on their normal physiological functions.

Effects of Fructus Aurantii Extract on Growth Performance, Nutrient Apparent Digestibility, Serum Parameters, and Fecal Microbiota in Finishing Pigs.

This study investigated the effects of Fructus Aurantii extract (FAE) on growth performance, nutrient apparent digestibility, serum parameters, fecal microbial composition, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in finishing pigs. In total, 75 Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire pigs (equally divided by sex), with an initial body weight of 79.49 ± 4.27 kg, were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. The pigs were fed either a basic diet (CON) or a basal diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg of FAE (FAE500) and 1000 mg/kg of FAE (FAE1000). The FAE1000 group exhibited a significantly higher final body weight (FBW) (p < 0.05), and the average daily feed intake (ADFI) showed an increasing tendency in the FAE500 and FAE1000 groups (p = 0.056) compared to the CON group. Additionally, the inclusion of FAE resulted in the significantly higher apparent digestibility of crude ash (Ash), gross energy (GE), and crude protein (CP) (p < 0.05), with a tendency to the increased digestibility of dry matter (DM) (p = 0.053). Dietary FAE supplementation led to elevated serum levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and decreased levels of serum L-lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), along with a tendency to increase serum glucose (GLU) levels (p = 0.084). The FAE500 group demonstrated higher serum concentrations of motilin (MTL) and gastrin (GAS) (p < 0.05), and a tendency for reduced serum glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) level (p = 0.055) compared to the CON group. Furthermore, alpha diversity analysis revealed that the FAE500 group significantly increased the Chao 1 and Observed_species indexes (p < 0.05). Similarly, beta diversity analysis indicated that FAE feeding altered the fecal microbial structure (p = 0.083). Notably, compared with the control group, CF231, Pediococcus, and Mogibacterium displayed higher relative abundance in the feces of the FAE500 group, whereas Tenericutes showed a reduction in relative abundance (p < 0.05). Additionally, the relative abundance of Tenericute was negatively correlated with the digestibility of DM, GE, Ash, and CP (p < 0.05). Serum MTL and GAS levels correlated positively with the Coprococcus, Dorea, Pediococcus, and Mogibacterium relative abundances (p < 0.05). Collectively, dietary FAE supplementation could enhance growth performance by boosting beneficial bacteria in feces, stimulating gastrointestinal hormone secretion, and improving nutrient digestibility.

Improvement in Palm Kernel Meal Quality by Solid-Sate Fermentation with Bacillus velezensis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus paracasei

To improve the quality of palm kernel meal (PKM), the effect of solid-state fermentation (SSF) with Bacillus velezensis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus paracasei on nutritional components, anti-nutritional factor and antioxidant activity were investigated. The results show that inoculation ratio of three strains 4:2:1, inoculation amount 21%, moisture content 52%, fermentation temperature 34 °C and fermentation time 60 h were the optimal SSF conditions. After 60 h of fermentation, the content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), cellulose and hemicellulose in PKM were significantly decreased by 22.5%, 18.2%, 20.2%, 17.6% and 32.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, the content of crude protein, soluble protein, peptides, amino acids and reducing sugar were increased significantly by 27.3%, 193%, 134%, 16.3% and 228%, respectively. SSF significantly improved the total phenolic content, DPPH radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and reducing power. In addition, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in vitro crude protein digestibility (IVCPD) were increased. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed microstructural alterations in PKM. The results indicate that SSF with B. velezensis, S. cerevisiae and L. paracasei is an effective and promising method to enhance the nutritional value and antioxidant activity of PKM, providing a feasible solution for increasing the utilization of PKM in animal feed.

Nutritional Value of Nannochloropsis oceanica for Weaner Piglets.

This study evaluates the nutritional value of spray-dried Nannochloropsis oceanica biomass to infer its applicability for weaner piglet feeding. Twenty-four piglets were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (n = 6) with increasing N. oceanica inclusion (0, 5, 10, and 15%) levels. After a 4-day adaptation period, the digestibility experiment lasted two weeks, with daily excreta collection. Total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD), N balance, intestinal pH, histomorphology, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations were measured. No significant differences were observed in feed intake, growth, or intestinal morphology (p > 0.05). N intake increased linearly (p = 0.005) with N. oceanica inclusion, while N retention efficiency remained unchanged (p = 0.058). VFA concentrations decreased linearly (p < 0.001). The TTAD of dry matter (DM), organic matter, ether extract, and gross energy decreased (p < 0.05) with higher N. oceanica levels, while the ash TTAD increased (p < 0.001). The estimated TTAD values for N. oceanica biomass were 72.5% for DM, 82.9% for N, and 64.4% for gross energy. The digestible energy, metabolisable energy, and digestible crude protein values estimated for N. oceanica were 12.74 MJ/kg DM, 12.40 MJ/kg DM, and 20.4% DM, respectively. This information enabled the first nutritional characterisation of N. oceanica for weaner piglets, ultimately leveraging its use in piglet diet formulation.

Effect of Hydrolyzed Frozen Meat on Diet Palatability, Apparent Digestibility, Immune Response, Fecal Microbiota, and Metabolome in British Shorthair Cats

Frozen meat is an important source of protein in pet food, and has attracted much attention in recent years. In this study, we compared the effect of meat meal (MM), frozen meat (FM), and hydrolyzed frozen meat (HFM) as ingredients in extruded pet food on its palatability and apparent digestibility, as well as its effects on the immune response, fecal microbiota, and metabolome of British shorthair cats. A total of 24 British shorthair cats were allocated to the MM, FM, and HFM groups according to body weight and gender. The palatability test lasted 4 days and the feeding test lasted 45 days. The results showed that the FM and HFM diets had better palatability than the MM diet (p &lt; 0.05) and significantly improved dry matter and crude protein digestibility (p &lt; 0.05). The serum IL-10 level was significantly higher in the HFM group compared to the MM and FM groups (p &lt; 0.05). The serum IgM levels were also found to be significantly higher in the FM group compared to the MM and HFM groups (p &lt; 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio was significantly lower in the HFM and FM groups than in the MM group (p &lt; 0.05). Cats fed HFM had a higher abundance of fecal Actinobacteria and Bifidobacterium and a lower content of Bacteroidota (p &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, serum metabolomics analysis revealed that the tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and bile acid metabolism were affected by HFM. Overall, FM and HFM were better for the cat’s health than meat meal, but they also have some potential risks.

Fungal Phytase Increased Ileal and Total Tract Digestibility of Phosphorus of Cold-Pressed Canola Cake and Canola Meal Diets in Growing Pigs.

The co-product canola meal contains little fat and has been used in swine production as a protein source for several decades. More recently, locally produced canola cake has also become available that contains important quantities of residual oil. Both canola co-products contain a considerable quantity of phosphorus (P) with low availability. Phytase supplementation can increase P digestibility in canola meal but its efficacy remains unclear for canola cake containing high residual oil. To explore whether phytase supplementation can increase digestibility of P and other nutrients in canola cake, four diets containing 500 g of locally produced cold-pressed canola cake or canola meal, with or without supplemental phytase (Ronozyme HiPhos; Aspergillus oryzae origin)/kg, were fed to seven pigs (initial body weight; 55.9 ± 3.8 kg) in four 9-day periods following a 4 × 4 Latin square plus a 4 × 3 Youden square. Phytase supplementation increased phytase activity from below the detection limit to reach a minimum of 1000 phytase units/kg in the canola meal and cake diets; respectively. Phytase supplementation increased (p < 0.05) coefficients of ileal and total tract digestibility of P by 60% and 46% for canola meal and 76% and 57% for canola cake, respectively, but did not affect the digestibility of crude protein or gross energy. Ileal or total tract digestibility of P did not differ between the canola cake and canola meal diets in growing-finishing pigs. In conclusion, fungal phytase is effective in increasing the P digestibility of canola cake similar to in canola meal fed to growing-finishing pigs. The similar ileal or total tract digestibility of P in canola meal and cake diets either with or without phytase supplementation indicated that the residual oil in canola cake did not affect P digestion and did not affect the efficacy of phytase in increasing P digestibility.

Effect of Thermo-mechanically Fermented Soybean Meal on Nutrient Digestibility and Carboxymethyl Cellulase Activity of Jawa Super Chicken

In poultry, amino acids are sourced mainly from soybean meal (SBM). However, nutrient absorption and digestion are quickly reduced in the presence of antinutritional factors (ANFs), thus impairing poultry growth performance. Here, we experimented to determine the effects of fermented SBM with A. niger and B. subtilis on nutrient digestibility and carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase) activity of Jawa Super (Joper) chicken. The experiment was completed from November 2022 to January 2023 on the poultry farm of the Animal Science Faculty, Universitas Sebelas Maret Surakarta, Indonesia. A total of 36 1-d-old Joper male chicks were randomly allocated into three dietary treatments; Control diet without fermented SBM (CON), fermented SBM with B. subtilis (P1), and fermented SBM with A. niger (P2) in a completely randomized design. The nutrient digestibility and CMCase activities were analyzed in response to a modified feeding using fermented SBM. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to analyze data using SPSS® Statistics 25 for Windows. There was a significant difference in the digestibility of crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), crude fat, nitrogen-free extract (NFE), and organic matter (OM) between the control and treatment groups (P &lt; 0.05). However, crude ash and fibre digestibilities are relatively similar (P &gt; 0.05). Following the insignificant result of fiber digestibility, CMCase activities did not differ significantly (P &gt; 0.05). To conclude, feeding Joper chicken with fermented SBM seems promising in achieving optimized digestibility of nutrients due to significant results, especially in CP digestibility. Additionally, within the treatment groups, B. subtilis (P1) demonstrated slightly better performance compared to A. niger (P2).

Dietary inclusion of blanched African bread fruit (Treculia africana) pulp on the growth performance, haematological indices and nutrient digestibility in Weaner rabbits

Current study examined the impact of blanched African bread fruit pulp (BABP) on growth per-formance, haematology and nutrient digestibility of Weaner rabbits. A total of 200 60-day-old New Zealand White Weaner rabbits with an average weight of 759.5 g were randomly assigned to five groups and fed 0% (control), 5, 10, 15 and 20 % blanched African bread fruit pulp in a completely ran-domized design. The trial lasted for 7 d of adaptation and 56 d for testing. Growth performance was recorded from 60 to 116 d of age (n=5 per treatment with 40 rabbits, 10 per replicate), haematological indices at 116 d of age and nutrient digestibility from 112 to 116 d of age were determined (n=5 per treatment with 16 rabbits, 4 per replicate). Results showed that dietary BABP supplementation at 15, and 20% decreased (P &lt; 0.05) the feed intake and body weight gain. The digestibility of crude protein, crude fiber, and ether extract were also decreased (P &lt; 0.05). Moreover, rabbit at 15, and 20% showed decreased (P &lt; 0.05) packed cell volume, white blood cell and haemoglobin concentration. It was con-cluded that BABP can be incorporated into rabbit diets up to 5-10% inclusion level, without negatively affecting growth performance, haematological indices and nutrient digestibility of rabbits.

Effect of oregano essential oils and probiotics supplementation on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant status, intestinal microbiota, and gene expression in broilers experimentally infected with Eimeria.

The poultry industry has several disease challenges; coccidiosis is considered one of the most dangerous parasitic diseases. Six-hundred Ross 308 male broiler chicks (average initial body weight 41.5 g) were allocated to six groups: negative control uninfected (NCO); positive control infected with Eimeria (PCO); or positive control supplemented with diclazuril (0.2 g/kg diet, DIC); two-strains probiotic (2 g/ kg diet, PRO); oregano essential oil (300 mg/ kg diet, OEO); a combination of 2 g probiotic and 300 mg oregano essential oil (POE). At day 15, all groups except NCO were inoculated via oral gavage with oocysts of mixed Eimeria spp. Our results indicated that the infected chickens with mixed Eimeria (PCO) exhibited lower growth performance, higher mortality rate, and increased oocyst shedding (P < 0.05), in addition to deterioration of immune-oxidative status in broilers on 35 d. On the contrary, Eimeria-infected chickens fed on a diet supplemented with DIC, PRO, OEO, and POE showed improved growth performance (P < 0.05) and decreased mortality and oocyst shedding. Moreover, feeding chickens on POE enhanced body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, crude protein digestibility, and dressing. Furthermore, POE supplements supported immunity and antioxidant status by increasing IgA, IgG, IL-10, and SOD levels (P < 0.05) and reducing IL-6 and MDA levels. Additionally, adding POE altered the gut microbiota structure via an increasing Lactobacillus count and decreasing C. perfringens, E. coli, and Coliforms count. Notably, POE supplements also reduced oocyst shedding and lesion scores. Moreover, the up-regulated nutrient transporters, including the expressions of cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1) and mucin-2 (MUC-2) were up-regulated (P<0.05) in the POE group compared to other groups. Therefore, our study concluded that a combination of probiotics and oregano essential oils was preferred as an effective choice for protecting broilers against coccidiosis.

Peanut Cake as an Alternative Protein Source to Soybean Meal on Performance, Nitrogen Utilization, and Carcass Traits in Feedlot Lambs

Substituting soybean meal (SM) with other protein sources can be advantageous in reducing production costs without increasing nitrogen losses in the environment. Peanut cake (PC) might be a strategy in ruminant herds to result in a performance similar to that observed in animals fed SM. This study assessed the PC inclusion at rates of 0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 g/kg on intake and digestibility, performance, nitrogen balance, microbial protein synthesis, and carcass traits of lambs. Forty-five entire, crossbreed Dorper × Santa Inês lambs (average age = five months and 24.49 ± 5.27 kg of BW) were distributed in a completely randomized design. Only the ether extract intake was not affected by the PC inclusion, and only the crude protein digestibility was affected by the diets. The total weight and average daily gains decreased, and the feed conversion increased. Hot carcass yield was influenced quadratically, the leg depth increased and the loin-eye area decreased. The total replacement of soybean meal with peanut cake in diets for lambs did not compromise nutrient digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, and carcass characteristics. Nevertheless, peanut cake as a protein source in the diet had adverse effects on nutrient intake and growth performance of feedlot lambs.