Organic Matter Digestibility Research Articles

Long-Term Effects of Pre-Weaning Individual or Pair Housing of Dairy Heifer Calves on Subsequent Growth and Feed Efficiency.

Our objective in this exploratory study was to evaluate the long-term impacts of pre-weaning social isolation vs. contact on subsequent growth and feed efficiency of Holstein heifers. As pre-weaned calves, 41 heifers were housed individually (n = 15 heifers) or in pairs (n = 13 pairs; 26 heifers). At 18 months of age, heifers were blocked by body weight and randomly assigned to one of three pens within a block (six to eight heifers per pen; six pens total), with original pairs maintained. Body weight (BW), hip height and width, and chest girth were measured at the start and end of the study. Each pen was given 3 days of access to a GreenFeed greenhouse gas emissions monitor to assess potential physiological differences between treatments in enteric methane emissions or behavioral differences in propensity to approach a novel object. During the 9-week study, heifers were fed a common diet containing 62.3% male-sterile corn silage, 36.0% haylage, 0.7% urea, and 1.0% mineral (DM basis). To calculate daily feed intake, as-fed weights and refusals were recorded for individual heifers using Calan gates. Feed samples were collected daily, composited by week, and dried to calculate dry matter intake (DMI). Feed refusal and fecal samples were collected on 3 consecutive days at 3 timepoints, composited by heifer, dried, and analyzed to calculate neutral detergent fiber (NDF), organic matter (OM), and DM digestibility. Feed efficiency was calculated as feed conversion efficiency (FCE; DMI/average daily gain [ADG]) and residual feed intake (RFI; observed DMI-predicted DMI). Paired and individually housed heifers did not differ in DMI, ADG, FCE, or RFI. Although no differences were found in initial or final hip height, hip width, or chest girth, heifers which had been pair-housed maintained a greater BW than individually housed heifers during the trial. Methane production, intensity, and yield were similar between treatments. Pre-weaning paired or individual housing did not impact the number of visits or latency to approach the GreenFeed; approximately 50% of heifers in each treatment visited the GreenFeed within 8 h of exposure. Digestibility of OM, DM, and NDF were also similar between housing treatments. In conclusion, pre-weaning pair housing had no adverse effects on growth, feed efficiency, or methane emissions at 18 to 20 months of age.

Effects of saturated fatty acids with lysophospholipids on production and nutrient digestibility in lactating cows

The objective of the experiment was to determine the effects of supplemental saturated fatty acid (SFA) sources, lysophospholipids (LPL), and their interaction on production and nutrient digestibility in lactating dairy cows. The experiment was conducted with 48 cows in a randomized complete block design. Cows were blocked (total 12 blocks) by parity and days in milk and randomly assigned to 4 dietary treatments in each block (2 × 2 factorial arrangement), i.e., 2 sources of fat supplements, C16:0 (palmitic acid, PA)- or C18:0 (stearic acid, SA)-enriched fat, with or without LPL. The experiment was conducted for 6 wk to measure daily dry matter intake and milk yield and weekly milk composition. During the last week of the experiment, spot fecal and urine samples were collected to determine total-tract nutrient digestibility. Milk samples in the last week were also collected to analyze for milk fatty acid (FA) profile. All data were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS where block was used as a random effect and FA, LPL, and the interaction of FA by LPL were used as fixed effects. Week and interactions of week by FA or LPL were included for production measures. Different sources of SFA did not affect dry matter intake and milk yield. However, PA increased (39.7 vs. 36.8 kg) energy-corrected milk compared with SA due to increased milk fat yield. No effect of LPL on production measures was observed. Total-tract digestibilities of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and total FA were not different between PA and SA, but PA increased (41.4 vs. 38.8%) neutral detergent fiber digestibility compared with SA. Supplementation of LPL increased (64.7 vs. 60.5%) total FA digestibility, especially 18-carbon FA (74.1 vs. 68.2%). An interaction of SFA by LPL was found for 16-carbon FA digestibility. The PA diet increased the concentration of 16-carbon FA in milk fat and SA increased the concentration of preformed FA (≥18 carbons). Supplementation of LPL decreased the concentration of trans-10 C18:1. No difference in N utilization and excretion among treatments was observed. In conclusion, PA was more effective in improving milk fat yield of lactating cows compared with SA. Supplementation of LPL increased digestibility of total FA, especially 18-carbon FA but did not affect production.

Timing of High-Energy Supplementation to Early-Season-Pasture-Forage Fed Continuous Culture

A continuous culture study was conducted duplicating the daily meal pattern of pasture-grazed cattle and evaluating the time of two supplements differing in their composition (one complex: SUPP A and one simplistic: SUPP B) on their effects on nutrient digestion and metabolism of ruminal microorganisms. SUPP A contained ingredients containing substantial amounts of both structural and non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), fat, and protein, all having fractions with differing rates of availability. SUPP B’s predominate organic matter ingredients were only corn grain and soybean meal and contained approximately 3% less crude protein than SUPP A. All treatments were fed forage at five distinct times, mimicking forage intake on pasture, with supplements being fed at either a morning (AM) or evening (PM) feeding. The treatments were a) SUPP A fed AM, b) SUPP B fed AM, c) SUPP A fed PM, and d) Supp B fed PM. The results showed that dry matter, organic matter, and NSC digestibility’s were unaffected by supplement type or time of feeding. Supplement A showed greater fiber digestion than SUPP B, regardless of time of supplementation. The PM feeding decreased the digestion of both neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber in SUPP B with no effect on fiber digestion in SUPP A. Culture pH remained more stable over the 24-hour day with SUPP B feeding than it did with SUPP A feeding while average pH was not affected by supplement or time of feeding. Total volatile fatty acid flow was unaffected by treatment, as were flows of acetic and propionic acids. Butyric acid flow decreased significantly on both supplements with the PM feeding. As expected, there were fewer total branch chain volatile fatty acids generated with SUPP B. Microbial growth measured in g microbial N flow/day increased for both supplements at the PM feeding. Flow of by-pass feed nitrogen was unaffected by supplement but was lower with PM feeding. Microbial efficiency was increased as a result of the PM feedings. The timing of a large amount of supplementation relative to the timing of daily forage meals can alter the effects seen in continuous culture work and may translate to effects in-vivo systems as well.

Comparison of forages’ digestion levels for different in vitro digestion techniques in horses

Forages are widely used in horse diets. Different in vitro techniques are being tried to determine the fermentation levels of forages in the horse digestive tract. This study aimed to evaluate the digestion levels of four dry forages commonly used in horse nutrition: alfalfa herbage, meadow hay, wheat straw, and Italian ryegrass. In vitro total digestion (TDT), in vitro Sunvold-large intestine digestion (SDT) and in vitro Menke-large intestine digestion (MDT) techniques were compared. The study determined in vitro true dry matter digestion (T-DMD), in vitro true organic matter digestion (T-OMD) and in vitro true neutral detergent fibre digestion (T-NDFD). Additionally, concentrations of straight short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs; acetic acid - AA, propionic acid , butyric acid, and valeric acid ) and branched short-chain fatty acids (BSCFA) were assessed. The highest in vitro T-DMD, T-OMD and T-NDFD values were determined by the in vitro TDT for the four forages (p<0.05). In vitro T-DMD and T-OMD values of alfalfa herbage were higher than those of Italian ryegrass, meadow hay and wheat straw in the in vitro TDT (p<0.001). In addition, in vitro T-DMD and T-OMD values of alfalfa herbage in the in vitro SDT were higher than those of meadow hay and wheat straw (p<0.001). In the in vitro TDT, the molarity of AA, total SCFA and BSCFA in the digestion fluid of alfalfa herbage was higher than those of other forages (p<0.05). The in vitro total enzymatic+fermentative digestion technique for horse forages revealed higher values than the in vitro fermentative digestion techniques. In general, the higher the non-structural carbohydrate and crude protein contents in the forage, the higher the results of the in vitro TDT compared to the other techniques.

Herbage accumulation, nutritive value, and fatty acid profile of bermudagrass cultivars grown in different latitudes

AbstractThe geographical distribution of bermudagrass cultivars is limited by freezing events (&lt;0°C), commonly associated with higher latitudes in the northern hemisphere. The lipid composition in the plant cell membranes is critical to promote persistence under freezing conditions. This study evaluated herbage accumulation (HA), nutritive value, and lipid biosynthesis of different bermudagrass cultivars in Ona, FL (27°26' N 82°55' W) and Marianna, FL (30o52' N 85o11' W), in 2 years. Treatments were five bermudagrass cultivars (Coastal, Tifton 44, Tifton 85, Jiggs, and Mislevy) distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. HA was greater in Marianna than in Ona for all cultivars (p &lt; 0.05). Mislevy and Jiggs had greater HA in Marianna than the others (p &lt; 0.05), while all cultivars were similar in Ona (p &gt; 0.05). There was no difference between locations or among the cultivars for crude protein and neutral detergent fibre, but bermudagrass cultivars had greater in vitro digestibility of organic matter (IVDOM) in Marianna than in Ona (p &lt; 0.05). The concentration of unsaturated fatty acids increased in the northern latitude (Marianna; p &lt; 0.05). Coastal had greater unsaturated fatty acid concentration than other cultivars (p &lt; 0.05). Geographical location affects HA, IVDOM, and unsaturated fatty acid concentration of bermudagrass cultivars. The unsaturated fatty acid concentration plays a key role in acclimating bermudagrass to different thermal environments. Coastal showed great potential to tolerate chilling stress in Florida. Further studies may be developed to identify promising molecular markers for cold tolerance in bermudagrass.

Analytical Methods for Extraction of Microplastics from Compost in Sri Lanka

Microplastics (MP) are the plastics with 1 μm-5 mm dimensions. Meanwhile, compost has been identified as a major source of MP in the soil, although compost is a great plant nutrient source, and it provides tremendous benefits for crops. This is primarily ascribed to most of the compost being produced through Municipal Solid Waste Management projects. However, due to the detrimental impacts on soil’s biological, physical, and chemical health, together with the high accumulation probability of MP caused by repeated application of compost, regulations should be implemented on the limitation of MP in compost. Even though there are a few different methods available in the literature for MP extraction and quantification in organic matter (OM)-rich matrices, like compost, sludge, and sediments, a properly validated, routine analytical procedure is missing in Sri Lanka Standards (SLS). Therefore, in this project, the effectiveness of four different MP extraction methods in the literature were compared and validated for compost, to implement an MP analysis method suitable for compost specifications in the SLS. The methodologies included MP extraction by density separation using NaCl or ZnCl2 solutions followed by digestion of OM using 30% KOH: NaOCl solution or Fenton’s reagent. The common MP analysis method for the four protocols was staining with the hydrophobic, fluorescent stain Nile Red, and visual observation. Digestion efficiency of OM and spike recovery of Polystyrene (PS), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Polypropylene (PP) microplastics in 1-2 mm dimension by the four MP extraction methods were compared for the validation. T-tests (confidence level=95%) were carried out to determine the significant difference between the OM digestion efficiency in each of the four methods. Each of the combinations compared was significantly different from the other except for ZnCl2/Fenton and NaCl/30% KOH:NaOCl comparison. Meanwhile, the OM removal by ZnCl2/Fenton and NaCl/30% KOH:NaOCl excluding the density separation step also was not significantly different. The spike recovery analysis showed ZnCl2/Fenton combination as the best out of the tested combinations with above 95% recovery percentages for PS, PVC, PP and 100 for HDPE and PET by particle count. However, precipitate formations in the ZnCl2/Fenton combination might cause false negative or positive results for spike recovery when applied to the real samples with smaller MP. The extraction reagents, NaCl was not an ideal solution and ZnCl2 was a good solution for the MP types used. Moreover, in this project, double digestion of OM with NaCl/30% KOH:NaOCl before and after the density separation with ZnCl2 is suggested as a novel and more effective OM digestion protocol before Nile Red staining, and further validations are suggested prior to its final implementation.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: Microplastics, Compost, Extraction, Organic matter

Potential feeding value, feed quality, microbial protein production, and antimethanogenic properties of tree leaves admixed with Italian ryegrass at different ratios using &lt;i&gt;in vitro&lt;/i&gt; gas production

The purpose of this study was to use the in vitro gas production (IVGP) method to assess the relative feeding value, feed quality, and anti- methanogenic capabilities of tree leaves added to Italian ryegrass forage at various proportions. With the addition of 2% and 4% willow leaf (Salix alba), 2% and 4% vine leaf (Vitis vinifera), 2% and 4% plane leaf (Platanus orientalis), and a control group devoid of these supplements, a total of 21 forage samples were created. The data were subjected to analysis of variance after nutritional composition, energy content, feeding value, and feed quality were determined using the in vitro gas generation method. The effect of the addition of tree leaves to forage on crude ash, IVGP, methane, metabolizable energy, net energy lactation, organic matter digestion, true digestible dry matter, partitioning factor, microbial protein, microbial protein synthesising efficiency, degree of true digestion, NDF digestion, total digestible nutrients, and relative feed quality was substantial. With the addition of 2% willow leaves, the digestibility, metabolic energy, net energy lactation value, organic matter digestion, microbial protein value, and relative feed quality all improved. The findings showed that tree leaves can be utilized as an alternate feed source for ruminants. Tannin content should be taken into account when preparing rations utilizing tannin-containing tree leaves.

Effect of nutmeg essential oil (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) on methane production, rumen fermentation, and nutrient digestibility in vitro

The study evaluated the effect of adding of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) essential oil (NEO) as a feed additive on methane production, rumen fermentation parameters, rumen enzyme activity, and nutrient digestibility in vitro. This study was divided into three treatments based on the level of NEO addition, which included 0 µL/L (T0), 100 µL/L (T1), and 200 µL/L (T2). The feed substrate composition consisted of king grass as forage and concentrate in a 60:40 ratio. Feed fermentation was conducted using the Menke and Steingass gas production and two-step Tilley and Terry in-vitro digestibility technique. The data obtained from the study were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and if there were differences between means, they were further assessed using DMRT. The results showed that T2 treatment significantly decreased (P < 0.05) ammonia (NH3) levels, total VFA, acetate, propionate, butyrate, and microbial protein (P < 0.05). Methane production and the activity of rumen protease enzyme significantly decreased (P < 0.05) at T1 and T2 treatment. The T2 treatment significantly reduced (P < 0.05) protein digestibility (IVCPD) at 48 h, while IVCPD at 96 h significantly increased (P < 0.05). On the other hand, the addition of nutmeg essential oil did not effect the activity of the amylase, carboxymethyl cellulase, and β-glucosidase enzymes, as well as the in-vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDMD), crude fiber (IVCFD), and organic matter (IVOMD). The conclusion drawn from this study is that the optimum level for NEO is 200 µL/L, which can reduce methane production and increase crude protein digestibility at 96 h without any negative effect on rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility.

Effect of different selenium sources on nutrient digestibility, performance and antioxidant status in Mecheri lambs

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different selenium sources on nutrient digestibility, performance and antioxidant status in Mecheri lambs. Mecheri lambs (30) were distributed randomly into five equal groups (Control, T1, T2, T3 and T4) with six lambs in each, on the basis of average body weight (14.1±1.1 kg). The animals in T1, T2, T3 and T4 were given sodium selenite (0.30 ppm), selenocysteine (0.30 ppm), nano selenium (0.30 ppm) and nano selenium (0.15 ppm), respectively for 120 days. The result revealed that DM, OM, CP, EE, CF, NDF, ADF and NFE digestibility were significantly higher for lambs in group T2 and T3 than other groups. T3 group showed highest nitrogen intake, retention and balance. There was no difference in daily intake, faecal and urinary excretion and balance of Ca and P. There was no effect on DM intake but T3 and T4 group showed significant difference in body weight gain, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio between the experimental groups. All sources of Se showed no effect on biochemical parameters. However, T3 group showed significantly lower MDA content in blood and significantly higher activity of GSH-Px and SOD compared to other groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of Nano-Se at 0.30 ppm can be used more efficiently to improve the nutrient digestibility, growth performance and antioxidant status in Mecheri lambs.

Ruminal fermentation characteristics and methane emissions with the addition of Cassia spp. extract to a total mixed ration based on corn stover

This study evaluated the effects of the addition of four different Cassia species extracts to a total mixed ration (TMR) composed of corn stover on the characteristics and methane emissions in vitro. The design used was a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with the source of inoculum derived from rumen fluid taken from three sheep serving as groups in the treatment. The concentrations of Cassia siamea, C. fistula, C. surattensis, and C. spectabilis extracts added to the TMR based on corn stover were 2 mg/mL. Every treatment was repeated three times. The variables observed were in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD); microbial protein synthesis (MPS); volatile fatty acid (VFA) content; acetate, propionate, and butyrate levels; gas production; methane; and populations of methanogen bacteria and protozoa. The study showed that the addition of Cassia spp. extract to TMR at a dose of 2 mg/mL increased (P &lt;0.05) the IVDMD, IVOMD, N-NH3, and total bacterial population but decreased the total and partial VFA, methanogenic bacteria, and the number of protozoa. The addition of C. surattensis extract reduced methane emissions by 13.11% compared with those of the controls based on the percentage of total gas or 14.9% based on mL/g DOM (P &lt;0.05). In conclusion, Cassia spp. extract is a potential agent for reducing methanogenesis in the rumen.

Impacts of Harvest Date and Concurrent Alkali Pretreatment and Ensiling on Anaerobic Digestion of Pennycress Biomass

Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) is an annual cover crop known for its exceptional cold tolerance and high oil and protein yields. Pennycress can be integrated into a corn–soybean rotation in the U.S. However, the utilization of pennycress biomass remains largely unexplored, including assessing compositional changes through its growth and organic matter digestibility. This study harvested pennycress at three growth stages, characterized the biomass for anaerobic digestion (AD), and tested the effects of concurrent alkali pretreatment and ensiling on the biomass methane yield. Results showed that the biomass harvested when the plants were undergoing senescence (“third-harvest”) had higher contents of acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and lignin, while the biomass harvested when 80–90% of the pods were fully-sized (“second-harvest”) had the highest protein content. The AD experiments showed that the first-harvest biomass (90% of flowers opened) failed to produce biogas due to a drop in the pH and alkalinity, the second-harvest biomass was inhibited for methane production (45.74 ± 0.20 L/kg-VS), and the third-harvest biomass had a methane yield of 171.80 ± 4.82 L/kg-VS. After the alkali pretreatment and ensiling, a methane yield of 270.4 ± 3.10 L/kg-VS was obtained from the second-harvest biomass, representing a significant 4.5-fold increase (adjusted for the organic matter loss) relative to the untreated second-harvest biomass.

Replacing conventional concentrates with sprouted barley or wheat: Effects on lactational performance, nutrient digestibility, and milk fatty acid profile in dairy cows

Finite natural resources, rising human population, and climate change pose challenges to traditional crop production. Hydroponically grown fodder (i.e., sprouted grains) can be an alternative feed source for dairy cows; however, only sprouted barley has been investigated in low-producing cows. We aimed to evaluate the effect of replacing conventional concentrates with sprouted barley or wheat, grown using hydroponics, on milk production, nutrient digestibility, and milk fatty acid profile in high-producing cows. Twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (3.25 ± 1.33 lactations; 102 ± 23 DIM; 49 ± 4 kg/d of milk) were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design with 21-d experimental periods. Following a 2-wk covariate period, cows were fed 1 of 3 experimental diets: a TMR (1) without sprouted grains (control), or with (2) 10% sprouted barley, or (3) 10% sprouted wheat on a DM basis. Experimental diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous with sprouted grains that replaced ground corn, soybean meal, canola meal, and dextrose. Sprouted grains were grown using a semi-automatic hydroponic system and harvested after 6 d of growth. Data and sample collection occurred during the last 3 d of the covariate and experimental periods. Wide ranges were observed for the DM percent of sprouted grains (12.1%-22.9% and 13.3%-25.7% for barley and wheat, respectively) and the ratio of sprouted fodder to seed (0.67-1.07 for both barley and wheat). Feeding sprouted grains did not modify the yield of milk or ECM; however, DMI were lower for barley, relative to control. Feed efficiencies were greater for barley than for control (1.49 ± 0.03 vs. 1.43 ± 0.03 for milk yield/DMI; 1.85 ± 0.03 vs. 1.73 ± 0.04 for ECM/DMI). Yields and concentrations of milk components (i.e., fat, true protein, and lactose) were not affected by treatment. Milk urea N concentrations were greater for wheat, relative to control or barley. Body weight (752 ± 3 vs. 742 ± 3 kg) and BW gains (6.53 ± 2.99 vs. -9.33 ± 2.91 kg/21 d) were higher for wheat than for control. Apparent total-tract digestibility of organic matter was greater for wheat relative to barley. Digestibilities of NDF and starch were higher for wheat and control, relative to barley, and CP digestibility was greater for wheat, relative to barley and control. Rumination and physical activity were not affected by treatment. In summary, replacing traditional concentrates with sprouted grains grown using hydroponics improved milk production efficiency (barley sprouts) or enhanced body weight gain (wheat sprouts). A life-cycle assessment needs to be conducted to determine the net effect of this feeding strategy for the dairy industry.

The addition of anaerobic fungi isolates from buffalo rumen to increase fiber digestibility, fermentation, and microbial population in ruminants

Abstract. Agustina S, Wiryawan KG, Suharti S, Meryandini A. 2024. The addition of anaerobic fungi isolates from buffalo rumen to increase fiber digestibility, fermentation, and microbial population in ruminants. Biodiversitas 25: 107-115. Rumen microbes have an important role in the rumen. Anaerobic fungi are microbes needed in the forage digestion process in the rumen. The addition of microbes, particularly anaerobic fungi is essential to increase the digestibility of forage within rumen. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the addition of anaerobic fungi isolates from buffalo rumen to increase fiber digestibility, fermentation, and microbial population in sheep rumen. The in vitro tests were carried out using the Tilley and Terry method, using elephant grass and rice straw as tested forage. Piromyces sp. (F1, and F3), Caecomyces sp. (F2, and F5), and Neocallimastix frontalis (F4) isolates from buffalo rumen were used as tested anaerobic fungi. The result showed that the addition of anaerobic fungi isolates from buffalo rumen significantly affected fiber digestibility (Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), cellulose and hemicellulose) except lignin digestibility. The addition of N. frontalis had higher fiber digestibility which is 49.02% NDF digestibility, 42.11% ADF digestibility, 44.28% hemicellulose digestibility, and 38.60% cellulose digestibility. Furthermore, N. frontalis also significantly increased In vitro Dry Matter Digestibility (IVDMD), In vitro Organic Matter Digestibility (IVOMD), ammonium (NH3) production, total Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) production, and microbial population compared to Piromyces sp., and Caecomyces sp. In conclusion, anaerobic fungus type N. frontalis showed promising potential to be used as a ruminant probiotic due to its superior effect on fiber digestibility, fermentation, and microbial population compared to Caecomyces sp. and Piromyces sp.

Dry matter and organic matter digestibility of complete feed based on durian waste (Durio zibethinus Murr.) as local male sheep feed

Durian waste has the potential to be used as livestock feed, but it needs further processing to increase its nutritional value. The aim of this study was to examine the value of dry matter and organic matter digestibility of complete feed based on durian waste as local male sheep feed. Apart from that, this research also aims to create a sustainable agricultural system with zero waste. The design used a completely randomized design (CRD) 4x4. The treatment consisted of P0 = control; P1 = CF with 20% durian peel + 20% durian seed + 20% elephant grass; P2 = CF with 30% durian peel + 20% durian seed + 10% elephant grass; P3 = CF with 40% durian peel + 20% durian seed. The result showed that the use of durian waste in the complete feed had a significant (P<0.05) effect on the consumption and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. The conclusion of this study is the utilization of durian peel and seeds in complete feed can increase the consumption and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter for local male sheep with the best dosage being 30% durian peel + 20% durian seed + 10% elephant grass.

Effect of block feed supplementation based on palm oil sludge for Bengkulu local cattle (Kaur Cattle) on the dry matter and organic matter digestibility of rations

The objective of this study was to evaluate dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) digestibility of the ration supplemented with block feed made from palm oil sludge (solid) to Kaur cattle. Palm oil sludge was substitute for rice bran in the commercial block feed fomula namely “Sakura Block”. Four treatments were arranged in Latin Square Design that were the solid level in block feed. The treatments consisted of P0 = “Sakura” block feed (28% bran), P1 = block feed (14% bran + 14% solid), P2 = block feed (7% bran + 21% solid), P3 = block feed (28% solid). The results showed that there were no difference on OM consumption and production of fecal DM and OM among treatments. For DM consumption and DM digestibility, P1 showed the lowest (P<0.05) but among P0, P2 and P3 were no diferrence (P>0.05). For the OM digestibility, there was no a significant difference (P>0.05) among treatment. Block feed P3 (28% solid) can increase the consumption and the DM digestibility of rations.

Effect of calcium soaps from garlic (Allium sativum) and willow (Salix babylonica) extracts on nematode loads, nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance and rumen fermentation kinetics in dairy goats.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dietary calcium soaps from garlic (Allium sativum) and willow (Salix babylonica) extracts on nematode loads, nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance and rumen fermentation kinetics in dairy goats. Nine adult non-lactating Saanen goats were grouped into a complete randomized block design with 3 treatments (n = 3) over a period of 28 d. Animals were fed a diet based on alfalfa hay and a concentrate that was supplemented (65 g/kg DM) with calcium soaps of safflower (control), garlic or willow. Intake of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were not affected by dietary calcium soaps. However, the highest digestibility of DM and OM were observed in willow supplemented goats. In vitro gas kinetics and fermentation profile were not affected by diets. Results from fecal egg count indicated a reduction in total count, Haemonchus spp. and Trychostrongylus spp. for both garlic and willow compared to control. Our results suggest that calcium soaps of garlic or willow extracts can be used to reduce gastrointestinal parasites in goats without compromising productive traits or rumen function.

Estimation of ruminal digestibility and fermentation characteristics of coffee pulp: A meta-analysis of in vitro experiments

Integrating various studies with statistical methods can be used by applying a meta-analysis method. The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of coffee pulp as ruminant feed on in vitro digestibility and rumen fermentation characteristics. The database was developed from six related articles containing 25 studies, collected from Scopus and Google Scholar. The parameters integrated were in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), pH value, total volatile fatty acids (VFA), NH3 and total protozoa. The data were analyzed using a mixed model methodology. The level of coffee pulp was considered as a fixed factor and the different studies as a random effect. The results revealed that coffee pulp addition had a significant quadratic effect to enhance IVDMD (P<0.01) and a significant linear effect to decrease total VFA (P<0.05). However, coffee pulp addition did not significantly affect (P>0.05) on IVOMD, pH, NH3 and total protozoa. In conclusion, coffee pulp can be used as an alternative feedstuff due to its good digestibility in the rumen. Nevertheless, it should be applied in the right amount to avoid negative effects on animal performance.

Enhancing Sheep Rations: Optimal Ammoniated Palm Fronds Utilization with Lerak Fruit (Sapindus Rarak) and Probiotic Supplementation

This study aimed to assess the impact of lerak fruit and probiotic supplementation on varying levels of ammoniated palm fronds in sheep rations, as well as to determine the optimal inclusion rate of ammoniated palm fronds in the presence of lerak fruit and probiotics. Employing an experimental approach, a Latin Square Design was utilized, with four sheep as rows, four periods as columns, and four rations as treatments. Treatments included: A) 50% field grass + concentrate, B) 20% field grass + 30% ammoniated palm fronds + 50% concentrate + lerak fruit + probiotics, C) 10% field grass + 40% ammoniated palm fronds + 50% concentrate + lerak fruit + probiotics, and D) 0% field grass + 50% ammoniated palm fronds + 50% concentrate + lerak fruit + probiotics. Results indicated significant differences (P&lt;0.05) between dry and organic matter intake treatments and body weight gain. However, no significant differences (P&gt;0.05) were observed in the digestibility of dry and organic matter. These findings suggest that supplementation with up to 40% ammoniated palm fronds in sheep rations, probiotics, and lerak fruit yielded comparable digestibility and livestock performance as the control. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing sheep rations with alternative feed ingredients, contributing to enhanced animal nutrition practices.

Performance, carcass weight, total intestinal bacteria, and feed digestibility of broilers fed chicken foot-derived bioactive peptides

The aim of this study was to evaluate the supplementation of chicken claw-derived bioactive peptides on performance, carcass weight, total intestinal bacteria, and feed dry matter (DMD) and organic matter (OMD) digestibility of broilers. A completely randomized design and five repetitions were applied in this experiment. The research material consisted of 200 DOC strain CP-707 grown up to 35 days of age, and the biopeptide was produced by hydrolyzing chicken claws protein with a commercial papain enzyme. Bioactive peptides were added to feed treatments in amounts of 0, 2, 4, and 6%. The differences between treatments were tested using the honestly significant difference test. The addition of chicken claws biopeptides had a significant influence (P&lt;0.01) on OMD and carcass weight, as well as a significant effect (P&lt;0.05) on body weight gain, feed efficiency, DMD and total bacteria. Addition of chicken claws-derived peptides in rations up to 6% enhanced body weight gain, feed efficiency, carcass weight, DMD, OMD, and total intestinal bacteria in broiler chickens. Keywords: Biopeptides, Chicken, Claw, Digestibility, Carcass quality.

Evaluation of direct-fed microbials on in vitro ruminal fermentation, gas production kinetic, and greenhouse gas emissions in different ruminants’ diet

IntroductionThree in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of increasing levels of Enterococcus faecium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (DFM1) and increasing levels of Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis (DFM2) on in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters in three different dietary scenarios.MethodsFor Exp. 1, the basal diet consisted of 25:75 roughage:concentrate ratio (R:C) and was composed by 5 treatments: control (no additive), 2 levels of DFM1 (1X = 1.9 mg and 5X = 9.0 mg), and 2 levels of DFM2 (1X = 3.8 mg and 5X = 19 mg). The Exp. 2 consisted of a 41:59 R:C diet and was composed by 5 treatments: control (no additive) and 2 levels of DFM1 (1X = 3.8 mg and 5 X = 19 mg) and 2 levels of DFM2 (1X = 5.6 mg and 5X = 28 mg). The Exp. 3 consisted of a 100:0 R:C diet [Brachiaria (syn. Urochloa brizantha)] and was composed by the same treatments described in Exp. 1. The DFM1 contained 3.5 × 109 CFU per g of Enterococccus faecium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, whereas the DFM2 contained Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis at 3.2 × 109 CFU per g. In each Exp., an in vitro gas production (GP) system with 43-bottles (AnkomRF) was used in four consecutive 48 or 72-h fermentation batches to evaluate total GP (TGP), kinetics and fermentation profiles, methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2).ResultsFor Exp 1, DFM1 increased quadratically TGP at 24 and 48-h, which reflected in a greater in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). The concentrations of ammonia-N, CH4, and CO2 (mmol/g of IVOMD) reduced quadratically as DFM1 increased. For Exp. 2, DFM1 inclusion reduced butyrate concentration and acetate to propionate ratio. Regarding GHG emissions, DFM1 and DFM2 quadratically reduced CH4 and CO2 emission per IVOMD (mmol/g of IVOMD). For Exp. 3, DFM1 increased quadratically TGP at 48h with no impact on IVOMD. Otherwise, DFM2 increased linearly TGP at 24 and 48h which reflected in a greater IVOMD. The inclusion of DFM1 increased linearly iso-valerate and branched-chain volatile fatty acids (BCVFA) concentration and DFM2 addition increased BCVFA quadratically.DiscussionOverall, addition of DFM1 [Enterococccus faecium (5 × 109 CFU per g) + Saccharomyces cerevisiae (5 × 109 CFU per g)] or DFM2 [Bacillus licheniformis + Bacillus subtilis (3.2 × 109 CFU per g)] might enhance the fermentation process in the rumen and decrease greenhouse gas emissions in a dose-dependent manner, though the results are contingent on the specific type of diet.