Fresh Grass Research Articles

Sensitivity analysis of the INRA 2018 feeding system for ruminants by hybrid local and global approaches: Comparing the contribution of dietary input variables to multiple response prediction in dairy cattle

We conducted sensitivity analysis (SA) of the INRA 2018 feeding system for ruminants applied to dairy cows. We evaluated which dietary input variables contribute most to changes in each output variable, considering the potential interactions presence among input variables. A quantitative analysis (one-at-a-time analysis, OAT; i.e., local SA) and a relative comparative analysis (global SA, GSA) through variance-based SA considering potential interactions and non-monotonicity were applied. The 5 likely influential dietary input variables were selected: CP, Gross energy (GE), OM apparent digestibility (OMd), effective degradability of nitrogen assuming a passage rate of 6%/h (ED6_N) and true intestinal digestibility of nitrogen. The sensitivity of 5 selected animal responses (output variables) to input variables was analyzed: DMI, milk protein yield (MPY), energy in methane (ECH4), nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE), and ratio between urine and total N excretion (UN/TN). Six diets for dairy cattle, reflecting the diversity of diets commonly used in practice, were formulated to meet 95% of the potential milk production (37.5 kg/d) of a multiparous dairy cow at wk 14 of lactation. For each diet, the 5 input variables were randomly sampled around the INRA 2018 feed table values (reference point), and the animal responses around this reference situation were calculated using the rationing software INRAtion®V5. In OAT, the sensitivity of animal responses was quantified by calculating the normalized tangent value at the reference point, and in GSA, the Sobol indices were calculated for relative influence of each input and their interaction. The influence of the 5 key input variables on the 5 main animal responses predicted from the INRA feeding system was consistent across both SA approaches. With the 6 diets, GE and OMd appeared as the main contributors to changes in DMI, MPY, ECH4, and NUE. Crude protein was the main contributor to changes in UN/TN and another major contributor to changes in NUE. When considering OAT, the sensitivity of outputs showed differences depending on diet, more particularly for DMI and MPY. With grass hay-based diets (GH diets), DMI was less sensitive and MPY was more sensitive to variations in input variables than other diets. When considering GSA, interactions between input variables were also noticeable for DMI and MPY; the interactions were high with the GH diets for DMI, and with fresh ryegrass and grass silage diets for MPY. On the other hand, for MPY, the non-GH diets were less sensitive to variations in input variables and the interaction between inputs was higher than with GH diets. In both cases, the interactions were mainly related to energy-related inputs (i.e., OMd and GE). Our results support the hypothesis that MPY, unlike DMI, is more responsive to energy-related factors at high PDI/UFL ratio (i.e., between metabolizable protein and NEL, e.g., GH diets >117 g PDI/UFL), than at lower PDI/UFL ratio. Hence, hybridizing the SA methods can help to interpret the system and facilitate a more precise evaluation thereof, especially GSA, which is amenable to non-monotonic models such as those characterizing complex feeding systems integrating multiple nutritional and animal factors.

MiPrime: A Model for the Microbially Mediated Impacts of Organic Amendments on Measurable Soil Organic Carbon Fractions and Associated Priming Effects

Priming effects can influence the efficiency with which organic amendments sequester carbon in the soil. Yet few soil models currently include priming effects. Those models that do are often based on operationally defined soil pools and implicitly allow only for positive priming effects. This limits the verification of model processes with experimental data and hinders the optimization of our carbon sequestration strategies. To address these shortcomings, we developed MiPrime, which offers a framework for the mechanistic modelling of organic amendment impacts on microbially mediated transformation of carbon fractions that are quantifiable through parsimonious soil extraction methods. MiPrime allows for assessment of organic amendment impacts on soil carbon dynamics, including priming effects, by simulating changes in mineralized, microbial biomass, dissolvable, hot water extractable and insoluble carbon fractions in soil exogenous (i.e. organic amendment-derived) and endogenous (i.e. soil) pools. After calibration of model parameters using Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods to incubation data of three types of isotopically labelled roadside grasses (a fresh grass product, a compost thereof, and a Bokashi-fermented product thereof), MiPrime was able to simulate changes in carbon fractions of the soil with a good degree of accuracy for five compositionally complex organic amendments, namely the three types of roadside grasses, as well as non-isotopically labelled wood chips and water weeds and reeds. Validation of the model results with experimental data demonstrates that changes in total carbon were very well predicted but that there is room for improvement in predicting mineralization rates and changes in dissolvable, hot water extractable and insoluble carbon fractions in the soil endogenous pool. MiPrime thus offers an initial step towards the mechanistic modelling of organic amendment impacts on measurable soil carbon fractions and can operate as a new tool for designing effective carbon sequestration strategies and understanding organic amendment impacts.

Effects of Water, Fertilizer and Heat Coupling on Soil Hydrothermal Conditions and Yield and Quality of Annona squamosa

Seasonal drought and summer soil high-temperature stress in Southern China often lead to decreased yield and quality of Annona squamosa. It is important to explore reasonable and effective water and fertilizer management measures as well as cover measures to improve the soil hydrothermal conditions in orchards to realize the increase in yield and quality of Annona squamosa. This study involved a two-year (2022–2023) field experiment in Yun County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province, using three factors and a three-level orthogonal test, resulting in nine different experimental treatments for water, fertilizer and heat. The three irrigation levels were W1 (soil moisture content of 55% of field moisture capacity), W2 (soil moisture content of 75% of field moisture capacity) and W3 (soil moisture content of 85% of field moisture capacity). The three fertilizer levels were F1 (1666 kg·hm−2), F2 (2083 kg·hm−2) and F3 (2500 kg·hm−2), and the three cover methods were A1 (no cover), A2 (fresh grass cover) and A3 (straw cover). The effects of these treatments on soil hydrothermal conditions, growth indices and fruit yield and quality of Annona s1uamosa were systematically monitored and analyzed, and the relationships between these treatments and yield and quality was analyzed based on a Mantel test. The results showed that T5 (W2F2A3) had the highest average soil moisture content over two years, followed by T7 (W3F1A3). The T7 (W3F1A3) treatment effectively reduced soil temperature by 5 °C compared to T1 (W1F1A1). T5 (W2F2A3) had the highest average yield over two years, with an increase of 33.99% compared to T1 (W1F1A1). Additionally, T5 (W2F2A3) has the highest average soluble solids, soluble sugars and vitamin C content over two years, with increases of 28.13%, 13.36% and 4.86%, respectively, compared to T1 (W1F1A1). A Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between Annona squamosa growth and soil moisture content and soil temperature, and the Mantel test showed that soil hydrothermal conditions had significant influence on the growth and yield. T5 (W2F2A3) has the highest comprehensive benefit in promoting growth, increasing yield and improving quality for the plant. The effects of different irrigation quantities, fertilizer amounts and different cover measures on the coupling interaction for soil hydrothermal status in the root zone, growth, yield and quality of Annona squamosa were investigated, providing reliable theoretical support for the scientific planting model of Annona squamosa in the low-heat river valley of Yunnan Province.

Nitrogen fertiliser application rate to temperate mid-season grass: Digestion, nitrogen balance and rumen microbiota in beef cattle, and rumen fermentation and methane production in vitro

Nitrogen (N) excretion by cattle, particularly urinary N, can have detrimental environmental impacts on air and water quality, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The effects of increasing the application rate of inorganic N fertiliser from 15 (N15) to 80 (N80) kg/ha per cut to Lolium perenne dominant swards in summer, on intake, rumen fermentation, rumen microbial populations, apparent total-tract digestibility and N-balance in beef cattle, and in vitro fermentation and methane output, were studied. Sixteen suckler-bred Charolais steers, used in a randomised block design experiment, were offered fresh grass mechanically harvested 21-d after N fertiliser application. Similar grass was incubated in an eight-vessel in vitro RUSITEC system. Grass crude protein concentration was 50 g/kg dry matter (DM) higher for N80 compared to N15. There was no difference in grass DM intake between treatments. Rumen fermentation variables did not differ between treatments, except for the molar proportion of propionate, which was greater for N80 than N15. Gross microbial community structure in the rumen was not significantly altered by inorganic N fertiliser application rate. The relative abundance of individual genera Lachnospiraceae_NK3A320_group and Ruminococcaceae_NK4A214_group, and Acetitomaculum were significantly lower at the higher N application rate. Mean plasma urea concentration was greater for N80 compared to N15. In vivo digestibility of DM, organic matter, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre was unaffected by fertiliser N application rate. Nitrogen intake was 75 g/d greater, and urinary and faecal N excretion were 20 and 5 g/d greater, respectively, for N80 than N15. The quantity of N retained and N use efficiency was greater for N80 compared to N15. In vitro NH3 concentration was greater for N80 than N15, whereas other rumen fermentation variables, and in vitro methane and total gas output, did not differ between treatments. Reducing the inorganic N fertiliser rate applied to mid-season temperate grass reduced N excretion from beef cattle, which is environmentally beneficial, with no effect on in vitro methane production.

Geographical Variation in Pasturelands and Their Impact on the Physicochemical Characterization and Fatty Acid Composition of Cheese in Caraș-Severin County, Romania

In Caraș-Severin County, Romania, the integration of sustainable agricultural practices with organic dairy production represents a unique opportunity to promote agro-tourism farms and guesthouses. This study examines the synergy between the chemical composition of pastures from three farms in different alleys and the impact on the chemical composition of dairy products produced on those farms. Thus, the comparative analysis of two types of traditional cow’s cheeses (soft and mature) from three different areas of Caraș-Severin County was pursued, as well as of the feed given to the animals from which the raw material for obtaining the cheeses originated. Initially, the physicochemical profile of the pastures (fresh grass and grass hay) was analyzed in terms of proximate composition (moisture, lipids, proteins, ash and carbohydrates), and the content of bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, antioxidant activity using the DPPH method). The proximate composition of the cheese samples, including moisture, lipids, proteins, ash and carbohydrates was analysed, and the content of fatty acids. A correlation was also made between the content of bioactive compounds in feed samples and fatty acid profile of the cheese samples. Our findings demonstrate that the geographical area and the chemical composition of the pasture have a considerable influence on the physicochemical characterization and fatty acid composition of the cheese. The cheese from the mountain area had a higher fat, protein and polyunsaturated fatty acid content compared to the samples from the hill and plain areas.

Study on the Changes and Correlation of Microorganisms and Flavor in Different Processing Stages of Mianning Ham.

(1) Background: Mianning ham is a dry-cured ham from Southwest China, known for its distinct regional characteristics and delicious taste. It is particularly favored by consumers due to its safety, as no artificial nitrites are added during processing. The microbial changes during its different processing stages significantly influence the final product's flavor. This study aims to investigate the changes in microbial communities and flavor compounds across the nine stages of Mianning ham production, from raw material preparation to salting, drying, fermentation, and maturation, using 16S and ITS sequencing, as well as solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS). The goal is to explore the correlation between these changes and provide a basis for process improvement from the initial raw material preparation. (2) Results: The microbiota of Mianning ham across different processing stages mainly consisted of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Ascomycota. A total of 324 volatile compounds were identified, of which 27 were key contributors to the ham's flavor. Aldehydes contributed the most to flavor, with octanal, trans-2-nonenal, and trans, trans-2,4-decadienal being the most significant contributors at various stages. Mature Mianning ham, fermented for 1-3 years, exhibited fresh grass and earthy aromas, buttery and fatty flavors, and a distinctive roasted potato note. Correlation analysis revealed that Cobetia was the primary bacterial contributor to the main flavor compounds, especially prominent in the second year of fermentation. Among fungi, Yamadazyma and Aspergillus positively influenced several key aldehyde flavor compounds throughout the processing stages, significantly contributing to the flavor profile of Mianning ham. (3) Conclusions: Correlation analysis showed that the Mianning ham that matured for two years had the richest and most characteristic flavor. The positive and consistent impact of fungi on the ham's flavor suggests that they may warrant further research and application in Mianning ham production. This provides a theoretical basis for improving the flavor quality and enhancing the market competitiveness of Mianning ham. One of the key features of Mianning ham is its substantial accumulation of hydrocarbons, which surpasses that of hams from other regions in China. A notable characteristic of Mianning ham processing is the absence of artificially added nitrites as antioxidants and color fixatives. Whether this absence is a contributing factor to the significant accumulation of hydrocarbons warrants further investigation.

Digestion, nitrogen excretion and rumen microbial communities in beef cattle, and in vitro methane output, of fresh temperate grass with or without citrus pulp supplementation

The effects of supplementing grass with a high-energy, low-protein concentrate on intake, rumen fermentation, rumen microbial communities, apparent total tract digestibility and N-balance in beef cattle, and rumen fermentation and methane output in vitro, were studied. Sixteen Charolais steers (mean live weight (s.d.) 564 (24.3) kg)), were used in a completely randomised block design experiment, and offered either zero-grazed perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) ad libitum (GO), or the same grass with 2.25 kg citrus pulp dry matter (DM) daily (GCP). During the measurement phase, DM intake was restricted at 0.85 of their pre-determined intake. The same diets were incubated in an eight-vessel RUSITEC system. Supplementation decreased grass DM intake (6.59 vs. 7.54 kg/d) but increased total DM intake by 0.95 kg/d (P < 0.01). Rumen pH (P = 0.05) and NH3 concentration (P < 0.05) decreased, and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations (P < 0.01), molar proportions of propionate (P = 0.08) and butyrate (P < 0.05) increased for GCP compared to GO. Supplementation significantly altered the overall rumen microbial community structure compared to GO, driven principally by changes in relative abundance of Prevotella, Methoanobrevibacter and Lachnospiraceae genera. Plasma urea concentration was lower (P < 0.05) for GCP than GO. There was no effect (P > 0.10) of supplementation on apparent total tract digestibility of DM, OM and ADFom, but aNDFom digestibility tended to be lower (P = 0.07) and crude protein (N × 6.25) digestibility was lower (P < 0.01) for GCP compared to GO. Nitrogen intake (200 g/d) did not differ (P > 0.05) between treatments. Faeces N loss was 9 g/d greater (P < 0.01), and urine (P < 0.01) and total (P < 0.05) N losses were 22 and 13 g/d lower, respectively, for GCP compared to GO. In terms of N-balance (g/kg N intake), faecal N excretion was greater and urinary N excretion was lower (P < 0.01) resulting in a greater N use efficiency (P = 0.06) for GCP than GO. In vitro rumen NH3 concentrations were lower (P < 0.01) for GCP compared to GO, whereas in vitro rumen pH, lactic acid, VFA concentrations and molar proportions, and methane and total gas output did not differ (P > 0.05) between treatments. Supplementing grass with a low-protein, high-energy feed may be a strategy to reduce urinary and total N excretion in beef cattle grazing temperate grass pasture.

Urea in the Diets of Dairy Cows

In most farms of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, the basis of the feed balance of cattle consists of roughage, straw, hay, relatively less succulent feed and a very small part - fresh grass and fortified feed. That is why animals on these farms in winter stall conditions consume less digestible protein by an average of 40-55 g or more per unit of feed. On farms, urea was used to provide sufficient protein for cattle. During the experiment, cows of both groups (experimental and control) were fed in stall conditions and received the same number of feed shares according to their nutritional value. The only difference was that each cow in the experimental group was given an additional 80 g of urea per day. The results of our experience show that the daily milk yield of each cow that received 80 g of urea in the feed ration is on average 1,15 kg or 29,9% more compared to cows that did not receive urea, and the fat content of milk is from 0.1 up to 0,39%. The live weight of each cow receiving urea (over 123 days of experiment) was on average 17,47 kg greater than that of cows not receiving urea. The use of urea in livestock farming not only increases milk and meat productivity, but also reduces the cost of production.

Effect of Feeding Roughage Hay on Production Efficiency and Economic Return in Crossbred Sheep

This study aimed to investigate the effect of feeding roughage hay on production efficiency and economic return in crossbred sheep. A completely randomized design was employed on Santa Ines crossbred sheep from 16 animals and divided into 4 groups. The average initial body weights of all animals were 16.87±0.97 kilograms and the average final weight were 23.25±1.07 kilograms under 60 days feeding period. Four groups were fed with fresh grass (para grass) at 3.5 kg/head/day (T1; Control group), para grass hay at 1.5 kg/head/day (T2), ruzi grass hay at 1.5 kg/head/day (T3), and pangola grass hay at 1.5 kg/head/day (T4). All animals received concentrate with 14 %CP 0.2 kg/head/day throughout the period of the study. The results showed that animals in the 4 groups had no difference in weight gain and average daily gain (P&gt;0.05). Total dry matter intakes of groups 1-4 were found to be 2.86±0.08, 1.28±0.09, 1.27±0.09 and 1.34±0.08 kgDM/head/day (P&lt;0.01), respectively. Total dry matter intakes of protein were 0.09±0.01, 0.07±0.01, 0.08±0.01 and 0.10±0.01 kgDM/head/day, respectively (P&lt;0.01). Total dry matter intake per body weight of group 1 was 16.99% of body weight, which was significantly higher than other groups (P&lt;0.01). Blood metabolites such as blood glucose in range 63.94-70.04 mg/dl, and blood urea nitrogen in the range 13.44-17.13 mg/dl were found to be in the normal range (P&gt;0.05). The total production costs per head of the four groups averaged 224.78±3.72, 240.42±3.73, 240.13±3.73 and 245.71±3.72 baht/head (P&lt;0.01) and total production costs per weight gain were found to be 38.78±7.90, 37.93±7.92, 38.85±7.92 and 48.79±7.90 baht/head, respectively.

Improving and controlling the drug loading capacity of seven quinolones in minced fish matrix based on microfluidics

Traditional spiking methods for preparing matrix reference material of aquatic products is difficult to control the drug content in the matrix, especially one matrix containing multiple drugs. Minced fish is commonly used for the preparation of matrix reference materials in aquatic products, which is a relatively complex matrix with stickiness and difficult handling. Drug loading capacity is a key factor affecting the effectiveness of matrix reference materials. Here, we proposed a new spiking approach to improve the drug loading capacity of seven quinolones based on microfluidics, simultaneously. Fresh grass carp tissue underwent grinding, fine filtration, centrifugation and reconstituted in distilled water to form a liquid sample, which was subsequently mixed with a sodium alginate solution (1 %) at a ratio of 1:1.2. The mixed solution was supplemented with seven quinolones of equal concentration, followed by the preparation of uniform fish gel microspheres using microfluidic technology. The results indicated that the recoveries of seven quinolones ranged from 82.54 % to 114.17 %, demonstrating a significant improvement in the drug loading capacity of these quinolones compared to traditional methods. Moreover, the drug concentration in the matrix can be precisely controlled. A strong linear relationship was observed between the concentration of seven quinolones in the matrix and its initial concentration, which could serve as a reference for the development of other matrix reference materials.

Possibilities of Utilising Biomass Collected from Road Verges to Produce Biogas and Biodiesel

Grass collected as part of roadside maintenance is conventionally subjected to composting, which has the disadvantage of generating significant CO2 emissions. Thus, it is crucial to find an alternative method for the utilisation of grass waste. The aim of this study was to determine the specific biogas yield (SBY) from the anaerobic mono-digestion of grass from road verges and to assess the content of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs) in grass in relation to the time of cutting and the preservation method of the studied material. The biochemical biogas potential (BBP) test and the FAMEs content were performed on fresh and ensiled grass collected in spring, summer, and autumn. The highest biogas production was obtained from fresh grass cut in spring (715.05 ± 26.43 NL kgVS−1), while the minimum SBY was observed for fresh grass cut in summer (540.19 ± 24.32 NL kgVS−1). The methane (CH4) content in the biogas ranged between 55.0 ± 2.0% and 60.0 ± 1.0%. The contents of ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in biogas remained below the threshold values for these inhibitors. The highest level of total FAMEs was determined in fresh grass cut in autumn (98.08 ± 19.25 mg gDM−1), while the lowest level was detected in fresh grass cut in spring (56.37 ± 7.03 mg gDM−1). C16:0 and C18:0, which are ideal for biofuel production, were present in the largest amount (66.87 ± 15.56 mg gDM−1) in fresh grass cut in autumn. The ensiling process significantly impacted the content of total FAMEs in spring grass, leading to a reduction in total saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and an increase in total unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs). We conclude that grass biomass collected during the maintenance of road verges is a valuable feedstock for the production of both liquid and gaseous biofuels; however, generating energy from biogas appears to be more efficient than producing biodiesel.

The Effects of Form and Doses of Nitrogen Fertilizer on Grass Quality Performance at the Plant of Fine-Textured Lawns

This study was carried out in Igdir University Sehit Bulent Yurtseven Campus in the vegetation period of 2020 to determine the effects of nitrogenous fertilizer sources and doses on the quality of lawn plants in turfgrass areas. 20-10-10 7 SO3, 15-5-20 + 2 CaO + 2 MgO, ammonium sulfate (21% N), urea (46% N) fertilizers with nitrogenous fertilizer sources were applied on the parcels in doses of 0-2-4-6-8 g/m2/month. The effects of fertilizers used after structuring in lawns on plant height, leaf green tone, fresh grass quantity, quality and coating ratios were examined. Festuca rubra 40%, Festuca rubra commutata 30%, Festuca rubra trichopylla 25%, Poa pratensis 5%, which are thin textured from cool climate grass species, were used in the mixture. The trial was established according to the factorial trial pattern in coincidence blocks with three repetitions. As a result of the research, ammonium sulfate and 8 g m-2 doses were found to be more effective when evaluated for grass quality and performance after structuring in thin-textured grass species.

The Effects of Different Nitrogenous Fertilizer Sources and Doses on Football Field Grass Performances

Nitrogen has a huge importance in terms of ensuring the development of roots and shoots in grass and giving plants resistance to diseases. Using the right fertilizer in appropriate doses in the maintenance and repair of football fields is one of the maintenance procedures that increase grass performance. This study was carried out on the football field grass established at Iğdır University Sehit Bulent Yurtseven Campus during the 2020 vegetation period in Iğdır conditions. The research aimed to determine the most suitable fertilizer type and dose for football fields. The experiment was designed with three replications according to the randomized blocks factorial trial design. In the application area, a grass mixture of Festuca arundinacea Jaguar 4G 30%, Festuca arundinacea Apache 20%, Festuca arundinacea Arid III 20%, Lolium perenne Belida 15% and Lolium perenne Esquire 15% was used. As nitrogenous fertilizer sources, 20-10-10 7SO3, 15-5-20 + 2 CaO + MgO, ammonium sulfate (21% N) and urea (46% N) fertilizers are 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g/m 2/ It was administered in monthly doses. In the study, the effects of nitrogen use in fertilization on grass plant height, quality, fresh grass amount, and leaf green tone and leaf texture were observed. As a result of the study, it was determined that the most ideal fertilizer type and dose were 6 and 8 g m-2 doses of urea and ammonium sulfate fertilizers.

Is the Forest Fire adjacent to St. Clair’s Waterfall Natural or Man-made?

Forest fires have been showing an increasing trend in Sri Lanka over the past few years. Previous studies proved that most of the forest fires in Sri Lanka were caused by human factors. The main objective of this study is to identify the causes of forest fires in close areas of St. Clair‘s fall, which is situated on the western slope of the Central Highlands and to investigate the impacts and measures to reduce forest fires. Primary data as well as secondary data were used for this study. Primary data was obtained through a questionnaire survey and focused group interviews from the study area of Hollyrood, Wattegoda, and Dewon GN Division. Twenty (20) households have been interviewed from the random sampling. Focused group interviews were held with the Nuwara Eliya Forest Conservation Department, Tea Estate companies and Thalawakele Police Station. Rainfall and temperature data were taken as secondary data for the period from 2010 to 2020 from the Department of Meteorology, Colombo. 83 respondents stated that forest fires occurs from January to April because of the high temperature and low rainfall recorded in these months. Patana grasslands are spared on the lower slopes of the left and right banks of waterfall area and plantation forest and Tea plantation have spread in the higher part of the slope. According to the Forest Department, the understory of Patana grassland and undergrowth for forest plantations are exposures to fire in this area. 96 respondents stated that forest fires are purposely started by the people to catch fish from the Kothmale Oya, build bonfire on the rock, and burn fish. Fires are generated through those flames. 63 stated that forest fires are done for ―jungle based feedings‖ for cattle herds by the people in the Thalawakele plantation settlement. They expect fresh grass to boom in the rainy seasons by setting fires in the dry season. 22 respondents stated that forest fires are purposely done for hunting purposes. Most of the fires occur on the left bank of the Kothmale Oya River. In order to prevent fires in this area, the fire breaks fire belt and such as corridors without and with floras are established as buffer zones on the right bank. This fire belt is maintain by Thalawakele Plantation Company. When a forest fire occurs, the Forest Department sends the SMS message to alert the community. Planting hana trees as a green belt can be recommended to reduce the occurrence of fires in this area. &#x0D; Keywords: Central Highlands, Random sampling, Bonfire, Hana trees

Mycotoxin production in different varieties of Dactylis glomerata L. silage in response to biological and chemical additives.

Silage has been identified as a source of different microbial toxins, that may impair farm animal health and productivity as human health can also be compromised. In this sense, the aim of this study was to determine the impact of silage additives on the concentrations of deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN) mycotoxins and, eventually, to evaluate the hygienic quality of orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) silage based on the concentration of them compared to control silage. This study evaluated the influence of biological and chemical additives used in six different varieties of orchardgrass silage on DON and ZEN mycotoxin contents for the first time. The content of both fusariotoxins (DON and ZEN) in fresh matter and grass silage were below the threshold stipulated by the European Commission. The concentration of DON ranges from ~21.86 to 37.26 ng/kg, ~10.21 to 15 ng/kg, ~20.72 to 29.14 ng/kg; and ZEN range from ~3.42 to 7.87 ng/kg, ~3.85 to 8.62 ng/kg and ~2.15 to 5.08 ng/kg, in control, biological and chemical silages, respectively. In general, the biological additive was more efficient for preventing DON contamination, whereas the chemical additive was more efficient for preventing ZEN contamination in grass silage. In summary, the results obtained in this work demonstrate that biological and chemical additives can inhibit fungal growth and mycotoxin production on Dactylis glomerata L. silage and whose use could prevent animal and human diseases.

A Review of the Modern Methodological Approaches to Tracking Elephant Intrusion in Sri Lanka

This review aims to address the prevailing issues of elephant intrusion and the subsequent Human Elephant Conflict (HEC) in Sri Lanka, particularly in villages where the seasonal concentration of elephants can be observed in agricultural and surrounding wetlands. The episodic gatherings of elephants in these specific areas are a serious concern due to the lack of integrated control measures. The incidents of elephant gatherings are increasing in rural villages, especially during the off-season of paddy cultivation or nearing the harvesting period, as well as during the blooming times of fresh grass in the riverbeds. These interactions with people along their range lead to the onset of HEC scenarios. If these elephant gatherings are left without solutions, it could pose a significant threat to the affected areas, settlements, and economic values, making them highly vulnerable. Therefore, this paper suggests a holistic approach that integrates modern techniques with a literature review to explore and assess existing methods and identify viable ones to control elephant intrusion and mitigate the impacts on the affected areas and Sri Lanka as a whole.

Differences in composition and diversity of rumen fungi in buffalo fed different diets

The rumen is a complex ecosystem containing a variety of fungi, which are crucial for the digestive activities of ruminants. Previous research on rumen fungi has mainly focused on anaerobic fungi, given the rumen’s reputation as a mainly anaerobic environment. The objective of this study was to investigate rumen fungal diversity and the presence of aerobic fungi in buffalo fed on different diets. Three adult buffaloes were used as experimental animals. Alfalfa hay, oat hay, whole corn silage, sugarcane shoot silage, fresh king grass, dried rice straw, and five kinds of mixed diets with concentrate to roughage ratios of 20:80, 35:65, 50:50, 65:35, and 80:20 were used as the experimental diets. The experimental animals were fed different diets for 22 days. Rumen fluid was collected from the rumen fistula for ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) sequencing 2 h after feeding on the morning of day 22. The results indicate the presence of large quantities of aerobic fungi in the rumen of the buffaloes 2 h after feeding and suggest that Ascomycota and Basidiomycota are the dominant fungal groups under different feeding conditions. The study also identified 62 different fungal types, which showed significant differences among the 11 experimental diets.

232 In Vitro Digestibility of Dry Matter and Nitrogen of Napier Grass Silage Is Affected By Fertilization with Cow-Dung Bio-Digester Slurry and Fermentable Carbohydrate Additives at Ensiling

Abstract The use of silages during the dry season could ameliorate major nutritional constraints in ruminant livestock production in tropical regions. Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) is a tropical forage source that is used for silage in South Africa. The present objective was to determine the effects of fertilization with bio-digester slurry (BDS) and of carbohydrate additives [no additive (control), molasses, brown sugar, and maize meal] at ensiling on in vitro digestibility of Napier grass silage. Fresh Napier grass irrigated weekly with either BDS or water was cut after 12 weeks and ensiled for 90 days in 1 liter glass jars in a 2 (control and slurry irrigation) x 4 (no additive, molasses, maize meal and brown sugar) factorial arrangement replicated three times. The nutrient composition was determined using standard protocols. The in vitro digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were determined by the three-stage method after incubation in rumen of steers for 12, 24 and 48-hour incubation. The bags containing rumen undegradable residuals (RURs) were removed from the bags, composited by treatment, and ground through a 1 mm sieve. Approximately 1g samples of RURs of each silage sample were placed in a 0.1 N HCl solution adjusted to pH 1.9 with 1 g ℓ-1 of pepsin, and then in pancreatin solution and rinsed with deionized water and dried at 60°C for 48 h. At 24 h incubation, the no BDS, no additive (control) treatment had the least (P &amp;lt; 0.01) DM degradability. As incubation time progressed to 48 h, fertilization with BDS with molasses inclusion increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) DM disappearance. However, the BDS fertilization and carbohydrate additive interaction had no effect (P &amp;gt; 0.05) on 12 incubation h, and in vitro digestibility after 12, 24 and 48 h of incubation. Fertilization with BDS reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) DM digestibility after 48 hours of rumen incubation. Carbohydrate additives increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) DM disappearance at 12, 24 and 48 rumen incubation h but did not not influence in vitro DM digestibility after 12, 24, and 48 h of rumen incubation. Fertilization with BDS and carbohydrate additives at ensiling interaction had no effect (P &amp;gt; 0.05) on CP degradability at 12, 24, and 48 h of rumen incubation, and in vitro CP digestibility after 12, 24, and 48 h of incubation. Carbohydrate additives increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) CP disappearance at 12, 24 and 48 rumen incubation h and reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in vitro CP digestibility after 12 h of rumen incubation but did not have an effect (P &amp;gt; 0.05) on in vitro CP digestibility after 24 and 48 h of rumen incubation.

The effect of broad bean diet on structure, flavor and taste of fresh grass carp: A comprehensive study using E-nose, E-tongue, TPA, HS-SPME-GC-MS and LC-MS

Broad bean (Vicia faba L.) has received particular attention with regards to the improvement of flesh meat quality. However, the effect of broad bean diet on structure, flavor and taste of flesh meat is unclear. In present study, E-nose, E-tongue, TPA, HS-SPME-GC-MS, and LC–MS were used to characterize the structure, flavor and taste of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) fed with broad bean. Overall, broad bean significantly improved the texture of grass carp muscle, but reduced the overall taste and flavor. The 50 volatile compounds were detected using HS-SPME-GC-MS. The 252 differential metabolites were identified by LC-MS, of which 107 were up-regulated and 145 were down-regulated. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated this reduction in taste and flavor was associated with the metabolism of amino acids, lipids and nucleotides. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for improving meat quality and the functional applications of broad bean.

Performance of dairy cows offered either zero-grazed grass or grass silage prepared from the same sward

Daily harvesting of fresh grass for housed livestock when its nutritive value is high (Zero-grazing) is a labour-intensive process which requires a consistent supply of grass at the optimum growth stage. An alternative approach which may save on labour and require less time spent on grassland management each day, involves harvesting and ensiling herbage on a number of occasions (every 4 weeks approximately) during the growing season when it is at the same nutritive value as herbage used for zero-grazing. This study examined the impact of these two approaches to dairy cow performance. Thirty-six mid-lactation Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were offered either zero-grazed fresh grass (ZG), or grass silage (SIL) prepared from the same sward harvested at a similar growth stage, over a single season. Fresh grass was harvested daily and offered to ZG cows for a 12-week period. During this period, the same sward was harvested once weekly and ensiled in round bales. Following a five-week ensilage period, the silage was offered to cows on SIL for a 12-week period. All cows were also offered 8.0 kg concentrate per day. Zero-grazed grass and grass silage had a mean metabolisable energy content of 11.0 and 11.3 MJ/kg DM, respectively. Mean forage DM intake (DMI) and total DMI were greater for cows on ZG (P < 0.001) compared to SIL, with intakes during weeks 8–12 of the experiment lower with SIL compared to ZG (P < 0.001). Cows on ZG had a higher milk yield, milk protein concentration, milk fat plus protein yield and energy-corrected milk (ECM) yield (P < 0.001) than cows on SIL. With the exception of milk yield (where the difference was primarily observed during weeks 8–12 of lactation), these differences were observed most weeks during the study period. Milk fat concentration was unaffected by treatment (P > 0.05). Milk of cows on ZG had higher concentrations of total monounsaturated fatty acids (P < 0.001), total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs, P < 0.001) but lower concentrations of saturated fatty acids (SFAs, P < 0.001) compared to cows on SIL. Diet had no effect on cow BW or condition score. This study has shown that when harvested from the same sward, milk yield and ECM yield were improved when cows were offered zero-grazed grass compared to grass silage. This difference in performance was likely due to the lower forage intake observed with the grass silage-based diet.