Growth Performance Parameters Research Articles

Growth and Health Status of Spiny Lobsters and Snubnose Pompano with Multilevel Floating Net Cage System

The cultivation of multilevel floating net cages (MFNC) systems is believed to be able to increase production capacity without increasing the horizontal area of ​​the cultivation area. Research on the effect of using MFNC on the growth and health performance of Spiny lobsters and Snubnose pompano has never existed, so a study was conducted with the aim of comparing the growth and health performance of spiny lobsters and Snubnose pompano in floating net cage (FNC) and MFNC cultivation systems. The research method used was a field experiment with a comparative analysis of spiny lobsters and Snubnose pompano cultivation with different cultivation systems, namely the MFNC and FNC systems with 3 replications. The rearing lasted for 2 months and was fed trash fish as much as 5% of the biomass every day. Parameters of spiny lobsters and Snubnose pompano growth performance observed included weight growth, carapace length growth, total length growth, and specific growth rate. The health status of spiny lobsters observed quantitatively was the total hemocytes counts and hemolymph glucose levels, and Snubnose pompano by counting erythrocytes and blood leukocytes. The results showed that there was no difference in growth performance, survival and health status of spiny lobsters and Snubnose pompano reared using MFNC and FNC systems based on paired two sample for means, because p value > 0.05 for all growth parameters survival and health status. Thus, the use of a multilevel floating net cage system in lobster cultivation can increase FNC productivity and be efficient in optimal space utilization and does not affect water quality, especially the parameters of temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and salinity. There were no significant differences in the growth performance, survival, and health status of lobsters and Snubnose pompano when reared using the MFNC and FNC cultivation systems.

Synergistic interactions of zeolite, stocking density, and water exchange: A holistic approach to optimizing aquaculture performance of juvenile European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Effective water management is an essential component of sustainable fish farming practices, particularly in the context of global water scarcity. The accumulation of ammonium ions (NH4+) from fish metabolism necessitates frequent water changes, posing a challenge to the sustainability of fish farming operations. Zeolite materials have emerged as a promising solution, offering enhanced ammonium cation removal compared to conventional nitrifying bacteria. This innovative approach alleviates the pressure on water resources and promotes environmental sustainability in fish farming. Over 75 days, this study examined how zeolite, stocking density, and water exchange affected European seabass water quality and growth. 250 kg of seabass, 25.61 ± 2.39 g/fish. Three factors: zeolite levels (Z: 0, 10, and 15 ppt), density (D: 1, 2.5, and 5 kg/m3), and water exchange (W: 10, 25, and 50 %), using 81 hapas with 0.5 m3 vol each (triplicates for each treatment) fixed in concrete ponds, fish were randomly distributed among 81 experimental hapas in 27 ponds. This research illuminates the potential benefits of various therapies. Zeolite in seabass culture improved water quality. It reduced ammonia derivatives, improving water quality. Adjusting seabass stocking density to low or high improved water quality measures. This change kept dissolved oxygen levels within the target range, providing a good home for farmed fish. Zeolite supplements, reduced stocking density, and optimum water exchange improved European seabass growth, along with water quality improvements. These interventions improved feed consumption and growth rates. These approaches promoted fish growth and reduced stress by limiting the negative effects of high stocking density. The study also examined immune-related, hematobiochemical, and plasma biochemical characteristics after the interventions. Zeolite supplementation, to low stocking density, and water exchange improved these characteristics. They strengthened the European seabass' immune system and preserved healthy plasma and hematobiochemical parameters. In conclusion, optimizing European seabass culture with zeolite (15 ppt), stocking density (1 kg/m3), and water exchange (50 %) enhances water quality, growth performance, and physiological parameters. This contributes to improved aquaculture sustainability and efficiency. Further research is required to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms of those factors that affect fish health and aquaculture practices.

Effects of Crab Shell Waste as Feed on Growth Performance and Colouration of Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens)

Betta splendens, Siamese fighting fish exhibit behavior, coloration, and morphology that make them popular aquarium fish in aquaculture. Coloration for this fish requires high-quality feeds rich in carotenoids. Crab shells, mostly dumped as agro-waste by the seafood industry contain carotenoids and protein that can be an alternative for carotenoids in fish feed. The objectives of this study were to analyze the proximate composition and carotenoid content in feed and determine the effect of crab shells as feedstuff on the growth performance and coloration of Betta splendens. A 40-day feeding trial using 45 tails of B. splendens with an average body weight, of 0.25 g was conducted by using five feed treatments namely TC (0% crab shell), T1 (25% crab shell), T2 (50% crab shell), T3 (75% crab shell) and T4 (100% crab shell) respectively. Sampling was done weekly. Analysis done were proximate composition and extraction of carotenoid while growth performance parameters such as body weight gain (BWG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were also taken. Skin coloration and water quality data were collected every 10 days. All data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA via SPSS. Results showed protein content for T1 (22.40±0.29) was slightly higher compared to all treatments. Carotenoid content in crab shells was lower compared to krill. Body weight from T1 (25% crab shell) showed a significant increase among all treatments. All treatments show no changes in coloration. In conclusion, T1 (25% crab shell waste) is the best treatment as it has a high protein content that improves body weight gain without any significant effect on coloration in all treatments.

Effects of Dietary Folic Acid Supplementation on Growth Performance and Immune Parameters in Weanling Piglets

In order to study the effects of dietary folic acid (FA) supplementation on growth performance and immune status in weanling piglets, a single factorial randomized block design trial was conducted with six diets supplemented with FA at 0, 0.30, 3.00, 6.00, 9.00 or 15.00 mg/kg. A total of 108 crossbred (Landrace × Yorkshire) castrated weanling piglets (at 21 d of age) were allocated by body weight into 36 feeding cages (3 piglets/cage), which were allotted randomly into six dietary groups (six cages/group). Piglets were fed ad libitum for 24 days. Blood samples were collected on the 24th day. The growth performance and immune parameters were measured. Results showed that FA supplementation increased the serum FA level of weaned piglets (p < 0.01) and tended to increase the body weight (BW) at 45 d of age (p < 0.1) and the average daily gain (ADG) from 29 d to 45 d of age (p < 0.1). FA addition improved the feed efficiency (G/F) from 21 to 45 d of age (p < 0.01) with supplementary FA levels of 0.3, 3.0, and 9.0 mg/kg compared with the control group with no FA supplementation. FA supplementation showed a trend (p < 0.1) to increase the peripheral blood CD3+CD8+ lymphocyte subpopulation and a tendency (p < 0.1) to decrease the CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ ratio; in particular FA supplementation of 0.3 and 3.0 mg/kg showed significant differences in comparison to the non-supplemented control group. Moreover, FA addition increased the serum interferon-γ (IFN-γ) level (p < 0.05) and tended to reduce the ratio of tumor necrosis factor-α to interleukin-4 (TNF-α/IL-4, p < 0.1) and immunoglobulin G (IgG, p < 0.1) in serum, but had no significant effect on serum IL-4, TNF-α, and nitric oxide. In conclusion, FA supplementation up to 3 mg/kg to the diet showed a tendency to improve immune function, while FA supplementation of up to 9 mg/kg improved feed efficiency, which resulted in a trend for higher growth in weaned piglets between 7 to 11 kg BW.

Dietary effect of multi-strain prebiotics and probiotics on growth, hemato-biochemical parameters, intestinal histomorphometry, and resistance to hypoxia in juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum).

This study evaluated the effects of a multi-strain prebiotics and probiotics on the diet of tambaqui Colossoma macropomum. One hundred and fifty juvenile tambaqui (20.2 ± 3.6 g and 10.32 ± 5.78 cm) were randomly distributed in 15 experimental units with a volume of 80 L and fed for 45 days with a diet containing the symbiotic additive at five inclusion levels (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g kg feed- 1). At the end of the period, growth performance, survival, hemato-biochemical and intestinal parameters, as well as the fish's resistance to stress were evaluated. The additive did not alter the growth performance, hemato-biochemical and intestinal parameters of the tambaqui. However, the hemato-biochemical parameters of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), plasma protein, hematocrit, glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol showed differences between treatments after the stress challenge. AST increased significantly during challenge and post-challenge. Plasma protein increased significantly during and after the challenge. The hematocrit was highest at 48 h after the challenge and lowest in the 2 g, 6 g and 8 g groups. Glucose was significantly reduced 24 h after the challenge, while triglycerides were lower 24 h and 48 h after the challenge. Cholesterol increased significantly in the challenge. There was an interaction between the factors sampling time and symbiotic concentration for hematocrit and glucose. In hypoxic stress situations, the 2 g concentration was more favorable for the fish. We recommend further studies with 2 g kg feed- 1 in trials lasting more than 45 days.

Organic Ingredients as Alternative Protein Sources in the Diet of Juvenile Organic Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax).

The use of organic ingredients as a source of protein in aquaculture diets has gained significant attention due to the growing demand for organic seafood products. This study aimed to evaluate the potential for the use of organic ingredients as protein sources in the diet of juvenile organic seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). A total of 486 juvenile seabass with an average weight of 90 g were fed six diets containing varied organic proteins. The control group (CON) was fed a diet with conventional fishmeal from sustainable fisheries as the primary protein source. The other five groups were fed diets with different compositions: organic Iberian pig meal byproduct (IB diet), a combination of organic Iberian pig meal byproduct and insect meal (IB-IN diet), a mix of organic Iberian pig meal byproduct and organic rainbow trout meal byproduct (IB-TR diet), a blend of organic rainbow trout meal byproduct and insect meal (TR-IN), and a mixed diet containing all of these protein sources (MIX diet). Over a 125-day feeding trial, growth performance, feed utilisation, feed digestibility, and histological parameters were assessed. The results showed that the fish fed the control diet had the highest final weight and specific growth rate, followed by the fish fed the TR-IN and IB-TR diets. The IB-TR diet had the highest apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) for protein, while the TR-IN diet had the lowest. Histological analysis revealed that fish fed the control diet had the largest nucleus diameter and hepatocyte diameter. Use of IN seems to penalise performance in several ways. Fish fed diets containing insect meal grew less, and those diets had lower digestibility. Fish fed the TR and IB diets grew at rates near that of the control, and the feed had acceptable digestibility.

Effects of different levels of dried onion powder on nutrient digestibility, biochemical parameters, and nitrogen balance in Wistar albino rats with induced hyperuricemia.

Introduction: Onions (Allium cepa L.) are excellent sources of bioactive compounds and phytochemicals such as allicin, quercetin, fisetin, and other sulfurous compounds. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the effects of dried onion powder on growth performance, nitrogen balance, and biochemical parameters in Wistar albino rats with induced hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 24 rats were randomly divided into four groups, with six in each group: HU (positive control) and HOT1, HOT2, and HOT3 groups, which received a diet containing onion powder at concentrations of 11.13, 14.84, and 18.61g/100g, respectively. Hyperuricemia was induced in rats by administering a new formulation intraperitoneally (250mg/kg potassium oxonate) and orally (40mg/kg potassium bromate) daily for 14days. After confirmation of hyperuricemia induction, rats were fed with onion-treated diets with various concentrations of quercetin for 21days. Results: Significant decreases (p ≤ 0.05) in serum uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein were observed. An increasing trend (p ≤ 0.05) in the levels of hemoglobin (Hb), white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), and platelet count was observed. An improvement in the levels of serum high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, serum total protein and neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes was observed. A positive progress (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in growth performance and nutrient digestibility. Conclusion: In conclusion, a significantly lower uric acid level was observed in rats fed with HOT2 diet. Based on the ratio of the surface area (human/rat), the best recommended dose of onion for the incidence and prevention of hyperuricemia is 189.95g, corresponding to the dose of 204mg/day of quercetin in humans.

Effects of ferulic acid on the growth performance, physiological and biochemical functions, and hepato-intestinal health of blunt snout bream, Megalobrama amblycephala

To investigate the impact of dietary inclusion of ferulic acid (FA) on growth performance, physiological and biochemical functions and hepato-intestinal health, three iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets supplemented with 0 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg FA were fed to Megalobrama amblycephala (9.75 ± 0.04 g) for 8 weeks. The growth performance, physiological and biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity and the expression of genes were assessed on 4th and 8th week. The results indicated that 100 mg/kg FA inclusion significantly enhanced the weight gain rate (on week 4 and 8), feed intake (on 4th week), protein efficiency ratio (on week 8) and condition factor (on week 4) (P < 0.05). In plasma biochemical index, dietary FA significantly reduced the contents of alanine aminotransferase, glucose and lactate dehydrogenase on 8th week (P < 0.05). In the antioxidant capacity, dietary FA decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in hepatopancreas and intestine (P < 0.05), while increased the activities of total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase (P < 0.05), and the best effects were observed at 100 mg/kg FA inclusion on 8th week. On 8th week, the supplementation of 100 mg/kg FA down-regulated the expression levels of inflammation-related genes (interleukin-6, interleukin-1β (hepatopancreas only), nuclear factor-κB), pro-apoptotic gene caspase-8 and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (X-box-binding protein 1 S, protein kinase R-like ER kinase, inositol requiring enzyme 1, C/EBP homologous protein, immunoglobulin binding protein (hepatopancreas only), activated transcription factor 6α, activated transcription factor 4) (P < 0.05), while the anti-apoptotic gene B lymphoblastoma-2 was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05). In conclusion, FA enhanced the growth performance, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reduced apoptosis level, and maintained the hepato-intestinal endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis. The FA inclusion was suggested at 100 mg/kg.

Impact of Replacing Different Levels of Potato Waste Silage with Barley on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Rumen and Blood Parameters of Fattening Lambs

Impact of Replacing Different Levels of Potato Waste Silage with Barley on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Rumen and Blood Parameters of Fattening Lambs

The Effect of Different Levels of Concentrate Supplement on Weight Gain, Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Weaned Ghezel Lambs Under Grazing Conditions

The Effect of Different Levels of Concentrate Supplement on Weight Gain, Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Weaned Ghezel Lambs Under Grazing Conditions

Valorizing pomegranate wastes by producing functional silver nanoparticles with antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and antimicrobial activities and its potential in food preservation

The food sector generates massive amounts of waste, which are rich in active compounds, especially polyphenols; therefore, valorizing these wastes is a global trend. In this study, we produce silver nanoparticles from pomegranate wastes, characterized by enhanced antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties and investigated their potential to maintain the fruit quality for sixty days in market. The pomegranate waste-mediated silver nanoparticles (PPAgNPs) were spherical shape (measured by TEM), 20 nm (Zeta sizer), negatively charged −25.98 mV (Zeta potential), and surrounded by active groups (FTIR). The PPAgNPs scavenged 94 % of DPPH radicals and inhibited the growth of pathogens, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella typhi and Candida with inhibition zones diameters (16–45 mm). They impeded the development of breast and colon cancer cell lines by 80 and 78 %, increased the activity of apoptosis marker caspase 3, and inhibited 82 % of COVID-19. The PPAgNPs were added to the rat diet at 80, 160, and 320 µg/kg levels. PPAgNPs administered at a concentration of 160 µg/kg in the rat diet resulted in the best growth performance, normal liver and kidney parameters (p = 0.029–0.038), lowered lipid profile, malondialdhyde (MDA), and raised glutathion reduced (GSH), total protein (TP). Also, the reduced gene expression of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in albino rats' serum indicates the anti-inflammatory effect of PPAgNPs. PPAgNPs developed a functional coating to preserve mandarin fruit for 60 days by dipping technique. The active coat containing PPAgNPs can effectively preserve the fruit for 60 days.

Orange Peel Waste Improved the Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Oxidative Stress, and Hematological Parameters of Labeo rohita

Expensive and ineffective feed ingredients in fish feed are becoming a major problem for fish growth in the aquaculture industry. Therefore, the experiment was conducted to investigate the utilization of fruit processing wastes as a dietary component in the feed of rohu (Labeo rohita). Four different feed formulations were prepared using commercial diet and supplemented with different levels of orange peel powder (CT= 0%, T1= 15%, T2= 30% and T3= 45%). The experiment was performed in aquariums of dimensions 1x1.5x2 feet, filled with approximately 79 liters of water. Fish were fed two times a day at rate of 3% of their body weight for 35 days. The results showed that the T1, T2, and T3 treatments had almost 104%, 160%, and 68% higher weight gain than that of CT, respectively. The T1 (7.55%), T2 (17.78%), and T3 (4.26%) treatments had a lower feed conversion ratio than that of CT. The T1, T2, T3 treatments had almost 14.18%, 15.27%, and 6.11% lower mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration than that of CT. The T1 and T2 treatments had almost 7.01% and 17.42% higher total serum protein than that of CT, respectively. The T1 (0.90%) and T2 (6.23%) treatments had higher A/G ratios than that of CT, respectively and T3 (0.01%) had lower A/G ratio than that of CT. Overall, the dietary supplementation of 30% orange peel improved growth performance, feed utilization, oxidative stress, and hematological parameters in Labeo rohita.

Appraisal of leaf protein concentrate derived from sugar beet and carrot as a novel fish meal substitute for juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Carrot and sugar beet are among the crops that produce a significant amount of leafy biomass, which raises environmental concerns. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of replacing fish meal (FM) with sugar beet and carrot leaf protein concentrate (LPC) on performance, body composition, and blood metabolites in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) for 84 days. Randomly, 225 tilapia fish (5.03 ± 0.006 g) were distributed into five groups having different replacement proportions of FM protein with LPC: 0 % (control diet), 25 %, 50 %, 75 % or 100 % (LPC-0, LPC-25, LPC-50, LPC-75, and LPC-100, respectively). The study found that increasing LPC replacement levels up to 75 % did not significantly alter growth performance parameters (P > 0.05). In contrast, substituting with 100 % LPC resulted in a notable reduction in the relative growth rate when compared to the control group (P = 0.043). Furthermore, fish fed the LPC-100 diet exhibited impaired trends in terms of final body weight (P = 0.064), daily weight gain (P = 0.055), and feed conversion ratio (FCR; P = 0.054). The best FCR value was observed in fish fed the LPC-75 diet. There were no significant differences in serum lipid and protein profile, liver and kidney function indicators, and hematological parameters among all groups (P > 0.05). The total replacement of FM with LPC adversely impacted the crude protein (P = 0.007) and ash (P = 0.002) contents of O. niloticus bodies. Replacing FM with 75 % LPC resulted in the highest relative margin (P = 0.008) and final margin (P = 0.005) compared to the other groups. Overall, the results indicate that 75 % of FM can be effectively replaced with LPC in O. niloticus diets, with no adverse effects observed on growth and health. Additionally, from an economic point of view, the use of LPC at 75 % instead of FM protein had more efficiency in producing healthy and low-cost aquafeed.

Meta analysis of growth performance and immune parameters in freshwater fish fed with dietary supplementation of selenium

ABSTRACT Selenium-based feed supplement is essential for increasing the performance of aquatic organisms. This study aims to analyze and evaluate various data on selenium supplementation in freshwater fish feed by meta-analysis with mixed-model. The study used secondary data from the literature database. Total 27 references containing 125 treatments were analized. Using linear and quadratic regression equations, selenium supplementation in freshwater fish feed resulted in a significantly increased final body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and protein efficiency ratio (P < .05). Then, the GPx activity enzyme in the liver and the increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) content in the blood of fish exhibited a favorable trend with significantly higher value (P < .05) compared to control fish. However, selenium supplementation could significantly reduce total protein, globulin, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and cholesterol levels (P < .05). This study concluded that organic selenium supplementation in the range of 0.95 to 6.8 mg/kg feed could improve freshwater fish’s performance.

Evaluation of dietary rosemary leaf powder on growth, carcass composition and hemato-biochemical profiles of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) reared in cage system.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) leaf powder (RLP) at 0.0% (control), 0.5%, 1% and 2% as a dietary supplement for eight weeks, on the growth performance, carcass composition and haemato-biochemical parameters. One hundred twenty common carp (Cyprinus carpio) (21.11±0.17g) were randomly distributed to 12 cages (0.2 m3) with three replicates for 56 days. The results showed that RLP-supplemented diets achieved significant enhancement of growth performance (FBW, SGR and WG) and feed utilization (FCR, FCE and PI) compared with a control group. In addition, TFI and PI were significantly improved in 0.5 and 2% RLP-supplemented groups. RLP had no significant effects on body composition except moisture content which was significantly increased in fish fed with a 1% supplemented diet and crude protein which was significantly decreased in fish fed with a 1% supplemented diet compared to the control diet. The results showed a significant increase in RLP-supplemented diets in RBC counts, LYM, MCV, hematocrit, total protein, albumin and globulin compared with the control group. WBC counts significantly increased in fish fed the 0.5 and 2% RLP diets, and hemoglobin significantly elevated in fish fed the 1% RLP diet. Glucose, GRA, MCH, MCHC and MPV were significantly decreased in the group fed the RLP diets compared with the control group. The AST, ALT, LDL, VLDL, CHO and TG levels showed a significant decrease in RLP compared to the control diet (P < 0.05), while ALP level fluctuated (P > 0.05). The urea and creatinine levels were higher in the RLP groups compared with the control (P < 0.05). Dietary RLP 1% increased lipase when compared to the control group. However, amylase levels in fish fed 0.5 and 1% RLP has significantly improved, while fish fed 2% RLP has significantly decreased when compared to the control diet. Overall, the results demonstrated that dietary RLP supplementation enhanced the growth and health status of common carp.

Effects of Rosa roxburghii Tratt seed on the growth performance, meat quality, and sensory evaluation characteristics in growing rabbits

The objective of this study was to observe the effects of Rosa roxburghii Tratt seed (RRTS) on growth performance, meat quality, and sensory characteristic parameters in rabbits. Ninety-six New Zealand White rabbits were allotted to four dietary treatments containing 0 (CON), 120 (LR), 240 (MR), and 360 mg/kg (HR) RRTS. The experimental period lasted for 11 weeks. Thirty-two fattened rabbits were slaughtered, and the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle was used for analyses. The feeding of RRTS was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR). pH45min, pH24h, lightness, redness, drip loss, and percentage of water loss were unaffected (P > 0.05) by dietary treatments, whereas MR and HR treatments resulted in lower (P < 0.05) levels of yellowness and higher (P < 0.05) levels of shear force. LR showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) meat polyphenol compounds and vitamin E relative to the CON. Moreover, compared to the CON, HR treatment showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) vitamin C and glutathione peroxidase, and LR and MR displayed lower (P < 0.05) superoxide anion radicals, and all treatments had higher levels catalase (CAT). C18:2n-6 t, C20:2, C20:3n-6, C20:4n-6, C20:5n-3, C22:5n-3, and C22:6n-3 in LTL meat were higher (P < 0.05) in MR than CON rabbits. Moreover, the LTL muscle sensory evaluation parameters of appearance and fibrousness were improved (P < 0.05). Overall, dietary supplementation with RRTS is a valid strategy for decreasing FCR, and improving meat CAT concentration, C20:5n-3 and C22:5n-3 profiles, and sensory characteristics parameters of rabbits.

Exogenous Easily Extractable Glomalin-Related Soil Protein Induces Differential Response in Plant Growth of Tea Plants via Regulating Water Channel Protein Expression

Glomalin, a glycoprotein secreted by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMFs), exhibits multiple beneficial functions in regard to plant growth. However, the roles and regulatory mechanisms of exogenous easily extractable glomalin-related soil protein (EE-GRSP) in water and their effects on the quality of tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze.) remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a quarter-strength exogenous EE-GRSP solution (1/4 EE-GRSP), half-strength exogenous EE-GRSP solution (1/2 EE-GRSP), three-quarter-strength exogenous EE-GRSP solution (3/4 EE-GRSP), and full-strength exogenous EE-GRSP solution (full EE-GRSP) on plant growth, the root system architecture, leaf water status, and the tea quality of tea seedlings, along with examining the changes in the relative expression of water channel proteins (AQPs) in tea plants. The results indicated that exogenous EE-GRSP of different strengths had different effects on both the growth performance (height, leaf numbers, and biomass) and root architecture parameters of tea seedlings, and the best positive effects on plant growth and the root architecture appeared under the three-quarter-strength exogenous EE-GRSP treatment. Similarly, the exogenous EE-GRSP application also differently affected tea quality indicators, in which only the quarter- and half-strength exogenous EE-GRSP solutions significantly increased most of the indicators, including carbohydrates, tea polyphenols, total amino acids, catechins, and flavonoids. Moreover, the half- and three-quarter-strength exogenous EE-GRSP treatments significantly increased the leaf relative water content (LRWC), but all of the exogenous EE-GRSP treatments significantly decreased the leaf water potential (LWP). Furthermore, the expression of AQP genes in the root system of tea plants was related to the strength of the exogenous EE-GRSP treatments, and different genes were significantly up-regulated or down-regulated under the treatment of exogenous EE-GRSP at different strengths. Moreover, the correlation analysis showed that most of the relative expression of AQPs was significantly and positively correlated with tea plant growth, the root architecture, and the leaf relative water content, but negatively correlated with tea quality indicators; however, the expression of CsNIPs and CsSIPs was markedly and negatively correlated with plant growth performance. Therefore, we speculated that the application of exogenous EE-GRSP could facilitate plant growth and improve the quality indirectly by regulating the expression of root AQPs, thus ameliorating the water uptake and nutrient accumulation in tea plants.

PSXIII-11 Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on Growth Performance, Frequency of Diarrhea, Nutrient Digestibility, and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Weaned Pigs

Abstract The swine industry has to find ways to make diets more efficient in terms of growth performance and swine intestinal health. Thus, this study was carried out to verify the effect of dietary supplementation of the probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, on growth performance, frequency of diarrhea, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters of weaned pigs. A total of 40 weaned pigs [6.21 ± 0.55 kg of initial body weight (BW)] were assigned to 2 dietary treatments (4 pigs/pen; 5 replicates/treatment) in a randomized complete block design (block: initial BW). This experiment was performed for 4 weeks. Dietary treatments were a commercial basal nursery diet (CON) and CON supplemented with 0.02% Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (PRO; ILDONG Bioscience Co., Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea). Average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake, and gain to feed ratio (G:F) were measured on day 1, 7, 14, and 28. The frequency of diarrhea was measured for the first 2 weeks after weaning. Diarrhea score of each pen was visually estimated from 1 to 5 (1 = normal feces, 2 = moist feces, 3 = mild diarrhea, 4 = severe diarrhea, and 5 = watery diarrhea). For the last week of experimental period, pigs were fed respective dietary treatments containing 0.2% chromium oxide. Fecal samples from randomly selected one pig per pen were collected daily by rectal palpation for the last 3 days. The samples from the diet and feces of each treatment were used to measure the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM), energy (EN), and crude protein (CP). Serum samples were collected for blood biochemical parameters. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters were analyzed by the General Linear Model of SAS. The frequency of diarrhea was analyzed by the Chi-square test. The experimental unit was a pen. Statistical model for growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and biochemical parameters included dietary treatment as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. Pigs fed PRO had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADG and G:F than those fed CON from day 1 to 7, and The PRO had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADG than CON from day 15 to 28. The PRO increased ADG during overall the experimental period (P &amp;lt; 0.10), nutrient digestibility of DM, EN, and CP (P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared with CON. However, no differences were found on frequency of diarrhea and blood biochemical parameters between dietary treatments. In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus improved growth performance and nutrient digestibility.

PSXIII-2 Effects of Probiotic Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on Growth Performance, Diarrhea Frequency, and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Weaned Pigs

Abstract Probiotics are microorganisms which have positive effects on human and animal gut health, and generally recognized as safe ingredients. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LR) on growth performance, diarrhea frequency, and blood biochemical parameters of weaned pigs. A total of 100 weaned pigs [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc; 7.99 ± 0.85 kg of initial body weight (BW); 28 days old] were used in a 28-day trial. All pigs were randomly assigned to 2 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design (block: initial BW) and there were 10 replication pens in each treatment with 5 pigs/pen. Dietary treatments were as follows: 1) a commercial weaner diet based on corn-soybean meal (CON), and 2) CON + 0.02% probiotic LR IDCC 3201 (PRO). All pigs were housed in an environmental controlled room and had free access to feed and water throughout the experimental period. Probiotic LR was obtained from commercial company (ILDONG Bioscience Co., Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea). Pigs BW was individually measured on day 1, 7, 14, and 28, and feed consumption was recorded on a pen basis on the same day to calculate average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and gain to feed ratio (G:F). Diarrhea frequency was recorded by visual observation for 2 weeks after weaning and calculated as a percentage. Blood samples for biochemical parameters were collected from randomly selected one pig per pen on day 28 and analyzed by specific kit and clinical auto analyzer. Analysis items were total protein, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, blood urea nitrogen, calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, albumin, and creatinine. Data were analyzed using PROC GLM of SAS. Experimental unit was a pen. Statistical model for every measurement included dietary treatment as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. The Chi-square test was used for diarrhea frequency. During day 1 to 7, 8 to 14, 1 to 14 and overall experiment date, ADG of pigs that fed PRO was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than those fed CON. Pigs fed PRO had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) G:F during day 1 to 7 and 1 to 14 compared with those fed CON. Pigs fed PRO tended to have less (P &amp;lt; 0.10) diarrhea frequency during the first week of experiment than those fed CON. On blood biochemical parameters, pigs that fed PRO had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) concentrations of Ca (mg/dL) on day 28 than those fed CON. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of probiotic LR in weaner diet improved growth performance, reduced diarrhea frequency, and modulated blood biochemical parameters.

PSXIII-10 Effects of Dietary Lactobacillus Reuteri on Growth Performance, Frequency of Diarrhea, and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Weaned Pigs

Abstract Weaning stress of pig causes reduction of growth performance and high risk of diseases. These effects are directly connected to economic losses. Antibiotic growth promotors commonly used for improving the negative effects of weaning stress of pigs, but are banned for public health concerns. Therefore, probiotics can be one potential of an antibiotic alternative. Dietary Lactobacillus reuteri is one of the strains of probiotics which has the ability to enhance growth performance of animals. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary Lactobacillus reuteri on growth performance, frequency of diarrhea, and biochemical parameters of weaned pigs. A total of 48 weaned pigs [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire); initial body weight (BW) = 6.51 ± 0.87 kg; 21 days old)] were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments (4 pigs/pen; 6 replicates/treatment) and fed for 4 weeks in a randomized complete block design (block = initial BW and sex). Dietary treatments consisted of a basal weaner diet (CON) and CON supplemented with 0.02% Lactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701 (LR; ILDONG Bioscience Co., Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea). The frequency of diarrhea was calculated daily during two weeks in each pen with optical diarrhea scores. The scoring of diarrhea was from 1 to 5, and a score of over 4 was considered diarrhea. Blood samples were obtained from randomly selected one pig per pen at the end of the experiment. Sera were obtained from the blood sample to measure the blood biochemical parameters using the specific kits and a clinical auto-analyzer. All data were analyzed using PROC GLM of SAS. The experimental unit was a pen. Statistical model for growth performance and blood biochemical parameters included dietary treatments as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. The frequency of diarrhea was analyzed by the Chi-square test. Pigs fed LR increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) average daily gain from day 1 to 7 and 15 to 28 and gain to feed ratio from day 1 to 7 compared with those fed CON. Pigs fed LR tended to have reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.10) frequency of diarrhea during the first two weeks of experiment than those fed CON. In addition, pigs fed LR tended to have greater (P &amp;lt; 0.10) serum alanine aminotransferase than those fed CON, but no differences were observed in other blood biochemical parameters. In conclusion, addition of dietary Lactobacillus reuteri in weaner diet improved growth performance, reduced the frequency of diarrhea, and modulated the blood biochemical parameters of weaned pigs.