In Vitro Dry Matter Digestibility Research Articles

Herbage Yield and Nutritive Value of Selected Grasses in Subhumid Agroecological Environments in Ethiopia

The introduction of improved forage varieties could play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for livestock and livestock products in Ethiopia. However, different cultivars exhibit varied performance. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the performance of Brachiaria cultivars and other grass cultivars in two subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia. Four Brachiaria cultivars (B. brizantha (DZF-13379), B. humidicola (DZF-9222), B. decumbens (DZF-10871), and B. mutica (var. DZF-483), and two local grass cultivars, Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana var. Massaba) and Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium var. Kindu Kosha), were evaluated in Bako and Bishoftu for three years during the rainy season. The experiment was carried out using a completely randomized block design. Results indicated that both cultivars and years had significant (P<0.001) effects on herbage dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP) yield, and plant height, whereas location only affected DM yield. Significant cultivar × year interactions were observed for DM yield, CP yield, and plant height, while cultivar × location interactions had a significant effect on all parameters except for CP yield. Additionally, cultivars significantly (P<0.001) impacted the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) as well as the nutritional content (CP, ash, acid detergent lignin (ADL), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Overall, all cultivars demonstrated potential as alternative ruminant feeds, with B. mutica, followed by B. brizantha, showing superior performance in the subhumid agroecological areas of Ethiopia.

In vitro gas production and digestibility of oat and triticale forage mixtures ensiled with fibrolytic enzymes and inoculants

Objective: To assess the effects of adding fibrolytic enzymes (FE) or lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculants to 40 d silages with oat and triticale (O:T) mixtures on the ratio and composition of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and its subsequent in vitro gas production (GP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) at 24 h. Design/Methodology/Approach: Silages elaborated with two O:T ratios (60:40 and 80:20) treated with low (LD), medium (MD), and high (HD) doses of FE (0.75, 1, and 1.25 g/kg forage in wet basis (WB), respectively), and LAB (0.188, 0.25, and 0.31 g/kg WB, respectively). In both cases (FE and LAB), the control had a value of 0. Subsequently, pH, NDF, acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), hemicellulose (HEM), cellulose (CEL), dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), GP parameters, and IVDMD were assessed. GP parameters included maximum velocity (Vmax), fractional rate (S), and lag. Experiments were planned in complete randomized designs (CRD), including factorial and split-plot arrangements. Variance analysis (ANOVA) models included fixed (doses, additives, and FR) and random (place/moment of sampling) effects. Results: LAB improved the IVDMD at 24 h of 60:40 and 80:20 O:T silages. FE did not reduce the NDF of 60:40 silages, but LD and MD increased the HEM and CP, and reduced the ADF, ADL, and CEL; these results are correlated (r) with the improvement of pH pattern, GP, and IVDMD. Study Limitations/Implications: The differences in the NDF of FR mixtures could affect the effectiveness of FE and LAB. Findings/Conclusions: Although FE and LAB did not reduce the NDF, they changed the ratios of ADF, ADL, HEM, CEL, and CP of silages, potentially improving the GP and IVDMD.

Effects of Dried Tea Residues of Different Processing Techniques on the Nutritional Parameters, Fermentation Quality, and Bacterial Structure of Silaged Alfalfa

The effects of dried tea residues on the nutritional parameters and fermentation quality, microbial community, and in vitro digestibility of alfalfa silage were investigated. In this study, dried tea residues generated from five different processing techniques (green tea, G; black tea, B; white tea, W; Pu’er raw tea, Z; Pu’er ripe tea, D) were added at two addition levels (5% and 10% fresh weight (FW)) to alfalfa and fermented for 90 days. The results showed that the tea residues increased the crude protein (CP) content (Z10: 23.85%), true protein nitrogen (TPN) content, DPPH, and ABST radical scavenging capacity, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of the alfalfa silage. Moreover, the pH, ammonia-N (NH3-N) content, and acetic acid (AA) content decreased (p < 0.05). The effects of tea residues were promoted on these indicators with increasing tea residue addition. In addition, this study revealed that the influence of dried tea residues on the nutritional quality of alfalfa silage was greater than that on fermentation quality. Based on the nutrient composition, the addition of B or G to alfalfa silage can improve its silage quality, and these tea byproducts have the potential to be used as silage additives.

Methane production from locally available ruminant feedstuffs in Ethiopia – An in vitro study

Achieving optimal nutrient composition in locally sourced ruminant feeds is important, but can be challenging in resource-limited production systems. For example, improving the composition of available local feed resources is a key obstacle to efficiently mitigating enteric methane (CH4) emissions in ruminants. This study characterized the nutritional content and in vitro methane (CH4) yield of ruminant feedstuffs accessible in Ethiopia. A survey of 60 experienced farmers in two representative districts in Amhara region, Ethiopia, provided 33 feed samples, which were classified into four ruminant feed categories: Grasses (n=10); indigenous plants (trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants) (n=13); crop residues (n=5); and agro-industrial by-products (n=5). Nutritional composition was assessed by proximate and detergent methods. Methane yield (g CH4/kg feed dry matter (DM)) and total gas yield (L/kg DM) were evaluated using a fully automated in vitro gas production system. A colorimetric assay was conducted to measure condensed tannin content (CT, mg/g) in relevant feeds. Lower crude protein (CP) values were observed for the grass (mean 65.2 g/kg DM) and crop residues (mean 54.5 g/kg DM) categories. Agro-industrial by-products had the highest CP (mean 260 g/kg DM), while indigenous plants exhibited intermediate levels (163 g/kg DM). There was significant variation in CH4 yield (P<0.01) between grasses (12.4–24.7 g/kg DM) indigenous plants (1.8–19.3 g/kg DM), and agro-industrial by-products (8.1–26.9 g/kg DM). The indigenous plant Trifolium acaule gave the lowest in vitro CH4 yield (1.8 g/kg DM). A positive relationship was observed between in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), CH4, and total gas yield. Percentage of CH4 in total gas production varied with feed category (grasses 14.5–19.6%; indigenous plants 3.1–16.9%; crop residues 15.8–20.6%; agro-industrial by-products 12.8–18.7%), and within category, e.g., Trifolium acaule (3.1%), Acacia nilotica L. (7.1%), Ziziphus spina-christi (9.9%), brewer’s spent grains (BSG) (12.8%), local liquor (areki) residues (14.1%), and local beer (tella) residues (15.1%). A negative relationship was observed between CT content and in vitro CH4 yield, with a stronger (P<0.05) correlation for soluble CTs (R2 = 0.46) than cell-bound CTs (R2 = 0.25) and total CTs (R2 = 0.29). Based on methanogenic properties and effects of CTs on in vitro CH4 yield, indigenous plants should be prioritized in ruminant rations in Ethiopia. Making nutritional composition and CH4 data publicly available could help develop environmentally sound, cost-effective rations for ruminant livestock, benefiting local farmers and leading to more sustainable and efficient livestock production in Ethiopia.

Bentonite as an arsenic and lead adsorbent in the bovine digestive tract: an in vitro study

Objective. To determine the recommended dose of bentonite as a chelator of arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) in the rumen, abomasal and duodenal environment by means of an in vitro system, considering the variables of ruminal fermentation and the adsorbent effect of As and Pb. Materials and Methods. Vials were prepared with 50 mL of anaerobic medium and 0.5 g of alfalfa as substrate. The culture media were added with 1.01 and 1.95 ppm of As and Pb, respectively. The treatments consisted of different levels of bentonite (B) added to the medium, B-0%, B-1.5%, B-3.0% and B-4.5%. The media were incubated for 24 h, and pH, volatile fatty acid (VFA) and N-NH3 production, in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) and chelating effect of bentonite were measured, simulating rumen, abomasum and duodenum conditions. A completely randomised design and orthogonal contrasts were used. Results. Bentonite did not modify the pH (p &gt; 0.05) and the molar proportion of VFAs, but the total VFA concentration presented a negative linear effect with increasing bentonite levels. Likewise, the N-NH3 level decreased (p &lt; 0.05) with increasing inclusion levels of bentonite. The IVDMD was reduced with B-3% and B-4.5% (52.36b and 49.74b%) in comparison to B-0% and B-1.5% (62.30a and 61.98a%). Treatments B-1.5% and B-4.5% improved (p &lt; 0.05) As and Pb adsorption in the rumen, abomasal and duodenal environments. Conclusions. The recommended level of bentonite as chelator of As and Pb is 1.5%; doses of 4.5% affect IVDMD and, consequently, animal productivity.

Forage yield and nutritive value of Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium Trin.) as affected by cutting heights in the central highlands of Ethiopia

Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium Trin) an important fodder grass. However, information on its production is lacking. This study was carried out to evaluate the forage dry matter yield and nutritive value of Desho grass harvested at different cutting heights (CH), under rain-fed conditions in two different sites in central highlands of Ethiopia for two years. The treatments (T1-T8) were: 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, and 120 cm cutting heights, distributed in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The root splits of the grass were planted in a 3 m × 4 m (12 m2) plot size with 0.5 m × 0.25 m inter and intra-row spacing. In the two locations, over the years, significant differences were observed among cutting heights. The interaction of cutting heights by locations, and location by years were also significant. The interaction among cutting height, location, and year was insignificant. The highest (number of leaves per plant) NLPP was attained as the plant height advance, while the number of tillers per plant (NTPP) showed non-significant differene in different treatments. The dry matter yield (DMY) increased linearly with an increase in CH (ranging from 12.2 to 20.1 t ha−1 at Holetta, and 4.2 to 11.4 t ha−1at Kulumsa). The grass's ash and crude protein (CP) contents decreased as the cutting height increased. An increase in CH increased the fiber content Neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and Acid detergent lignin (ADL), resulting decrease in in-vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). We recommend that desho grass be managed at 80–90 cm height resulting in optimum dry matter yield and nutritive value for use in smallholder farmers and market-oriented livestock producers of the central highlands of Ethiopia and major growing areas.

Biotechnological Processing of Sugarcane Bagasse through Solid-State Fermentation with White Rot Fungi into Nutritionally Rich and Digestible Ruminant Feed

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) bagasse (SCB) is one of the most widely produced lignocellulosic biomasses and has great potential to be recycled for sustainable food production as ruminant animal feed. However, due to severe lignification, i.e., lignin-(hemi)-cellulose complexes, ruminants can only ferment a minor fraction of the polysaccharides trapped in such recalcitrant lignocellulosic biomasses. This study was therefore designed to systematically evaluate the improvement in nutritional value, the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), and the rate and extent of in vitro total gas (IVGP) and methane (CH4) production during the 72 h in vitro ruminal fermentation of SCB, bioprocessed with Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus djamor, Calocybe indica and Pleurotus ostreatus under solid-state fermentation (SSF) for 0, 21 and 56 days. The contents of neutral detergent fiber, lignin, hemicellulose and CH4 production (% of IVGP) decreased (p &lt; 0.05), whereas crude protein (CP), IVDMD and total IVGP increased (p &lt; 0.05) after the treatment of SCB for 21 and 56 days with all white-rot fungi (WRF) species. The greatest (p &lt; 0.05) improvement in CP (104.1%), IVDMD (38.8%) and IVGP (49.24%) and the greatest (p &lt; 0.05) reduction in lignin (49.3%) and CH4 (23.2%) fractions in total IVGP were recorded for SCB treated with C. indica for 56 days. Notably, C. indica degraded more than (p &lt; 0.05) lignin and caused greater (p &lt; 0.05) improvement in IVDMD than those recorded for other WRF species after 56 days. The increase in IVGP was strongly associated with lignin degradation (R2 = 0.72) and a decrease in the lignin-to-cellulose ratio (R2 = 0.95) during the bioprocessing of SCB. Our results demonstrated that treatment of SCB with (selective) lignin-degrading WRF can improve the nutritional value and digestibility of SCB, and C. indica presents excellent prospects for the rapid, selective and more extensive degradation of lignin and, as such, for the improvement in nutritional value and digestibility of SCB for ruminant nutrition.

Application of NIRS for hay evaluation at different degrees of sample preparation.

A study compared the performance of the NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy) calibration models developed with different degrees of hay sample preparations. Spectral data of 1-mm ground or whole hay samples were regressed against wet chemistry results of moisture, NDF (neutral detergent fiber), ADF (acid detergent fiber), CP (crude protein), and IVDMD (in vitro dry matter digestibility). A total of 227 imported alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and another 360 timothy (Phleum pratense L.) hay samples were used to develop the calibration models. The models developed with ground hay samples were more robust and accurate than whole hay based on cross-validation's R2 (coefficient of determination), standard error, and RPD (ratio percentage deviation). The R2 of cross-validation ranged from 0.61 (moisture of alfalfa) to 0.95 (CP prediction of timothy). Although R2 of calibration models was mainly greater than 0.90, the R2 of cross-validations remained marginal. Estimation of nutrient concentrations in imported hay can be achieved by calibrated NIRS. The NIRS calibration models must be improved by including more imported hay samples from different years and origins. Although the analysis accuracy of NIRS was substantially higher when calibration models were developed with ground samples, less sample preparation will be more advantageous for achieving rapid delivery of hay sample analysis results. Therefore, further research warrants investigating the level of sample preparation inputs compromising analysis accuracy by NIRS.

In vitro Evaluation of Different Levels of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) Nut Meal Supplementation on Rumen Fermentation Kinetics and Digestibility

Background: Globally, safeguarding food and nutritional security of ever increasing population demands sustainable crop and livestock production. While urbanization, decrease in cultivable land and stiff feed-fuel-food competition accompanied with skyrocketing price of conventional feedstuffs hinders the sustainable livestock production. Hence, it necessitates search and exploration of alternative feed resources along with judicious utilization of existing feed resources. In this context, Cashew nut meal (CNM) is one such alternative feed resource but the studies pertaining to its optimum level of inclusion in animal diet is scanty. Therefore, the study was conducted to assess the effect of incorporating varying levels of cashew nut meal (CNM) as a supplement on in vitro rumen fermentation kinetics and digestibility. Methods: Seven distinct compounded feed mixtures (CFM) were formulated, with CNM progressively replacing 0 (C0), 10 (C1), 20 (C2), 30 (C3), 40 (C4), 50 (C5), and 60 (C6) per cent of the soybean meal (SBM) protein present in the control CFM. Additionally, seven experimental complete diets (T0 to T6) were prepared by blending these CFM with Super Napier (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum glaucum) hay in a 40:60 ratio. These diets were subjected to rumen in vitro gas production (RIVGP) study with cumulative gas production measured at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72 and 96 h post-incubation. Subsequently, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVTDMD) and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) of the diets were determined using a modified in vitro two-stage technique. Later, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) were estimated using gas chromatography. Result: Analysis of chemical composition revealed that CNM contains good protein of 256.5 g/kg. The potential gas production (D) and the rate and extent of gas production (c) for diets containing CNM ranged from 54.63 to 60.24 mL and 0.036 to 0.043 h-1, respectively. IVTDMD and NDFD analysis of the seven diets fell within the range of 79.12% to 80.80% and 64.72% to 66.47%, respectively. The estimated TVFA for seven diets ranged from 17.87 to 23.65 mM. Further, the metabolisable energy (ME) of diets ranged from 7.89 to 8.08 MJ/kg DM. Importantly, no significant differences were observed in rumen fermentation kinetics parameters, IVTDMD, NDFD and TVFA among treatments (T0 to T6). In conclusion, cashew nut meal could be used as an alternative to soybean meal in compounded feed mixtures of ruminants up to 30% (w/w) without any adverse effect on rumen fermentation pattern and digestibility.

Composição tecidual de capim-mulato II sob diferentes estruturas de dossel e seu impacto sob a digestibilidade

Different heights of forage management modify the plant architecture, changing the proportion of young and mature tissues and its nutritional value. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the tissue composition of leaves of hybrid Urochloa cv. Mulato II (syn. Brachiaria) kept under four management conditions simulating continuous grazing in the rainy and dry seasons. In addition, the effect of the variation of the percentage of tissues in the leaf on its digestibility was carried out based on the contents of crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Four stocking levels were evaluated simulating continuous grazing, with a canopy height of 10, 20, 30, and 40 cm. It was found that the pastures with 10 and 20 cm had the lowest percentage of lignified tissues in the rainy and dry seasons, which consequently resulted in greater tissue disappearance, mainly of the mesophyll. Pastures with 10 cm had higher CP contents, lower NDF and ADF contents, and consequently higher IVDMD. Therefore, the Mulato II grassland managed with 10 cm had greater degradability of the leaf tissues, due to the higher percentage of rapidly digestible tissues.

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.

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.

Effects of a Delayed Harvest and Additives on the Fermentation Quality of Corn Stalk Silage

This study investigated the effects of harvest time, cellulase, lactic acid bacteria, and ensiling with alfalfa hay on the chemical parameters, bacterial community composition, and fermentation of corn stalk silage. Corn stalks were ensiled after the ear harvest at 0 days (D0) and 20 days (D20). Each harvest was treated with alfalfa hay [AL, 5% of fresh matter (FM)], Lactobacillus plantarum (Lp) (1 × 106 CFU/g of FM), Trichoderma cellulase (TC) (100 mg/kg of FM), or both Lp and TC (Lp+TC). The silos were opened after 60 days of fermentation. The dry matter (DM) content of raw materials increased from 18.79% to 28.32% with the harvest time. The acid detergent fiber (ADF) content also significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05), while water-soluble carbohydrates (WSCs) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.05). After 60 days, the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and ADF contents increased, and all chemical composition and fermentation state parameters of silages had significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) with the harvest time. Compared with the control group, the AL treatment resulted in higher (p &lt; 0.05) DM and crude protein (CP) contents, and the Lp+TC treatment resulted in a lower NDF (p &lt; 0.05) content. For D0, the TC and Lp+TC treatments resulted in a higher WSC content and lower NDF and ADF contents than in D20. Meanwhile, the ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) content in each treatment was less than 10% of the DM. The pH values were all approximately 3.70. The AL treatment significantly increased the lactic acid (LA) content and lactic/acetic acid ratio (LA/AA). Additionally, the silages had a similar microbial environment before and after fermentation. We recommend harvesting corn stalks for silage immediately after the corn ear harvest. Adding cellulase improved the corn stalk feed value, and ensiling with alfalfa hay improved its fermentation quality.

Evaluation of the nutritive value of fermented corn grain for ruminants

ABSTRACT The study aimed to evaluate the nutritive value of fermented corn grain (FCG) for ruminants by in vitro and in vivo methods. Free-toxin FCG was evaluated alone or as an ingredient of feedlot diets replacing standard corn grain (SCG) by in vitro gas production technique and by nutritional and performance study using lamb as the animal model. FCG presented similar contents of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and starch, but presented higher ash and lower density than SCG. When evaluated in vitro alone, FCG presented higher lag time and lower in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) than SCG, but as an ingredient of feedlot diets, FCG levels linearly decreased digestion rate and lag time, but linearly increased IVDMD. In an in vivo study, FCG levels had quadratic effects on the intake and digestibility of crude fat, increased feeding time, and decreased resting time of lambs. FCG levels did not affect rumen volatile fatty acid concentration and its profile but trended to linearly increase final body weight, average daily gain and carcase weight. Thus, mycotoxin-free fermented corn grain can be fed to feedlot lambs without negatively affecting the intake and digestibility of nutrients or animal performance.

Evaluation of perilla seeds (Perilla frutescens) based on nutrient digestibility and pH in vitro tilley and terry

The study was carried out to evaluate the provision of perilla seeds (Perilla frutescens) with the addition of tannins to pH, IVDMD (in vitro dry matter digestibility), and IVOMD (in vitro organic matter digestibility) in the rumen and post rumen. The research used according Completely Randomized Design with four treatments and four replications: T1 = 100% perilla seeds, T2 = 100% perilla seeds + 1% tannin, T3 = 90% basal ration + 10% perilla seeds, T4 = 90% basal ration + 10% perilla seeds + 1% tannin. The method used in vitro two-stage digestibility to the observed of stage I (rumen) and stage II (total). The variables evaluated in this study included IVDMD stage I, IVDMD stage II, IVOMD stage I, IVOMD stage II, and pH. The results showed that giving perilla seeds with the addition of tannin had a pH value obtained in accordance with the pH standard in the rumen (P>0.05); IVDMD stage I and stage II respectively 22.91-35.85% and 36.01-44.15% (P<0.05); IVOMD stage I and stage II were 38.15-48.36% (P<0.05) and 50.04-55.35% (P<0.05), respectively. The conclusion of this research was carried out to give perilla seeds at a level of 10% and 1% tannin in the ration had diverse nutrient digestibility in the rumen and post-rumen. However, it does not affect the pH of the rumen.

Municipal solid waste compost use can improve crop barley production and enhance soil chemical fertility

The study aims to point out the effect of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) and traditional mineral fertilizers use, on rainfed forage barley herbage and grain production, nutritive value, and on soil chemical characteristics. During a three-year field trial, the MSWC treatments were COM1, 20 Mg ha−1 (DM) applied each year; COM2, 20 Mg ha−1 applied only the first year. The mineral fertilization was MIN50 (50 kg ha−1 of N + 46 kg ha−1 of P2O5), and MIN100 (100 kg ha−1 of N + 92 kg ha−1 of P2O5), applied each year. Fertilization treatments were compared with unfertilized control (COM0 and MIN0). Two years out of three COM1 showed a significant higher barley herbage dry matter (HDM) production and CP, when compared to COM0. COM1 in one year increased grain yield (YLD) whereas increased CP all years and decreased starch grain content two years out of three. MSWC strongly increased levels of sodium (Na) in herbage and grain. Mineral fertilizers levels significantly increased HDM production and YLD and their CP content compared to MIN0. Moreover, it lightly decreased herbage NDF, ADF, WSC and Total phenols content, raising in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). In soil, after three years of fertilization, COM1 increased SOC (Soil Organic Carbon), Total N, available P, exchangeable K and Mg content, but also exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) and electrical conductivity (EC), showing higher values than COM2 and COM0. Mineral fertilization influenced only the available P soil level, increasing the content compared to MIN0. This paper pointed out that mineral fertilizers had clear short-term effects on the barley growth, yield, and nutritional value, but did not contribute to soil long-term fertility improvement. MSWC increased barley growth and yield reaching similar values obtained with mineral fertilizers. Above all, MSWC showed capability to improve soil fertility mainly in terms of organic matter and macronutrients and its use is consistent with the recent EU regulation on organic fertilizer productions (2018/84) that aims to “maintaining the long-term fertility of soils”.

Assessing the In Vitro and In Vivo Effect of Supplementation with a Garlic (Allium sativum) and Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Essential Oil Mixture on Digestibility in West African Sheep.

This study assessed the impact of a mixture of garlic (Allium sativum) and oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oils (EOGOs) on in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in vivo apparent nutrient digestibility. Different EOGO inclusion levels were evaluated to assess the dose response and potential effects of the mixture. Three EOGO inclusion levels (0.5, 0.75, and 1 mL/kg of incubated dry matter) were evaluated in vitro, while four treatments (0.5, 0.75, and 1 mL/day of EOGO and a control group) were tested in vivo on 12 West African sheep. A randomized controlled trial was conducted using a 4 × 4 design. Blood parameters (glucose, blood urea nitrogen, and β-hydroxybutyrate) were measured to observe the effect of EOGO on the metabolism. The results showed that the inclusion of EOGO significantly enhanced IVDMD at low levels (p < 0.052) compared with the highest levels in treatments containing 0.5 and 0.75 mL/kg of EOGO dry matter. A higher intake of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p < 0.05) was observed in the in vivo diets with the inclusion of EOGO. In terms of in vivo apparent digestibility, significant differences were found among treatments in the digestibility coefficients of DM, CP, and NDF. EOGO inclusion increased the digestibility of DM. CP digestibility displayed a cubic effect (p < 0.038), with the lowest values of digestibility observed at 1 mL EOGO inclusion. Additionally, NDF digestibility showed a cubic effect (p < 0.012), with the highest value obtained at 0.75 mL of EOGO inclusion. The inclusion levels above 0.75 mL EOGO showed a cubic effect, which indicates that higher concentrations of EOGO may not be beneficial for the digestibility of CP and NDF. Although no significant difference was observed in total digestible nutrients, a linear trend was observed (p < 0.059). EOGO improved the intake of DM, CP, and NDF. EOGO supplementation improved the digestibility of DM and NDF, with optimal levels observed at 0.5 mL/day. No significant effects were observed in the blood parameters. These results suggest that EOGO has the potential as an additive in ruminal nutrition to improve food digestibility and serve as an alternative to antibiotic additives. The use of EOGO potentially improves fiber digestion and may reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock production. Garlic (A. sativum) and oregano (O. vulgare) essential oils effectively modulated fiber digestibility at 0.75 mL/day. Garlic (A. sativum) and oregano (O. vulgare) essential oils have the potential to improve digestibility at low inclusion levels and serve as an alternative to antibiotic additives. The effectiveness of essential oils is greater in a mixture and at lower doses.

Effects of Lentilactobacillus buchneri and chemical additives on fermentation profile, chemical composition, and nutrient digestibility of high-moisture corn silage.

High-moisture corn silage presents a novel approach to reduce forage feeding expenses and enhance animal performance. Nevertheless, given corn's proclivity for starch, suboptimal fermentation quality in high-moisture corn silage can lead to spoilage, posing risks to livestock well-being. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of different additives on the fermentation profile, chemical composition, nutrient digestibility of high-moisture corn (HMC) silage. All treatments improved the quality of high-moisture corn silage fermentation, as demonstrated by a decrease in pH and increase in lactic acid (LA) content. The high-moisture corn silage had a low content of trans fatty acids (TFA). Fermentation effectively decreased prolamin content while increasing 48-h in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), estimated total tract starch digestibility (eTTSD), total digestible nutrient (TDN), and relative grain quality (RGQ) of high-moisture corn silage. Nonetheless, no effect was observed on the 48-h IVDMD of high-moisture corn silage among the different treatments. Pearson's correlation analysis indicated that neutral detergent fiber (aNDF), neutral detergent insoluble protein (NDIP), crude protein (CP), zein, and prolamin closely correlated with the digestibility of high-moisture corn. The study's findings demonstrate that inoculating L. buchneri and potassium sorbate can improve the quality of high-moisture corn silage fermentation and digestibility in different hybrids. The results will provide insights for enhancing farm productivity and profitability in China.

Exploring the impact of soil water variability and varietal diversity on alfalfa yield, nutritional quality, and farm profitability

AbstractBackgroundDespite high nutritional and economic value, alfalfa yield has not been improved in the United States. Soil moisture critically influences alfalfa's yield and quality, affecting its physiological processes, nutrient uptake, and stand growth. Additionally, the maturity stage at harvest can significantly impact both hay yield and quality. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effect of different soil moisture levels and harvesting times on forage yield, nutritive value, and the overall profitability of commercially cultivated alfalfa.MethodsTwo conventional and three lower‐lignin alfalfa varieties were planted in a randomized complete block with split plot design under drought, rainfed, and irrigation conditions in 2020 in Manhattan, Kansas, USA. The dry matter yield (DMY) and forage nutritive value were evaluated at late bud, early flowering, and 7 days after early flowering stages, respectively.ResultsDMY varied with production year, soil water availability, and growth stages, with drought conditions causing a decline in DMY of 5% to 38% in the second production year. Water conditions and maturity stages influenced crude protein (CP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Higher soil moisture and advancing maturity stages negatively impacted CP, IVDMD, and relative forage quality. The study revealed net profit margins of 62%, 64%, and 52% for drought‐prone, rainfed, and irrigated production, respectively.ConclusionsHarvest timing and irrigation practices were found to have substantial implications for forage yield and nutritive value of alfalfa. The yield‐quality trade‐off differed under drought and irrigation, with early harvesting leading to lower yields but higher protein content and digestibility. The study findings provide potential guidance for improving alfalfa hay yield, quality, and profitability.

Evaluation of Nutrient and Digestibility of Agricultural Waste Total Mixed Ration Silage as Ruminant Feed

Difficulties in feeding ruminants, which generally use field grass, can be modified by utilizing forage waste from corn, rice and cassava using the total mixed ration (TMR) silage model to obtain feed that is rich in nutrients and long lasting. The study aimed of the study was to determine the nutritional value and digestibility of TMR silage using forage and concentrate waste from corn, rice and cassava. The research design used a completely randomized design with 3 treatments of agricultural waste and 6 replications. The treatment is CWS (corn waste silage); RWS (rice waste silage) and CVWS (cassava waste silage). The parameters tested were crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, NDF, ADF, WSC, RFV, NH3, rumen PH, VFA, In vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and In vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). The results showed that CVWS (cassava waste silage) increased crude protein, RFV and reduced NDF, while CWS (corn waste silage) reduced crude fiber and ADF, increased NH3 production, VFA and in vitro digestibility