Total Dry Matter Intake Research Articles

Effects of increasing levels of whole Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae in broiler rations on acceptance, nutrient and energy intakes and utilization, and growth performance of broilers

Meal of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), which requires extraction of protein and fat, is a novel protein source for poultry, while unprocessed whole BSFL could even directly be fed to chickens. Newly hatched Ross-308 chicks (n = 252) received whole BSFL at 10% (L10), 20% (L20), or 30% (L30) of voluntary feed intake (FI) of control chickens (CON) that received no BSFL but only age-specific diets (n = 63 birds / group) for 42 days (d). Acceptance and nutrient and energy intake of birds by BSFL and FI were calculated. Plasma metabolites were measured using an automatic enzymatic analyzer and immunoglobulins with ELISA. Depending on the variable, data were analyzed using ANOVA or repeated measures ANOVA to address treatment, time and interaction effects. Birds consumed all offered larvae. With the exception of d1, time spent by birds eating their daily portion of larvae (TSL, min/pen) did not differ among the larvae supply groups (P = 0.982). The L10 had a higher larvae eating rate (LER) that is, speed of larvae intake than did L20 and L30 (P < 0.05), implying increased competition for less available BSFL. The ratio of LER to feed eating rate (FER) was greater than 50 fold change difference (FCD), indicating a strong interest of chickens in BSFL over regular feed. Whole BSFL intake up to 30% of voluntary FI did not adversely affect broiler growth (P > 0.05). The L30 had lower total dry matter and metabolizable energy intakes (P < 0.05), although total fat intake was higher in L30 than in CON (P < 0.05). Compared with CON, 30% whole BSFL increased dietary protein-to-energy ratios, plasma uric acid and serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations (P < 0.05). We conclude that whole BSFL can be included in broiler rations up to 20% without negatively affecting growth performance and nutrient conversion efficiency, whereas a higher proportion is associated with lower protein utilization efficiency, possibly due to lower total energy intake.

The addition of hydrolyzable tannin extract to milk affects calves' performance, health, blood metabolites, and pathogen shedding

The purpose of this study was to determine what quantity of a hydrolyzable tannin extract (HTE) might be used in calf milk to increase growth performance, health, and metabolic condition, as well as shedding fecal bacteria. A total of 48 newborn Holstein calves were randomly allocated to one of four dietary treatments, which included daily in-milk HTE supplementation of 0 (HTE0), 2 (HTE2), 4 (HTE4), and 6 g (HTE6). Milk was offered from day 6–70 of the study, using an adjusted step up/step down milk feeding strategy of 4, 5, 6, 7, 6, and 3 L/d on days 6–20, 21–25, 26–30, 31–60, 61–65 and 66–70, respectively. On day 70, all calves were weaned, and the experiment was terminated on day 76 of calf age. During the investigation, the calves had free access to a starter diet and fresh water. The HTE was blended into milk and fed twice daily. Supplementation with HTE had no effect on starter intake or total DM intake. When compared to other treatments, calves fed HTE4 had higher average daily gain (ADG; P = 0.01) and final body weight (BW) (P = 0.04). Furthermore, calves fed HTE4 showed the greatest feed efficiency (FE) when compared to the other treatments (P < 0.01). The incremental levels of HTE lowered fecal score and diarrheic episode duration (P < 0.01). With the supplementation of HTE, the Escherichia coli population decreased linearly, although the lactobacillus population increased (P < 0.01). In comparison to other treatments, HTE4 supplementation resulted in the highest lymphocyte percentage and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (P < 0.01). Albumin concentration was greatest when calves were fed HTE4 (P = 0.02). Further, plasma cholesterol concentration evolved quadratically (P = 0.03) with HTE supplementation so that calves fed HTE4 had higher cholesterol concentrations than HTE0 and HTE6 calves. Calves fed HTE had a linear increase (P < 0.01) in TAC on day 36, with HTE6 calves having greater TAC than HTE0 and HTE4 calves. In addition, on day 65, TAC changed quadratically as HTE levels increased (P < 0.01), with HTE2 and HTE4 calves having greater TAC values than HTE6 calves. In conclusion, our findings suggested that HTE supplementation with up to 4 g/d may increase growth performance and plasma antioxidant capacity, decrease the presence of pathogens in feces, and improve newborn calves' health condition.

Effects of pigeon pea leaves and concentrate mixture on feed intake, milk yield, and composition of crossbred dairy cows fed native pasture hay

Protein supplements are expensive and not easily accessible under small-scale livestock production systems in Ethiopia and other developing countries, which necessitates investigating the alternative protein sources for cost-effective livestock production. Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp) leaves (PPLs) are rich in protein and are well-suited for feeding small ruminants; however, the effect of inclusion of PPL in the concentrate mixture (CM) on the performance of dairy cows was not well documented. This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementation of PPL and CM to native pasture hay-based rations on feed intake, milk yield and composition, and blood metabolites of crossbred dairy cows (Holstein × Zebu). A 4 × 4 Latin square design with three replications, balanced for carryover effects, was used for this study. The treatments included native pasture hay provided ad libitum as a basal diet, supplemented with a CM alone (T1), the inclusion of 10% of PPL in the CM (T2), 20% PPL in the CM (T3), or 30% PPL in the CM (T4). Supplements were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. Total DM intake (hay + supplement intake) was similar (P > 0.05) among treatments. Hay intake was greater (P = 0.05) for T1 and T2 than for T4, while supplement intake was the least for T1 (P < 0.05). The treatment groups T2, T3, and T4, where PPL was included, had similar (P > 0.05) supplement intake. Feed intake, milk yield and composition, feed conversion efficiency, body condition score, serum total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, triglyceride, urea N, creatinine, and cholesterol were similar (P > 0.05) among treatments. The inclusion of up to 30% of PPL in the CM resulted in a comparable performance of crossbred dairy cows as supplementation with CM under the conditions of the current experiment. Therefore, further study is required to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of a higher level of PPL in the concentrate mixture on the performance of lactating crossbred dairy cows.

353 Neonatal Holstein Calves fed a Pelleted Calf Starter Containing a Botanical Extract and Direct-fed Microbial (DFM) Alone or in Combination without or with Milk Replacer DFM

Abstract Botanical extracts (BE; Adisseo North America, Altanta, GA) are known to enhance dry matter intake (DMI) and gut health, while direct-fed microbials (DFM), such as a actobacillus acidophilus fermentation product (RC: RumaCell DF 5G; Pacer Technology, Inc., Murtaugh, ID), had shown improved gut health and growth performance of growing Holstein calves. The hypothesis was this combination may be synergistic to neonatal calf growth performance. Eighty 2- to 5-d old Holstein bull calves were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to one of 8 treatments arranged in a 2 x 4 factorial using a randomized complete block design. Main factors were 2 milk replacers (MR) without (Control) and with RC added at 5 g/d fed with calf starter (CS) main effect of 4 experimental CS being: 1) Control: no additives; or 2) BE added at 496 mg/kg to the calf starter (CS); 3) RC added to the CS at 2.50 g/kg; and 4) BE&amp;RC: same BE and RC rates to CS. The CS was a 25% crude protein dry matter basis with the MR being a 22:20 (CP:fat) fed 2x/day at 0630 and 1800 h along with free choice water. Weaning occurred after d 42 for the 56-d experiment. No significant (P &amp;gt; 0.10) MR by CS interactions were detected for BW, BW gain, CS intake, total DMI, or feed conversion parameters. The BW gain (38.0 and 39.3 kg for Control and RC, respectively) for MR main effect was similar (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for calves fed both MR, while CS main effect (38.7, 39.7, 39.2, and 37.2 kg for Control, BE, RC, and BE&amp;RC, respectively) were similar (P &amp;gt; 0.10) among all CS. This study demonstrated little calf growth performance and health benefits when feeding an BE and/or RC alone or in combination compared with calves fed Control.

354 Evaluation of Protein Encapsulated fat (PEF) Alternatives for Neonatal Calves

Abstract Protein encapsulated fats (PEF) are routinely used in the manufacture of calf milk replacers. The use of PEF improves fat mixability to ensure the milk replacer (MR) when mixed and fed is a homogenous solution for neonatal calves. A new alternative PEF has been developed that improves mixability and solubility to ensure a homogenous solution. The alternative PEF is hypothesized to potentially improve growth performance (average daily gain, feed intake and/or feed efficiency) of neonatal calves. The objective was to evaluate standard and alternative PEF when fed to Holstein calves. Forty 2- to 5-d old Holstein bull calves were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments (N=20/treatment) using a randomized complete block design. Treatments were: 1) Control: STD fat source; 2) PEF: alternative PEF fat source based on choice white grease. The MR were 22:20 (crude protein: CP:fat) amino acid balance and fed 2x/d along with a 22% CP calf starter (CS) and free choice water. The MR were fed at 15% solids at 0630 and 1800 h fed at 0.567 kg/d for d 1-14, increased to 0.85 kg/d for d 15-35, and reduced to 1x/d at 0.425 kg/d for d 36-42 to facilitate weaning at 42 d with ad libitum calf starter fed for the remaining days of the 56 d study. Calves fed STD and PEF were similar (P &amp;gt; 0.10) in BW gain (37.4 and 35.9 kg for STD and PEF, respectively), average daily gain (679.8 and 652.7 g/d), CS intake (0.69 and 0.67 kg/d), total DMI (1.19 and 1.17 kg/d) and feed conversion (0.559 and 0.543 kg/kd). No differences (P &amp;gt; 0.10) were detected in frame measurements and fecal scores among treatments. Encapsulated fat sources can be used to manufacture milk replacers that result in similar growth performance, but potentially at a cheaper cost.

220 Effects of Total Equine Grain with Ascophyllum Nodosum Seaweed Extract and Chelated Minerals on Forage Intake, DM, NDF, and ADF Digestibility, in Quarter Horse Mares Under Performance Conditions

Abstract A study was conducted in fall 2019 at Sul Ross State University to evaluate the effects of Total Equine containing Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed and chelated minerals on intake and cecal digestibility in comparison with a product without Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed or chelated minerals. Six Quarter horse mares (avg 9yrs) were used in a complete randomized block study. Horses were offered an ad libitum Bermuda hay for a 2wk standardization period and then blocked into pairs based on weight, age, and fitness level. Horses were assigned randomly within block to the Ctrl or Trt diets for an 8wk study with ad libitum access to water. Hay was offered 2xd in port-a-grazer tubs to control for waste. Grain was offered at a rate of 0.005% BW (manufacturer suggestions) and divided into 2 equal feedings. Horses were weighed weekly and grain amounts were adjusted weekly. Hay orts were collected 2x daily and hay offered was adjusted daily for a 3% refusal rate. Horses were exercised 6d/wk on a hot-walker for 2hrs. Horses were conditioned prior to the study and speed and duration were increased throughout the study. Horses worked 30min at a walk and 1.5hrs at a trot broken into periods. Feed samples were collected 2xwk and dried for DM and ground for analysis for NDF, ADF, CP, EE, and Ash. A significant difference in total DMI was observed at 13.1 ± 0.14kg Ctrl versus 12.02 ± 0.11kg Trt (P=0.0001). When evaluating forage intake only 10.07 ± 0.13 kg Ctrl versus 9.04 ± 0.11 kg Trt (P=0.0001). DMd and NDFd were not significantly affected by trt (P=0.38). However, tendency horse*diet (P=0.07) was observed. Overall, it appears that the inclusion of the grain product with Ascophyllum nodosum and chelated minerals reduced forage intake and overall DMI without effecting fiber digestibility or animal performance.

153 Phenotypic Selection of Efficient Beef Cows and Differences in Digestive Physiology

Abstract This study evaluated beef cows identified as having high or low efficiency when managed in extensive systems and whether they differ in terms of digestive physiology. Nine high (HE) and low efficiency (LE) cows were selected from a group of 86 Angus cows using 2 years of selection data. Yearly ranks were assessed based on three weighted criteria: cow rump fat at calving; calving interval; and calf weaning weight. The 18 cows were then ruminally cannulated and used to evaluate their response to high (HQ; 41.0±0.78% NDF), medium-high (MHQ; 56.9±1.17% NDF), moderate (MQ; 62.5±3.40% NDF), and low-quality forage (LQ; 64.3±1.40% NDF) diets using four consecutive 26-d periods where diet quality progressively decreased by period for all cows. There was no phenotype′diet interactions. Start and end BW were 48 and 45 kg less (P&amp;lt; 0.01) and rump fat was thicker for HE than LE cows (P=0.02). Although total DMI did not differ (13.0 kg/d; P=0.93), DMI (%BW) was greater for HE (2.12%) than LE (1.97%, P&amp;lt; 0.01). Ruminal pH, short-chain fatty acid concentration, and the molar proportion of acetate, butyrate, and propionate did not differ. Ruminal digesta weight was 4 kg greater (P=0.04) and the pool sizes of DM (P=0.01), NDF (P=0.03) and undigested NDF (P&amp;lt; 0.01) were greater for LE than HE. Ruminal NDF passage rate was greater for HE than LE cows (3.11 vs. 2.89%/h, P=0.05), but there were no differences for the rate of NDF digestion. Ruminal contraction amplitude (P=0.01) and peak area (P&amp;lt; 0.01) were higher for LE than HE cows. Apparent total tract nutrient digestibility did not differ (P≥0.23). Cows identified as being efficient under an extensive management system have greater DMI as a proportion of BW, less ruminal digesta weight, and greater NDF passage rate but did not differ for total tract digestibility.

356 Neonatal Holstein Calves fed a Pelleted Calf Starter Containing a Botanical Extract and Direct fed Microbial Alone or in Combination

Abstract Botanical extracts (BE; Adisseo North America, Altanta, GA) are known to enhance dry matter intake (DMI) and gut health, while direct-fed microbials (DFM), such as a Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product (RC: RumaCell DF 5G; Pacer Technology, Inc., Murtaugh, ID), had shown improved gut health and growth performance of growing Holstein calves. The hypothesis was this combination may be synergistic to neonatal calf growth performance. Eighty 2- to 5-day old Holstein bull calves were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments in a randomized complete block design. Treatments were: 1) Control: no additives; or 2) BE added at 496 mg/kg to the calf starter (CS); 3) RC added to the CS at 2.50 g/kg with RC added to the milk replacer (MR) at 5 g/d; and 4) BE&amp;RC: BE and RC added to CS at same rates and added RC to MR. The CS was a 25% crude protein dry matter basis and MR was a 22:20 (CP:fat) fed 2x/d at 0630 and 1800 h along with free choice water. Weaning occurred after d 49 for the 70 d experiment. Calves fed RC demonstrated greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) BW gain compared with calves fed BE&amp;RC with calves fed Control and BE being intermediate and similar (63.9, 63.5, 65.0, and 59.7 kg for Control, BE, RC, and BE&amp;RC, respectively). Total experiment DMI (MR+CS) was less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for calves fed BE&amp;RC than calves fed the remaining treatments (116.5, 114.2, 116.4, and 104.9 kg). Total experiment BW gain/DMI was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for calves fed BE&amp;RC compared with calves fed Control with calves fed BE and RC being intermediate and similar (0.55, 0.56, 0.56, and 0.57 kg/kg). This experiment demonstrated that specific BE should not be fed in combination with specific DFM.

348 Including Alfalfa in the Diet of Steers fed TMR: Effect on Rumen Fermentation and Performance

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects on dry matter intake (DMI), daily gain (DG), feed efficiency (FE) and rumen fermentation of including fresh alfalfa (FA) on a restricted TMR diet of finishing steers. Twenty steers (8 with 8-mm ruminal catheters), fed a TMR diet (ground corn grain, soybean meal, pasture hay, mineral-vitamin concentrate and Anavrin; 65% DM, 12.8% CP, 23% NDF) were blocked by BW and distributed in 2 feeding treatments (n=10/treatment): 1) TMR offered at a level of 2.8% of BW (DM basis): ‘TMR’ or 2) TMR offered at a level of 1.7% of BW (DM basis) plus FA (22.1% DM, 14.5% CP, 50.3% NDF) offered in an unlimited quantity: ‘PMR+FF’. The experiment lasted 60 d, and steers were weighed every 12 d, for 2 consecutive days each time. DMI was individually measured 3 times for 5 consecutive days, beginning days 20, 34 and 48 days, by difference offered-refused for each feedstuff. Ruminal pH, N-NH3 and volatile fatty acids (VFA) were measured on days 19, 33 and 47, at 0930, 1300, 1500, 1700, 1900, 2100, 0300 and 0930 h. The inclusion of fresh forage resulted in 40% of the total DMI, with no differences on intake (Table 1). However, in the PMR+FF treatment DG and FE tended to be reduced, possibly due to a reduced energy ingestion, considering the fiber content of FA and TMR. As expected, the inclusion of FA in the diet increased pH and acetate, and reduced propionate ruminal percentage, resulting in triplicated acetic/propionate rate. Overall, the inclusion of fresh alfalfa in the diet increased ruminal pH and acetic/propionate rate without affecting DMI. Including fresh alfalfa in finishing steers’ diet could have positive implications on feed costs and meat composition without negatively affecting productivity, but more studies are needed.

Effect of legume hay supplementation on feed intake, growth, digestibility and volatile fatty acid production of Xhosa goats

Abstract &#x0D; The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sex and supplementing Chloris gayana hay with either Lablab purpureus or Vigna unguiculata on growth, volatile fatty acid (VFA) production and apparent nutrient digestibility. Eighteen goats, one-year-old, of average live weight 14.13 ±0.24kg was apportioned in a completely randomized design to three diets which were iso-nitrogenous and iso-energetic. Animals were housed individually with 6 animals per treatment composed of three males and three females. Total DM intake was higher (P &lt; 0.05) in T2 (694.8 g/head/day) and T3 (688.1 g/head/day) compared to T1 (607.8 g/head day). The goats gained at a rate of 35.0g/d; 45.0g/d and 38.3g/d for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. Goats on T2 showed a non-significantly higher (P &gt; 0.05) growth rate exhibiting total gain of 2.68kg compared to 2.08kg and 2.33kg for T1 and T3, respectively. Animals on T1 (19.16) exhibited a significantly lower FCR (P &lt; 0.05) than T2 (15.44) and T3 (18.11). Apparent DM digestibility were significantly different (P &lt; 0.05) among treatment diets. Sex significantly influenced DM, ADF and NDF digestibilities (P &lt; 0.05). There were no significant (P &gt; 0.05) differences in individual VFA molar concentrations among treatment diets and due to sex for acetate, propionate, valerate, iso-butyrate and iso-valerate. However, diets significantly influenced butyrate concentration (P &lt; 0.05) with 0.25, 0.95 and 0.25mM for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The percentage molar concentration for acetate was 75%, 73%, and 77% while the propionate concentration was 12%, 8% and 10.7 % for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The acetate to propionate ratio was 6.2, 9.12 and 7.15 for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that Cowpea and Lablab forages can support growth in goats at the same level of CP as in commercial pellets.

Feed Intake and Feed Conversion Ratio of Ongole Crossbred Cattle Fattened at Different Ages and Feed

This research aimed to determine the effect of the dietary treatments and age on the fattening process in cattle. Thirty-six Ongole crossbred cattles were allotted into two different dietary treatments and three different age groups, with six replications for 24 weeks period, 4 weeks of preliminary followed by 20 weeks of data collection at the Beef Cattle Research Station (BCRS). The experimental design was completely randomized with a 2 x 3 factorial. The cattle were placed in individual pens and had ad-libitum access to water and feed, the feeds were elephant grass and concentrate (25:75). The parameters observed were liveweight, DM intake, feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency, IOFC, and BCR. Liveweight was measured every fortnight and feed intakes were measured daily. The results showed that a 10% substitution of DGGS with cassava did not affect all parameters observed. Age did not affect the total gain. Total DM intake increased with age, although percentage of DM intake on liveweight and efficiency decreased with the increasing age. All parameters observed for 18 months old group were better than those in 30- and 42-months old groups. It was concluded that the fattening process at 18 months old PO cattle was the most profitable.&#x0D; Keywords: Ongole crossbred, cattle, intake, FCR, age

Bioconversion of agro-industrial residues as a protein source supplementation for multiparous Holstein Thai crossbreed cows.

The purpose of this field study was to compare the effects of top-dressing tropical lactating cows with soybean meal (SBM) or citric waste fermented yeast waste (CWYW) on intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites, purine derivatives, milk production, and economic return. Sixteen mid-lactation Thai crossbreeds, Holstein Friesian (16.7 ± 0.30 kg/day milk yield and 490 ± 40.0 kg of initial body weight) were randomly allocated to two treatments in a completed randomized design: SBM as control (n = 8) or CWYW (n = 8). The feeding trial lasted for 60 days plus 21 days for treatment adaptation. The results showed that total dry matter intake, nutrient intake, and digestibility did not (p>0.05) differ between SBM and CWYW top-dressing. Ruminal pH and the protozoal population did not (p>0.05) differ between SBM and CWYW top-dressing. After 4 hours of feeding, CWYW top-dressing showed greater ammonia nitrogen, plasma urea nitrogen, and bacterial population compared with the top-dressing of SBM. Volatile fatty acids and purine derivatives were not different (p>0.05) between SBM and CWYW top-dressing. For milk urea nitrogen, there was a greater (p<0.05) and somatic cell count was lower (p<0.05) for cows fed the CWYW top-dress compared to cows fed the SBM top-dress. The cost of the top-dress and total feed cost were less (p<0.05) for CWYW compared to SBM top-dressing, at 0.59 vs 1.16 US dollars/cow/day and 4.14 vs 4.75 US dollars/cow/day, respectively. In conclusion, CWYW could be used as an alternative protein source to SBM without having a negative impact on tropical lactating cows.

Detoxified castor-bean meal replaces soybean meal in the diet of pasture-finished steers

The use of agroindustrial byproducts in cattle diets, such as castor-bean (Ricinus communis L.) meal, is a more sustainable practice because it does not compete with human food and reduces the volume of organic waste deposited in the environment. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of replacing soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) meal with castor-bean meal on the intake, digestibility, feeding behavior and performance of crossbred steers supplemented while on Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster ‘Marandu’ pasture. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete design with 40 animals, which started the experiment weighing 227.1 kg, at 10 mo of age, and were divided into four treatment groups. Castor-bean meal was added to replace soybean meal at the levels of 0, 90, 180, and 280 g kg-1 in the supplement, which was supplied at the rate of 0.4% of body weight. Total DM, pasture DM and neutral detergent fiber intakes did not change (P > 0.05) with the castor-bean levels added to the supplement. Ether extract intake and digestibility decreased linearly (P < 0.05). The animals showed no differences (P > 0.05) in production performance (average daily gain), which averaged 0.65 kg d-1. Grazing, idle, and rumination times were not influenced (P > 0.05) by the treatments. Castor-bean meal can be included up to 280 g kg-1 in the total diet without changing the performance of crossbred steers finished on tropical pasture.

57. Prediction of total dry matter intake in lactating dairy cows: model performance

57. Prediction of total dry matter intake in lactating dairy cows: model performance

Effect of dietary inorganic and organic chromium on nutrient utilization and growth performance in Black Bengal goats (Capra hircus)

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary chromium (Cr) supplementation on nutrient utilization and growth performance in Black Bengal goats. Thirty Black Bengal kids of 3–5 months (5.40 ± 0.34 kg body weight) were assigned randomly to five groups. The experimental diets consisted of a basal diet supplemented with Cr at the rate of 0 (basal diet without any supplementation), 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg (inorganic Cr), and 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg (organic Cr). The duration of the growth experiment was 150 d, followed by a 7-d digestibility trial. Results showed that the total dry matter and crude protein intake of Cr supplemented groups were comparable with the control group (P = 1.00). However, the nutrient utilization in the 1.5 mg/kg inorganic Cr and 1.5 mg/kg organic Cr groups were better, with a higher digestibility coefficient for dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, organic matter, total carbohydrate, and hemicellulose (P < 0.05) when compared with the remaining groups. The average daily gain of 1.5 mg/kg organic Cr supplemented groups were significantly higher than the rest of the groups (P = 0.039). Cr supplementation tended to improve the feed conversion ratio per dry matter intake (P = 0.09) and crude protein intake (P = 0.023) in all the treatment groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 1.5 mg/kg organic Cr may positively influence the nutrient utilization and body weight gain of Black Bengal goats.

Intake, performance, and feeding behavior of Holstein and Holstein × Gyr heifers grazing intensively managed tropical grasses during the rainy season

Holstein × Gyr and Holstein are the primary dairy breeds used in tropical systems, but when rearing under pasture, feed intake, behavior, and performance might differ between them. This study aimed to evaluate the voluntary intake, nutrient digestibility, performance, and ingestive behavior of Holstein and Holstein × Gyr (½ Holstein × ½ Gyr) heifers managed in a rotational system of Guinea grass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Mombaça). The experiment was conducted during the summer season throughout four periods of 21 d. Two 8-heifers (four Holstein and four Holstein × Gyr) groups, averaging 258.6 ± 24.79 kg and 157.1 ± 24.99 kg BW, were used. Each group grazed a separate set of 16 paddocks, and all heifers received a concentrate supplement daily. Heifers were weighed at the beginning and end of the experiment. Fecal, forage and concentrate samples were evaluated for their DM, CP, crude fat, ash, NDF, and indigestible NDF. Feeding behavior was evaluated through 24 h of live observation for 48 h of each experimental period. Grazing, ruminating, resting, and intake of concentrate times were recorded, and rumination criteria, bout criteria, mealtime, meal frequency, and meal duration were calculated. There was no difference in total dry matter intake (DMI), but forage DMI of Holstein × Gyr was 11.70 % greater than the Holstein heifers. The Holstein × Gyr heifers had greater NDF intake and feed efficiency tended to show greater CP and NDF digestibilities, consequently, they had greater average daily gain (ADG). Holstein grazed less than Holstein × Gyr heifers in the afternoon. Ruminating time was 18.43 % lower for Holstein than Holstein × Gyr heifers, and rumination criteria (i.e. longest non-feeding interval within a rumination event) were greater for Holstein heifers. Holstein heifers presented more prolonged rumination bouts and resting time than Holstein × Gyr heifers. Holstein × Gyr can ingest and ruminate greater amounts of fibrous material, and Holstein heifers needed to spend more time ruminating the cud. Overall, even though the behavior was not markedly different between breeds, rearing young Holstein heifers in tropical pasture conditions is less suitable than Holstein-Gyr because of their lower ADG. Therefore, this management condition seems appropriate for Holstein × Gyr but inappropriate for Holstein dairy heifers.

The Effect of Phytonutrients in Terminalia chebula Retz. on Rumen Fermentation Efficiency, Nitrogen Utilization, and Protozoal Population in Goats.

Simple SummaryThe manipulation of ruminal ecology and fermentation to improve feed efficiency and reduce nitrogen excretion in ruminants is a pertinent goal for animal nutritionists. The fruits of Terminalia chebula Retz. are a rich source of phytonutrient compounds, which are attractive as rumen modifiers since these compounds are natural substances. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of Terminalia chebula meal (TCM) supplementation on digestibility, rumen fermentation, nitrogen utilization, and protozoal population in goats. The findings indicated that the inclusion of TCM could improve rumen fermentation efficiency and N balance while reducing the protozoal population. As a result, TCM could be used as a plant source for the rumen enhancement of small ruminants.The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Terminalia chebula meal (TCM) supplementation on digestibility, rumen fermentation, nitrogen utilization, and protozoal population in goats. Eight goats with an initial body weight (BW) of 13 ± 3.0 kg were randomly assigned according to a double 4 × 4 Latin square design to receive different levels of TCM supplementation at 0, 8, 16, and 24 g/kg of total dry matter (DM) intake, respectively. The goats were fed with concentrate diets at 13 g/kg BW, while rice straw was used as a roughage source, fed ad libitum. The results revealed that the feed intake and the apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were similar among the treatments (p > 0.05). However, crude protein (CP) digestibility decreased significantly (p < 0.05) when supplemented with TCM at 24 g/kg of total DM intake (p < 0.05). The addition of TCM did not change the ruminal pH and blood urea nitrogen concentrations (p > 0.05), whereas the concentration of NH3-N at 4 h post feeding was reduced with the inclusion of TCM at 16 and 24 g/kg of total DM intake. The total numbers of bacteria were enhanced by the addition of TCM, while the protozoal population, in both entodiniomorph and holotrich, was reduced (p < 0.05). The supplementation of TCM did not change the concentration of total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), acetic acid, or butyric acid, while the propionic acid concentration at 4-h post feeding increased significantly, especially when supplemented at 16 g/kg of total DM intake (p < 0.05. In addition, urinary nitrogen (N) excretion decreased, while fecal N excretion, N absorption, N retention, and the proportion of N retention to N intake increased with the inclusion of TCM at all levels. In summary, the inclusion of TCM could improve rumen fermentation efficiency and N balance without having an adverse effect on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, and rumen ecology; however, the protozoal population decreased. Therefore, this study suggests that TCM (16 g/kg of total DM intake) could be used as a plant source for rumen enhancement in goats fed a diet based on rice straw without having an adverse effect on feed intake or nutrient digestion. However, further studies on the production of types of meat and milk that have a long-term feeding trial should be carried out.

Acacia nilotica leaf meal - potential supplement to 25% dorper crosses of local sheep fed a basal diet of natural pasture hay

This research was conducted to evaluate the replacement potential of Acacia nilotica dried leaf meal for Noug Seed Cake (NSC) to supplement low quality grass hay in the diet of crossbred sheep (25% Dorper). In doing so, four treatments were set up in such a way that 0%, 33%, 67%, and 100% NSC is replaced with dried leaf of Acacia nilotica from a conventional supplement while the treatments were kept isonitrogenous. The experiment was set up in a Randomized Complete Block Design, with initials weight used as the blocking factor. Twenty animals were allocated to the four treatments. The experiment consisted of hundred days of feeding trial followed by evaluation of carcass components at the end. In addition, the experimental feed ingredient was studied in vitro for gas production, methane (CH4) production, fractional rate of degradation (Kd), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). In view of chemical composition, grass hay contained lower crude protein (CP = 3.2% DM) and high cell wall contents that makes it lower quality feed. On the other hand, Acacianilotica leaf meal was moderate in quality (CP = 14.3% DM) that can support moderate level of ruminant production. In an in vitro study, Acacia nilotica was found to have lower (P < 0.01) levels of CH4, total gas, kd, and IVDMD compared to the other feed ingredients. This indicates that tannin have an effect on Acacia nilotica feed. Partial and complete replacement of NSC with Acacia nilotica leaf meal significantly increased total dry matter intake (TDMI) (P < 0.001). Average daily gain (ADG) and dressing percentage was also higher for leaf meal supplemented groups. Hot carcass weight was in the range of 14.8–17.8 kg, which is higher than the national average carcass weight for Ethiopian sheep, and it was also found to be higher when NSC was partially (33%) as well as completely replaced by the leaf meal. In general, NSC can be replaced either partially or completely with Acacianilotica leaf meal in the diet of 25% Dorper crosses while weight gain as well as carcass yield is promoted. The maximum inclusion level of Acacia nilotica was 61.3% or 319.2 g per day for 25% Dorper cross sheep fed natural pasture hay as a basal diet.

Effect of processed sweet lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) grain supplementation on growth performance and socioeconomic feasibility of Doyogena sheep in Ethiopia.

BackgroundThe experiment evaluated the effect of supplementing sheep fed natural pasture hay withprocessed sweet lupin grain on growth performance and its economic feasibility. The finding revealed that use of steamed lupin shown to improve the nutritivevalue of the grain and sheep performance.MethodsThe experiment was carried out using 24 yearling lambs with initial body weight of 27.53 ± 2.67 kg (mean ± SD) for 126 days (21 days quarantine, 15 days of adaptation and 90 days growth trial followed by 7 days digestibility trial). The experiment was laid out in a randomised complete block design consisting of four treatments and six blocks. Treatments comprised the feeding of natural pasture hay ad libitum + concentrate mix 440 g (T1), natural pasture hay + 440 g/day roasted, coarsely ground sweet lupin grain (T2), natural pasture hay + 440 g/day sweet lupin grain soaked in water for 72 h (T3), natural pasture hay + 440 g/day steamed sweet lupin grain (T4).ResultsThere was improvements in total dry matter intake and digestibility coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre in sheep supplemented with processed sweet lupin grains compared (T4) by 58.49%, 24.66%, 39.39%, 22.97% and 39.68%, respectively, over the control group. Specifically sheep supplemented with T4 had significantly higher (p < 0.001) average daily gain (by 51.04%), feed conversion efficiency (46.34%) and daily weight gain (144.78 g/day) compared to the control treatment, respectively. All processing methods resulted in favourable average daily gain and net return, thus can be employed in feeding systems depending on their availability and relative cost.ConclusionsSupplementing sheep fed natural pasture hay with 440 g/day steamed sweet lupin grains improved growth performance and fattening economics of Doyogena sheep compared to T2 (roasted sweet lupin grain), T3 (soaked sweet lupin grain) or the control (T1).

Methane emissions and milk yields from zebu cows under integrated systems

Integrated systems are technologies that potentially increase animal production and environmental preservation, but the effect of these systems on the efficiency and methane emissions of dairy cows is still unknown. This study aimed to compare enteric methane emissions, dry matter intake and performance of grazing dairy cows in integrated systems in the Brazilian Cerrado biome, i.e., crop-livestock integration (CLI) or crop-livestock-forest integration (CLFI). Eighteen Holstein-Zebu cows were randomly assigned to the two production systems (n = 9 for each system) based on Monbasa pasture (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça; Syn. Panicum maximum) under rotational stocking management. Herbage allowance ranged from 12 to 14% body weight, and cows were supplemented with concentrated feed according to milk yield. Herbage samples were collected by simulated grazing to determine nutritional value. Milk yield was determined weekly. Herbage intake was estimated from fecal output and indigestibility of the pasture dry matter. Fecal output was estimated by the external indicator LIPE®, and dry matter digestibility was estimated by the internal indicator NDFi. Enteric methane emissions were estimated by the SF6 tracer gas technique. Data were collected in three sampling periods to characterize the rainy season, the transition from the rainy season to the dry season and the dry season. Data were analyzed in split plots, with animals within the system as the plot and seasons as the subplot. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05. The herbage crude protein content was 35.9% higher on average in the CLFI than in the CLI. In vitro dry matter digestibility was 16.7% lower in the CLI than in the CLFI in the rainy season. Milk yield and feed efficiency were similar between systems and seasons. The total dry matter intake in the rainy season was 34.6% higher in the CLFI than in the CLI. The energy loss, production and yield of methane were 29.8%, 35.0% and 31.3%, respectively, lower in the rainy season than in the other seasons. Enteric methane emissions, milk yield and feed efficiency were similar between the integrated CLI and CLFI systems in the Brazilian Cerrado region.