Neutral Detergent Fiber Intake Research Articles

Influence of physical forms of non-forage diet on growth performance, feeding behavior, rumen and blood indices, and nutrient digestibility in fattening goats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of physical forms (PF) of a non-forage fiber-based fattening diet on the growth performance, feeding behavior, nutrient digestibility, blood, and rumen indices in male Beetal goats. Thirty male goats with an average body weight (BW) of 32 ± 1 kg were assigned to one of three dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. The treatments were as follows: (1) Pelleted (P) diet, where all ingredients were ground to 2 mm and then pelleted; (2) Texturized (TX) diet, where all ingredients, except whole corn grain, were ground to 2 mm, pelleted, and then mixed with whole corn grains; and (3) Unprocessed conventional mix (UCM), where all ingredients were mixed without any mechanical processing. The experimental duration was 12-week, two weeks for dietary adaptation, nine weeks for growth data collection, and one week for evaluation of nutrients digestibility. Daily dry matter intake (DMI) and DMI as a percentage of BW were higher (P < 0.05) in the P diet compared to the TX diet. The male goats fed with the UCM exhibited higher (P < 0.05) average daily gain and gain-to-feed ratio than TX and P diet. The ruminal pH tended to be higher (P < 0.05) in the goats fed the UCM compared to those fed the TX and P diets. The odds of having a fecal consistency score of 3 or more were 16.4 times (2.18–123.97) greater in the P diet and 9.1 times (1.15–72.16) in the TX diet than in the UCM. The intake of DM, NDF, feeding and total rumination time, were higher (P < 0.05) in goats fed UCM than those fed P and TX diets. The digestibility of NDF and EE were higher (P < 0.05) in the UCM and TX than in the P diet. These findings suggest that incorporating an unprocessed diet composed of whole corn grain and soyhulls can lead to enhanced growth performance, improved feeding behavior, and better nutrient utilization.

The effect of including agro-industrial by-products on the fermentation pattern of grass silage and the performance of sheep: a meta-analysis

ABSTRACT The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of adding agro-industrial by-products (BP) on the fermentation pattern of grass silage (GS; objective 1) and on the performance of sheep (objective 2). Silage quality (dataset composed of 37 studies with 179 treatment means) was evaluated using the weighted mean difference (WMD) between the control (GS) and treatment (GS with BP) groups. Sheep performance (dataset composed of 7 studies with 23 treatment means) was evaluated using the WMD between the control diet (DGS = diet + GS without BP) and treatment diet (DGS-BP = diet + GS with BP). Treatment means were weighted by the inverse of the variance. The type of BP and harvest period of GS were the main covariates that influenced the effect of BP inclusion on the silage fermentation characteristics. The inclusion of BP in GS reduced pH, N-NH3, acetate, and butyrate and increased lactic acid concentration and lactic acid bacterial count. The type of BP and storage time were the main covariates that influenced the performance of sheep to DGS-BP. The DGS-BP inclusion in diet increased crude protein and neutral detergent fibre intake, total digestible nutrient digestibility, and the carcass weight of sheep.

Fibre Sources on Performance and Carcass and Meat Characteristics of Feedlot Nellore Young Bulls

ABSTRACTWe evaluated the replacement of neutral detergent fibre levels from forage (NDFfor) by cottonseed cake on the performance, and carcass and meat traits of Nellore young bulls finished in a feedlot. Individual data from 24 Nellore young bulls with 330 ± 4.54 kg of body weight (BW) and 18 ± 1 months old were used. The animals were randomly distributed in four nutritional treatments containing 9.5%; 5.5%; 2.5%; and 0.0% NDF from whole corn plant silage (forage source), replaced by cottonseed cake, in the total diet. Animal performance and carcass and meat characteristics were analysed by orthogonal polynomial regression. A positive quadratic effect was observed for DM, CP, EE, NDF, and physically effective NDF intake (peNDFI8 mm, and peNDFI1.18 mm). There was no NDFfor‐level effect for final weight, hot carcass weight, carcass yield, internal and external depth, carcass length, pH, subcutaneous fat thickness, and loin eye area. A positive quadratic effect was detected for average daily gain. Feed efficiency demonstrated a positive quadratic trend, reaching an optimum peak level when young bulls 4.01% of NDFfor. There was no NDFfor‐level effect for meat and fat colour variables. The NDFfor‐level with the highest DM intake (2.01% BW) was 5.15%, and the highest ADG (1.54 kg/day) was 4.91% of NDFfor. Thus, although NDFfor levels did not affect carcass characteristics, fat, and meat colour, levels between 4.50% and 5.15% NDF from forage replaced by cottonseed cake are recommended to enhance the productive performance of feedlot Nellore young bulls. Cottonseed cake as a source of fibre can partially or totally replace corn plant silage.

Evaluation of coffee pulp as a feed ingredient for ruminants: A meta-analysis

Abstract This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential of coffee pulp as ruminant feed. The database was developed from 22 related articles containing 94 studies, collected from Scopus and Google Scholar. The parameters integrated were ruminant intake, digestibility, ruminant performance, milk production, milk composition, carcass production, and rumen fermentation. 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 random effects. The results revealed that coffee pulp addition had a significant quadratic effect on reducing the intake of dry matter, crude protein, and total digestible nutrients (P &lt; 0.01), and had a linear response to enhance neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber intake (P &lt; 0.05). However, it should be noted that there were no significant differences in performance, nutrient digestibility, milk production and composition, carcass production, and rumen fermentation. by using coffee pulp as ruminant feed. In conclusion, coffee pulp can be used as an alternative feed ingredient for ruminants. However, it should be applied at the right amount to avoid negative effects on animal performance.

Effect of Processed Coffee Husk on Feed Intake, Nutrient Digestibility, Body Weight Changes and Economic Feasibility of Bonga Sheep Fed on Natural Pasture Hay as a Basal Diet.

Ethiopia is one of the world's coffee producers, generating about 192,000 metric tonnes of coffee husks annually as by-products. The material can be used for ruminant diets to improve the nutrient utilisation of animals. However, coffee husk has toxic compounds, which can be minimised through different processing methods. Though the above techniques can minimise the toxicity level of coffee husk and increase the bioavailability of nutrients, there is scanty information on the comparative efficacy of these techniques, especially in ruminant nutrition. The study was conducted to examine the effect of processed coffee husk on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, body weight changes and profitability of Bonga rams based on natural pasture hay. In the experiment, 24 rams were used, and the rams were grouped into six blocks based on initial body weight (mean BW 21.5 ± 1.01kg). The rams were quarantined for 21 days, and each ram was randomly assigned to one of the experimental feed treatments in a randomised complete block design (RCBD). The experimental treatment feeds include 400g conventional concentrate mix (CM) containing Noug seed cake and wheat bran (T1); 200g boiled coffee husk + 200g CM (T2); 200g roasted coffee husk + 200g CM (T3) and 200g raw coffee husk + 200g CM (T4). The CM was made in the ratio of 1:1. The data collected from the 90-day experimental period were: dry matter and nutrient intakes, initial body weight, final body weight and body weight changes. After the growth experiment, a 7-day digestibility trial was followed by collecting faeces using a harness bag. The data were managed using Microsoft (MS) Excel 2010 and analysed using R software (v. 4.3.2). The chemical compositions of the CM had maximum crude protein (22%), followed by boiled coffee husk (14.74%), which was higher than natural pasture hay (6.91%) and raw coffee husk (12.4%). The total dry matter intake (p < 0.05), metabolisable energy, and total nutrient intakes of rams were significantly (p < 0.001) maximised when rams fed on boiled coffee husk (T2) than raw (T4) and roasted (T4) coffee husk, except for NDF and organic matter intakes. The apparent digestibility of nutrients and feed conversion efficiency were maximised for rams assigned to T2. There was maximum daily body weight gain (p < 0.001) when rams were supplemented with boiled coffee husk (T2). Also, body weight changes of rams were significantly (p < 0.001) higher for rams supplementation with boiled coffee husk. Therefore, the boiled coffee husk as an alternative feed resource can be replaced by about half of the commercial CM without adverse effects of anti-nutritional factors and enhance the income of smallholder farmers in the coffee crop-livestock production system.

Effect of Cashew Nutshell Extract, Saponins and Tannins Addition on Methane Emissions, Nutrient Digestibility and Feeding Behavior of Beef Steers Receiving a Backgrounding Diet.

The beef industry contributes to greenhouse gas emissions through enteric methane emissions, exacerbating climate change. Anacardic acid in cashew nutshell extract (CNSE), saponins and tannins (ST) are plant secondary metabolites that show promise in methane mitigation via antimicrobial effects, potentially exerting changes in ruminal fermentation patterns. This study examined the impact of CNSE, ST, and their combination on methane emissions, digestibility, intake, and performance of sixteen Angus crossbred steers (347 ± 30 kg) receiving a backgrounding diet (70:30 corn silage: cottonseed burrs). The study used a 4 × 4 Latin square design (4 steers, 4 treatments, 4 periods) with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, including the main effects of additive (CNSE or ST) fed individually or combined. Thus, steers received the following treatments: (1) no additive, (2) CNSE only, (3) ST only, or (4) both (CNSEST). Non-supplemented steers registered eight more feedbunk visits/d than ST-steers and spent an extra 10 min/d on the feedbunk. The addition of ST tended to increase dry matter, organic matter, and neutral detergent fiber intake. Additives fed individually reduced CP digestibility. Intake of the carrier containing CNSE only was lesser and coincided with a greater methane yield in that treatment. Digestibility and methane mitigation were improved after CNSEST compared with individual inclusion, suggesting synergistic reactions enhanced methane mitigation effects in fibrous diets without affecting the digestibility of nutrients nor animal growth performance.

Intake, digestibility, and behavior of horses fed açaí kernel (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) as a substitute of Mombaça grass (Megathyrsus maximus).

In this study, we analyzed the effects of including açaí kernel, in the experimental diets fed to horses on the intake and digestibility of their nutrient and the resultant effects on the behavior of horses. The experiments were conducted in Federal Rural University of Amazonia. Five mares with no defined breeds, were allocated to five treatments (the replacement of Mombaça grass (Megathyrsus maximus) with crushed açaí kernel at 0, 18.75, 37.50, 56.25, and 75% levels of dry matter), in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The animals were housed in covered stalls with concrete floors, equipped with individual troughs and drinkers, and fed 80% roughage and 20% concentrate. The inclusion of açaí kernel altered the intake and digestibility of a few nutritional components and the feeding behavior of mares. Increasing levels of the substitution of Mombaça grass with crushed açaí kernel in the experimental diets increased the nutrient intake and digestibility of neutral detergent fiber, total carbohydrates, and non-fibrous carbohydrates (P < 0.05) while reducing the time spent on feeding by the animals. Crushed açaí kernel can, therefore, be included as a substitute for Mombaça grass at up to 37.5% in equine diets.

Effect of replacing ground corn with cactus pear Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) on feed intake and digestibility, water intake, milk production and composition in Holstein × Gyr cows.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the intake and digestibility of nutrients, production and composition of milk, and water intake of lactating dairy cows fed standard diets in which ground corn (C) was replaced by up to 100% in the diet by cactus pear (CP). Eight Girolando cows (½ Gyr x ½ Holstein), 3rd calf multiparous, with 60 to 80 days of lactation and an average weight of 450.0 ± 30.0kg, were randomly distributed in a double Latin square (4 × 4). Four experimental diets were evaluated: (100% C + 0% CP), (66.6% C + 33.3% CP), (33.3% C + 66.6% CP), and (0% C + 100% CP). There was a difference (P < 0.05) in the intake of CP and EE (kg.day- 1), with a quadratic effect and a linear reduction, respectively, with substitution. The maximum CP intake of 3.05kg.day- 1 was found at 46.07% and EE intake fell by 3.81g for each percentage unit of cactus pear added to the diet. There was a quadratic difference (P < 0.05) for DM intake in %BW and g.kg BW0,75, with maximum values of 3.97%BW and 186.8g.kg BW0,75 with the substitution of 54.83 and 53.17%, respectively. There was a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) for the intake of NDF in %BW, with the maximum intake of 1.3% at the 74.69% substitution level. There was a linear reduction (P < 0.05) in the digestibility of DM, NDF, and TDN, and for the other nutrients there was no substitution effect (P > 0.05). There was no difference (P > 0.05) in milk production and composition. There was a linear reduction (P < 0.05) in water intake. Cactus pear can be used in a promising way to replace ground corn up to 100% in the diet of lactating dairy cows.

Intake and digestibility of four rations with different fiber levels in alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

The aim of this study was to evaluated the impact of different fibre levels in alpaca diet on voluntary feed intake and apparent digestibility, and to estimate the digestibility of organic matter (OMD) from the content of crude protein (CP) in feces. The study was carried out with twelve alpacas (36.7 ± 6.4kg body weight- BW), which were offered 4 treatments with different neutral detergent fiber content (NDF. T1: 40.3%; T2: 62%; T3: 68%; T4: 72%) under a switch back design. Absolute daily dry matter intake (DMI) was higher for T1 (678g/d) than T4 (312g/d) (p ≥ 005). NDF intake was similar between treatments when related to BW or MW (on average 1% BW and 22g/kg MW. p ≥ 0.05). Water intake (L/kg DMI) was higher in T1 compared to the other treatments, with values ranging from 2.9 L/kg DMI(T1) to 2.8 L/kg DMI(T4), respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and CP was higher in T1 than in the other treatments, with average values ranging from 72% for T1 to 32% for T4 (p ≤ 0.05). NDF digestibility was similar among treatments (p ≥ 0.05). The regression equation generated to predict OMD (y) was as follows: y = 0.360 + 0.08294*fecal CP (g/kg OM). Further studies will indicate whether faecal nitrogen can be used to estimate digestibility and hence diet quality in South American camelids.

Dietary macronutrient composition and partial soybean meal replacement with slow-release urea: Effects on performance, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and nitrogen metabolism in dairy cows

A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to investigate the interactive effects of dietary macronutrient composition [high-starch, low-fat, low-fiber (HsLFF) than low-starch, high-fat, high-fiber (LsHFF)] and N source [soybean meal (SBM) or partially replaced by slow-release urea (SRU)] on lactation performance, rumen fermentation, N utilization efficiency, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, and feeding behavior in cows. A replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design was used involving 12 multiparous Holstein cows (milk yield of 40.5 ± 5.6 kg/d, BW of 590 ± 20 kg; 81 ± 12 d in milk). The HsLFF diet contained 300 g/kg starch, 31.3 g/kg fat, and 301 g/kg NDF, without straw or additional fat. In contrast, the LsHFF diet contained 195.5 g/kg starch, 60.8 g/kg fat, and 367.5 g/kg NDF, enriched with wheat straw (100 g/kg), and additional fat (34 g/kg). The diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous and isocaloric. Cows fed the HsLFF diet had greater DM intake, digestibility of DM and CP, milk yield and milk protein %, but lower intakes of NDF, and physically effective NDF, and milk fat % than cows fed the LsHFF diet. Replacing SBM with SRU significantly increased milk solids yield without affecting other lactation performance or BW. Cows fed the LsHFF diet had higher ruminal pH and branched-chain VFA proportions but lower total VFA concentrations compared with the HsLFF diet, while those on the LsHFF-SRU diet had the highest ruminal ammonia levels. Compared with the HsLFF diet, cows fed LsHFF had lower NE intake, milk energy output and energy requirement for maintenance, although energy balances were similar among groups. The HsLFF diet improved N utilization, resulting in higher N content in milk and lower N excretion in feces. Blood metabolite studies showed significant interactions between the main factors, particularly for blood glucose and creatinine, with the lowest levels in cows fed the LsHFF-SRU and LsHFF-SBM diets. In addition, alanine aminotransferase levels were higher in cows fed the LsHFF diet than in cows fed the HsLFF diet. This could indicate early-stage liver stress due to the metabolic imbalance caused by a high-fat, low-starch diet, which can alter energy metabolism. Cows on the HsLFF-SRU diet had the highest glucose levels, indicating possible changes in carbohydrate metabolism or a higher metabolic rate. The concentration of BUN increased steadily after feeding in the LsHFF diet and peaked after 4 h in the LsHFF-SRU diet, with no difference between N sources in the HsLFF diet. Partial replacement of SRU with SBM had no effect on BUN. The interaction between the main factors had a significant effect on MUN content, which was highest in LsHFF-SRU and lowest in HsLFF-SRU, with no difference between the N sources in the HsLFF diets. Overall, while diets with reduced starch and increased fiber and fat compromised lactation performance, partially substituting SRU with SBM helped maintain milk production and milk nitrogen efficiency. However, the LsHFF-SRU diet was less efficient in N utilization, as shown by higher levels of ruminal ammonia, BUN and MUN.

Effect of feeding mechanically processed alfalfa silage on production performance of mid-lactation dairy cows

Improving the digestibility and utilization of feedstuffs through processing methods may result in improved production and efficiency of dairy cattle. Our objective was to determine the effect of an intensive mechanical processing technique applied to wilted alfalfa before ensiling on dairy cow performance when fed as part of a TMR. Thirty-six mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows (primiparous and multiparous) were fed diets of similar composition (28.5% alfalfa haylage, 31.2% corn silage and 40.3% concentrates) that differed by pre-ensiling processing technique of alfalfa silage over a 6-week experimental period in a randomized complete block design. Treatments were alfalfa either conventionally chopped (CON) or mechanically processed (MPR). Neither BW, change in BW, BCS nor change in BCS differed between diets. Apparent DM, NDF, ADF, and CP digestibility were greater in MPR compared with CON. The DMI was lesser in MPR compared with CON during wk 5. Furthermore, forage NDF intake was lesser in MPR compared with CON during wk 5. Milk yield did not differ between MPR and CON, but milk fat yield and content were higher in MPR compared with CON. Consequently, 4% FCM and ECM were 1.5 kg/d greater in MPR compared with CON. Gross feed efficiency (ECM/DMI) was greater in MPR compared with CON during wk 5 and 6. Our results suggest that feeding a mechanically processed alfalfa silage enhanced fiber digestibility and subsequently improved dairy cattle gross feed efficiency in mid-lactation dairy cattle by the end of the experimental period. Further research is needed to elucidate physiological responses and practicality of implementing this processing method in a typical production setting.

Performance Evaluation of Lambs Fed Tifton 85 Grass Hay and Concentrate Through LIPE® Marker

The research was carried out with the aim of evaluate increasing levels of concentrate supplementation on intake and performance of lambs fed Tifton 85 grass hay adopting LIPE® marker technique. Twenty-four weaned and castrated Santa Inês crossbreed lambs with initial body weight (BW) of 20.99 ± 3.62 kg were distributed in four treatments with Tifton 85 hay exclusive or associated with concentrate levels (0.0, 6.6, 13.3 and 20.0 g kg-1 BW d-1), in a completely randomized design with six animals per treatment. The experimental period lasted 98 days, with the first 14 days for animal adaptation to the new environmental conditions, handling and feeding. The diets were fed ad libitum twice a day. Lambs were weighted at each 14 days. Dry matter intake (DMI) was estimated by the technique of Isolated, Purified and Enriched Lignin (LIPE®) while neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) and crude protein intake (CPI) were obtained from the content of their fractions present in the diets. There was an increase in DMI and CPI and a similar response in NDFI with the increasing levels of concentrate. The daily liveweight gain per animal showed a linear response when the levels of concentrate were increased and the highest values wereobserved when 20.0 g kg-1 BW d-1 of concentrate was fed. The increasing levels of concentrate supplementation allowed greater daily and total body weight gains per lamb and there is a consistent relationship between nutrient intakes and performance in the treatments and the LIPE® marker proved to be an efficient technique to evaluate the DMI by lambs.

PSXIII-22 Intake, digestibility, and ruminal parameters of Nellore cattle fed with amylolytic and fibrolytic enzymes in feedlot

Abstract This study was carried out to evaluate the use of dietary exogenous enzyme (ENZ) products with amylolytic and fibrolytic activity on nutrient intake, digestibility, and ruminal volatile fatty acids production (VFA) of Nellore cattle in feedlot. Rumen-cannulated Nellore steers [n = 10; body weight (BW) = 543 kg ± 28.6 BW] were distributed in a replicated Latin-square design (5 × 5) in individual pens. The treatments consisted of a negative control (CON; without ENZ); Amylase (AML; Amaize, Alltech, 0.5 g/kg of DM); Xylanase (FBL, Fibrozyme, Alltech, 0.9 g/kg of DM); Half dose (HD; AML 0.25 g/kg of diet DM and FBL 0.45 g/kg of diet DM); and Full dose (FD; AML 0.5 g/kg of diet DM and FBL 0.90 g/kg of diet DM; Table 1). The experimental period lasted 19 d (14 d of adaptation and 5 d of collection). Between d 15 and 18, total fecal collection was performed and on d 19 rumen fluid was collected at 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 h post-feeding for ammonia, VFA, and pH determination. The data were analyzed as orthogonal contrasts using SAS: (C1) CON vs. ENZ, (C2) AML vs. FBL, (C3) HD vs. FD, and (C4) AML + FBL vs. HD + FD. There were no C1 differences for nutrient digestibility, total VFA, or ruminal pH (P &amp;gt; 0.10). However, a tendency effect in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake (P = 0.065) was observed, where animals fed ENZ had reduced values compared with animals kept in CON group. In the same way, ENZ reduced ther extract (EE) intake (P = 0.023), ruminal ammonia (P &amp;lt; 0.001), and isovalerate proportion (P = 0.080) as well as increased proportion of acetate (P &amp;lt; 0.001), valerate (P &amp;lt; 0.001) and acetate:propionate ratio (P = 0.030). No differences were observed in nutrient intake between AML and FBL (P &amp;gt; 0.10), but AML had greater organic matter (OM) digestibility (P = 0.097) and ruminal valerate (P = 0.039) and decreased butyrate proportion (P = 0.068). Animals that received FD had greater values of dry matter (DM; P = 0.009) and OM (P &amp;lt; 0.001) digestibility than HD. The enzyme combination resulted in greater DM (P = 0.026), OM (P = 0.062), crude protein (P = 0.018), EE (P = 0.063) and NDF (P = 0.040) intake and reduced OM digestibility (P = 0.008) compared with AML and FBL alone. The addition of exogenous enzymes in feedlot diets affected nutrient utilization and ruminal fermentation of Nellore cattle fed a feedlot finishing diet.

PSX-15 Effect of starch supplementation on rumen bacterial abundance in Bos taurus indicus steers consuming low-quality forage

Abstract Deficient ruminally available nitrogen caused by a basal diet of low-quality forage can limit microbial growth in the rumen and decrease forage utilization. Protein supplementation is well-documented to improve forage digestibility and performance. Additionally, starch has been evaluated to increase energy supply to grazing cattle when the forage cannot support adequate levels of production. However, most research in this area has been conducted in Bos taurus taurus, especially the response of the rumen microbiome to supplementation. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing starch supplementation on rumen bacterial populations in Bos taurus indicus steers supplemented protein and consuming low-quality forage. Ruminal samples were collected from five ruminally-cannulated Brahman steers (BW 420 ± 55 kg) used in a 4×4 Latin square fed a basal diet of King Ranch Bluestem Hay (3.5% CP and 73% NDF) provided ad libitum, and one of four isonitrogenous (130 mg N/kg BW) supplements with increasing levels of starch (2% starch= 100% soybean meal; 20% starch= 73% soybean meal, 26.2% corn, 0.8% urea; 38% starch = 47% soybean meal, 51.6% corn, 1.4% urea; 56% starch= 19% soybean meal, 78.6% corn, 2.4% urea). Rumen content samples were collected via rumen cannula at 4h post-feeding. Microbial DNA was extracted; full length 16S rRNA amplicon libraries were prepared using Kinnex kits and then sequenced on the PacBio Revio platform. Reads were analyzed using DADA2 and QIIME2. Statistical analysis was performed with the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). Firmicutes, Bacteroidata, Actinobacteriota, Verrucomicrobiota, and Euryarchaeota were the most abundant phyla in all treatments (83, 10, 3, 0.4, and 1%, respectively), and were not affected by treatment (P ≥ 0.10). Christensenellaceae R-7 group, Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Lachnospiraceae-XPB1014-group, Butyrvibrio, Lachnospiraceae-NK3A20-group, and Prevotella represented the most abundant genera for all treatments (7, 5, 11, 9, 7, and 3%, respectively). Lachnospiraceae-XPB1014-group and Lachnospiraceae-NK3A20-group responded quadratically (P ≤ 0.02) to increasing starch with decreased abundance for the 20% and 38% starch supplement. Comparatively, relative abundance of Butyrvibrio responded quadratically (P &amp;lt; 0.01) with increased abundance in the 20% and 38% starch supplement. Pseudobutyrvibrio increased with supplementation of 20% starch and then decreased as starch supplementation increased (quadratic, P = 0.04). In conclusion, supplementation of starch elicited changes in microbial relative abundance at the genus level with the response in Butyrivibrio suggesting greater fibrolytic activity. Forage and total digestible NDF intake in these steers decreased with increased starch supplementation; however, TDOMI was not affected by starch provision.

401 Effect of protein and starch supplementation level on intake and digestibility by steers consuming low-quality forage: I. Bos taurus

Abstract A deficiency of ruminally available N (RAN) caused by a basal diet of low-quality forage depresses forage utilization. Supplemental protein improves forage utilization by increasing RAN, resulting in increased intake and potentially improving digestion. Addition of starch to a supplement can increase total digestible organic matter (OM) intake (TDOMI); however, too much starch decreases RAN and pH potentially decreasing forage utilization. Our objective was to determine the effect of starch supplementation on intake and digestion in Bos taurus indicus steers. Accordingly, five ruminally cannulated Brahman steers [body weight (BW) = 420 ± 55 kg) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square to evaluate the effect of decreasing supplemental starch when consuming King Ranch Bluestem hay (3.5% CP, 73% NDF). Steers received four isonitrogenous (130 mg N/ kg BW) supplements providing increasing levels of starch (2% starch = 100% soybean meal; 20% starch = 26.3% corn, 73% soybean meal, 0.7% urea; 38% starch = 51.6% corn, 47% soybean meal, 1.4% urea; 56% starch = 78.6% corn, 19% soybean meal, 2.4% urea). Five 14-d periods were conducted, consisting of 9 d adaptation and 4 d to measure intake and digestion, and 1 d for ruminal fermentation. As designed, supplement OM intake (SOMI) increased linearly (P &amp;lt; 0.01) as starch level increased. Other measures of intake, including forage OM intake (FOMI), total OM intake (TOMI), and total neutral detergent fiber intake (TNDFI) decreased in a cubic manner in response to increasing starch (P ≤ 0.04). Forage OMI also responded with a cubic decrease (72.2, 68.9, and 69.5 g/kg BW0.75) when the protein supplement contained 2, 20, and 38% starch, respectively, but decreased to 61.2 g/kg BW0.75 when the 56% starch supplement was provided. Similarly, TOMI decreased 5.3% when starch inclusion increased from 38 to 56%. Total tract OM digestion and NDF digestion were not significantly affected (P ≥ 0.86) by starch level in the supplement; therefore, despite TOMI and TNDFI decreasing, there was no effect on total digestible OM intake and (TDOMI) and total digestible NDF intake (TDNDFI). In conclusion, providing supplemental starch over 38% decreased forage utilization. Decreases in FOMI with starch inclusion may be attributed to competition for RAN between fiber fermenting and starch fermenting bacteria.

FIBRE FRACTION UTILIZATION AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF BUCKS FED BLACK PEPPER (PIPER NIGRUM) SEED MEAL SUPPLEMENTED DIETS

A seventy (70) day study aimed at investigating fibre fraction utilization and growth performance of West African Dwarf bucks fed black pepper supplemented diets was conducted. The study involved twelve (12) West African Dwarf bucks aged 1-1½ years with an average live weight of 5.02±0.23 kg. A basal diet was formulated and supplemented with varying levels of black pepper as A= 0mg, B= 250mg, C= 500mg, and D= 750mg. Parameters investigated were nutrient composition, nutrient intake, and performance characteristics of the bucks Data generated were subjected to statistical analysis and from the result, diet D had the highest crude protein (17.37%). Neutral detergent fibre (NDF) increased with increased black pepper supplementation. Acid detergent lignin (ADL) ranged from 10.69% (diet B) to 13.28% (diet C). NDF and ADL intake were significantly (p&lt;0.05) impacted by treatment. The NDF and ADL intake was significantly (p&lt;0.05) impacted by treatment, ADF intake ranged from 133g/day (diet A) to 198.75g/day (diet C), ADL intake ranged from 33.71 g/day (diet D) to 60.24g/day (Diet A). Performance characteristics showed that daily weight gain of bucks fed diet D (63.48 g/day) was the highest and bucks fed diet C converted their feed to flesh (4.23) better than other goats however, any of the diets could be fed to enhance performance of the bucks since there was no significant (p&gt;0.05) differences among the performance parameters. The study concluded that black pepper as additive could serve as affordable and sustainable way of improving protein quality of diet and fibre utilization by ruminants.

Changes in the Fatty Acid Composition of Vegetable Oils Affect the Feeding Behavior, Feed Preference, and Thermoregulatory Responses of Sheep

This research evaluated the effects of energy supplementation on sheep’s feeding behavior, feed preference, and thermoregulatory responses using technical cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL) and different vegetable oils with different unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) compositions. The experiment was completely randomized with five treatments: a mixture of CNSL (0.5%) + vegetable oils [canola (high in monounsaturated fatty acids—MUFA), and corn, soybean, sunflower, or cottonseed oil (high in polyunsaturated fatty acids-PUFA) at 1.5%] based on total diet dry matter, with eight replications. Forty uncastrated male sheep, with an average initial BW of 24.44 ± 1.5 kg, were evaluated for 70 days. The CNSL + vegetable oil blend did not affect DM and neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) intake (p &gt; 0.05). However, diets with canola oil resulted in higher SFA intake (p &lt; 0.05) than other oils. The canola oil + CNSL blend led to a higher intake of UFA and MUFA and lower PUFA intake than other oil blends (p &lt; 0.05). Sheep fed canola oil ruminated fewer boli per day than those fed soybean and sunflower oils. Using three sieves (pef1.18) reflected in higher sheep aNDF intake. Respiratory frequency and surface temperature of sheep were lower before feeding than 3 h after, without effects of the type of oil. Higher serum creatinine and cholesterol levels were observed in sheep fed CNSL with corn and canola oils compared to other oils. Serum calcium was lower in sheep fed CNSL with soybean and canola compared to sunflower and corn. Including CNSL with vegetable oils with different FA compositions did not affect physiological and thermographic variables. However, sheep showed better diet selectivity and lower bolus rumination with higher MUFA (canola oil) content. Including CNSL with canola oil in sheep diets is recommended, as it increases dietary energy content, enhances diet selectivity, reduces PUFA intake, and does not impact animal health.

Effects of Feeding Prosopis Juliflora Pods on Growth Performance, Nutrient Intake, Digestibility, and Carcass Characteristics of Black Goat Kids Fed Finishing Diets

Prosopis juliflora pods (PJP) are a source of raw energy and are a suitable meal for ruminants. The objective of this study is to assess the growth performance, nutrient intake, digestibility, and carcass characteristics of Black goat kids fed finishing diets replacing barley grains with PJP. For an 80-day feeding period, thirty-two weaned male kids (body weight = 16.8±0.91 kg; age = 110±3 days) were randomized to receive one of the four treatment diets. Experimental diets were 0 (CON), 10 (PJP10), 15 (PJP15), and 20 (PJP20), with all diets being similar in terms of metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP). Intake values were similar except for ether extract which was higher (P&lt;0.05) for the PJP20 group and acid detergent fiber which was higher (P&lt;0.05) for the PJP15 kids. Intakes of CP, organic matter (OM), dry matter (DM), and neutral detergent fiber were unaffected. The feed conversion ratio, average daily gain, and final live weight of the treatment groups were similar. With the ADF that was not different, results of digestibility were better (P&lt;0.05) for the PJP20 group but mostly not different from the control group. Regarding meat dressing-out % and carcass cuts and linear dimensions, hot and cold carcass weight, and fasting live weight, no variations were found across the treatment diets. The total lean % in racks was greater (P&lt;0.05) in the CON and PJP15 groups. The meat-to-bone ratio in racks and shoulders was the lowest (P&lt;0.05) in the PJP20 group compared to the other groups. This study highlighted the impacts of PJP on the growth of Black goat kids without having adverse effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics, or meat quality.

Effects of Different Starch Sources Used at High Levels in Cattle on Ruminal Fermentation Properties and Some Blood Parameters

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of different starch sources on ruminal fermentation and in situ digestibility characteristics and some blood parameters in cows. In the study, three different total mixed rations (TMR) with similar energy, protein and starch contents were prepared and these TMR’s formed the groups of the ex-periment. The main starch sources of the TMR’s were from the barley, wheat, and corn grains, respectively. The study was carried out as two consecutive trails using 3 non-lactating Holstein female cattle with rumen cannulate within a 3 × 3 Latin square trial design. These TMRs were fed at ad libitum and then nutrient intakes, ruminal fermentation (pH, acetic, propionic, butyric, and lactic acids), some serum (urea, glucose, total protein, albumin, triglyceride) and blood gas parameters (pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3-, Na+, K+, Ca++, Cl-, anion gap, lactate) were determined. Also, in situ dry matter and starch degradability were carried out in these animals. Nutrient intakes of cows fed different TMRs were similar (P&amp;gt;0.05), except neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake (P&amp;lt;0.05). Both ruminal fermentation, serum and blood gas pa-rameters did not change among treatment groups (P&amp;gt;0.05). As a result, it was determined that there were no serious changes in the ruminal fluid, serum, and blood gas parameter values of the subjects due to the content difference of the trial TMR’s. On the other hand, it was determined that in situ dry matter (DM) and starch degradability of barley and wheat were significantly different among cereal grains, ruminal DM and starch degradability of corn followed a slower, stable, and gradual increase.

EFFECTS OF FEEDING UREA TREATED ENSILED COWPEA HUSK BASED DIETS ON FEED INTAKE AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RED SOKOTO GOATS

Eighteen healthy growing male goats (13.40 ± 0.59 kg BW) were used in a completely randomized design to evaluate the inclusion of urea treated ensiled cowpea husk (UTECH) at 0, 35 and 70% to replace 0, 50 and 100% of dried brewers' grains (DBG). Daily intakes of dry matter, crude protein, organic matter, total carbohydrate and neutral detergent fibre were not significantly (P &gt; 0.05) affected by diets. Intakes of ether extract and non-fibre carbohydrate were higher (P &lt; 0.05) for the 0% (control) relative to 35 and 70% UTECH. Mineral intake progressively decreased (P &lt; 0.05) with increasing level of UTECH in the diet. Diet effects on the linear body measurements and testicular morphology of the goats were not (P &gt; 0.05) significant. It is concluded that 70% inclusion level of UTECH in goat ration was well tolerated, as voluntary intake and morphological parameters were not affected.