Neutral Detergent Fiber Intake Research Articles

Sugarcane replaced by cactus cladodes improves the ruminal dynamics of sheep

We evaluated the effect of the sugarcane replacement (Saccharum officinarum L.) by cactus cladodes (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) at different levels (0, 180, 360, 540 and 720 g kg-1 on a dry matter (DM) basis) in the diet of sheep on nutrient intake and digestibility, ingestive behaviour, microbial protein synthesis, nitrogen and water balance, dry matter and fibre dynamics and ruminal parameters in sheep. Five castrated male crossbred sheep, with an initial average body weight (BW) of 63.38 ± 7.70 kg, were allocated in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The intakes of DM (P < 0.001), crude protein (CP) (P = 0.009), neutral detergent fibre content adjusted for ash and nitrogen compounds (NDFcp) (P = 0.0016), non-fibre carbohydrates (NFC) (P < 0.001), indigestible NDF (iNDF) (P = 0.0018) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) (P < 0.001) showed a quadratic effect, and the replacement levels on DM did not affect nutrient digestibility. Rumination (P = 0.001) and idle (P = 0.001) times decreased with increasing levels of cactus cladodes. Plasma urea nitrogen (PUN) (P = 0.039) increased, and there was no effect on microbial nitrogen synthesis and microbial efficiency. The pools of DM (P = 0.037), NDF (P = 0.008) and indigestible NDF (iNDF) (P = 0.010) were reduced with increasing replacement levels. The DM ingestive (P = 0.005) and degradation (P = 0.005) rates increased, and the passage rate (P = 0.049) showed a quadratic response, with a maximum value of 0.035 h-1 estimated for 44% replacement. Intake (P = 0.004), degradation (P = 0.006) and passage (P = 0.016) rates of NDF, as well as the iNDF passage rate (P = 0.014), increased. The ruminal pH (P = 0.012) reduced with increasing replacement levels. Ruminal ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) (P = 0.020) showed a quadratic response over time, presenting an estimated maximum value of 17.9 mg dL-1 at 0.68 h after feeding. Regarding volatile fatty acids, there was an increase for acetate (P < 0.001), whereas propionate was not influenced. The butyrate (P < 0.001) concentration demonstrated a quadratic effect, with a maximum value of 14.1 mmol L-1. Replacing up to 440 g kg-1 DM of sugarcane by cactus cladodes is recommended to maximise ruminal dynamics and parameters and to improve nutrient use in sheep.

Flaxseed added to the diet of Alpine goats affects the nutrients intake and blood parameters.

The flaxseed is a nutraceutical food used as a source of α-linolenic acid, which can bring benefits to the health of mammals. This study was carried out to examine the effect of flaxseed inclusion in the diets on the intake of nutrients, body weight, and blood parameters of Alpine goats. Twenty-one adult females with an initial average weight of 41.06 ± 1.84kg were used in a completely randomized design, with four experimental treatments (0, 5, 10, and 15% of flaxseed in the total diet) and five replications per treatment. The intake of the dry matter presented a decreasing linear effect (P < 0.001), with a reduction of 53.5% between the control diet (0% of flaxseed) and 15% of flaxseed, but no effect was observed on weight gain (P > 0.05). Inclusion of flaxseed from 0 to 15% linearly decreased the intakes of organic matter, crude protein, non-fibrous carbohydrates, and neutral detergent fiber, but increased the ether extract intake (P < 0.001). Regarding plasma concentration traits, increasing the flaxseed levels from 0 to 15% had linear positive effect on LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides (P < 0.05), but no effect on cholesterol, HDL, glucose, creatinine, and urea (P > 0.05). The inclusion of flaxseed in the diet for 80days changes the nutrients intake and blood parameters but shows no impact on body weight. However, further studies are required to determine the impact of flaxseed on the goat's health in the long term since there has been an increase in the concentration of triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL.

Effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) by-products and linseed (Linumusitatissimum) intake on digestibility, body weight gain, and estimated tissular composition in cull fat-tailed ewes.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) residues (RR) as dietary supplement in association with linseed (Linumusitatissimum) on digestive aspects and body weight (BW) gain in fat-tailed Barbarine ewes. To achieve this, 24 cull ewes (BW: 33 ± 2.7kg) were divided into four groups receiving a basal diet composed of 500g of straw for two groups (S) and 300g of straw in addition to 200g of RR for two other groups (R). All animals received 750g of concentrate; the usual concentrate (UC) was offered for one S (S-UC) and one R group (R-UC); the linseed concentrate (LC) was also offered for one S (S-LC) and one R group (R-LC). The fattening and digestibility trials lasted 90days. The dry matter (DM) intake and digestibility were similar across the groups. However, the crude protein (CP) intake and digestibility and the neutral detergent fiber intake were significantly affected by the treatments (P > 0.05). The nitrogen intake (NI), the fecal, and retained nitrogen were significantly affected by the regimen (P < 0.05); however, the urinary nitrogen was unchanged. The nitrogen balance was positive for all groups averaging 60% of the NI. The ruminal pH, ammonia nitrogen, and protozoa concentration were not affected by the RR intake and linseed supply; however, the control time affected significantly these parameters. Final BW, the average daily gain, the muscle, and fat contents were neither affected by the basal diet nor by the concentrate type (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the RR intake in association with linseed did not alter the animal's performances by improving their productive characteristics and consequently, the commercial value of this sheep's category.

Spineless Cactus plus Urea and Tifton-85 Hay: Maximizing the Digestible Organic Matter Intake, Ruminal Fermentation and Nitrogen Utilization of Wethers in Semi-Arid Regions.

Simple SummaryIn semi-arid regions, providing a roughage adapted to water deficient conditions, such as spineless cactus, associated with a source of physically effective fiber, could be a feed alternative for sheep. Five inclusion levels of spineless cactus plus urea and ammonium sulfate to replace Tifton-85 hay were tested in sheep diets with a roughage/concentrate ratio of 70:30. The dry matter and digestible organic matter intake, as well as ruminal fermentation, nitrogen balance, and microbial protein supply, were evaluated. The results suggested that spineless cactus inclusion affected quadratically the dry matter and digestible organic matter intake, as well as retained nitrogen and microbial protein supply. The spineless cactus plus urea and ammonium sulfate improved nitrogen utilization, reducing linearly urinary nitrogen excretion, serum urea, and ammonia plasma. On the other hand, spineless cactus inclusion increased the ruminal acetate and propionate concentrations, while ruminal pH and ruminal ammonia nitrogen were decreased. We recommend a roughage consisting of spineless cactus (plus urea and ammonium sulfate) and Tifton-85 hay in a 41:29 ratio, in order to maximize the digestible organic matter intake and N-utilization. This could lead to an improvement in the productive performance of animals in semi-arid regions.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of replacing Tifton-85 hay (Cynodon spp. cv. Tifton 85) with 0, 150, 300, 450 and 600 g/kg dry matter (DM) of spineless cactus (SC, Nopalea cochenilifera Salm-Dyck) plus urea and ammonium sulfate (UAS; 9:1) on DM, digestible organic matter (DOM) and indigestible neutral detergent fiber (iNDF) intakes, as well as ruminal fermentation, N-balance, and microbial protein supply (MPS). Five rumen-fistulated and cannulated crossbred wethers, weighing 43.8 ± 5.80 kg, were randomized in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. Isonitrogenous diets (14% crude protein) were supplied with a roughage/concentrate ratio of 70:30. The DOM intake, N-retained, and MPS showed quadratic responses (p < 0.05), with maximum values estimated at the levels of SC+UAS of 414, 438 and 418 g/kg DM, respectively. Rumen pH and ammonia nitrogen, iNDF intake, N-urinary excretion, and serum urea and plasma ammonia reduced linearly (p < 0.05) with increasing SC+UAS inclusion. Ruminal acetate and propionate concentrations increased linearly with increasing SC+UAS inclusion. In wethers fed diets with a roughage/concentrate ratio of 70:30, roughage constituted of a SC+UAS/hay (Tifton-85) ratio of 41:29 is recommended in order to maximize the DOM intake, N-retention, and MPS.

Quantification and prediction of enteric methane emissions from Chinese lactating Holstein dairy cows fed diets with different dietary neutral detergent fiber/non-fibrous carbohydrate (NDF/NFC) ratios

Methane (CH4) emissions from ruminant production are a significant source of anthropogenic greenhouse gas production, but few studies have examined the enteric CH4 emissions of lactating dairy cows under different feeding regimes in China. This study aimed to investigate the influence of different dietary neutral detergent fiber/non-fibrous carbohydrate (NDF/NFC) ratios on production performance, nutrient digestibility, and CH4 emissions for Holstein dairy cows at various stages of lactation. It evaluated the performance of CH4 prediction equations developed using local dietary and milk production variables compared to previously published prediction equations developed in other production regimes. For this purpose, 36 lactating cows were assigned to one of three treatments with differing dietary NDF/NFC ratios: low (NDF/NFC = 1.19), medium (NDF/NFC=1.54), and high (NDF/NFC=1.68). A modified acid-insoluble ash method was used to determine nutrient digestibility, while the sulfur hexafluoride technique was used to measure enteric CH4 emissions. The results showed that the dry matter (DM) intake of cows at the early, middle, and late stages of lactation decreased significantly (P<0.01) from 20.9 to 15.4 kg d−1, 15.3 to 11.6 kg d−1, and 16.4 to 15.0 kg d−1, respectively, as dietary NDF/NFC ratios increased. Across all three treatments, DM and gross energy (GE) digestibility values were the highest (P<0.05) for cows at the middle and late lactation stages. Daily CH4 emissions increased linearly (P<0.05), from 325.2 to 391.9 kg d−1, 261.0 to 399.8 kg d−1, and 241.8 to 390.6 kg d−1, respectively, as dietary NDF/NFC ratios increased during the early, middle, and late stages of lactation. CH4 emissions expressed per unit of metabolic body weight, DM intake, NDF intake, or fat-corrected milk yield increased with increasing dietary NDF/NFC ratios. In addition, CH4 emissions expressed per unit of GE intake increased significantly (P<0.05), from 4.87 to 8.12%, 5.16 to 9.25%, and 5.06 to 8.17% respectively, as dietary NDF/NFC ratios increased during the early, middle, and late lactation stages. The modelling results showed that the equation using DM intake as the single variable yielded a greater R2 than equations using other dietary or milk production variables. When data obtained from each lactation stage were combined, DM intake remained a better predictor of CH4 emissions (R2=0.786, P=0.026) than any other variables tested. Compared to the prediction equations developed herein, previously published equations had a greater root mean square prediction error, reflecting their inability to predict CH4 emissions for Chinese Holstein dairy cows accurately. The quantification of CH4 production by lactating dairy cows under Chinese production systems and the development of associated prediction equations will help establish regional or national CH4 inventories and improve mitigation approaches to dairy production.

Effects of monensin and protein supplementation on intake, digestion, and ruminal fermentation in beef cattle consuming low-quality forage

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of monensin and protein supplementation and their interaction on intake, apparent digestion, and ruminal fermentation variables in cattle consuming low-quality forage. Four ruminally cannulated cows (637 ± 24 kg of BW) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were arranged as a 2 × 2 factorial: (1) monensin (0 or 200 mg∙cow −1 ∙d −1 ) and (2) protein (0 or 0.64 kg∙cow −1 ∙d −1 CP). Day 1 through 4 of each period, animals were fed only low-quality forage, d 5 through 14 allowed for treatment adaptation, and d 15 through 20 were for sample collection. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc.). Neither a monensin × protein interaction nor a monensin effect ( P ≥ 0.30) was observed for any intake or digestion variable measured. In contrast, protein treatment increased ( P < 0.01) all measures of intake. Protein increased ( P < 0.01) OM digestibility, total digestible OM intake, and total digestible NDF intake but had no effect ( P = 0.13) on NDF digestibility. A monensin × protein interaction ( P = 0.33) or monensin effect ( P = 0.34) were not observed for total VFA concentration, but protein increased ( P < 0.01) total VFA concentration. A tendency for monensin × protein interaction was observed for the acetate:propionate ratio ( P = 0.06) and molar percentage of propionate. Monensin increased ( P < 0.01) molar percentage of propionate but had no effect ( P = 0.21) on acetate. Although monensin altered ruminal VFA profiles, providing monensin to cows consuming a low-quality-forage diet provided no benefits in forage intake or digestion.

Effect of energy supplementation on intake, digestibility of diets and performance of grazing lambs during the rainy season.

This study aimed to evaluate different energy sources in multiple supplements on performance, intake, and digestibility of Santa Ines sheep grazing urochloa grass (Urochloa mosambicensis) during the rainy season. The experimental area was divided into seven paddocks of 4ha each, with an average of dry matter (DM) availability of 3.21 tn/ha. A completely randomized design was carried out, in which there were four treatments, and each treatment was repeated six times. Twenty-four intact lambs (average: 32.0kg of body weight) were supplemented with a mineral mixture, the control group (MM), mesquite pod meal (MPM), wheat bran (WB), or sorghum grain (SG) as energy sources. The digestibility of DM and crude protein (CP) in MPM and WB is higher than that in MM and SG groups. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility was similar between supplemented lambs, and it was higher than the MM. The supplementation promoted higher weight gain than in the control group (0.126 vs. 0.061g/day, respectively; P < 0.001). The supplementation increased the DM, and CP intake. The NDF intake only increased in the WB group. The CP digestibility was higher for the MPM and WB groups than that for MM and SG ones (P < 0.001). Sheep supplementation in the rainy season increased the average daily gain (ADG). Any supplement tested in the present study can be used during the rainy season. The choice for the supplement will depend on the availability and costs of the mesquite pod meal, sorghum grain, or wheat bran.

Effect of amino acid supplementation and choline chloride for low protein diet on nitrogen efficiency and methane emission of dairy cows

Ruminants are one of the largest anthropogenic methane and nitrous oxide emissions. Therefore, the hypothesis was to study the effects of reducing dietary crude protein (CP) level on environmental contaminators when rumen-protected amino acids and choline chloride were supplemented. Sixty Holstein dairy cows were used during the experiment. Test diets were: (1) CD = Control diet with16.2 g of crude protein/ Kg of DM); (2) LM = Low protein diet with 14.2 g of crude protein/ Kg of DM + methionine ; (3) LL = Low protein diet with 14.2 g of crude protein/ Kg of DM + lysine; (4) LML = Low protein diet with 14.2 g of crude protein/ Kg of DM + methionine + lysine; (5) LMLC = Low protein diet with 14.2 g of crude protein/ Kg of DM + methionine + lysine + choline. Dry matter and NDF intake were not different, but the control group received higher CP and ADF compared with other groups (P &lt; 0.05). Fecal CP and ADF of control group were lower (P &lt; 0.05), but no differences were observed for fecal dry matter (DM) and NDF. Milk yield and protein content were higher for LML and LMLC like control group (P &lt; 0.05). Nitrogen intake, urinary N, urinary urea N and total excreta N decreased (P &lt; 0.05) when animals fed low protein. There was no difference in ruminal pH and acetate to propionate ratio, whereas the ruminal ammonia-N decreased with the low protein (P &lt; 0.05). The 120-h gas production test, showed no difference on the kinetics of digestion and in vitro methane emission. However, the inclusion of DMI in the calculations revealed that low protein can reduce (P &lt; 0.05) methane emission. Overall, our findings indicated that low protein can be compensated for by adding rumen-protected amino acids, not only to maintain the animal performance, but also to decrease nitrogen excretion and methane emission.

Protein-energy supplementation on productive and nutritional performance of grazing beef heifers

This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effect of protein-energy supplementation on productive performance, intake, digestibility, and microbial protein synthesis in heifers fed tropical forage. Twelve Nellore heifers at 11 months of age, with a mean initial body weight of 248.8 ± 11.40 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with two treatments and six replicates. The treatments evaluated were: control (without supplementation); and supplementation in the amount of 1.5 kg animal-1 day-1. Forage samples were collected to evaluate the chemical composition and the total availability of dry matter of the pasture consumed by the animals. To evaluate the intake and forage digestibility, a trial was performed using internal and external markers. In this study no effect of supplementation was observed on the intakes of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), forage DM, or neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap; P &gt; 0.10). However, supplementation increased (P &lt; 0.01) the intakes of crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), and non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC). Additionally, an upward trend (P=0.076) was observed in the intake of digested OM (DOM) with supplementation. On the other hand, supplementation increased (P &lt; 0.01) the digestibility coefficients of OM, CP, EE, and NFC, although supplementation did not affect the ruminal synthesis of nitrogen compounds (MICN), efficiency of protein microbial synthesis (EMS), relative microbial nitrogen (RMICN) or urine urea nitrogen (UUN) excretion (P &gt; 0.57). Lastly, supplementation increased (P=0.050) the average daily gain of the animals, although no effect (P &gt; 0.10) was observed on their final body weight. These results suggested that protein-energy supplementation improves the productive performance and nutritional characteristics of grazing beef heifers.

Cyberlindnera jadinii yeast as a protein source in early- to mid-lactation dairy cow diets: Effects on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, and milk production

We examined the effects of substituting soybean meal with either yeast protein from Cyberlindnera jadinii or barley in concentrate feeds on feed intake, ruminal fermentation products, milk production, and milk composition in Norwegian Red (NRF) dairy cows. The concentrate feeds were prepared in pellet form as soy-based (SBM; where soybean meal is included as a protein ingredient), yeast-based (YEA; soybean meal replaced with yeast protein), or barley-based (BAR; soybean meal replaced with barley). The SBM contained 7.0% soybean meal on a dry matter (DM) basis. This was replaced with yeast protein and barley in the YEA and BAR concentrate feeds, respectively. A total of 48 early- to mid-lactation [days in milk ± standard deviation (SD): 103 ± 33.5 d] NRF cows in their first to fourth parity and with initial milk yield of 32.6 kg (SD = 7.7) were allocated into 3 groups, using a randomized block design, after feeding a common diet [SBM and good-quality grass silage: crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content of 181 and 532 g/kg of DM, respectively] for 14 d (i.e., covariate period). The groups (n = 16) were then fed one of the dietary treatments (SBM, YEA, or BAR) for a period of 56 d (i.e., experimental period). The concentrate feeds were offered in split portions from 3 automatic feeders using electronic identification, with ad libitum access to the same grass silage. Dietary treatments had no effect on daily silage intake, total DM intake, or total NDF intake. Dietary CP intake was lower and starch intake was higher in the BAR group compared with the other groups. Ruminal fluid pH, short-chain volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations, acetate-to-propionate ratio, and non-glucogenic to glucogenic VFA ratio were not affected by dietary treatments. No effects of the dietary treatments were observed on body weight change, body condition score change, milk yield, energy-corrected milk yield, milk lactose and fat percentages, or their yields. In conclusion, yeast protein can substitute conventional soybean meal in dairy cow diets without adverse effect on milk production and milk composition, given free access to good-quality grass silage.

The inclusion of detoxified castor bean meal in sugarcane silage increases the carcass weight and the content of unsaturated fatty acids in lamb meat.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance and meat quality of lambs fed sugarcane silage containing increasing levels of detoxified castor bean meal (DCBM). Twenty-four Santa Inês male sheep were used, with initial body weight of 25.34 ± 2.57 kg, distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0, 70, 140, and 210 g/kg of DCBM in the sugarcane silage). Intake and digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were positively influenced (P < 0.05) by the levels of DCBM. There was a linear increase (P < 0.05) on the intake and digestibility of neutral detergent fiber with the inclusion of DCBM. The daily and total gains showed a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) with the inclusion of DCBM, with a maximum point of 241.64 g/d and 18.12 kg at the level of 161.9g/kg of DCBM. There was a linear increase (P < 0.01) on the hot carcass with the inclusion of DCBM. The inclusion of DCBM did not influence (P > 0.05) the levels of total lipids (2.1%) in lamb meat, but the levels of oleic acid (C18:1 n-6c) and total monounsaturated fatty acids presented a quadratic effect (P < 0.05). It is recommended to include 160 g/kg of detoxified castor bean meal in sugarcane silage.

Dried distiller´s grains plus solubles supplementation improves low-quality tropical grass utilization on beef steers

ABSTRACT: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of corn dried distiller´s grains (DDGS) supplementation on feed intake, total tract digestibility, and ruminal fermentation of beef steers fed low-quality Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus, cv. Gatton panic). Twelve Braford crossbred steers were housed in individual pens (n = 4 steers/treatment), provided with three levels of DDGS supplement: 0%, 0.6%, or 1.2% BW. Steers were blocked by live weight and randomly assigned to treatments within the block. Corn DDGS supplementation increased total OM intake (21.55, 40.23, and 56.69 g/kg BW0.75) and tract OM digestibility (46.33, 49.03, and 72.39 % DM). Total tract digestible OM, CP, NDF and EE intake also increase in response to DDGS supplementation. Forage OM intake decreased when supplementation level reached 1.2 % BW. Also, ruminal pH decreased with DDGS supplementation level (6.88, 6.47, and 6.27). No differences were observed in total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration; however, the molar proportion of acetate decreased (77.98, 73.90, and 67.29 % Total VFA) as well as acetate: propionate ratio (4.38, 3.48, and 2.74). On the contrary, propionate proportions increased (18.32, 21.86, and 24.81 % Total VFA). Levels of ammonia and lactate were within suggested values for optimal fermentation and bacterial growth. Low-quality grass supplementation with corn DDGS increased total OM intake and digestibility. Also, DDGS inclusion favorably altered volatile fatty acids profile by reducing the acetate to propionate ratio regarding forage-only diets.

Effect of barley straw and Egyptian clover hay on the rumen fermentation and structure and fibrolytic activities of rumen bacteria in dromedary camel.

Background and Aim:Understanding the regulations of rumen microbiota and their fibrolytic capabilities under different forages are essential to improve rumen fermentation and animal feed efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the rumen fermentation and the structure and fibrolytic activities of rumen bacteria in camels fed barley straw and Egyptian clover hay.Materials and Methods:Three fistulated camels were fed a diet containing barley straw for 30 days; then transitioned to a diet containing Egyptian clover hay for 30 days. In addition, bacterial media enriched with xylan and different cellulose sources, namely, filter paper, wheat straw, and alfalfa hay, were used to evaluate the ability of camel rumen bacteria to produce xylanase and cellulase enzymes.Results:The camel group fed Egyptian clover hay showed higher crude protein intake, rumen ammonia, total volatile fatty acids, and acetic acid. Moreover, the camel group fed barley straw showed higher neutral detergent fiber intake, rumen pH, and propionic and butyric acids. Principal component analysis showed that bacterial communities were separated based on the forage type. Forage type affected the composition of rumen bacteria and most of the bacterial community was assigned to phylum Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Egyptian clover hay diet increased the proportions of genus Prevotella and Ruminococcus; while fed barley straw diet increased the Butyrivibrio, RC9_gut_group, and Fibrobacteres. The bacterial culture of the Egyptian clover hay fed group produced the greatest xylanase and the bacterial culture of the barley straw fed group produced the maximum cellulase.Conclusion:Egyptian clover hay is recommended to feed camels in intensive production. Moreover, the bacterial community in the camel rumen is a promising source of lignocellulolytic enzymes.

Crambe meal and crude glycerin from biodiesel production in diets for finishing of crossbred cattle in feedlot.

Our hypothesis is that crambe meal can totally substitute soybean meal and crude glycerin can partially replace the corn in the diet without leading to losses of nutrient intake and productive performance. Two assays were performed using heifers and steers. In the first assay, 24 Beefalo-Nellore heifers with 18months old with 311.5 ± 5.5kg, and in the second assay, 24 Beefalo-Nellore steers with 18months old with 317.0 ± 6.4kg were evaluated. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete design, in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme, consisting of two energy sources (corn and crude glycerin) and two protein sources (soybean meal and crambe meal). Both assays had 104 experimental days of feedlot. There was no interaction between the variation sources. There was an effect of protein source on nutrient intake for heifers except to neutral detergent fiber intake, which presented effect of energy source. Heifers fed soybean meal showed higher results for total weight gain and daily weight gain. There was observed effect of energy source on rib eye area and subcutaneous fat thickness. Steers fed soybean meal showed higher neutral detergent fiber intake and non-fibrous carbohydrates. Steers fed corn + crude glycerin showed higher results for total weight gain and daily weight gain. The steers fed soybean meal showed higher averages for subcutaneous fat thickness. Crambe meal and crude glycerin can be used as alternative sources of energy and protein to replace 100% of soybean and 50% of corn, respectively, for finishing Beefalo-Nellore cattle in a feedlot.

Productive responses of dairy goats fed on diets containing elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) associated or not with cactus (Opuntia stricta) cladodes, and extra-fat whole corn germ as a substitute for corn

This study evaluated the effects of partial replacement of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) with cactus cladodes (Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw.), and the replacement of corn with extra-fat whole corn germ (EFWCG) on the intake and digestibility of nutrients, and milk yield and composition of dairy goats. Twelve Saanen goats with an average body weight of 54 ± 2.0 kg and with 45 days in lactation were distributed into three simultaneous 4 × 4 Latin squares according to milk yield and assigned to four dietary treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement corresponding to two roughage sources (elephant grass associated or not with cactus cladodes) and two energy sources (corn or EFWCG, at 9.5 % of diet dry matter (DM)). The diets with cactus cladodes provided greater intake (P ≤ 0.01) of organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC), greater digestibility (P ≤ 0.04) of dry matter and OM, shorter feeding and rumination times (P ≤ 0.0003), and lower urea nitrogen content in milk (P ≤ 0.003). Diets containing EFWCG provided a higher intake (P ≤ 0.004) of EE, lower intake of NFC, and higher concentration of fat and total solids in milk (P ≤ 0.04). Both diets without cactus cladodes and diets without EFWCG provided greater digestibility (P ≤ 0.003) of neutral detergent fiber (NDF). The diets with cactus cladodes and EFWCG showed higher intake (P ≤ 0.04) of DM, NDF, and metabolizable energy, and total and fat-corrected milk yields (P ≤ 0.03). The grass and EFWCG diets showed higher digestibility (P ≤ 0.03) of CP and EE. Partial replacement of elephant grass with cactus cladodes and inclusion of EFWCG as a substitute for corn increased DM intake and energy intake, which was associated with an improved productive performance of dairy goats. Therefore, this diet could be an interesting option for dairy goats in semiarid regions where cactus is an essential fodder for ruminant production.

Performance of lactating cows fed sugarcane silage treated with microbial additives

Background: No studies have been conducted evaluating sugarcane silage associated with both Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus pentosaceus for lactating dairy cows. Objective: To evaluate diets containing different roughages with and without microbial inoculants on intake, digestibility and milk yield of medium-producing cows. Methods: A total of 15 Holstein cows distributed into a randomized block design were used. Dietary treatments were: 1) a corn silage-based diet (CS), 2) a fresh sugarcane-based diet (SC), 3) a sugarcane silage ensiled without inoculant (SS), 4) sugarcane silage ensiled with Lactobacillus buchneri (SSLB), and 5) sugarcane silage ensiled with Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus pentosaceus (SSLP). Results: Digestible organic matter intake (DOMI) was lower (p&lt;0.05) in cows fed SSLB (9.77 kg day-1) when compared with cows fed CS (13.29 kg day-1) and SSLP (12.42 kg day-1). Ensiling of sugarcane increased intake of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) compared to SC (mean of 6.00 kg day-1 versus 4.97 kg day-1; p&lt;0.05). Dry matter digestibility was greater (p&lt;0.05) in CS (77.80%) compared with diets based on sugarcane silage, whereas NDF digestibility was lower for treatments with sugarcane (p&lt;0.05). Milk yield was similar among CS (27.99 kg), SC (25.59 kg), and silages with additives (25.47 and 27.07 for SSLB and SSLP, respectively). Cows fed CS produced more fat-corrected milk (25.89 kg) than those fed sugarcane-based diets (p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: Fresh sugarcane or sugarcane silage with additives can be used as a roughage source for dairy cows producing up to 23.43 kg d-1 fat-corrected milk, considering the total diet is properly balanced.

The Effect of Horn Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Infestation on Behavior, Water, and Feed Intake, and Digestion Characteristics of Beef Cattle.

Seven mature Angus × Hereford crossbreed cows (544 ± 23.2 kg of body weight) fitted with duodenal and ruminal cannulas were used in a crossover design to evaluate the effects of horn fly (Haematobia irritans) (L.) infestation on horn fly-induced defensive behaviors, feed and water intake, as well as digestion characteristics of beef cows. Cows were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: 1) a horn fly infested (1,000 flies per cow) or 2) a noninfested control group. All cows were housed in individual screened pens. Fly counts and infestations were performed daily to maintain consistent populations throughout the study. Sudan hay (11.4 % crude protein, dry matter basis) was selected to mimic forage quality that range cattle frequently graze in the southwest region. Horn fly-induced host defensive behaviors were greater (P ≤ 0.0002) for horn fly infested cattle. Intake of water, dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber were similar (P ≥ 0.4765) among infested and noninfested cows. However, total volatile fatty acid concentration tended to increase (P = 0.0967) when horn flies were present. Dry matter fecal excretion and total tract digestion were not affected (P ≥ 0.2602) by horn fly infestation. These data indicate that horn fly infestations do not affect forage intake or digestion characteristics of beef cattle (Bos taurus) in confinement settings.

Feeding okara, a soybean by-product, to dairy cows as partial protein source enhances economic indexes and preserves milk quality, intake, and digestibility of nutrients

This study was carried out to evaluate the potential of dietary inclusion of okara (a soybean by-product) on feed intake, apparent in vitro digestibility of dry matter, production and milk quality of dairy cows, and economic indexes. Four lactating Holstein cows were assigned to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were control diet with no okara, diet with 35g/kg okara, diet with 65g/kg okara, and diet with 95g/kg okara in dry matter basis. There was no effect of the inclusion of okara in the diet on the intake of dry matter, crude protein, and ether extract. The inclusion of okara did not affect the in vitro digestibility of nutrients either. However, neutral detergent fiber intake differed between levels 0 and 35g/kg of okara in the diet, with lower (8.15kg/day) and higher (9.30kg/day) values for these treatments, respectively, with values intermediates for the other treatments. There was no significant difference for milk production, fat, protein, lactose, milk urea, somatic cell score, and conjugated diene. However, there was an effect of including okara on thiobarbituric acid reactive substance content in milk. Regarding the economic analysis, the inclusion of 95g/kg of okara in the diet (dry matter) showed the best results for average feed cost, gross margin, breakeven, and profitability index. Okara can be included in diets of lactating dairy cows up to 95g/kg of total mixed ration on dry matter basis without interfering on milk production, milk solids, nutrient digestibility, and providing beneficial economic indexes, being economically feasible.

Effect of dietary inclusion of vegetable oils on nutrient utilization and ruminal fermentation in Surti goats

With an objective to study vegetable oils supplementation on nutrient utilization and ruminal fermentation, 24 multiparous lactating Surti goats were divided into four groups as basal diet supplemented with no oil (CON), 3% of DMI soybean oil (SBO), 3% of DMI of rice bran oil (RBO) and equi-proportional blend of 1.5% of DMI of soybean oil and rice bran oil each (SRBO). DM, CP, NDF and ADF intake (g/d) and their digestibility (%) remained statistically similar amongst dietary treatments groups, except EE which was significantly improved in all the oil supplemented groups as compared to control. Nitrogen balance of experimental groups remained unaffected and all the animals were under positive nitrogen balance. Rumen metabolites like pH and total nitrogen and its fractions (ammonia N, TCA precipitable N and soluble N) remained similar amongst treatment except TVFA. Thus, soybean oils and/or rice bran oils at level of 3% of DMI can be effectively incorporated in ration of lactating Surti goats without affecting nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation.

Effects of mixing Stylosanthes conserved as hay or silage with corn silage in diets for feedlot beef cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate the total and partial digestibility, ruminal pH and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration, nitrogen balance (Experiment 1) and performance (Experiment 2) of beef cattle fed diets containing corn silage (CS) and Stylosanthes (silage or hay) as forage source. Treatments were: 1) CS; 2) Stylosanthes silage (StS); 3) Stylosanthes hay (StH); 4) CS + StS (StS-mixed diet); and 5) CS + StH (StH-mixed diet). Experimental diets (125 g CP/kg DM) consisted of 50% forage and 50% concentrate (DM basis). Five cannulated bulls (251 ± 42.6 kg of body weight) were distributed to a 5 × 5 Latin square (Experiment 1). The trial lasted 80 d. The experiment 2 was performed with 40 bulls (360 ± 2.7 kg of body weight) in a completely randomized design and eight replicates during a 99-days period. In experiment 1, CS diet showed greater (P ≤ 0.02) total digestibility of DM, OM, CP and NDF than other diets. Mixed diets had greater (P = 0.02) total NDF digestibility compared to StS and StH. Corn silage showed greater total digestibility of DM, OM, NDF and CP (P ≤ 0.03) compared to mixed diets. Ruminal NDF digestibility was greater (P = 0.03) for CS than other diets. Ruminal pH was greater (P < 0.01) for StS and StH compared to mixed diets. There was a treatment × hour interaction (P = 0.02) for ruminal NH3-N. In the experiment 2, animals fed CS presented lower (P ≤ 0.03) intake of DM, OM, EE, NDF, iNDF, but greater (P ≤ 0.01) intake of TDN, DOM and NFC than animals fed other diets. The intake of all nutrients, except for NDFi, was greater for mixed diets than StS and StH (P < 0.01). Mixed diets showed greater (P < 0.01) intake of most nutrients compared to CS diet, except for the intake of TDN and DOM, which were similar (P > 0.60). Corn silage showed greater (P < 0.01) digestibility of all nutrients than other diets. Stylosanthes silage and StH had greater (P ≤ 0.03) digestibility of DM, CP and NFC than mixed diets. Average daily gain (ADG) and carcass average daily gain (CADG) were greater (P ≤ 0.03) for CS diet than others, but mixed diets were similar (P ≥ 0.67) to CS. Mixed diets had greater (P < 0.01) ADG and CADG than StS and StH, while StS showed greater (P = 0.05) ADG compared to StH. Carcass yield was greater (P = 0.02) for StH compared to StS. Diets containing 50% CS and 50% StS or StH are alternatives to CS in ration of finishing beef cattle.