Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients Research Articles

Effects of hydrolyzed hairtail protein partially replacing fish meal in diets on growth and protein turnover rate for hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀×E. lanceolatus♂)

The high protein content and digestibility of hydrolyzed hairtail protein (HHP) promise a superior protein source for aquatic animal diets. In this experiment, the feasibility of HHP as an alternative for fishmeal (FM) in diets of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀×E. lanceolatus♂) was evaluated by exploring its impact on growth and protein turnover rate. For this, three iso-nitrogenous and iso-energetic extruded diets were formulated: one with FM (33 %, HHP0); two with 10 % (HHP1) and 20 % (HHP2) FM protein replaced by HHP. After a 60-day feeding trial, an independent effect of dietary HHP levels on grouper growth performance, body composition, and nutrient retention efficiency was recorded. However, a second-order increase in the hepatosomatic index (HSI) and dry matter apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) was plotted with increasing dietary HHP levels. Furthermore, results showed no adverse effect on protein turnover rate in muscle tissue at different dietary HHP levels, while the relative contribution ratio (RCR) from HHP on growth was lower than that from the equal amount of FM. Overall, our finding indicated that up to 20 % FM protein could be replaced by HHP without adverse effects on growth, body composition, nutrient retention efficiency, digestibility coefficient, and protein turnover rate.

Impacts of alfalfa nutrient concentrate on pellet physical attributes, growth performance, metabolism and nutritional quality of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

This study addresses the escalating demand for aquatic feed by exploring the potential of alfalfa nutrient concentrate (ANC) as feed ingredient for rainbow trout. Test diets contained varying ANC levels (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) to replace fishmeal (32% in the 0% ANC diet) to achieve equal digestible protein and were processed using a cooking extrusion method. Analysis of feed pellets showed that pellet density increased with ANC levels (P < 0.001), resulting in sinking pellets at 20% ANC. Water stability and durability were improved while oil leakage decreased with increasing ANC levels (P < 0.05). Two feeding trials were conducted to test the diets in flow-through water systems with three replicates per diet. The first 10-week trial evaluated their impact on feeding, fecal physical quality, and the apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of dietary nutrients in rainbow trout (initial body weight , 18.0 ± 0.2 g). ANC inclusion did not impact the palatability and satiety feed intake of the fish (P > 0.05). However, the ADC of dry matter and phosphorus significantly decreased in fish fed the 20% ANC diet (P < 0.05). The second 9-week trial investigated the growth performance, nutrition quality, and metabolism of rainbow trout (initial body weight, 19.0 ± 0.2 g). While all fish exhibited substantial growth, fish fed diets with 10% to 20% ANC displayed lower specific growth rate and higher feed conversion ratio compared to those fed with 0% or 5% ANC (P < 0.05). The whole body protein content was higher in fish fed 5% ANC compared to all other treatments (P = 0.030). The biochemical parameters of plasma were similar across treatments, except for a decrease in plasma phosphorus levels in fish fed a 10% ANC diet compared to those fed a 0% ANC diet. (P = 0.033). Significant changes were observed in liver metabolism including tricarboxylic acid cycle, amino acid and energy metabolism pathways in fish fed the 20% ANC diet versus the 0% ANC diet (P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that ANC inclusion improved pellet physical quality without impairing feeding behavior and nutritional quality of the fish but inclusion ≥10% in the diet reduced fish growth. This study offers the first comprehensive assessment of the potential of ANC used in fish feed involving feed management, feeding evaluation, and the biological response.

Effect of Using Prickly Pear Seed Cake (Opuntia ficus indica L.) on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Physiological and Histometric Parameters in Rabbits

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica L.) could be used in rabbit nutrition in compliance with circular economy principles, global warming issues, and reduction of production costs. This study aims to evaluate the effects of dietary incorporation of prickly pear seed cake (PPSC) on growth, physiological, and histometric parameters in rabbits. A total of 105 rabbits were divided into three experimental groups (n = 35) and fed different diets: a commercial feed (C group), the same feed with alfalfa replaced by PPSC at 10% (10PP group), and at 20% (20PP group). They were group-housed in cages with 5 animals per cage from weaning until slaughtering. While body weights and weight gains were similar in all groups, the coefficients of nutrient digestibility of dry matter, fibers, and ashes, as well as the characteristics of intestinal villi, were improved in the 10PP group compared to the others (p &lt; 0.05). The 20PP group showed a reduction in perirenal and interscapular fat (p &lt; 0.05), as well as lower plasma concentrations of triglycerides and cholesterol compared to the C group (p &lt; 0.001). In conclusion, PPSC can be incorporated into the diets of growing rabbits up to 20% as a partial substitute for alfalfa without the impairment of growth performance. Additionally, the inclusion of PPSC enhanced nutrient digestibility and increased the intestinal absorption surface area.

Bioactive compounds enrichment in rabbit doe’s diet pre-and during pregnancy improves productive and reproductive performance and cost-effectiveness under hot climates

This study aimed to investigate the effect of diet supplementation with a symbiotic (SY), bee pollen (BP), honey bee (HB), date palm pollen (DPP) and their mixture (MIX) on female rabbit productive and reproductive performances under desert hot climates. Seventy-two Californian does of 5 months age and average body weight of 3250 ± 78.2 g were randomly allotted into six groups, each of 12 does. All does orally receive 3 ml distilled water for 10 days before mating and 28 days during pregnancy. Treatments were repeated for four consecutive parities. The first group served as control (C) given distilled water only, however the second, third, fourth and fifth groups were supplemented with 3 ml distilled water containing 0.2 ml SY, 200 mg DPP, 200 mg BP, 0.2 ml HB/doe per day, respectively. While, the sixth group does were given all previous ingredients (MIX). Sexual receptivity rate, fertility rate, kindling rate, and newborn traits were recorded. Also, maternal feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and digestibility coefficients of nutrients were recorded. Does in all groups were artificially inseminated with 0.5 ml of fresh heterospermic semen of 15 fertile bucks extended in Tris at 806–1006 sperm/ml. Treatment increased maternal body weight and daily gain with highest values (P < 0.05) in BP, SY, and MIX does. All treatments enhanced feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared with control. Number services per conception decreased (P < 0.01), while litter size and weight and survival at birth and weaning increased (P < 0.01) in treated than control does. Treated does produced more milk than control. Digestibility coefficients of all nutrients were improved (P < 0.01) in treated does. In conclusion, supporting rabbit does pre- and during pregnancy with diets supplemented with a mixture of honey bee, date palm pollen, bee pollen, and synbiotic improves the productive and reproductive performances of rabbit does and their offspring.

Bacillus licheniformis and phytase combination in broiler chicken diets: Effects on growth performance, digestibility coefficients, gut microbiome activities, and bone quality

In the present study, B. licheniformis was added to broiler chicken diets alone or in combination with 6-phytase and the effects on growth performance, coefficients of ileal nutrient digestibility, morphometrical measurements of selected internal organs, gut microbial activity, and bone quality were determined. Four hundred 1-day-old female birds (Ross 308) were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatments (10 replicate pens, 10 birds each). The trial was set up as follows: negative control (NC), basal diet without any feed additive; NC+Pro, basal diet with B. licheniformis (500 g/t of diet); NC+Phy, basal diet with 6-phytase (400 g/t of diet); and NC+Pro+Phy, basal diet in which both experimental factors were added at the same levels as above. The interaction between treatments was noted in each evaluated period regarding BWG and FI. In the entire experiment, an increased body weight gain (P < 0.001) was observed in the NC+Pro+Phy treatment compared to the other groups. The birds that received both feed additives combined were characterized by an increased feed intake (P < 0.001), contrary to NC+Pro and NC+Phy. Moreover, in terms of microenvironment modulations, interactions (P < 0.05) were observed in the jejunal and cecal digesta pH, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) level, and microbial enzyme activities. However, the impacts of B. licheniformis and phytase on cecal SCFA concentrations and bacterial enzymes were mainly opposite. There were no interactions (P < 0.05) in terms of geometrical, mechanical, and structural selected tibia and femur indices. However, 6-phytase addition improved bone structure, stiffness, and elasticity. In conclusion, the interactions between 6-phytase and B. licheniformis positively affect growth performance via microbial activity changes; however, the supportive bone quality maintenance properties are only connected to 6-phytase supplementation.

The Effect of Boiled African Pear Seed Meal (Dacryodes edulis) on Growth Performance and Nutrient Digestibility of Weaner Rabbits

This study was carried out to determine the effects of boiled African pear seed meal on the performance and nutrient digestibility coefficient of Weaner rabbits. African pear seeds were washed, chopped into pieces, boiled for one hour, sundried and milled to produce a boiled African pear seed meal (BAPSM). Four diets were formulated and designated T1, T2, T3 and T4. T1 contained maize as the main energy source, and T2, T3, and T4 contained BAPSM at 5, 10 and 15% levels, respectively, replacing maize in the diets. Thirty-two Weaner rabbits aged between 6 – 7 weeks were used for the study. The rabbits were divided into four treatments of eight rabbits, and each treatment was allotted one of the diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each group was further divided into four replicates of two rabbits per replicate. The experiment lasted 12 weeks, and the data obtained were statistically analyzed. There were significant differences (p&lt;0.05) in feed intake, final body weight, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio values. All investigated nutrient digestibility coefficient parameters were significantly affected (p&lt;0.05) by the diets. It was concluded that boiled African pear seed meal could be included in Weaner rabbits' diets up to 15% level to enhance the performance and nutrient digestibility coefficient of the animals.

Influence of Fermented Icacinia manni Meal on Growth Performance, Carcass, Internal Organs and Nutrient Digestibility of Weaner Rabbits

A twelve-week trial was conducted to determine the effect of fermented Icacinia manni meal on the performance, carcass, internal organs and nutrient digestibility coefficient of young growing rabbits. A total of forty (40) growing rabbits were used for the study. Four (4) experimental diets were formulated and labeled (T1, T2, T3 and T4. T1 (the control) had no fermented Icacinia manni meal, while T2, T3 and T4 contained fermented Icacinia manni meal at 5%, 10% and 15%, respectively, partly replacing maize in the diets. The rabbits were divided into four (4) treatments of ten rabbits, and each treatment was allotted to one of the experimental diets using a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment was further sub-divided into five replicates of two rabbits each and house individually in double-tier hutches. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. Data collected were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). There were no significant (p&gt;0.05) differences in feed intake, growth performance and feed conversion ratio of the growing rabbit. The values for live weight, dressed weight and dressing percentages of the growing rabbits were statistically similar (p&lt;0.05). The internal organs (heart, lungs, liver and kidney) were not significantly affected (p&gt;0.05) by the diets. The nutrient digestibility coefficient of the growing rabbits was influenced by the diet. It was concluded that fermented Icacinia manni meal could be included in rabbit diet up to 15% with no deleterious effects on the animals.

495 Comparison of two internal markers and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for predicting nutrient digestibility in beef cattle offered diets varying in forage quantity and quality

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate acid detergent lignin (ADL), and amylase-treated ash-corrected undigestible neutral detergent fiber after 240 h of ruminal in vitro incubation (uNDF), and near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) scanning of feces as methods to estimate the digestibility of diets varying in forage quantity and quality when fed to beef cattle. Five total collection (TC) digestibility studies examined 17 different diets and provided individual fecal samples and the corresponding apparent total tract digestibility of nutrients (n = 229). Feed, orts, and fecal samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), nitrogen (N), amylase-treated ash-corrected neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ADL, and uNDF. Previously developed fecal NIRS digestibility calibrations were expanded with dried and ground samples using a FOSS D3F scanning monochromator (FOSS, Eden Prairie, MN). Marker estimated and NIRS predicted nutrient digestibility coefficients were regressed against those determined by TC and goodness-of-fit statistics were applied. Mean concentrations of ADL and uNDF in diets ranged from 23.4 to 96.4 g/kg DM and 67.7 to 200 g/kg DM, respectively, with mean fecal recoveries of 94.2% (SD ± 15.7%) for ADL and 87.5% (SD ± 11.1%) for uNDF. Regression fit statistics between NIRS and TC were not different from one (P &amp;gt; 0.05), with R2 &amp;gt; 0.83 except for ADF digestibility (R2 = 0.63). In comparison, regression statistics between internal markers and TC were poorer with R2 ranging from 0.21 to 0.78. Concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) between NIRS and TC were greater than 0.90 for DM, OM, N, and aNDFom digestibility, and 0.77 for ADF digestibility. The CCC between ADL and TC ranged between 0.63 and 0.82, and between uNDF and TC from 0.26 to 0.78. Correction bias (Cb) was high for all parameters (Cb &amp;gt; 0.76) except for ADF digestibility (Cb = 0.58) as estimated by uNDF. The mean square error of prediction (MSEP) for NIRS predicted digestibility were lower (&amp;lt; 10.7%) than those estimated by internal markers, and most of the error was attributed to random bias (&amp;gt; 97.9%). Random bias for ADL was also greater (&amp;gt;76.1%); however, for uNDF the error was more evenly partitioned into mean bias (46.4% to 49.4%) and random bias (30.4 to 41.9%). Digestibility predictions from NIRS scanning of feces were more accurate and precise than when estimated using the internal markers ADL and uNDF. In the absence of NIRS, ADL estimations appear to be more precise and accurate than uNDF for forage-based diets, with uNDF possibly of greater value for estimating the digestibility of high concentrate diets.

EFFECT OF DATE PALM WASTE ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF WEANER RABBITS

This study was conducted to determine the effect of date palm waste on the growth performance, and nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits. A total of 32 weaner rabbits, crossbred from New Zealand White and Chinchilla, were used in the study. Four experimental diets were formulated and labelled T1, T2, T3, and T4. The control diet (T1) did not contain date palm waste, while T2, T3, and T4 contained date palm waste at levels of 5, 10, and 15 %, respectively, partially replacing maize in the diet. The rabbits were divided into four treatment groups of eight rabbits, with each group assigned to one of the diets in a completely randomized design. Each group was further divided into 4 replicates of 2 rabbits. The performance results indicated no significant (P&gt;0.05) differences in all assessed parameters, including final weight, body weight gain, and feed intake. For nutrient digestibility coefficients, a notable increase (P&lt;0.05) was observed in ash and nitrogen-free extract estimates for groups fed date palm waste compared to the control. Conclusively, incorporating date palm waste at 15 % in weaner rabbit diets was found to enhance the digestibility of ash and nitrogen-free extracts and did not adversely affect the growth performance of weaner rabbits.

Use Of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale Roscoe) In The Diet Of Confined Sheep

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of ginger (0.0%, 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6%) in the diet of sheep as a natural additive on the intake and digestibility of nutrients, in addition to ruminal parameters. Four mixed breed sheep with an initial body weight of 25 kg were used, distributed in a Latin square experimental design (4x4). The diets were balanced with 12.0% crude protein (isoprotein) and 69.5% total digestible nutrients (isoenergetic). The studied variables were subjected to analysis of variance and the observed differences were determined by regression analysis considering 5% significance. The mean values obtained for the intake values expressed in kg animal-1 day-1 for DM; OM; CP; EE, NDF; ADF; TCH and CNF were 0.64; 0.60; 0.058; 0.011; 0.29; 0.19; 0.51; and 0.22, respectively. The mean values of the nutrient digestibility coefficients were 51.59; 64.92; 55.97; 76.86; 39.73; 30.68; 52.54; and 69.50%, respectively, for DM, OM, CP, EE, NDF, ADF, TCH, and NFC. No interaction effect was observed for the pH of the ruminal fluid; however, the pH value differed in relation to time. The concentration of N-NH3 in the ruminal fluid differed. The inclusion of up to 0.6% ginger in the diet of confined sheep does not alter the values of intake and nutrient digestibility coefficient; however, the inclusion of 0.4% ginger allows a higher concentration of N-NH3 in the ruminal fluid in the time interval of 2h12min after feeding, requiring the inclusion of rapidly fermented carbohydrates in the diet

Apparent Digestibility Coefficients of Nutrients and Energy from Animal-Origin Proteins for Macrobrachium rosenbergii Juveniles

In prawn farming, the main protein source used in aquafeed formulations is fishmeal. Nevertheless, one estimates that in the coming years, this protein source will no longer be able to meet the demand for the activity. The search for new ingredients is important to meet the increasing demand and minimize environmental impacts, such as the reduction in fish stocks and the eutrophication of aquatic systems. The objective of this study was to determine the apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), gross energy (GE), and ether extract (EE) of fishmeal, poultry co-products (viscera and hydrolysed feather), and insect meal (Gromphadorhina portentosa) for giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) juveniles. To determine the apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs), 90 prawns (average weight, 15 g) were randomly distributed among three experimental units. The reference feed was formulated according to the requirements of the giant river prawn, with 35% crude protein and a gross energy of 3600 kcal kg−1. The test diets comprised 70% of the reference diet and 30% of the respective test ingredients. Prawns were fed three times a day until apparent satiety. Faeces were collected using the indirect siphoning method, twice a day at the same feeding site (at 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.). The water parameters were temperature (27 °C), dissolved oxygen (6.65 mg L−1) and pH (7.76). The ACDs of DM, CP, EE, and GE were, respectively, 61.48; 88.28; 99.89 and 88.25 for fishmeal; 76.48; 81.55; 97.29 and 85.13 for poultry viscera meal; 73.82; 75.21; 73.17 and 76.42 for hydrolysed feather meal; and 52.35; 59,48; 87.95 and 67.64 for G. portentosa meal. The values of protein (%) and digestible energy (kcal kg−1) were 55.20 and 3711 for fishmeal; 47.27 and 4285 for poultry viscera’s meal; 65.03 and 4145 for hydrolysed feather meal; and 47.72 and 3616 for G. portentosa meal. These results showed the potential use of insect meals and poultry co-products as ingredients for the diets of M. rosenbergii juveniles, as they present digestible values close to those found for fishmeal, the main raw material used in aquaculture diets.

The assessment of zeolite addition to diets with or without urea on some productive and physiological indicators in Awassi lambs

BackgroundInterest is growing in the search for alternatives to traditional feed additives, so this study aimed to investigate the effect of adding zeolite to the concentrate diets of Awassi lambs with or without urea on growth performance, nutrient digestion, and health status. A total of 45 Awassi lambs similar in weight (24 ± 2 kg) and age (3 months ± 4 days) were divided into three groups: the first group (G1) fed on a concentrate diet supplemented with 1% urea; the second group (G2) fed on the concentrate diet supplemented with 1% urea and 3% zeolite, and the third group (G3) fed on a urea-free diet supplemented with 3% zeolite.ResultsThe results showed a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) in final live weight, daily and total weight gain for group G2 compared to groups G1and G3, with a significant superiority (P ≤ 0.05) of group G3 over the control group G1. Significant improvement (P < 0.05) was also observed in feed consumption and feed conversion ratio in diets supplemented with zeolite for groups G2 and G3 compared to the control group G1. Additionally, there was a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) in nutrient digestion and nutritional value in the diet of group G2 containing urea with added zeolite compared to groups G1 and G3. Zeolite did not affect the levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, and albumin in the blood, but a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) in total blood protein level and a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in blood urea level were noted for groups G2 and G3 compared to the control group G1.ConclusionsAdding zeolite to urea-containing concentrate diets improved growth rates and nutrient digestion, of Awassi lambs. In diets without urea, zeolite improved growth rates without affecting nutrient digestion coefficients, in both types of diets, zeolite increased total protein levels and decreased blood urea levels, with all physiological indicators in lambs blood remaining within normal limits.

Increasing the milk yield in cows on corn silage and concentrates enriched with feed additive with biologically active substances

The purpose of the work was to investigate the characteristics of increasing the milk yield in cows on corn silage and concentrates enriched with a feed additive with biologically active substances. The research work was carried out at the educational and experimental farm of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Northern Trans-Ural State Agricultural University” on cows of Black-and-White breed with a milk yield of 6000–7000 kg per lactation. The cows of the control group received a farm ration consisting of 1.5–2.0 kg of brome hay, 25–27 kg of corn silage, 10–12 kg of grain mixture; the animals of the experimental group received the same feeds, but additionally a feed additive with biologically active substances. It was found that the inclusion of a feed additive with biologically active substances in the ration of cows during the fi rst 100 days of lactation helped to eliminate the deficiency of individual nutritional elements in the ration, reduced the consumption of concentrated feed and protein. It was found that enrichment of the concentrate-silage ration with the feed additive in the amount of 60 g/head/day allowed to obtain 472 kg of milk or 8.06 % more per lactation than without its use. Consumption of the feed additive with biologically active substances by cows of the experimental group led to diff erences in the digestibility coeffi cients of nutrients. Thus, the animals of the experimental group had higher digestibility coeffi cients of dry matter by 2.67 abs.%, organic matter by 2.91 abs.%, crude fi ber by 0.60 abs.% and nitrogen-free extractive substances by 3.75 abs.%, and the digestibility coeffi cient of crude protein and crude fat on the contrary was lower by 0.36 and 2.55 abs.%, respectively. Economic indicators of milk production were significantly higher in cows of the experimental group receiving the feed additive with biologically active substances.

Comparing feces collection methods for evaluating the apparent digestibility coefficient of brewers' spent yeast in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).

Brewer's spent yeast (BSY), derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae used in beer production, is a valuable protein source for aquafeeds. Estimations of apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) for nutrients in BSY are crucial for its inclusion in aquafeeds. ADC estimations for Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein in rainbow are hardly comparable from a methodological point of view, whereas the ADC estimations for BSY protein in Atlantic salmon are only based on stripped feces, which are known to produce underestimations. Therefore, new determinations of ADC of BSY nutrients are necessary for the inclusion of this ingredient in practical diets for salmonids. This study is focused on determining unbiased ADC values for protein and energy from BSY in juvenile Salmo salar. To reduce systematic biases, fecal samples were collected using stripping and decantation methods, which are known to produce under-and overestimations, respectively. 780 fish (25.16 ± 4.88 g) were stocked in six tanks. A reference diet (50% protein, 20% lipid, 1% Cr2O3) was provided to three tanks, and a test diet (70,30 reference diet to BSY) to the other three. ADC for BSY protein was 84.70 ± 1.04% (decantation) and 70.50 ± 4.03% (stripping). For gross energy, stripped feces yielded an ADC of 52.04 ± 5.30%, while decantation resulted in 63.80 ± 1.17%. Thus, ADC estimates were taken as the average of the stripping-value and the decantation-value, resulting in 77.6% for BSY crude protein, which is appreciably higher than previously measured values in S. salar fed undisrupted S. cerevisiae, and in 57.9% for gross energy.

Digestibility and nutrient utilization in young cattle when feeding a zeolite-mineral additive

The purpose of the work was to study the digestibility and utilization of nutrients by young cattle during rearing when fed a zeolite-mineral additive. Experimental studies were carried out on reared young cattle of Simmental breed under the conditions of Central Yakutia. The studies were conducted on reared young Simmental cattle on the basis of the peasant farm of IP Makarov V. D. in the Churapchinsky district of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). It was found s a result of the experiments that the use of a zeolite-mineral additive in different doses improved metabolic processes in the body of the experimental animals, which affected the efficiency of using nutrients in the ration. It was found that the experimental additive increased the digestibility coefficients of nutrients in the ration, and the improvement in metabolism is confirmed by an increase in the degree of utilization of feed nitrogen from the received nitrogen by 0.17 and 0.34 abs.%, and from the digested nitrogen by 0.31 and 0.42 abs.%. Improvement of mineral metabolism was refl ected in the efficiency of the degree of use of calcium and phosphorus in feed. An increase in the degree of use of calcium in feed by 0.19 and 0.51 abs.% was established. A similar improvement trend was observed in the increase in the degree of use of phosphorus in feed by 0.21 and 0.26 abs.%. Therefore, the presented research data complement the earlier experiments and clarify the most optimal rates of use of zeolite-mineral additive in feeding of young cattle, which improve metabolism in the body of animals under the conditions of Central Yakutia.

Feeding milk thistle (Silybum mariamum) seed powder to fattening lambs: Effects on growth performance, digestibility and rumen metabolism

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seed powder supplementation in the diet on weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, and physiological parameters in fattening lambs. In this experiment, thirty crossbred Shawl × Romanov male lambs were divided into three groups based on a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments included a control group receiving a diet without milk thistle seed powder (MSP), a group receiving a diet containing 1 % MSP, and a group receiving a diet containing 2 % MSP. Animals fed the diet containing 2 % MSP exhibited higher nutrient intake, average daily gain, and final body weight compared to the other treatment groups (P < 0.05). Lambs receiving the 2 % MSP diet had the most favorable feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein was highest in lambs fed the diet containing MSP compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Ruminal NH3-N concentration and populations of total protozoa and Entodinium genus were lowest in lambs fed the MSP-containing diets (P < 0.05). The molar concentrations of acetate and valerate in the rumen fluid of lambs receiving the diet containing 2 % MSP were lower compared to the control group, while propionate concentration was higher (P < 0.05). Feeding the diet containing 2 % MSP reduced serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and liver enzyme activities compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Based on these results, supplementing lamb diets with 2 % MSP increased growth performance measures, nutrient digestibility coefficients, and reduced blood cholesterol and LDL concentrations.

Effect of Turmeric Rhizome Powder as Feed Additive on Broiler Chicken’s Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Nutrient Digestibility Coefficient

A research investigation aimed to assess the impact of different levels of turmeric rhizome powder as a feed additive on broiler chickens' growth performance, carcass characteristics, and nutrient digestibility coefficient. The study utilized two hundred and fifty-day-old chicks of the Abor Acre strain. Five diets were formulated for both the starter and finisher phases, incorporating turmeric rhizome powder at levels of 0g, 100g, 200g, 300g, and 400g per 100kg of feed. These diets were designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. The birds were separated into five groups of fifty birds each, and each group was assigned one of the diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). A further division within each group resulted in five replicates, each containing ten birds. The birds' performance assessment findings during the starter phase revealed significant differences (P0.05). At the finisher phase, the final body weight, body weight gain and feed intake of the birds followed the same trend as in the starter phase. Significant differences were observed in final body weight gain and feed intake of the birds. There was no significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in the feed conversion ratio of the birds in the finisher birds. T5 had the lowest FCR (feed conversion ratio) values. Significant differences were recorded in the live weight, dressed weight, dressing percentages and primal cut-parts (breast, thigh, drumstick, back, wing and abdominal fat) of the birds. T5 had the highest values in all the traits measured (2510.43g, 2243.51g and 89.37%, 40.07%, 29.55%, 30.56%, 28.51% and 23.05% for live weight, dressed weight, dressing percentage, breast, thigh, drumstick, back and wing respectively).The abdominal fat of the broiler chickens were significantly affected.

Evaluation of growth performance, carcass, organ characteristics and digestibility coefficient of finisher broiler chicken fed varying levels of Fennel seed powder

A 28-day trial was conducted to evaluate the impact of different levels of fennel seed powder as a feed additive on the growth performance, carcass yield, internal organ characteristics, and nutrient digestibility of finisher broiler chickens. The study involved 200 finisher broiler chickens divided into four groups of 50 birds each. Four experimental diets were formulated with fennel seed powder at 0g, 150g, 300g, and 450g per 100kg of feed, labelled as T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The treatment groups were further subdivided into five replicates with 10 birds in each group. Collected data were subjected to analysis of variance. The results indicated significant differences (p&lt;0.05) in final weight gain (FWG), daily weight gain (DWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) among the groups. Birds in T4 group showed the highest FWG and DWG values (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, T4 had the lowest FCR values (p&lt;0.05), significant differences in feed intake (p&lt;0.05) were similarly observed. Significant differences (p&lt;0.05) were recorded in dressed weight, live weight, dressing percentage, and various cut-parts for the birds, birds in T4 recorded superior values for all carcass traits. The internal organs were not affected by the feed (p&gt;0.05). However, the diet significantly influenced abdominal fat, with T4 showing the lowest values (p&lt;0.05). The nutrient digestibility coefficients were significantly affected by the diet, with T4 showing the highest values in all proximate composition parameters analyzed (p&lt;0.05). It was concluded that adding fennel seed powder at 450g per 100kg of feed can enhance the growth performance, carcass quality, internal organ traits, and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens.

Effect of Fenugreek Seed Powder as Feed Additive on Growth Performance, Carcass, Organ Characteristics and Nutrient Digestibility of Finisher Broiler Chickens

This study was conducted to determine the effect of varying levels of fenugreek seed powder as feed additive on the growth performance, carcass, internal organ characteristics and nutrient digestibility coefficient of broiler finisher chickens. The experiment utilized a total of one hundred and sixty (160) broiler finisher chickens of Abor Arce breed. Four experimental diets were formulated, incorporating fenugreek seed powder at levels of 0, 100, 200, and 300g per kilogram of feed, labelled T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively. The birds were divided into four (4) groups of forty (40) birds each, and each group was assigned one of the diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). Further division within each group resulted in four (4) replicates of ten (10) birds each. Feed and water were provided ad libitum, and the collected data underwent statistical analysis. The duration of the experiment was 28 days. The results indicated notable differences (p&lt;0.05) in final weight gain, body weight gain, and feed intake among the birds across the treatments. T4 demonstrated the highest significant (p&lt;0.05) values for feed intake, which increased with the higher levels of fenugreek seed powder in the diet. The feed conversion ratio of the birds remained unaffected by the diet, with T4 showing the lowest feed conversion ratio. Additionally, the live weight, dressed weight, dressing percentage, and primal cut-parts (thigh, drumstick, back, wing, and breast) were significantly influenced (p&lt;0.05) by the diets, with T4 recording the highest values for these parameters. The internal organs of the birds were not impacted by the diet, while a significant reduction in abdominal fat was observed in T4. Furthermore, the nutrient digestibility coefficient of the broiler chickens was significantly affected (p&lt;0.05) by the diet, with T4 exhibiting the highest significant nutrient digestibility coefficient value. Hence, it can be concluded that adding fenugreek seed powder to broiler diets at 300g/100kg feed as a feed additive enhances growth performance, carcass internal organ characteristics, and nutrient digestibility coefficient of the birds.

Effect of odontoplasty on intake, nutrient digestibility, and intake time of tifton hay in ponies

We aimed to evaluate the effects of dental correction on voluntary nutrient intake, time of intake, apparent digestibility and fecal particle size in Brazilian ponies. Twelve mares, with no history of previous dental treatments, housed in individual pens and fed a diet based on tifton 85 were used. The study comprised two consecutive experimental phases, pre and post dental treatment. Each phase consisted of 15 days for adaptation to the pen and treatment and 5 days for data collection, totaling 20 days. To calculate nutrient intake and digestibility coefficients, samples of diets, leftovers, and feces were analyzed for dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude fat (CF), mineral matter (MM), organic matter (OM), and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC). Food intake time was recorded using a digital video recorder. Fecal particles were analyzed by wet sieving. Dental correction did not influence the intake of DM, CP, NDF, CF, and OM by the animals. However, there was an increase in NFC intake from 0.12 kg to 0.14 kg and in food intake time from 654.50 ± 138.98 to 774.95 ± 167.14. There was a decrease in the digestibility of CP from 0.08 kg to 0.04 kg and an increase in the digestibility of NDF from 0.65 kg to 0.82 kg. Although odontoplasty increased the time of hay intake and the digestibility of the fibrous fractions of the feed of ponies, it did not influence the intake of nutrients and the size of the fecal particles.