Populations Of Total Bacteria Research Articles

Population Distribution of Phosphate-solubilizing Microorganisms in Agricultural Soil

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and is mainly present in agricultural soil in unavailable forms. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs) increase soil P availability. The objective of the present study was to assess the population and type of PSMs and their relationships with soil characteristics in the agricultural soil of Manokwari. Twenty-one composite soil samples (0–20‍ ‍cm) were collected at the rhizospheres of plants in the Prafi and Masni Districts. A dilution technique and plate count method on Pikovskayas agar medium were used to examine the PSM population, phosphate-solubilizing index (PSI), and various soil properties. The results obtained showed that the total population of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria ranged between 25×103 and 550×103 CFU g–1 of soil, while that of phosphate-solubilizing fungi was between 2.0×103 and 5.0×103 CFU g–1 of soil at all locations. The PSI of the isolates ranged between 1.1 to 3.6‍ ‍mm, with the most efficient and highest PSI being obtained for Bacillus sp. (strain 8) and the lowest for Pseudomonas sp. (strain 15). Six isolates found at all locations were identified at the genus level: Chromobacterium sp., Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp., Micrococcus sp., Caulobacter sp., and Aspergillus sp. A correlation was observed between the number of PSMs and the level of soil P availability and moisture content, indicating an increase in soil P availability with a greater abundance of PSMs in soil.

Effect of rumen degradable protein and sulfur supplementation on in vitro digestibility and ruminal fermentation

The availability of nitrogen and sulfur in the rumen should be synchronized to generate microbial protein synthesis. This study aimed to evaluate rumen degradable protein and sulfur supplementation on in vitro digestibility and ruminal fermentation. The experimental design was a 4 x 3 factorial randomized block design. Factor 1 was RDP levels (%CP) (R1= 60%; R2= 55%; R3= 50%; R4= 45%), and factor 2 was sulfur supplementation (S1= 0%; S2= 0.1%; S3= 0.2%). Data were analyzed with ANOVA followed by the Duncan test. The result showed that sulfur supplementation improved DMD and OMD without changes in rumen pH. NH3 concentration was influenced by RDP levels. Treatment R1 had the highest NH3 concentration (7.03 mM). There was an interaction of two factors on total VFA concentration. The combination of R1 and S2 resulted in the highest total VFA concentration than others. The total bacteria population increased with increasing RDP levels. Protozoa population was affected by RDP levels and sulfur supplementation. This study concluded that a combination of 60% RDP and 0.2% sulfur supplementation resulted in the best ration to improve ruminal fermentation and digestibility.

Ka‐pi‐plaa fermented using beardless barb fish: physicochemical, microbiological and antioxidant properties as influenced by production processes

SummaryProduction of Thai fish paste Ka‐pi‐plaa fermented using beardless barb, Cyclocheilichthys apogon was monitored. The physicochemical, microbiological and antioxidant properties were compared after each process, that is autolysis, salting, sun‐drying and fermentation. Colour parameters L* decreased while a* and b* increased during production (P < 0.05). The Ka‐pi‐plaa finished product presented an intense brown colour as shown with the increase in browning intensity (A420). Contents of formal nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen and amino nitrogen showed continuous increase (P < 0.05) indicating the formation of peptides and free amino acids, which were verified by protein patterns. Populations of total, halophilic, proteolytic, lipolytic and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) generally increased. Halophilic bacteria grew rapidly after salting. LAB counts were correlated with the pH change. It was suggested that a few biochemical reactions occurred during production, including protein hydrolysis by microbial and fish proteases, lipid oxidation as presented by the increasing thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value, and Maillard reaction based on the determined precursors and products. Antioxidant activities generally increased during production particularly fermentation, suggesting Ka‐pi‐plaa possessed 2,2‐diphenyl‐l‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) scavenging and metal chelating activities, and ferric reducing power. This study provides important information on the relationship among production steps, various properties and chemical reactions for fish fermentation.

Effect of Supplementing Different Levels of Okra Seed (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Powder on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Blood Parameters and Gut Microbial Populations in Broiler Chickens

A study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) seed powder (OSP) in diets on performance, carcass characteristics, some blood parameters, and gut microbial populations in broiler chickens. For the present experiment, 216 day old chicks were randomly divided into four groups, each group consisting three replicates of 18 chicks in a completely randomized design. Four diets were formulated with diet 1 as the basal diet (control), while 2, 3, and 4 were supplemented with OSP at 1, 2 and 4 %, respectively. The results revealed that the highest final live body weight, accumulative weight gain, and better feed conversion ratio was achieved in birds fed with 1 or 2 % of OSP. Feed intake and carcass characteristics were similar among groups. The highest relative weight of the spleen and cecum was observed in the control group, while the lowest value was observed in birds fed with 4% and 2% OSP, respectively. The longest length of the gastrointestinal tract was seen in 2% OSP compared to other groups. Serum cholesterol and ALT activity were decreased as compared to control diets. The group fed with 2 % OSP showed higher albumin levels compared to those fed with 1% of OSP. The population of total bacteria and Escherichia coli in jejunum digesta of OSP supplemented broiler chickens was reduced, meanwhile, there was an increased in lactic acid bacteria counts as compared to control. Therefore, 1 and 2 % okra seed powder in the diet of broiler chickens was able to improve the growth performance.

Dynamics of the ruminal microbial ecosystem, and inhibition of methanogenesis and propiogenesis in response to nitrate feeding to Holstein calves.

It is known that nitrate inhibits ruminal methanogenesis, mainly through competition with hydrogenotrophic methanogens for available hydrogen (H2) and also through toxic effects on the methanogens. However, there is limited knowledge about its effects on the others members of ruminal microbiota and their metabolites. In this study, we investigated the effects of dietary nitrate inclusion on enteric methane (CH4) emission, temporal changes in ruminal microbiota, and fermentation in Holstein calves. Eighteen animals were maintained in individual pens for 45 d. Animals were randomly allocated to either a control (CTR) or nitrate (NIT, containing 15 g of calcium nitrate/kg dry matter) diets. Methane emissions were estimated using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer method. Ruminal microbiota changes and ruminal fermentation were evaluated at 0, 4, and 8 h post-feeding. In this study, feed dry matter intake (DMI) did not differ between dietary treatments (P > 0.05). Diets containing NIT reduced CH4 emissions by 27% (g/d) and yield by 21% (g/kg DMI) compared to the CTR (P < 0.05). The pH values and total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration did not differ between dietary treatments (P > 0.05) but differed with time, and post-feeding (P < 0.05). Increases in the concentrations of ruminal ammonia nitrogen (NH3–N) and acetate were observed, whereas propionate decreased at 4 h post-feeding with the NIT diet (P < 0.05). Feeding the NIT diet reduced the populations of total bacteria, total methanogens, Ruminococcus albus and Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and the abundance of Succiniclasticum, Coprococcus, Treponema, Shuttlewortia, Succinivibrio, Sharpea, Pseudobutyrivibrio, and Selenomona (P < 0.05); whereas, the population of total fungi, protozoa, Fibrobacter succinogenes, Atopobium and Erysipelotrichaceae L7A_E11 increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, feeding nitrate reduces enteric CH4 emissions and the methanogens population, whereas it decreases the propionate concentration and the abundance of bacteria involved in the succinate and acrylate pathways. Despite the altered fermentation profile and ruminal microbiota, DMI was not influenced by dietary nitrate. These findings suggest that nitrate has a predominantly direct effect on the reduction of methanogenesis and propionate synthesis.

Effect of Aerating Duration on Hydrocarbon Biodegradation in a Simulated Crude-Oil Polluted Aquatic Environment Undergoing Bioremediation

The aim of this research work was to determine the aerating duration that would be effective in enhancing hydrocarbon biodegradation rate during bioremediation of crude-oil polluted river. Sediment and river-water were placed in four glass troughs labeled CT (control), A, B, and C. The setups were polluted with crude-oil, and allowed undisturbed for 2 weeks. Subsequently, accessible crude-oil on the surface was removed; bacteria and nutrients were then added. Air was bubbled for 3 hours into setups A, B, and C, at daily, 3 days, and 7 days interval respectively. Aeration was not applied to setup CT. On day 1, 7, 14, and 21, hydrocarbon concentration was determined; populations of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) and hydrocarbon-utilizing bacteria (HUB) were also determined. The time it will take for hydrocarbons in the setups to biodegraded “completely” was calculated using first-order reaction equation. The results obtained showed that 71.43, 86.39, 83.17, and 15.42 % hydrocarbon degradation were obtained in setup A, B, C, and CT respectively. The time it will take for hydrocarbons in the setups to biodegrade “completely” were 129, 89, 101, and 1079 days for A, B, C, and CT respectively. There was slight reduction in population of HUB in setup CT, fairly stable population in setup A, and increase in population of HUB in setups B and C. It is concluded that aerating crude-oil polluted aquatic environment for 3 hours at 3 days interval will be more effective in enhancing hydrocarbon biodegradation rate during bioremediation.

Effectiveness of Probiotics RICA Powder of Tiger Shrimp Juvenile (Penaeus monodon) In Progresif Pond

The mortality of shrimp due to White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and vibriosis needs to be addressed immediately. Disease control strategies in aquaculture are widely carried out and provide good results through biological control, one of which is probiotics. Rica probiotic bacteria in liquid form has been shown to increase the production and survival rate of shrimp in ponds through improved water quality. However, difficulty in shipping the product in liquid form requires making probiotic RICA in powder form. This study aims to determine the effect of giving probiotic type RICA powder on the survival rate and production of tiger shrimp juvenile in progresif pond. The study used a Randomized Design group with four treatments: A) Application probiotic RICA 1, B) application probiotic RICA 4, C) application probiotic RICA 5, and D) Control (without probiotics), each repeated three times at different times. Post Larva 12 of tiger shrimp were used in this study with 25,000 ind/pond density. The juvenile were reared for 2 weeks with the application of powdered probiotics on the 1st, 4th, 7th, 10th and 13th days. Sampling was carried out before stocking, on the 7th day and at the end of the study, on the 14th day. Parameters observed consisted of survival and shrimp production at the end of the study, population of vibrio bacteria and total bacteria in water and sediments pond and measurements of water quality of ammonia, nitrite and total organic matter as a supporting data. The results showed that the average of survival rate on shrimp juvenile highest in treatment A ( 93.03 %), followed by C (88.13%), B (81.73%) lowest on the map without probiotic application as a control (70.05%) while the highest average production was obtained in treatment A (23267 ind/pond), then B (20433ind/pond), C (22033 ind/pond) and the lowest was in treatment D (19434 ind/pond). The average Total Bacterial Population in water is 3,160 - 4.97 CFU/mL, while in pond sediments ranging from 5.26–6.63 CFU/g, Vibrio Bacterial Population in water ranges from 1,166 – 2,598 CFU/mL while in pond sediments 2.71-3.94 log CFU/g. Based on the result we can conclude that probiotic RICA 1 in powder form gave better and can be an alternative to liquid form that have been used so far.

Effects of zinc sulfate and coated zinc sulfate on lactation performance, nutrient digestion and rumen fermentation in Holstein dairy cows

This study was to evaluate impacts of zinc sulfate (ZS) and coated ZS (CZS) supplementation on milk performance, nutrient digestibility and rumen fermentation. Forty-five Holstein dairy cows were assigned in a randomized block design to one of five treatments: control, ZS supplementation (30 mg Zn/kg dry matter [DM] as ZS) or CZS supplementation (10, 20 and 30 mg Zn/kg DM as CZS for LCZS, MCZS and HCZS, respectively). The experiment lasted for 110 days with 20 days for adaptation and 90 days for data collection. When comparing Zn source at same supplemental level (30 mg Zn/kg DM), milk yield and total-tract digestibility of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) tended to be higher and ruminal activities of xylanase, cellobiase, pectinase and protease and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were higher for HCZS than for ZS. Increasing CZS addition linearly increased DM intake and yields of milk, milk fat and milk protein but did not affect milk lactose yield, milk composition content and feed efficiency. Digestibility of DM, organic matter, crude protein, NDF and ADF, ruminal total volatile fatty acids content and acetate to propionate ratio linearly increased but ammonia N content linearly decreased with increasing CZS addition. Quadratic responses were observed for proportions of acetate and propionate. Activities of cellulase and protease and populations of total bacteria, fungi, protozoa, dominant cellulolytic and amylolytic (proteolytic) bacteria responded linearly and positively with increasing CZS addition. Increasing CZS addition linearly increased liver Zn and blood total protein, albumin, ALP and Zn. Results indicated that CZS could be used as a Zn supplement in cows, and supplementing 20 or 30 mg/kg DM of Zn from CZS stimulated performance, nutrients digestion and ruminal fermentation and improved Zn status in cows fed diets containing 31.2 mg Zn/kg DM.

Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and soil microbial population in garlic

A field experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Nanjanadu farm Ooty to study the effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on yield and the soil microbial populations in garlic. The experiment was carried out ina Randomized Blocks Design with 9 treatments and three replications. The plot size of 12 m2 was laid out. The experiment was conducted for three years from 2011 -13 and the pooled data was analysed. Pooled analysis was done for the three-harvest data (2011, 2012, 2013). All the organic manures like farm Yard Manure (FYM), Vermicompost (VC) and Poultry Manure (PM) and biofertilizers viz., Azospirillum and Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria each @ 5 kg each/ ha was applied as a basal as per the treatment. 50 % of the recommended inorganic applied as basal at the time of planting and the remaining 50 % N was applied in two equal splits during 30 and 45 days after planting. The full dose of P, K and S applied at the time of planting as per the treatment schedule. The treatments received three levels of FYM (15, 7.5,5 t -1/ha), Poultry Manure (7.5,3.75,2.5 t -1/ha) and Vermi Compost (7.5,3.75,2.5 t-1/ha). Observations are recorded on no. of leaves, Equatorial Diameter (ED), Polar Diameter (PD), Average Bulb Weight (ABW), A-grade bulbs (AGB), B grade bulbs (BGB), C grade bulbs (CGB), Marketable yield (MY) and Total yield (TY). Soil samples were collected at two stages (bulbing and at harvest) for microbial populations of total bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes. Results were compared among the treatments for total yield of garlic. Results revealed that the highest total as well as marketable yield was recorded in T 9 (75:40:40:40 Kg NPKS + 5 t FYM / ha + 2.5 t PM + 2.5 t VC/ ha) and T6 (75:40:40:40 Kg NPKS + 7.5 t FYM / ha + 3.75 t PM/ ha). Among the nine treatments significantly the maximum plant height (68.65 cm), the number of leaves (8.17), neck thickness (3.47 cm), polar diameter (40.03 mm), equatorial diameter (36.83cm), the average weight of 10 bulbs (203.34 g). B grade bulbs (51. 27 %), minimum C grade bulbs (16. 11%), marketable yield (8.52 tonnes/ ha), total yield (10.61 tonnes/ ha) was recorded in the T9 followed by T6 (9.72 tonnes /ha). The population of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes were found to be maximum at the harvesting stage when compared to the bulbing stage under treatment T9.

Effects of folic acid and cobalt sulphate supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation and blood metabolites in Holstein calves.

To investigate the influences of cobalt (Co) and folic acid (FA) on growth performance and rumen fermentation, Holstein male calves (n 40) were randomly assigned to four groups according to their body weights. Cobalt sulphate at 0 or 0·11 mg Co/kg DM and FA at 0 or 7·2 mg/kg DM were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Average daily gain was elevated with FA or Co supplementation, but the elevation was greater for supplementing Co in diets without FA than with FA. Supplementing FA or Co increased DM intake and total-tract nutrient digestibility. Rumen pH was unaltered with FA but reduced with Co supplementation. Concentration of rumen total volatile fatty acids was elevated with FA or Co inclusion. Acetate percentage and acetate to propionate ratio were elevated with FA inclusion. Supplementing Co decreased acetate percentage and increased propionate percentage. Activities of xylanase and α-amylase and populations of total bacteria, fungi, protozoa, Ruminococcus albus, Fibrobacter succinogenes and Prevotella ruminicola increased with FA or Co inclusion. Activities of carboxymethyl-cellulase and pectinase increased with FA inclusion and population of methanogens decreased with Co addition. Blood folates increased and homocysteine decreased with FA inclusion. Blood glucose and vitamin B12 increased with Co addition. The data suggested that supplementing 0·11 mg Co/kg DM in diets containing 0·09 mg Co/kg DM increased growth performance and nutrient digestibility but had no improvement on the effects of FA addition in calves.

DAMPAK APLIKASI FLY ASH DARI PEMBANGKIT LISTRIK DI PT. GREAT GIANT PINEAPPLE-LAMPUNG TERHADAP AKTIVITAS BIOLOGI TANAH DI LAHAN MARGINAL

[EFFECT OF FLY ASH APPLICATION FROM POWER PLANT OF PT. GREAT GIANT PINEAPPLE ON SOIL BIOLOGYCAL ACTIVTY IN MARGINAL LAND]. Fly ash is a coal combustion waste containing nutrients that can be used to improve the soil fertility. The waste continues to increase but its handling is still limited because it is still classified as hazardous and toxic waste (B3). This study aims to determine the soil biological activity due to the application of fly ash and cow manure on marginal soils. The study was conducted using a completely randomized block design arranged factorial. The first factor is the dosage level of fly ash (F), namely 0 g/pot (0 ton/ha), 75 g/pot (50 ton/ha), 150 g/pot (100 ton/ha), and 225 g/pot (150 ton/ha) and the second factor is the dose of cow manure with three levels, namely 15 g/pot (10 ton/ha), 30 g/pot (20 ton/ha), and 45 g/pot (30 ton/ha). The observation parameters were (total population of fungi, bacteria, and soil respiration). The results showed that the addition of fly ash at various doses affected the soil biological activity by increasing the population of fungi, bacteria and soil respiration. The highest population of microorganisms was fungi, which was 17.8 x 107 Log CFU/g, bacteria 13.7 x 105 Log CFU/g, while the highest soil respiration was 54.53 mg CO2 at a dose of 100 ton/ha fly ash. In addition, the application of cow manure at a dose of 10, 20, 30 ton/ha did not affect observed variables.

Enteric methane mitigation by using seaweed Eucheuma cottonii

Methane is one of greenhouse gasses cause global climate change. Sources of methane emitted by livestock are from enteric fermentation during feed digestion in the rumen of ruminant animals and from manure of ruminant and non ruminant. Methane enteric contributes the largest portion of total gas emitted by livestock. Therefore, mitigation strategy of enteric methane production is become the important issue. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of Eucheuma cottonii (EC) seaweed added to basal diet on enteric methane production and fermentation kinetics by using in vitro method. Three level of EC were added to basal diet of Elephant Grass (EG), they were P0 = EG+ 0% EC; P1 = EG + 4% EC; P2 = EG + 8% EC; dan P3 = EG + 12% EC. All treatment was replicate five times. Variables measured were total and methane gas produced, dry matter and organic matter digestibility, pH, and ammonia concentration; rumen protozoa and bacterial population. The data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA and continued with Tukey test. The results showed that increasing level of EC on EG followed by declining methane gas produced by 7.66% ; 9.93%; and 16.74%, respectively (P<0.01); increased total bacteria population up to 169.7%, reduced protozoa population up to 69.2%; increased dry matter and organic matter digestibility (P<0.01). It is concluded that supplementation of E. cottonii on elephant grass basal diet on dose level of 4%, 8% and 12% reduced CH4 production as well as increased digestibility of the feed. The best level of E. cottonii supplementation in reducing CH4 production was 12% with can give reduction effect on CH4 up to 16.74% and increasing on digestibility up to 11.17%.

Study on chemical compounds and antibacterial activity of Anethum graveolens L. essential oil as a natural preservative and flavoring in celery juice

Nowadays, considering the side effects of chemical preservatives and the attention of food manufacturers to the natural preservatives, it seems necessary to evaluate the antimicrobial effects of natural preservatives in the laboratory and food models. In this study, the stems and leaves essential oil of Anethum graveolens L. was extracted by Clevenger apparatus and its compounds were identified using GC-MS. The fresh celery juice was stored for 7 days at the room temperature until it was rotten, then the serial dilution was prepared and the bacterial culture was performed using pour plate method. The different bacterial isolates were purified and the antibacterial effect of different essential oil concentrations was investigated by disk diffusion method on the dominant bacteria. The sensitive bacteria to the dill essential oil were identified by the standard microbiological methods and 16S rRNA gene amplification method. Then the effective concentration was added to the celery juice and the effect of essential oil on the population of total and dominant bacteria was investigated. The sensory acceptance of different essential oil concentrations among the population groups was assessed by a five-point hedonic questionnaire. This research was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications. Based on the GC-MS results, dillapiole (21.2%), α-phellandrene (37.2%), and β-phellandrene (9.2%) were the most important constituents of dill essential oil. The results of sequence blasting showed that Bacillus cereus and Acetobacter fabarum were the most dominant putrefactive bacteria in the celery juice. Based on the results, there was a significant difference between the five concentration groups in terms of halo diameter in the bacteria. The highest halo diameter in both bacteria was obtained at the concentration of 1000. In general, the results of the present study showed that dill essential oil is a suitable additive for the celery juice based on the results of sensory evaluation and in terms of controlling the putrefactive bacteria.

Biostimulants Managed Fungal Phytopathogens and Enhanced Activity of Beneficial Microorganisms in Rhizosphere of Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica L.)

The principles of good agricultural and horticultural practice, considering both environmental protection and high yielding of plants, require modern cultivation methods. In modern agriculture, it is possible to use biostimulants that protect the soil against degradation and plants against phytopathogens and stress. The purpose of 3-year field and laboratory studies was to determine the effect of Trichoderma harzianum T-22 and other biostimulants on the health status of scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica L.) plants and microorganism populations in the rhizosphere of this plant. For this purpose, Biosept Active (a.s.—grapefruit extract), Timorex Gold 24 EC (based on tea tree oil), Trianum P (spores of Trichoderma harzianum Rifai T-22) and Zaprawa Nasienna T 75 DS/WS fungicide (a.s.—tiuram) were applied for the pre-sowing seed dressing of scorzonera cv. “Duplex”. The number of seedlings and the health status of scorzonera plants were determined during three growing seasons. In each year of the study, mycological analysis of seedling roots and roots after scorzonera harvest was conducted to establish the quantitative and qualitative composition of fungi colonizing these parts. Moreover, microbiological analyses of scorzonera rhzisphere soil were conducted and served as the basis to determine the total population of fungi and bacteria (including Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp.). Antagonistic activity of rhizosphere bacteria Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp. and fungi was determined based on laboratory tests on selected scorzonera soil-borne fungal pathogens (Alternaria scorzonerae, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani). The experiments showed that Trianum P most effectively protected the roots of scorzonera against infection by Alternaria alternata, A. scorzonerae, Neocosmospora solani, Fusarium spp., Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Rhizoctonia solani, and Botrytis cinerea. The rhizosphere population of Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. in the treatments with Trianum P or Zaprawa Nasienna T 75 DS/WS was larger than in the other experimental treatments. A reverse relationship was observed in the population of rhizosphere fungi. The application of grapefruit extract, tea tree oil and Trichoderma harzianum T-22 increased antagonistic activity of Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp. and selected saprotrophic fungi against soil-borne fungal pathogens, especially Alternaria sp., Rhizoctonia sp., and Fusarium sp. In summary, Biosept Active, Timorex Gold 24 EC and Trianum P can be recommended as plant biostimulants in Scorzonera hispanica cultivation.

Guanidinoacetic acid and betaine supplementation have positive effects on growth performance, nutrient digestion and rumen fermentation in Angus bulls

This study evaluated the influences of guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) and betaine (BT) on growth performance, nutrient digestion and ruminal fermentation in bulls. Forty-four Angus bulls were blocked by live body weight and then randomly divided into four groups in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Betaine of 0 or 0.6 g/kg dry matter (DM) was added to diets containing 0 or 0.6 g/kg DM GAA, respectively. The experiment included a 20 day period for adaptation and a 60 day period for data collection. Average daily gain and feed efficiency were increased by GAA or BT but no further increase was observed for supplementing BT and GAA together than for addition with BT or GAA alone. Supplementary GAA or BT did not influence DM intake but increased apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP) and acid detergent fibre (ADF). Digestibility of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) was increased by GAA inclusion but was unaltered with BT provision. Ruminal pH reduced but total volatile fatty acids and ammonia nitrogen elevated with dietary inclusion of GAA or BT. Rumen short chain fatty acids percentages and fermentation pattern were not influenced by GAA. Dietary inclusion of BT increased molar proportions of acetate, valerate, isobutyrate and isovalerate as well as the ratio of acetate to propionate. Rumen populations of Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Fibrobacter succinogenes increased with addition of GAA or BT and the increase was greater when BT was added in diets with GAA compared to diets without GAA. Addition of GAA or BT increased activities of cellobiase, xylanase, α-amylase and protease and populations of total bacteria, cellulolytic bacteria and Ruminobacter amylophilus but did not affect Prevotella ruminicola. Addition of BT increased carboxymethyl-cellulase and pectinase activities and total fungi population. Blood creatine content was increased by GAA or BT and was greater for addition of GAA and BT together than for GAA or BT addition alone. Serum contents of glucose, folate, arginine and methionine were unchanged but total protein increased with GAA or BT provision. Blood homocysteine content was unaffected by GAA but decreased with BT supplementation. The data showed that GAA or BT addition improved growth performance and feed efficiency but supplementing GAA and BT together did not further increase the performance of bulls when compared with GAA or BT inclusion alone.

Utilization of slurry and mushroom baglog to improve growth and yield on strawberry on degraded volcanic soils

Utilization of slurry under the combination with mushroom baglog could be used a potential source for replacing nitrogen fertilizer and improve soil fertility. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the different combination and the level of slurry application combining with mushroom baglog on total soil nitrogen and organic contents, total soil bacteria and fungi, along with the improvement of growth and yield of strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa). The experiment used a complete randomized design with five treatments and five replications. The treatments were A1 (100% inorganic fertilizer application as control), A2 (50% composted slurry and mushroom baglog + 50% in-organic fertilizer), A3 (100% composted slurry and mushroom baglog), A4 (150% composted slurry and mushroom baglog), A5 (50% composted slurry and mushroom baglog + 50% in-organic fertilizer), A6 (100% fresh slurry (uncomposted)), and A7 (150% uncomposted fresh slurry). Results showed that the treatments significantly affected total soil nitrogen, total soil bacteria and fungi, along with the growth and yield of strawberry. The A6 treatment which used 100% uncomposted fresh slurry, showed the highest total nitrogen in the soil (0.23%) and total population of bacteria (7.1 log CFU/g) and the greatest number of strawberry stolons. In term of the number of leaves and total soil fungi, the A3 treatment was the greatest, resulted in number of leaves and total soil fungi at 19.7 per plant and 4.8 log cfu/g x 104. However, the best yield was obtained from the A7 treatment (150% of fresh slurry) at 15.1 kg/ha.

Efek suplementasi tepung kulit jengkol pada pelepah sawit fermentasi terhadap profil mikroba rumen dan produksi gas metan in vitro

&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Objective: &lt;/strong&gt;This research was aimed to evaluation the effect of supplementation jengkol peel powder in fermented oil palm fronds on rumen microbes profile and methane production on &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;The used design was factorial randomized block design with four treatments supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 0, 2, 4, and 6% and four groups as replications. The observed variables were rumen microbes profile (population of total bacteria, cellulolytic, and protozoa), methane production, partial &lt;em&gt;volatile fatty acid&lt;/em&gt; (VFA) proportion and acetate/propionate (A/P) ratio. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and different among treatments means examined by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT).&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;The result showed that supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 6% substrate increased (P&amp;lt;0.05) total and cellulolytic bacteria population. Jengkol peel powder supplementation as much as 4 and 6% decreased (P&amp;lt;0.05) protozoa population, methane production, acetate proportion and A/P ratio. Supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 2% increased (P&amp;lt;0.05) propionate production.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/strong&gt;In conclusion, fermented oil palm fronds can be substituted with jengkol peel powder at 2% substrate that did not disturb rumen microbes profile, decreased methane production, acetate proportion, A/P ratio and increased propionate production on &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Palmitic acid mediated change of rhizosphere and alleviation of Fusarium wilt disease in watermelon.

Palmitic acid (PA) in root exudates or decaying residues can reduce the incidence of soil-borne diseases and promote the growth of some crop plants. However, the effects of PA on soil-borne pathogens and microbial communities are poorly understood. Here, we investigate the effects of PA on overall watermelon microbial communities and the populations of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. niveum (Fon). The effects of PA on the mycelial growth and spore production of Fon were tested in vitro, while its effects on Fon, total bacteria and total fungi populations, and microbial communities were evaluated in a pot experiment. The results revealed that all test concentrations of PA inhibited Fon mycelia growth and spore production. The pot experiment showed that 0.5 mM and 1 mM PA reduced Fon but increased total bacteria populations, and 0.5 mM and 1 mM PA 0.5 mM and 1 mM PA promoted the change to a soil type of bacteria soil. Meanwhile, 0.5 mM PA and 1 mM PA altered the community composition of the rhizosphere microorganisms and reduced the relative abundance of two bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and the two fungal OTUs that were significantly (p < 0.01) related with disease severity and increased that of four bacterial OTUs and the two fungal that were highly significantly (p < 0.01) negatively correlated with the disease severity. These results suggest that application of PA decreased the populations of Fon, changed the rhizosphere microbial composition, reduced the disease severity of Fusarium wilt, and promoted the growth of watermelon.

Production of phospho-vermicompost by earthworms mediated bio-conversion of organic residues and rock phosphate

A glass house experiment was conducted to develop phospho-vermicompost using different combination of organic residues amended with rock phosphate and earthworms at the Soil Science Division, BINA, Mymensingh. The experiment was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments were as T1:50% Cowdung (CD) + 50% Mustard straw (MST), T2:50% CD + 50% Water hyacinth (WH), T3:50% CD + 50% Rice straw (RST), T4:50% CD + 25% WH + 25% RST, T5:50% CD + 50% MST + 4% Rock phosphate (RP), T6:50% CD + 50% WH + 4% RP, T7:50% CD + 50% RST + 4% RP, T8:50% CD + 25% WH + 25% RST + 4% RP. About 150 earth worms (Eisenia foetida or Red wiggler earthworms) were released on partial decomposed residues into the pots. At the end of the incubation, population of earthworms, total bacteria and phosphate solubilizing bacteria were determined from prepared vermicompost. pH, organic carbon, total N, P, K, S, available P and alkaline phosphatase activity were also determined from prepared vermicomposts. pH was found almost similar in all the treatment combinations but with rock phosphate amended treatments showed greater pH than without rock phosphate amended treatments. The treatment T8 (50% cowdung +25% water hyacinth +25% rice straw with 4% rock phosphate powder + red wiggler earthworms) showed significantly highest population of earthworms, total bacteria, phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and alkaline phosphatase activity (ALPA) and gave lower C:N and C:P ratio which might be resulted the higher amount of nutrients including available P in mature vermicompost. However, among the treatments, the treatments T8 gave the highest total N (1.42%), P (1.45%), K (1.52%) and S (0.35%) and available P contents than that of other treatments which indicated the better quality of phospho-vermicompost. Therefore, 50% cowdung +25% water hyacinth +25% rice straw with 4% rock phosphate powder and red wiggler earthworms could be used for the production of phospho-vermicompost. The developed phospho-vermicompost could be used for supplement of phosphatic fertilizer and other chemical fertilizers in the cultivation of different crops and also could be saved of chemical fertilizers.&#x0D; Progressive Agriculture 31 (3): 195-204, 2020

Effects of multicarbohydrase and butyrate glycerides on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, gut morphology, and ileal microbiota in late-phase laying hens fed corn- or wheat-based diets

A study was undertaken to determine the effects of supplemental multicarbohydrase (MC) and butyrate glycerides (BG) on productive performance, nutritional, and physiological responses in laying hens fed corn- or wheat-based diets during a 12-week production period (from 50–62 wk of age). The experiment consisted of a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of the treatments with 2 different basal diets (corn- or wheat-based diets), 2 concentrations of MC (0 or 200 mg/kg of diet), and 2 concentrations of BG (0 or 2 g/kg of diet). Each treatment had 6 replicates with 8 hens each. The interactions among diet, MC, and BG were observed for egg production (P = 0.048), feed conversion ratio (P = 0.005), and ileal Escherichia coli count (P = 0.043), indicating that the effects of MC and BG on these responses were more marked when wheat-based diet was fed. A diet × MC interaction (P < 0.05) was also detected for egg mass, eggshell breaking strength, jejunal viscosity, and digestibility coefficients of fat and ash. Replacing 100% of the corn with wheat in the diets of laying hens negatively affected (P < 0.05) yolk color index, eggshell thickness, digesta viscosity, jejunal morphology, and populations of ileal microbiota. By contrast, MC supplementation increased (P < 0.05) eggshell thickness, digestibility coefficients of energy and crude protein, and populations of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium spp. in the ileum. Inclusion of BG also resulted in greater (P < 0.05) jejunal villus height and villus surface area, and digestibility coefficients of protein and ash, but lower (P < 0.05) populations of total bacteria, Salmonella and E. coli in the ileum. Results indicate that while the complete substitution of corn by wheat has a detrimental effect on productive performance and gut health, the combination of MC and BG may have synergistic effects on improving productive performance and intestinal microbiota in laying hens fed the wheat-based diets during the late laying period.