Sorghum Stover Research Articles

Rumen Fermentation and Microbial Nitrogen Supply in Native Sheep Fed Crop Residue based Densified Feed Blocks Varying in Particle Size of Roughage

Background: Roughages with an appropriate particle size are required to maintain the optimum rumen health, fermentation and nutrient digestibility. In this regard, the present study was conducted in sheep to determine the optimum particle size for preparation of complete feed blocks. Methods: Twenty-one adult Deccani rams (19.45±0.80 kg) of 2-3 yrs age were used in a complete randomized design to assess the effect of particle size (PS) of sorghum stover (SS) on rumen fermentation characteristics and microbial nitrogen supply. Rams were divided into 3 groups consisting of 7 animals each and fed complete feed blocks containing 8 mm (SSCFB-8), 12 mm (SSCFB-12) and 16 mm (SSCFB-16) particle sizes of the stover. Rumen liquor was collected using stomach tube from each animal at 0, 2, 4 and 6 h after feeding to assess rumen fermentation pattern. Result: Mean rumen pH was increased (P less than 0.001) with increased PS of the SS in the CFBs and the rams fed SSCFB-12 and SSCFB-16 diets were shown highest (P less than 0.001) pH values. Average ammonia nitrogen concentrations were lower (P less than 0.01) in rams fed SSCFB-16 diet compared to those fed SSCFB-12 or SSCFB-8 diets. The average total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) concentration was decreased with increase in PS of SS in the feed blocks. The rams fed SSCFB-8 diet had shown higher (P less than 0.05) TVFA mean values than those fed SSCFB-12 or SSCFB-16 diets. Microbialnitrogen (g/day, g/kg W0.75) and protein supply (g/day, g/kg W0.75 and g/kg DOMI) was not affected by the PS of sorghum stover in complete feed blocks.Based on the results of the current study the SS ground to 8 mm can be considered as optimum for sheep fed SS based diets.

Tillage, sole and intercrop systems and soil amendment influence on sorghum grain and stover nutrient levels

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench) is a major grain crop in Burkina Faso. A three-year experiment was conducted in the Sudanian zone to determine the combined effects of tillage methods (T) and cropping systems with different soil amendments (CS/SA) on plant nutrient concentrations and related this to human and cattle nutrient requirements. The analysis of variance indicated that tillage, soil amendment nor cropping system affected the stover nutrient concentration of grain sorghum. Nitrogen, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn and Cu concentrations in grain were all influenced by the Y x T interaction largely due to increased nutrient concentrations for no-till in 2012 and tied ridges in 2013. As grain yield increased, grain N, Ca, Mg and Mn concentrations decreased while P and Zn increased. Grain N, P, Mg, S, Fe and Zn concentrations met human nutritional requirements, while K, Ca, Mn and Cu were deficient and merited supplementation. Nutrient gross means indicated that cattle nutrient requirements were met for N, P, Mg, Fe and Zn, but low for K, Ca, S, Mn and Cu. Tillage, CS/SA and Y had no or small effects on the nutrient concentrations of sorghum grain and stover. The agroecological zones in 2012 and 2013 indicated most nutrients to be adequate for human and cattle diets, but not for K, Ca, Mn and Cu.

Mineral Composition of Local Salt Licks (Toka) in Adamawa State, Nigeria

The objective of the study was to determine some mineral composition of local salt licks (Toka) produced from crop residues in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Five (5) local salt blocks made from Maize cobs, Beni-seed straws, Sorghum stover, Cowpea husk and Maize stover were analyzed. The mineral contents were analyzed using Triple Acid Digestion Methods (TADM). The results showed that, local salt licks produced from crop residues majorly contained seven (7) macro-minerals namely: sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), chlorine (Cl), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) and ten (10) micro minerals or trace elements namely: iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iodine (I), molybdenum (Mo), cobalt (Co), selenium (Se), fluorine (Fl) and chromium (Cr). The results further showed that, the local salt licks produced from crop residues had little or no heavy metals. All livestock require some percentage of mineral elements for cellular respiration, nervous system development, protein synthesis, metabolism and reproductive purposes. Macro and micro elements are important components of livestock ration which aid in the prevention of mineral deficiencies. Therefore, the local salt licks produced from crop residues could be used as mineral supplements to improve palatability and acceptability in animal feeds thereby, increasing sustainable livestock performance and productivity in the region. This could also conveniently substitute the un-sustainable imported, highly expensive mineral licks used for livestock production in the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Sorghum cultivation of the ratoon system for increased yields in dry land

Planting sorghum twice a year on dry land is constrained by the short duration of rainfall, so it requires technology to increase yields with the ratoon cropping system. The research was carried out in Agricultural Technology Research and Assessment Installation of Bajeng, Gowa, South Sulawesi from March to October 2019. The superior genotypes of sorghum were planted on marginal land as the main crop with a spacing of 75 cm x 20 cm (66,666 plants/ha). The ratoon plant used a split-split plot design. The main plot consisted of two mulches: M1=no mulch + 50% dose of main crop fertilization and M2=sorghum stover mulch + biodecomposer 1kg/ha without NPK fertilizer. The sub-plots consisted of 2 populations: P1=population of 66,666 plants/ha (1 shoot/hole), P2=133,332 ratoon plants/ha (2 shoots per hole). The sub-sub-plots consisted of 5 (five) genotypes/varieties of sorghum: V1=Numbu, V2=No.58-1, V3=No. 86.1, V4=No.103-1 and V5=No. 113-1, so that 20 treatment combinations were obtained with 3 replications. The results showed that to obtain high grain yield in ratoon cultivation in dry land, NPK fertilization (150-100-50)/ha is still necessary. The increase in population density of ratoon from 66,666 to 133,333 plants/ha significantly affected the increase in grain yield. Sorghum genotype No. 58-1, No. 86-1, No. 103-1 and No. 113-1 is technically and economically feasible to be developed in the cultivation of the double harvest ratoon system with the profit (Rp 10,989,000-12,247,500/ha) from the cultivation of sorghum once the main crop (Rp 4,003,000-4,856,000). The R/C value is 2.00-2.10 and the MBCR value is 2.27-2.38.

Evaluation of the Physical Characteristics of Complete Feed Blocks Containing Different Binders

Background: Binders play on important role in providing compactness and hardness to the complete feed block (CFB). Hardness of the block is also important to increase the durability of the block. In this view, the present comprehensive study is being taken up to evaluate the effect of different binders on the physical characteristics of the complete feed blocks. Methods: The complete feed is formulated to contain 10.5% CP and 55% TDN based on ICAR-2013 requirements. Feed blocks were prepared with sorghum stover (Roughage to concentrate ratio 50:50) using different binders such as molasses (M), guar meal (GM) and condensed distillery soluble (CDS) at different levels @ 6%, 8% and 10%. The complete feed mixtures were densified into blocks in horizontal feed block-making machine at 1500 psi for a dwell time of one minute. The feed blocks were stored for 48 hr to dry and evaluated for the physical and drying characteristics. Result: The bulk density and durability was higher (P less than 0.001) in M-8, M-10 and GM-10 feed blocks. The GM-8 blocks had higher bulk density (P less than 0.001) but less durable (P less than 0.001) than the other feed blocks. Durability and bulk density of GM-10 and M-10 blocks were comparable with M-8 feed blocks but the PCE of GM-10 and M-10 blocks was 11.61 and 10.75% higher than the M-8 blocks, respectively. CDS when included at 6, 8 or 10% as a binder, the blocks could not be prepared. Based on these results it was concluded that molasses at 8% is best for preparation of the CFBs.

Sorghum Grain and Stover Nutrient Concentrations as Influenced by Tillage and Soil Amendment in Semi-Arid Burkina Faso

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench) is a major grain crop in Burkina Faso. Two three-year experiments were conducted in the Sudanian and Sudano-Sahelian zones to determine how plant nutrient concentrations are affected by tillage methods (T) and soil amendments (SA). In both locations, T and SA had little effect on grain and stover nutrient concentrations with some cases of inconsistency across years. Some nutrient concentrations differed by year. The grain nutrient concentrations of N, P, Mg, S, Zn, and Fe were adequate for human nutrition at both locations, but deficient for K, Ca, Mn and Cu. Sorghum nutrient concentrations for feeding cattle were adequate for K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, and Zn in most cases at both locations but low for N, P, and Cu. The stover N and P concentrations also appeared to be deficient for optimal plant growth. In both agroecological zones, nutrient applications or genetic enhancement to improve deficient nutrient concentrations, or use of diverse foodstuffs, or biofortified sorghum to provide deficient nutrients in human and cattle diets is needed to meet dietary requirements. In addition to grain and stover yield, studies need to evaluate grain nutrient and stover nutrient concentrations to meet human and cattle dietary requirements.

DETERMINANTS OF SORGHUM BIOMASS USE FOR LIVESTOCK FEED ACROSS SORGHUM GROWING AGROECOLOGICAL ZONES IN ETHIOPIA

<p><strong>Background.</strong> In mixed crop livestock farming systems in Ethiopia, sorghum stover and other crop residues are a strategic livestock feed resource. Farmer’s decisions and intensity of use of sorghum stover for feed than other uses are closely associated with biophysical and socioeconomic characteristics. <strong>Objective.</strong> This study explores determinants of sorghum biomass uses for livestock feed in three major sorghum growing agroecological zones of Ethiopia. <strong>Methodology.</strong> Tobit and double hurdle models were run and likelihood ratio test was performed to select most suitable estimation technique. <strong>Result.</strong> Allocation of sorghum stover for feed showed a significant association with sorghum growing agro-ecological zones, highest in the lowland (86.73%) and the lowest in highland sorghum growing agroecological area (61.75%). Econometric model result revealed that among other factors; availability of feed from grazing and other crop residues had a negative effect on decision to use and intensity of use of sorghum stover for feed. Household’s livestock ownership and family size had positive effects. <strong>Implication.</strong> Decision variables influenced household’s decision and intensity on use of sorghum stover for feed at three major sorghum growing zone differently. <strong>Conclusion.</strong> Knowledge generated through this study may help any research and development efforts to enhance productivity of sorghum biomass for livestock feed and livestock improvement strategies.</p><p><strong>Keywords</strong>: Agroecology; Crop residue; Econometric models; Feed resources; Sorghum stover.</p><p><strong>Keywords</strong>: Agroecology; Crop residue; Econometric models; Feed resources; Sorghum stover.</p>

Feeding zinc biofortified sorghum stover decreases zinc deficiency in sheep

Study was conducted to evaluate feeding zinc (Zn) biofortifed sorghum stover to ameliorate Zn deficiency in sheep. The sorghum stover grown on zinc fortified soil was used for experimental feeding to Zn deficient sheep and compared with feeding unfortified stover as control for 120 days period. Application of zinc sulfate to soil @ 25 kg/ha increased the sorghum stover yield by 4.20 tonnes/hectare and enhanced the Zn content of stover by 14.4 ppm. Higher Zn intake in sheep fed biofortified stover resulted in significantly higher apparent gut absorption of Zn (37.2 vs 30.1%) and higher bioavailable Zn (6.12 vs 3.20 mg). Feeding Zn biofortified sorghum stover resulted in increase in plasma Zn content and the level was significantly higher after 3rd month of feeding the biofortified stover. The average plasma Zn content was significantly higher in group fed biofortified sorghum stover (1.14 vs 0.90 ppm). This resulted in higher Zn content in liver (150 vs 130 ppm, DM), enhanced activity of plasma superoxide dismutase (15.5 vs 10.3 Units/min) and better immune response to Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) vaccination (76.8 vs 59.5% inhibition). The results of this study prove that Zn fertilization of deficient soils is a practical method to increase the Zn content of stover and feeding of such biofortified stover can ameliorate the Zn deficiency in sheep.

Feeding value of sorghum stover fed to tropical hair sheep as complete rations in chop, mash, pellet, and block forms.

Background and Aim:Poor palatability, low bulk density, and low nutritive value restrict the utilization of the crop residues as animal feeds. Altering the physical characteristics of feed by blending the roughage and concentrates in the form of complete feed improves the nutrient use efficiency and reduces the feed wastage, feed cost, and labor cost. The study aims to determine suitable processing methods (mash, pellet, or block forms) for efficient utilization of sorghum stover-based complete rations vis-a-vis conventional feeding methods in sheep.Materials and Methods:The sorghum stover was incorporated in complete rations with roughage to concentrate ratio of 50:50 proportion in a growth trial of 120 days. The feed ingredients were chaffed, ground in a hammer mill, passed through expander-extruder, and compressed by feed block machine to prepare chop, mash, pellet, and block form of rations, respectively. Twenty-four male intact growing Nellore×Deccani cross lambs (3.5±0.5 months age, 14.50±0.41 kg (mean ± SD) at the start of the experiment) were divided into four experimental groups of six animals each in a complete randomized design. The experimental rations were randomly allotted to each group and evaluated for their intake, nutrient utilization, and growth performance.Results:The sheep fed on pellet-based ration consumed a higher (p<0.05) quantity of dry matter. The digestibility coefficients of organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber were higher (p<0.05) in processed rations (mash, pellet, or block). Further, the nitrogen balance (g/d) was higher (p<0.05) in the mash, pellet, and block form of rations, compared to chopped ration. The processing method did not influence calcium or phosphorous balance parameters, except for their urinary losses, which showed an increasing trend (p=0.07). The ram lambs fed with pelleted ration showed higher (p<0.05) weight gain than mash, block, or chaff forms. The efficiency of feed utilization in gaining one kg body weight was higher (p<0.05) in lambs fed a pelleted diet. Feeding pelletized ration was more economical to gain one kg body weight. The bulk density was highest for block-based ration followed by pellet, mash, and conventional rations, and the carrying capacity of truck was highest with the least transport cost in block-form of rations.Conclusion:Physical processing (mash, pellet, and block) of sorghum stover-based complete rations increased the nutrient utilization and growth performance of sheep compared to conventional chopped form. Pelleting the mash with expander-extruder procedure was found to be more profitable. Nevertheless, the cost economics revealed blocks as more preferable forms for transporting the complete rations to larger distances.

Effects of inter-cropping lablab (&lt;i&gt;Lablab purpureus&lt;/i&gt;) with selected sorghum (&lt;i&gt;Sorghum bicolor&lt;/i&gt;) varieties on plant morphology, sorghum grain yield, forage yield and quality in Kalu District, South Wollo, Ethiopia

An experiment was conducted to determine effects of inter-cropping lablab (Lablab purpureus) with 3 selected early-maturing sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) varieties (Teshale, Girana-1 and Misikir) on plant morphology, sorghum grain and forage yield and quality plus yield and quality of lablab forage, and to assess farmers’ perceptions of the crops in Kalu District, South Wollo, Ethiopia. Seven treatments, namely: T1 - sole lablab (SL); T2 - Teshale + lablab (TL); T3 - Girana-1 + lablab (GL); T4 - Misikir + lablab (ML); T5 - sole Teshale (ST); T6 - sole Girana-1 (SG); and T7 - sole Misikir (SM), were used with 3 replications in a randomized complete block design. The data collected from sorghum varieties were: plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, dry biomass yield and grain yield; and for lablab was: plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, number of branches per plant, number of nodules per plant and dry biomass yield. Grain yield was determined on sorghum at maturity, while lablab was harvested at 50% flowering. Inter-cropped Girana-1 produced yields of both grain and stover and lablab forage similar to those for pure stands of the 2 crops, while inter-cropping of Teshale and Misikir with lablab reduced height, grain and stover yields of sorghum and yields of lablab forage (P&lt;0.05). However, crude protein concentration in sorghum stover was enhanced when grown as an inter-crop with lablab (P&lt;0.05). Land equivalent ratios for inter-crop treatments were 54‒87% higher than those for pure stands. Farmers readily identified the combination Girana-1 + lablab as superior to the other associations. While farmers can improve productivity of their farms by inter-cropping these sorghum varieties, preferably Girana-1, with lablab, more studies should be conducted to determine benefits from sowing other legumes with sorghum. Any improvements in soil N levels from planting the legumes should be quantified.

Effect of complete diets containing different dual-purpose sorghum stovers on nutrient utilization and growth performance in sheep

The complete diets containing different dual-purpose sorghum stovers were evaluated for their comparative effect on nutrient utilization and growth performance of ram lambs. Twenty four Nellore x Deccani cross ram lambs of 4–6 months old (body weight, 14.39 ± 0.24 kg) were divided into four groups of six animals each in a completely randomized design. Experimental rations containing different sorghum stovers and concentrate ingredients were processed into mash and offered in the form of complete rations viz. local sorghum, Phule chitra, IS 12015 and IS 23143-based diets. Significant variations were found among the four sorghum cultivars (local Sorghum and 3 dual purpose cultivars: Phule chitra, IS 12015, and IS 23143) in all the chemical constituents, except for ether extract, calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P). The effects on in vitro gas production parameters were not appreciable. The cultivar based complete rations did not influence the weekly body weight changes of lambs during 120-day growth trial. Dry matter intake (DMI) of lambs fed dual purpose sorghum stover based rations was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the local sorghum stover based ration. Although the diets did not affect the feed conversion ratio (FCR), the dual purpose sorghum stover-based ration needed high cost per kg mutton production. The digestibilities of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and total carbohydrates (TCHO) were higher (P < 0.05) in the rations prepared from the stovers of improved sorghum cultivars. The crude protein (CP) digestibility and nitrogen (N) balance was higher (P < 0.05) in lambs fed Phule chitra based ration. Even though the diets did not affect Ca and P balance, a tendency of lower (P = 0.09) urinary Ca and P retention was found in sheep fed local sorghum-based ration. It can be concluded that among the four evaluated sorghum cultivars, Phule chitra cultivar performed better in terms of growth and nutrient utilization.

Evaluation of Early Maturing Sorghum and Cowpea Varieties Intercropping for Animal Nutritive Value and in vitro Dry Matter Digestibility in Fedis District, Eastern Ethiopia

The shortage of arable land and shortage of livestock feed are major constraints in East Hararghe Zone. Thus, a field study was conducted to evaluate an early maturing sorghum varieties and cowpea genotypes intercropping for both food and feed production at Fedis Agricultural Research Center, eastern Ethiopia in 2018 cropping season. Two cowpea genotypes(lines) (9333 and 9334) were intercropped with three varieties of early maturing sorghum (Teshale, Birhan and Melkam) and compared with sole cropping of all the varieties, which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The analyzed result showed the NDF content was significantly different (p < 0.05) among intercropped and sole sorghum the maximum NDF was recorded from sole sorghum Teshale (69.56%) and the minimum sorghum Birhan + cowpea (9333)(57.75%) and the Intercropping sorghum improved the CP of sorghum stover mean from sole (5.31%) to intercropped (6.03%). the . Cropping systems and cowpea genotypes were significantly affected (p < 0.05) the content of CP and NDF. The maximum CP obtained from cowpea (9334) + sorghum Teshale 29.19%), and the minimum CP obtained from sole cowpea (9333) (24.38%).Generally, the results of this study showed that intercropping of sorghum-cowpea were increased the productivity of grain yields and biomass yields of sorghum varieties and it increased nutritional quality of cowpea and sorghum stover. Based on the results of this study, it could be concluded that intercropping sorghum with forage cowpea; preferably sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) to be appropriate to increase quality of sorghum stover in the study area. Keywords: Chemical composition, Digestibility and Forage legumes DOI: 10.7176/FSQM/107-01 Publication date: April 30 th 2021

In vitro assessment of two novel Cellulases from Trabulsiella odontotermitis for agricultural waste utilization

BackgroundThe production of agricultural wastes still growing as a consequence of the population growing. However, the majority of these residues are under-utilized due their chemical composition, which is mainly composed by cellulose. Actually, the search of cellulases with high efficiency to degrade this carbohydrate remains as the challenge. In the present experiment, two genes encoding an endoglucanase (EC 3.2.1.4) and β-glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.21) were overexpressed in Escherichia coli and their recombinant enzymes (egl-FZYE and cel-FZYE, respectively) characterized. Those genes were found in Trabulsiella odontermitis which was isolated from the gut of termite Heterotermes sp. Additionally, the capability to release sugars from agricultural wastes was evaluated in both enzymes, alone and in combination.ResultsThe results have shown that optimal pH was 6.0 and 6.5, reaching an activity of 1051.65 ± 47.78 and 607.80 ± 10.19 U/mg at 39 °C, for egl-FZYE and cel-FZYE, respectively. The Km and Vmax for egl-FZYE using CMC as substrate were 11.25 mg/mL and 3921.57 U/mg, respectively, whereas using Avicel were 15.39 mg/mL and 2314.81 U/mg, respectively. The Km and Vmax for cel-FZYE using Avicel as substrate were 11.49 mg/mL and 2105.26 U/mg, respectively, whereas using CMC the enzyme did not had activity. Both enzymes had effect on agricultural wastes, and their effect was improved when they were combined reaching an activity of 955.1 ± 116.1, 4016.8 ± 332 and 1124.2 ± 241 U/mg on corn stover, sorghum stover and pine sawdust, respectively.ConclusionsBoth enzymes were capable of degrading agricultural wastes, and their effectiveness was improved up to 60% of glucose released when combined. In summary, the results of the study demonstrate that the recombinant enzymes exhibit characteristics that indicate their value as potential feed additives and that the enzymes could be used to enhance the degradation of cellulose in the poor-quality forage generally used in ruminant feedstuffs.

EFFECTS OF UREA - AMMONIATION AND COTTON SEED CAKE SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE UTILIZATION OF SORGHUM STOVER BY SHEEP

The effects cotton seed cake (CSC) supplementation and urea-ammoniation on utilization of sorghum stover by Yankasa sheep was studied. Chopped sorghum stover was ensiled with fertilizer grade urea at 4% urea (w/w), the urea being dissolved in water to reconstitute the silage to 50% DM. The experiment was a 2x3 factorial design of unammoniated and ammoniated sorghum stover and three levels of CSC supplementation (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% of the sheep body weight). The growth trial was conducted with 24 yearling sheep, averaging 18.2 kg liveweight and lasted for 60 days. Intake of sorghum stover by sheep was Improved (P&lt;0.05) by urea-ammoniation, not significant (P&gt;0.05). Increasing the level of supplementation with CSC improved (P&gt;0.05) stover intake by sheep fed the ammoniation of unammonlated stover, but resulted in decreased (P&gt;0.05) intake of ammonlated by sheep. Sheep liveweight gains were improved by ammoniation and supplementation (P&lt;0.01). The interaction between urea-ammoniation of stover and supplementation resulted in better (P&lt;0.05) live weight going in sheep. Twelve Yankasa ruang averaging 16.9 kg liveweight were Ammoniation and supplementation did not affect DM, NDF and ADF digestibilities (P&gt;.05), but resulted in increase (P&lt;0.05) in cellulose and hemicellulose digestion. Ammoniation and supplementation resulted in N-balance of the sheep. Ammoniation resulted in marked Increases (P &lt;0.01) in rumen ammonia concentrations, but increasing 50% DM. The material was epsiled above the level of supplementation did not appreciably(P&lt;0.05) silled rumen ammonia concentrate

EFFECTS OF SOURCE AND LEVEL OF NITROGEN ON THE UTILIZATION OF SORGHUM STOVER BY YANKASA RAMS

The effects of cotton seed cake (CSC) or urea in supplying either 12% or 16% crude protein on sorghum stover utilization by Yankasa rams was studied for twelve weeks, using a 2 x 2 factorially designed experiment. Nutrient intake, digestibility, weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were monitored. In vitro volatile fatty acid (VFA) and ammonia-nitrogen (NH,-N) concentrations were also determined. The result of the study indicated that the source and/or level of nitrogen (or crude protein) significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected crude protein intake (CPI), digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) and in vitro NH,-N concentration. Total feed intake, live weight gain (LWG), FCR and DCPI were significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected by source x level interaction. Acid detergent fibre (A DF) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) intakes, CP, ADF and NDF digestibilities, digestible ADF and NDF intakes, stover intake and in vitro VFA concentration were not significantly (P&gt;0.05) affected by either main effects of CP source and level or their interaction. The rams on the 16% CSC and 12% urea ration gained more weight and had lower FCR than those on the 12% CSC and 16% urea. The 16% CSC ration gave the best result in terms of sorghum stover supplementation. The 12% urea treatment which also had a good result in terms of weight gain and FCR could also be recommended for use.

Exploring Feeding Potential of Stovers from Novel Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) Cultivars by In vitro Fermentation Pattern, Gas Production, Microbial Abundance and Ruminal Enzyme Production in Buffalo

Background: Crop residues play a central role in ruminant’s diet in developing countries. Due to low in nutritional quality, there is limitation in ruminant production through feeding of these residues. Therefore, production of quality crop residues through plant breeding programme without conceding grain yield is of prime importance. The present experiment envisaged the feeding value of stovers from three different novel sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) cultivars by in vitro fermentation pattern, gas production, microbial abundance and ruminal enzyme production in buffalo. Methods: Stovers from three different genotypes of sorghum cultivars viz. normal sorghum (CSV-27), brown midrib (bmr) sorghum (SPV-2018) and sweet sorghum (CSH 22SS) were analyzed for proximate principles and fibre fractions. Each stover sample was incubated (200 ± 5 mg) with 30 ml buffered rumen fluid in 100 ml calibrated glass syringes at 39ºC for 24 h following in vitro gas production system using rumen liquor from Murrah buffaloes. The gas production in each syringe was recorded during incubation at 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 h intervals. Incubations were terminated at 24 h and methane concentration in the head space gas from syringes incubated with each stover sample was analyzed. Supernatant of each syringe contents was analyzed for volatile fatty acids (VFA) estimation. Truly degradable dry matter (TDDM) was determined and microbial biomass production (MBP) and portioning factor (PF) was calculated. Ruminal fibrolytic enzyme production and microbial abundance in each syringe content was estimated. Result: The stover of bmr sorghum showed highest organic matter, followed by normal sorghum and lowest in sweet sorghum. The neural detergent fibre (NDF) ranges between 69.22 to 74.65%, with highest in bmr sorghum and lowest in sweet sorghum. The stover sample of bmr sorghum contained lowest (P less than 0.05) acid detergent fibre (ADF) among the three cultivars examined, which resulted with highest (P less than 0.05) hemicellulose (37.72%) content. Lowest acid detergent lignin (ADL) was found in stovers of bmr cultivar (1.27%) and highest in sweet sorghum (8.36%). The fermentation pattern of bmr sorghum stovers exhibited higher (P less than 0.05) total gas production, dry matter degradability, VFA production, ruminal enzymes (CMCase, xylanase, acetyl esterase) and abundance of total ruminal bacterial population than normal and sweet sorghum stovers. Therefore, this study establishes the enhanced feeding value of stovers from bmr sorghum cultivar compared to normal and sweet sorghum cultivars for ruminant production.

Evaluation of Early Maturing Sorghum and Cowpea Varieties Intercropping for Animal Nutritive Value and &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;in vitro&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Digestibility in Fedis District, Eastern Ethiopia

The shortage of arable land and shortage of livestock feed specially quality feed resources are major constraints in East Hararghe Zone. Thus, a field study was conducted to evaluate an early maturing sorghum varieties and cowpea Lines intercropping for both food and feed production at Fedis Agricultural Research Center, eastern Ethiopia in 2018/19 cropping season. Two cowpea varieties (lines) (9333 and 9334) were intercropped with three varieties of early maturing sorghum (Teshale, Birhan and Melkam) and compared with sole cropping of all the varieties, which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The analyzed result showed the NDF content was significantly different (p < 0.05) among intercropped and sole sorghum the maximum NDF was recorded from sole sorghum Teshale (69.56%) and the minimum sorghum Birhan + cowpea (9333) (57.75%) and the Intercropping sorghum improved the CP of sorghum stover mean from sole (5.31%) to intercropped (6.03%). the. Cropping systems and cowpea lines were significantly affected (p < 0.05) the content of CP and NDF. The maximum CP obtained from cowpea (9334) + sorghum Teshale 29.19%), and the minimum CP obtained from sole cowpea (9333) (24.38%). Generally, the results of this study showed that intercropping of sorghum-cowpea were increased nutritional quality of cowpea and sorghum stover. Based on the results of this study, it concluded that intercropping sorghum with forage cowpea; preferably sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) to be appropriate to increase quality of sorghum stover in the study area.

Proximate Composition of Local Salt Licks (Toka) in Adamawa State, Nigeria

The study investigated the proximate composition of local salt licks (toka) in Adamawa State, Nigeria with a view to reveal the feeding value of the products and use as a substitute to the expensive conventional ones. Six novel mineral blocks from different sources (maize stover, maize comb and sorghum stover ) produced from Mubi-North and Madagali Local Government Areas were used for analysis. The proximate compositions of the samples were analyzed at the Clinical Biochemical Laboratory of Adamawa State University (ADSU) Mubi, Nigeria. Parameters determined include crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE), ash (AS) and moisture content (MC). Local salt licks (toka) had low mean crude protein (CP) of 3.9%, crude fibre (CF) of 0.8%, ether extract (EE) of 1.1%, ash of 0.8% and moisture content of 15.6%. Irrespective of the low nutrient composition of novel mineral licks, they can be used to improve acceptability, palatability and mineral supplementation in livestock feeds. This showed that, with time and good awareness, livestock producers will opt for the products as source of mineral supplements since they are cheaper and readily available in the study area. This could also conveniently substitute the usually imported, highly expensive mineral licks used for livestock production in the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Management problem of crop residues production in Aliero Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria

A study was conducted to examine the management problems of crop residues production in five villages within Aliero Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 75 respondents within the study area. The data collected was analyzed using simple statistical tools such as frequency counts and percentages. The family size of the respondents showed that more than half (52.41%) had 5-8 members. Majority of the respondents were within the age categories of 23-32 (39.60%) and 32-42 years (33.30%). It was observed that most of the respondents were male (78.08%) with different educational background. The study revealed that about 47.95% of the respondents were farmers. Mixed cropping is common to the household with cereal and legume crops combination; sorghum/groundnut (6.85%), millet/groundnut (28.03%) and sorghum/cowpea (36.99%). Various storage methods existed among the house hold in handling crop residues as majority (45.21%) kept crop residues on the roof tops and the least (9.59%) kept crop residues on the tree branches. Crop residues were from groundnut straws, cowpea straws, maize stover, millet stover and rice straws with sorghum stover constituting the highest (30.14%). Majority of the respondents (39.74%) source their crop residues from self production. The study also showed that all the respondents encountered one or more management problems which limit crop residue production and they include high cost of irrigation (78.08%), inadequate storage structures (75.34%) and inadequate capital (68.86%) among others constitute the prominent problems to crop residue production in the study area.

Stocking Rate Has No Confounding Effect on the Use of Internal and Inert Markers to Predict Botanical Composition, Diet Quality, Degradability and Passage Rate Kinetics in Sheep

Simple SummaryInternal markers are components of diets recovered to different degrees in faeces of animals. These feed components maybe helpful in predicting diet selection, nutrient intake and digestibility in animals. The development of sustainable grazing management and practices to prevent the depletion of natural grasslands as a result of overgrazing depends on the knowledge of feed intake, chemical and botanical composition of diets selected and consumed by ruminants. Determination of the botanical composition of diets selected by free ranging ruminants by visual observation is time consuming and tedious, while the use of oesophageal cannulated animals is invasive and impairs animal welfare. Therefore, it is imperative to use non-invasive methods, such as internal markers to predict feed preferences and composition of diets that ruminants consume. However, it is unclear if the accuracy of results obtained using internal markers is confounded by other factors, such as stocking rate, which is expected to determine the availability and botanical composition of pasture, which, in turn, may exert its influence on the diet selected and consumed by grazing animals. The findings of this study, however, showed that stocking rates did not affect diet selection and nutrient intake in sheep, while a combination of internal markers can be used to estimate the quality of diet selected by animals under cafeteria feeding conditions, regardless of the stocking rate used. Thus, the use of modified acid detergent fibre, acid insoluble ash and acid detergent lignin contents in feeds achieved high accuracy and precision in estimating diets selected by sheep. This approach serves as a proof of concept that these markers can be also used in free ranging animals.This study investigated if there is any confounding effect of stocking rate on the use of internal markers to determine and predict the dietary ingredient composition, dry matter intake (DMI) and digestibility of diets consumed by sheep. Fifteen sheep were randomly allocated to stocking rate treatments of one (SR1), two (SR2), four (SR4) and eight (SR8) sheep per pen (space allowance: 31.04 m2, 15.52 m2, 7.76 m2 and 3.88 m2 per sheep, respectively) and fed ad libitum maize stover, sorghum stover and veld hay by supplying 110% of previous day’s intake. Sheep were rotated across the treatments in four periods of 10 days. The proportion of feeds selected and total DMI were similar across all stocking rate treatments. However, diets selected by sheep in SR2 had the highest digestibility compared to other treatments. The prediction of the effective degradability of dry matter using acid detergent fibre content achieved an accuracy of 84.6%. A combination of crude protein and neutral detergent fibre contents achieved 63% accuracy in the prediction of the rate of degradation of feeds. The use of acid insoluble ash (AIA) as an internal marker to predict nutrient intake, digestibility, DMI and dietary ingredient intake accounted for 84.3%, 81.2%, 53.0% and 64.1% of the variation, respectively. The predictions of dietary feed proportions and nutrient quality selected obtained with least squares procedure using a combination of modified acid detergent fibre (MADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and AIA accounted for 81.0% and 72.4% of the variation, respectively. In conclusion, regardless of the different stocking rate tested in this study, a combination of MADF, ADL and AIA as internal markers can be used to estimate diet and nutrient selection by sheep using the least squares procedure. Hence, these markers can be used to predict ingredient composition of diet, diet and nutrient selection, nutrient intake and digestibility in free ranging animals.