Feed Source Research Articles

PEMANFAATAN LIMBAH TANAMAN JAGUNG SOLUSI KETERSEDIAAN PAKAN ALTERNATIF BAGI TERNAK SAPI DI DESA URAUR KECAMATAN KAIRATU KABUPATEN SERAM BAGIAN BARAT

Silage has proven to be an effective way to extend the availability of forage throughout the year. Silage technology transfer brings great benefits in maximizing the use of existing feed sources, improving livestock nutrition, and reducing the impact of limited feed on livestock productivity. The purpose of this activity is to transfer corn straw silage technology which is expected to overcome feed shortages under certain conditions, improve feed quality and maintain the continuity of cattle feed availability in Uraur village. This activity was carried out in Uraur Village, Kairatu District, with partners of cattle breeder groups and the Participation Institute for the Development and Empowerment of the Maluku Protestant Church (PARPEM-GPM) Uraur. The method of activity used is action review which includes concrete actions to overcome problems, collaboration with partners and action authentication. The result of this activity is an increase in the knowledge and skills of farmers and farmers motivated to introduce corn straw silage technology and the desire to use it as an alternative feed for solutions to improve the quality and continiutas of feed which can further increase the growth and production of cattle optimally.

Biotransforming of Poultry and Swine Slaughterhouse Waste as an Alternative Protein Source for Ruminant Feeding

The biotransformation of poultry (PSW) and swine (SSW) slaughterhouse waste might provide protein feedstuffs, ensuring efficient ruminant systems while safeguarding the environment. The present study aimed to evaluate the potential of PSW and SSW as alternative protein feed for ruminant animals. A total of 24 lambs [25.4 ± 3.13 kg of body weight (BW), mean ± SD] were randomly allocated to one of three groups (n = 8): a control diet formulated with typical protein ingredients (CTRL) and two diets formulated with PSW or SSW meal as a protein source. Dietary inclusion of PSW or SSW did not alter (p = 0.05) dry matter intake or final BW. However, animals fed SSW showed the highest average daily gain (ADG, p = 0.04). In addition, substituting PSW and SSW improved the feed conversation ratio (FCR, p = 0.05). There were no diet effects (p = 0.05) on N intake, while fecal N excretion increased (p = 0.03) with SSW feeding. Compared to CTRL and PSW, ingestion of SSW decreased (p = 0.001) and retained N. The digestibility of crude protein and organic matter remained unchanged (p = 0.05). Additionally, there were no differences (p = 0.05) in potential microbial protein synthesis based on either protein content (SPMp) or energy content (SPMe). Similarly, potential metabolizable protein by protein (PMp) and potential metabolizable energy by protein (PMe) were not affected (p = 0.05). Overall, both PSW and SSW positively influenced the growth performance of ewe lambs. However, further studies are warranted to explore the impact of PWS or SSW feeding on rumen function, nitrogen pollution, and protein escaping the rumen into the intestine in ruminants.

Potential of teff as alternative crop for Mediterranean farming systems: Effect of genotype and mowing time on forage yield and quality

The introduction of alternative/innovative crops in the current Mediterranean cropping systems is a promising strategy to cope with climate change effects, which are threatening the food and feed security of that geographic area. Thanks to its large environmental adaptability and good nutritive value for humans (grains) and animals (biomass), teff is an excellent candidate to perform its role as alternative plant species for cereal/forage farming systems. However, the adoption of a “new” crop requires information about the adaptation to the target environment as well as details on the best management practices to apply. Very little knowledge is available regarding the performance of teff under Mediterranean climatic conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of genotype and mowing time on the biomass yield (dry matter, DM) and proximate composition of teff (including the first regrowth). Grain yield potential was also evaluated. The study was carried out during two consecutive years in central Italy. Two different experiments were conducted in adjacent fields to gain information on both forage and grain potential of the crop. In both trials, six teff genotypes were used (namely T6, T7, T8, T11, T13 and T14). Plant height, forage yield and quality were assessed in different growth stages: flag leaf completely unrolled, booting, and heading. The regrowth of the first cut mowed at booting stage was also evaluated. Our study demonstrated that teff has potential as forage and grain crop under Mediterranean climatic conditions. Considering the total biomass production, teff genotypes yielded from 7 t DM ha−1 to 11 t DM ha−1. If used as feed source, the best harvesting time is heading (GS: 57) since it allows to maximize both biomass yield and crude protein (CP) content. The teff accessions which deserve to be deeply explored as forage types were T8 and T14 (5–6 t DM ha−1, with 150–160 g CP kg−1 DM), while T6, T7 and T13 were good grain producers (0.8–1.2 t ha−1).

Pengaruh pemberian sampah organik terhadap pertumbuhan dan kandungan astaxanthin pada pupa black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus))

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus)) atau BSF merupakan serangga pengolah sampah organik yang fase larvanya memiliki kandungan nutrisi tinggi sehingga berpotensi sebagai sumber protein alternatif pakan dan pangan. Astaxanthin merupakan senyawa antioksidan yang lazim diperoleh dari tumbuhan, alga, dan Crustacea. Deteksi astaxanthin pada Bombyx mori (Linnaeus) menjadi titik tolak dugaan bahwa astaxanthin potensial ditemukan pada serangga lain termasuk BSF. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mempelajari pengaruh pemberian jenis pakan sampah organik terhadap pertumbuhan larva BSF dan kandungan astaxanthin pada pupa BSF. Desain penelitian menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap dengan 4 perlakuan jenis pakan sampah organik berupa sisa buah dan sayur (BS), ampas tahu (AT), sisa nasi (N), campuran sisa buah dan sayur, ampas tahu dan sisa nasi (C). Pakan ternak T51 digunakan sebagai kontrol. Setiap perlakuan pakan diulang 3 kali. Parameter penelitian terukur meliputi parameter pertumbuhan larva berupa berat, panjang, dan karakteristik larva; dan parameter kandungan senyawa kimia termasuk astaxanthin pada pupa BSF. Ekstraksi pupa dilakukan dengan metode maserasi triphasic menggunakan kombinasi 5 pelarut berupa n-heptane, etil asetat, acetonitrile, butanol-l, dan akuades, sedangkan identifikasi senyawa dilakukan menggunakan uji kualitatif terpenoid, uji thin layer chromatography (TLC), dan liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa buah dan sayur (BS) paling berpengaruh meningkatkan pertambahan ukuran tubuh larva dengan berat 0,09 ± 0,04 gram/larva dan panjang 1,49 ± 0,31 cm/larva. Analisis LC-MS mendeteksi senyawa dereplikasi lutein, anisodamine, derivat resveratrol, dehydroarginine, dan senyawa dereplikasi astaxanthin dengan massa molekuler sebesar 597,23 m/z pada larva BSF yang diberi pakan buah dan sayur.

3D‐printed high‐gain beam‐switching dielectric transmitarray fed by an integrated lens antenna

AbstractThis article presents a high‐gain linearly polarized three‐dimensionally‐printed dielectric transmitarray with an integrated lens antenna (ILA) as a feed source. The proposed transmitarray contains 1336 unit cells of 16 different types with a gradual phase change of 22.5°. The unit cells have a cross‐section of 5.4 × 5.4 mm, and their height varies from 0 to 24.2 mm for different gradual phase changes. The designed transmitarray shows a maximum gain of 19.5 dBi at 28 GHz with a 3‐dB beamwidth of less than 7° in both the E‐ and H‐planes. Furthermore, a holder with seven distinct feed positions has been designed to alter the location of the feed antenna in the focal plane of the transmitarray. The main beam can be switched by exciting these feeds individually. In addition, it has an impedance bandwidth (|S11 | <−10 dB) from 24.5 GHz to 32.5 GHz for all the feed positions. The proposed antenna system is a good candidate for radar, wireless power transmission, and high‐power military applications.

Cross-country evidence of consumers’ perception of food from animals fed on insects in DR Congo, Mali, and Niger

Insects can represent a valuable and cost effective source of animal feed in Africa. Recently, the interest in incorporating black-soldier fly larvae (BSFL) in animal feed has increased tremendously. However, many factors, including food neophobia and social and cultural context may affect consumers' perception of insect-technologies-derived food products. This study shed light on consumers' perception of the usage of BSFL as animal feed and consumption, buying, and commercialization of food from animals fed on BSFL in DR Congo, Mali, and Niger. We used data from 1560 consumers that were analyzed applying parametric and non-parametric tests and the generalized ordered logit model. Our findings show that about 87 % of respondents consider that consuming food from animals fed on BSFL is acceptable and 34 % accept buying eggs, fish, and meat from animals fed on BSFL. However, about 40 % of consumers recommend the label differentiation of BSF-technologies-derived food products and they also expect a lower price than conventional animal feed products. The analysis of factors driving consumers' readiness to buy BSF-derived food products have revealed that effective market penetration of BSF-technologies-derived food products could be achieved with great awareness creation, targeting farming households, married and literate heads. Furthermore, strategic communication and intensive sensitization through farmers' associations will be crucial. Finally, credit access and income diversification are also necessary to support consumers’ choices toward sustainable food habits built on bio-circular economy.

Nutrient content, phytochemical profile and anti-methanogen potential of Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) leaf extracts

Abstract Chaya leaves (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) contain many nutrients and phytochemicals expected to reduce ruminants’ methane emissions. This study aims to determine the nutritional quality, phytochemical content and potential inhibitory power of Chaya leaf extract against the growth of rumen fluid methanogen bacteria. The methods used to determine nutrient content were proximate and fibre analysis. The phytochemical content tested were total phenols, tannins and flavonoids. Anti-methanogen test through inhibitory power using liquid culture selective media for methanogens. The results showed that Chaya leaves are a source of fibre feed, which also contains high crude protein (23 - 29%). The highest total phenol and tannin content in ethanol extract of Chaya leaves is 8.62 mg/g and 31.34 ppm, respectively. In contrast, ethyl acetate extract’s highest total flavonoid content is 13.96 mg/g. The highest potential inhibitory power against methanogen bacteria was shown by ethanol extract (50 mg/mL), causing inhibition of 44.56%. This study concludes that Chaya leaves have the potential to be used as ruminant animal feed and as a suppressor of methanogen bacteria, and further tests are recommended for methane gas production in vitro.

Analysis of the Nutritional Quality of Local Feed Ingredients Commonly Used in the Concentrate Formula for Beef Cattle Feedlots in Indonesia

Indonesia's annual beef consumption is experiencing a steady rise. In 2021, the per capita beef consumption amounted to 2.56 kg per person per year, resulting in a total of 696 million kilograms consumed across the country. This quantity is equivalent to the slaughtering of approximately 3.98 million cattle annually. With the increasing growth of the feedlot industry, cattle farmers, including feedlot operators, have the opportunity to enhance the value of agricultural companies in Indonesia by utilizing local feedstuffs. The objective of this study was to assess the suitability and nutritional value of indigenous feed sources for beef cattle in Indonesia. The research utilized feedstuff varieties and characteristics sourced from feedlots spanning since 2012-2021. The employed methodologies encompassed surveys, interviews, and questionnaires. This research involved the collection of both primary and secondary data. The potential and quality of local feedstuff were described using descriptive analysis. This research showed that eight types of local feedstuff could be categorized as energy sources including dehydrated cassava chips with a total digestible nutrients (TDN) value of 84.2% and bran pollard with a TDN value of 66.6%. The fiber sources consisted of corn cob (37.7% crude fiber), coffee husk (38% crude fiber), cocoa bean shell (20% crude fiber), tapioca solid waste/onggok (22% crude fiber), and palm kernel meal (22.1% crude fiber). The protein source consisted of copra meal with a protein content of 22.4%. The physical test most frequently inspected the feed color (18.1%) and odor (18.1%). Moisture examination (24%) was the most frequently used of proximate analysis was employed to identify the chemical composition. In conclusion the existence of eight local ingredients which were categorized into three different types: energy source, protein source, and fiber source commonly used in the concentrate formula for beef cattle feedlots in Indonesia.

Haliotis tuberculata coccinea grow-out performances according to diet and production systems

ABSTRACT Haliotis tuberculata coccinea is a candidate of growing interest to diversify aquaculture in the Canary Islands, principally based on fish production, to improve aquaculture development opportunities. The economic viability of commercial abalone farming depends largely on the rearing system employed and the feeding sources employed during the grow-out culture period. We studied the effects of two land-based culture systems on the growth performance of abalone and the nutritional quality of their tissues, in a crossed design. Recirculated (RAS) and open flow (FLOW) culture systems were compared. Fresh macro algae (FMA) (Gracilaria cornea and Ulva rigida) were compared to manufactured compound feed (CF) and a mixture of both (MIX). Survival rates were high (97–100%) regardless the treatments tested. MIX and FMA diets produced the best results for Shell Growth Rate, Specific growth rates for shell growth (SGRsl) and weight (SGRw) as well as Food Conversion Ratio (FCR). The highest value for feed intake was recorded for the MIX diet. A positive relationship has been observed between the amounts of protein and lipids in diets and the disposition of these in the viscera of animals fed such diets. The rearing system used had no significant effect on growth and nutritional parameters.

Forage Yield and Nutritive Values of Vetches Grown as a Sole and Intercropped with Desho Grass at Different Row Spacing in Western Oromia, Ethiopia

Legume forage, like vetches, is an important feed source for animals as a supplement to low-quality feeds. This study was conducted to evaluate the forage yield and nutritional values of vetches intercropped at various spacings of desho grass. The study was designed in a factorial arrangement with a randomized complete block design with three inter-row spaces (0.50 m, 0.75 m, and 1 m) and intercropping two vetches (<i>Vicia sativa</i> ICARDA 61509 and <i>Vicia dasycarpa</i> lana) and desho grass with three replications. Agronomic parameters, forage and seed yield, chemical analysis, and in vitro digestibility of vetch forage samples were determined. Results showed that significant differences (p<0.05) were observed for all measured agronomic parameters of vetches, except leaf length, due to spacing and interaction effects. Dry matter yield of vetch (DMY) was only affected by row spacing, while crude protein yield (CPY) was affected by row spacing and their interactions. Higher DMY (3.87 - 4.04 t/ha) and CPY (0.74 - 0.79 t/ha) were obtained from solely grown vetches as compared to intercropped vetches (2.26 - 2.42 t/ha and 0.417 - 0.423 t/ha), respectively. Forage yield significantly decreased as row spacing increased. Seed yield decreased as the row space increased, and the yield obtained from <i>Vicia sativa</i> ICARDA 61509 was higher (0.6 and 1.23 t/ha) than <i>Vicia dasycarpa</i> lana (0.41 and 0.82 t/ha) when either intercropped with desho grass or sown alone, respectively. The interaction of intercropping with spacing unaffected vetch's chemical composition. However, crude protein (CP) and acid detergent lignin of vetches were influenced by intercropping, whereas CP, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were affected by spacing (p<0.05). Intercropped <i>Vicia dasycarpa</i> gave higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), <i>in vitro</i> organic matter digestibility, and metabolizable energy than <i>Vicia sativa</i>, and IVDMD increased as row spacing increased from 0.5 to 1 m.

Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis L.)—A Versatile Grass: A Review

Smooth brome (Bromus inermis L.) is a species of perennial grass with growing economic importance. Initially, this species had attracted interest as a source of animal feed. Over the years, the interest in smooth brome increased significantly due to the growing knowledge about its advantages. The aim of this study was to explore the contemporary significance of smooth brome. This plant is characterized by a high tolerance to many negative environmental factors, such as periodic droughts, low temperatures and salinity, which contributes to its constant presence in the landscape of many countries. The moderate soil requirements of smooth brome, combined with the effective use of soil resources and rational nutrient utilization, contribute to high biomass yields that can reach 13 t/ha DM. The usefulness of this grass species in various management systems has been recognized in numerous research studies. Smooth brome can generate benefits in many branches of the economy. This efficient energy plant is used in paper production, and it is also recommended for the protection of fallow land or the reclamation of degraded land. Smooth brome prevents erosion, enhances biodiversity, and provides shelter for many animal species. This species fits well into the current assumptions of agricultural policy and increasingly demanding environmental standards. According to the latest guidelines, modern agriculture should pursue economic and environmental goals simultaneously. In this context, smooth brome constitutes a valuable link in sustainable development. Due to its numerous advantages, smooth brome not only provides high-quality feed and biomass but also effectively sequesters CO2, improves soil fertility and enhances biodiversity, which makes it an important element of agriculture and environmental protection.

Designing and Analyzing Properties of Socio-Culture and Perception from Livestock Farmers: An Evidence in Utilizing Oil Palm Plantation Land-Use of West Papua

This study aims to examine the socio-cultural productivity and perceptions of farmers in the utilization of free-rearing land in the oil palm plantation area in Manokwari. The research was conducted using survey methods and structured interviews with breeders who indulge livestock on oil palm plantations and other grazing lands. The results of the study show that socio-cultural productivity in the utilization of free-rearing land in the oil palm plantation area in Manokwari is still low. Factors such as the lack of knowledge and skills of farmers in managing free-rearing land and limited access to resources and information are the main obstacles in increasing productivity. Breeders' perceptions of the use of free-rearing land also vary. Some farmers see wasteland as an alternative feed source with the potential to improve livestock health and productivity, while others see it as an unproductive area and tend to be neglected. This perception is influenced by factors such as education level, farmer experience, and support from related parties. In order to increase socio-cultural productivity and utilization of wasteland in oil palm plantations, comprehensive efforts are needed. Increasing the knowledge and skills of breeders in managing free-rearing land, better access to resources and information, as well as the active role of related parties in providing assistance and support to breeders are key factors in achieving this.

Fishmeal substitution by zooplankton or Daphnia magna biomass meals in the diet of Nile tilapia: Effectson growth, gut histological changes, bacterial abundanceand stress tolerance.

Fishmeal substitution with sustainable feed sources is highly essential towards sustainable production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with Daphnia magna biomass meal (DBM) or zooplankton biomass meal (ZBM) on growth performance, liverand intestinal histology, gut bacterial abundanceand stress tolerance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, fry. Nile tilapia fry (0.23 ± 0.04 g) were randomly assigned to five groups of three replicates. The control diet comprised 300 g/kg FM, and the FM was substituted with DBM or ZBM at levels of 25% and 50% (DBM-25, DBM-50, ZBM-25and ZBM-50respectively) in the other experimental diets. The experiment lasted 56 days in 1.5 m3 concrete tanks. The results revealed that weight gain andfeed conversion ratio(FCR) significantly (p ≤ 0.035 and 0.025respectively) improved with a polynomial response with a peak at 25% ZBM and a linear increase with DBM up to 50% of FM. Histometric indices of the distal intestine showed improvements (p ≤ 0.001) in villus height, villus width, crypt depthand muscle thickness of fish fed DBM or ZBM compared to the control. In the meantime, there were no histological abnormalities in the liver sections. The replacement of FM with DBM or ZBM could modulated gut bacterial abundance, including total bacterial count, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Lactobacillus sp. The fish-fed DBM or ZBM-containing diets had higher (p ≤ 0.05) tolerances to salinity stress than the control group. In conclusion, DBM or ZBM could replace FM up to 50% and 25%, respectivelywith improved fish growth performance, FCR, gut histologyand tolerance to salinity stress.

Enhancing quality of ruminant feed through fungal treatment: Usage of bamboo shoot residues.

In this investigation, we explore the harnessing of bamboo shoot residues (BSR) as a viable source for ruminant feed through fungal treatment, with the overarching objective of elevating feed quality and optimizing bamboo shoot utilization. The white-rot fungi (Wr.fungi), Aspergillus niger (A.niger), and its co-cultures (A.niger&Wr.fungi) were employed to ferment BSR. And the impact of different fermentation methods and culture time on the chemical composition (Crude protein Ash, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibers), enzyme activity (Cellulase, Laccase, Filter paperase and Lignin peroxidase activities), and rumen digestibility in vitro were assessed. The findings reveal a nota ble 30.39% increase in crude protein in fermented BSR, accompanied by respective decreases of 13.02% and 17.31% in acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fibre content. Enzyme activities experienced augmentation post-fermentation with A.niger&Wr.fungi. Specifically, the peak Cellulase, Laccase, and Lignin peroxidase activities for BSR with Wr.fungi treatment reached 748.4 U/g, 156.92 U/g, and 291.61 U/g, respectively, on the sixth day of fermentation. Concurrently, NH3-N concentration exhibited an upward trend with prolonged fermentation time. Total volatile fatty acids registered a decline, and the Acetate/Propionate ratio reached its nadir after 6 days of fermentation under the A.niger&Wr.fungi treatment. These outcomes furnish a theoretical foundation for the development of ruminant feeds treated via fungal co-culture.

Optimal growth conditions to enhance Chlorella vulgaris biomass production in indoor phyto tank and quality assessment of feed and culture stock

Commercial microalgae cultivation is a dynamic field with ongoing efforts to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and explore new applications. We conducted a study to examine how different light exposure periods affect Chlorella vulgaris's growth. We employed a Phyto tank batch system of approximately 3.5 L with LED light control, controlled airflow, and sterilized bags, maintained at 22.0 ± 2.0 °C indoors. Various methods, including spectrophotometry, and cell counter were employed to monitor Chlorella vulgaris growth under different light exposure cycles. Additionally, quality analysis as feed source was employed by proximate, amino acid, beta-glucan, and microbial content analysis. The results revealed significant variations in C. vulgaris biomass production based on light exposure duration. Notably, the 16:8-h light-dark photoperiod exhibited the highest biomass concentration, reaching 6.48 × 107 ± 0.50 cells/mL with an optical density (OD) of 1.165 absorbance at 682 nm. The 12:12-h light-dark photoperiod produced the second-highest biomass concentration, with 2.305 × 106 ± 0.60 cells/mL at an OD of 0.489. Proximate analysis of dry algae powder revealed low lipid content (0.48 %), high protein content (37.61 %), variable ash concentration (average 10.75 %), and a significant carbohydrate fraction (51.16 %) during extended daylight and shorter dark periods. Amino acid analysis identified nine essential amino acids, with glutamic acid being the most abundant (17.7 %) and methionine the least (0.4 %). Furthermore, quality analysis and microbiological assays demonstrated that the C. vulgaris biomass is well-suited for fish and livestock use as a feed source and possibility as human nutraceuticals. These findings can be considered more environmentally friendly and ethically sound due to the absence of genetic modification.

Effects of temperature on the growth, total lipid content and fatty acid composition of Skeletonema dohrnii

The potential of diatoms as aquatic bait, attribute to their abundance in highly unsaturated fatty acids, has been extensively studied. Temperature plays a crucial role in the synthesis of these fatty acids. This study specifically investigated the impact of temperature on the growth, total lipid content, and fatty acid composition of Skeletonema dohrnii, a planktonic diatom commonly associated with red tides and water blooms in China. The aim is to evaluate its suitability as an aquatic bait and provide insights for large-scale factory farming. Results indicated that the highest biomass and maximum growth rate occurred at 28°C, with no significant deviation from the control group at 25°C. At 28°C and 15°C, there was a significant increase in the total lipid content and the total fatty acid content, with a more pronounced effect at 15°C. At 28°C, EPA and DHA content measured at 0.97 ± 0.01 mg.DW.L-1 and 0.264 ± 0.01 mg.DW.L-1 respectively, surpass those at 15°C due to lower biomass. Conversely, at 15°C, substantial synthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, with EPA constituting up to 32.24 ± 0.24% of the total fatty acids, is observed. Modulating the temperature could optimize the utilization of S. dohrnii as an aquatic feed source. These findings underscore the potential of S. dohrnii as a high-quality aquafeed and lay the groundwork for its success in ocean warming scenarios.

Forage Biomass and Nutritive Value of Grasses and Legumes Grown Under Agrivoltaic Systems

Forage crops grown underneath ground-mounted photovoltaic systems (PV) may provide a feed source for livestock production. The objective was to evaluate forage biomass and nutritive value of crops, grasses and legumes grown under different PV conditions. Forages were planted underneath a 30-kilowatt PV site (30kW), a 50-kilowatt PV site (50kW) and one control site without PV (CON) in May 2022 with four replicates per site. Forage crops included alfalfa, field peas, meadow fescue, orchard grass, red clover, brown midrib sorghumsudan grass, white clover and 3 grass and legume mixes with either alfalfa, red clover, or white clover. Biomass samples were clipped at appropriate maturity levels for grazing. Samples were sorted for botanical composition and analyzed for nutrient value. Crop biomass, dry matter and nutrient values were analyzed with PROC Mixed of SAS with the fixed effects of site (30kW, 50kW, or Con), crop nested within site, and cutting (1st or 2nd) and the random effect of replicate nested within site. Forages produced less biomass at the 30kW (563.7 kg/ha) and 50kW (446.4 kg/ha) solar sites compared to CON (1099.7 kg/ha). The 50kW forages had greater crude protein on a dry matter basis (25.8%) than the 30kW (21.4%) and CON (20.9%). The 50kW (57.1%) forages also had greater total tract neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility than the 30kW (52.5%) and CON (51.0%). Additionally, the 50kW forages had greater percent calcium (1.05%) compared to the 30kW (0.75%) and CON (0.84%). Forage biomass and nutrient values varied based on the solar array design and amount of sun exposure.

Model-based process optimization of black soldier fly egg production.

Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae (Hermetia illucens) serve as a valuable protein source for animal feed. Limiting factors in the industrial rearing of BSF are the reproduction process and egg output. Studies indicate the potential to shorten preoviposition time and increase egg output through better utilization of environmental variables, such as temperature and light, in industrial settings. Excessive stimulation, however, can lead to stress, elevated production costs, and reduced egg numbers, emphasizing the need for a delicate balance. This study addresses these challenges by investigating controlled manipulation of environmental variables to stimulate mating and enhance egg production, thereby developing a comprehensive model encompassing the adult fly life cycle, mating, and egg production. Model parameters were fitted using literature data, and the model's plausibility was tested through simulations. Using the model and optimal control methods, the calculated dynamic trajectories for environmental variables when compared to the standard approach in a constant environment demonstrated higher output and shorter production cycles at reasonable energy costs. Applications for this model-based optimization are demonstrated for various scenarios, highlighting the practical utility and versatility of the developed model. This study contributes valuable insights for improving rearing practices of BSF through environmental stimulation, offering potential advancements in egg production efficiency and overall sustainability.

Feed balances for ruminant livestock: gridded estimates for data−constrained regions

Demand for animal−source foods and livestock feed are forecast to increase across sub-Saharan Africa. In this context, there is a need to estimate the availability of livestock feed to support decision−making at local, sub-national and national levels. In this study, we assess feed balances for ruminant livestock in Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. Feed availability was estimated using remotely sensed products and detailed feed composition data. Feed requirements were estimated for maintenance, growth, lactation, gestation and locomotion using a data−intensive model. Biomass available as animal feed was estimated to be 8.6 tonnes of DM per hectare in the Ethiopian highlands and midlands, 3.2 tonnes DM per hectare in the Ethiopian lowlands, 2.9 tonnes DM per hectare in Burkina Faso’s Sudanian agro-ecological zone and 1.0 tonne DM per hectare in the Sahel. The energy requirements of lactating cows were estimated to be 62.1 Megajoules (MJs) per animal per day in the Ethiopian highlands and midlands, 62.7 MJ in the Ethiopian lowlands, 88.5 MJ in Burkina Faso’s Sudanian agro-ecological zone and 53.1 MJ per animal per day in the Sahel. Feed scarcity hotspots are most prominently located in the Ethiopian highlands and the Sahelian agro-ecological zone of Burkina Faso. Demand−side policy and investment initiatives can address hotspots by influencing herd sizes, nutritional requirements and herd mobility. Supply−side policy and investment initiatives can secure existing feed resources, develop new sources of feed and incentivise trade in feed resources. Improving feed balances will be of value to decision−makers with the aims of optimising livestock productivity, minimising exposure to climatic shocks and minimising greenhouse gas emission intensity.

Exploring dietary differences among developmental stages of triatomines infected with Trypanosoma cruzi in different habitats

Chagas disease affects millions of people in Colombia and worldwide, with its transmission influenced by ecological, environmental, and anthropogenic factors. There is a notable correlation between vector transmission cycles and the habitats of insect vectors of the parasite. However, the scale at which these cycles operate remains uncertain. While individual triatomine ecotopes such as palms provide conditions for isolated transmission cycles, recent studies examining triatomine blood sources in various habitats suggest a more intricate network of transmission cycles, linking wild ecotopes with human dwellings. This study aims to provide further evidence on the complexity of the scale of Trypanosoma cruzi transmission cycles, by exploring the different blood sources among developmental stages of infected triatomines in different habitats. We evaluated infection rates, parasite loads, feeding sources, and the distribution of Rhodnius prolixus insects in Attalea butyracea palms across three distinct habitats in Casanare, Colombia: peridomestics, pastures, and woodlands. Our results show that there is no clear independence in transmission cycles in each environment. Analyses of feeding sources suggest the movement of insects and mammals (primarily bats and didelphids) among habitats. A significant association was found between habitat and instar stages in collected R. prolixus. The N1 stage was correlated with pasture and woodland, while the N4 stage was related to pasture. Additionally, adult insects exhibited higher T. cruzi loads than N1, N2, and N3. We observed higher T. cruzi loads in insects captured in dwelling and pasture habitats, compared with those captured in woodland areas. Effective Chagas disease control strategies must consider the complexity of transmission cycles and the interplay between domestic and sylvatic populations of mammals and vectors.