Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Ruminants Feeding and feeds'

The effect of treatment with 3% aqueous ammonia and 5.3% urea plus jackbean meal on the nutritive value of wheat straw was investigated. The moisture content of the straw was raised to 40% by addition of water. Crude protein and in vitro dry matter digestibility were highest for the bottom layers, which had the highest moisture. The mean temperature during the first 4 wk post treatment was 11.2 C. Four diets were fed to sheep: untreated straw 1) alone or 2) with 20 g/d urea at feeding time 3) ammonia-treated straw, and 4) urea-treated straw. All diets contained 80 g of liquid molasses, 10 g of NaCl and 6 g of Na 2 S04, and were calculated to be isonitrogenous except the control diet (untreated straw without urea supplementation). Straw was chopped prior to feeding. Crude protein content in wheat straw was tripled by ammonia and urea treatment. Dry matter digestibility in vivo and in vitro was enhanced by ammonia and urea treatment, and the effect was higher for ammonia treatment. Digestibilities of cell wall constituents were higher (P<.05) for ammonia treated straw, compared to urea-treated straw. Urinary N excretion was considerably lower (P<.01) and N retention was higher (P<.01) for lambs fed treated straws, compared to those fed urea at feeding time. Ruminal NH3-N and blood urea concentrations were higher (P<.01) for the lambs fed urea at feeding time, compared to lambs fed the others diets.<br>M.S.

A replicated 3 x 3 latin square design (3 periods and 6 rumen fistulated steers) was utilized to investigate the effect of dietary concentrate levels (30, 60 and 90%) on the in situ disappearance of dry matter (ISDMD) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and kinetics of fiber digestion of alfalfa hay, wheat straw and steam processed and flaked milo (SPFM). Concentrate levels of 30 and 60% did not affect (P > .05) ISDMD or NDF disappearance from any of the substrates. However, ISDMD and NDF disappearance of all substrates were depressed (P < .05) by the 90% concentrate diet. The degradation of the potentially digestible fiber in these substrates followed first order kinetics at all concentrate levels. Fiber digestion kinetics were not affected (P > .05) by dietary concentrate levels of 30 or 60%. Incubation of substrates in animals receiving the 90% concentrate diet resulted in lower potential extent of digestion (P > .05) and decreased rate of degradation (P > .05) for all substrates. However, digestion was not complete even after incubations of 168-h, and thus, it is possible that the potential extent of digestion was underestimated. For all substrates lag time of digestion appeared to increase in the 90% concentrate diet. However, influx of NDF-like material into the bag during incubation makes the validity of the lag times obtained in situ questionable. Ruminal pH was depressed in animals consuming the 90% concentrate diet and could be at least one of the factors responsible for the decreased (P > .05) fiber digestibility in this diet. Mean ruminal pH of 6.5 (30 and 60% concentrate diets) did not depress (P > .05) fiber digestibility while a mean pH of 6.2 resulted in a lower (P > .05) fiber digestibility in the rumen.

Linseed meal (LSM) was fed to ovariectomized ewes exposed to estradiol 17-? (E2) implants over time, and LSM was supplemented to beef cows during late gestation and early lactation to evaluate the estrogenic potential of the phytoestrogen secoisolariciresinol diglycoside (SDG) found in LSM. Forty-eight ovariectomized ewes were fed a diet containing 12.5% LSM for 0, 1, 7, or 14 d and implanted with estradiol-17? (E2) for 0, 6, or 24 h before tissue collection. Uterine cellular proliferation, vascularity, and the expression of the angiogenic factors and their receptors were recorded. There was an interaction of LSM and E2 on uterine mass (P = 0.05). At 24 h of E2 exposure, proliferation was reduced (P < 0.001) when ewes were fed for 14 d compared to being fed 0 or 1 days. There was a LSM x E2 interaction (P ? 0.03) on VEGF receptor-2 (KDR) and hasicfihrohlast growth factor receptor (FGFR2) decreasing by 24 h E2 exposure. Exposure of LSM and E2 may impact the estrogenic response of sensitive tissue. Two studies were conducted to examine the effects of supplementing beef cows with LSM during late gestation or early lactation on calf growth and development. In Experiment 1, multiparous cows received either LSM or a control (CON) supplement (approximately 10% diet dry matter) for the last 60 d of gestation. Offspring weights, ADG, heifer age at puberty, conception percentage and steer carcass characteristics were recorded. In Experiment 2, multiparous cows received LSM or CON supplements (approximately 10% diet dry matter) during the first 60 d of lactation, and only heifer calf development performance was observed and recorded. Heifer calf weight, average daily gain, and attainment of puberty were assessed. For both experiments, birth weight, weaning weight and ADG were not affected (P > 0.31) by LSM supplementation. While final body weights were heavier (P = 0.04) for steer calves in Experiment 1, there was no effect (P = 0.09) of supplementation on carcass characteristics. In Experiment 1 and 2, attainment of puberty in heifer calves was not influenced (P > 0.58) by supplement type. Linseed meal supplementation during late gestation or early lactation does not appear to have a negative impact on calf growth, onset of puberty in heifer calves, or steer carcass quality, implicating that it may make a good supplement choice in cattle.

Copies of the author's previously published articles inserted. Bibliography: leaves 142-159. Provides information on the significance of pea straw as a ruminant feed and the potential of two biological techniques for improving its feeding value.

Bibliography: leaves 102-114. This study evaluates the difference in the nutritive value of rice straw varieties using chemical composition and digestibility measurements. It assesses several methods for improving the nutritive value of rice straw and the effect of urea treatment and rice straw quality on the colonisation of ruminal fungi and the characteristics of stem tissue structure.

Lupin seed has the potential to be used as a protein supplement in ruminant rations, but its usage is restricted by the presence of alkaloids. Experiments were conducted with the aim of determining whether the removal of specific toxic alkaloids, lupanine and 13-hydroxylupanine, from crushed lupin seed (CLS) would improve the organic matter intake (OMI) and average daily gains (ADG) in lambs, and also improve the lactation performance in dairy cows. Effects on liver function in lambs were also investigated. An additional study on the effects of the detoxification of CLS on the degradation of protein was conducted. In Experiment 1, 30 growing Corriedale lambs were fed five diets for 105 d according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six blocks. Two diets contained intact CLS at 15% (LUI-15) or 30% (LUI-30) of DM; two other diets contained detoxified CLS at 15% (LUD-15) or 30% (LUD-30) and the control (CON) diet was supplemented with crushed sunflower seed, which was locally prepared, on-farm. All diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous (16% CP). The alkaloid content (lupanine and 13-OH lupanine) of the diets was.31,.70,.21 and.52% for LUI-15, LUI-30, LUD-15 and LUD-30, respectively. Thus, diets containing detoxified CLS contained approximately 30% less alkaloids than those with intact CLS. Estimates of ADG of lambs fed diets containing detoxified CLS was higher (P $<$.01) (120 g.d$ sp{-1}$) than that of lambs fed intact CLS (76 g.d$ sp{-1}$). The OMI (73 g/Wkg$ sp{0.75}$) was also higher, although not significantly, for lambs fed diets containing detoxified CLS. Feed conversion efficiency was increased (P $<$.05) by the detoxification of CLS. Lambs fed diets containing intact CLS consumed more OMI as time progressed, suggesting that adaptation to CLS might have occurred. Lambs fed diets containing intact CLS demonstrated increased trends in the activity in plasma of the enzymes glutamic oxaloacetic transferase (GOT) and $ gamma$-glutamyl transfer

Made available in DSpace on 2014-06-11T19:33:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2012-12-17Bitstream added on 2014-06-13T21:06:39Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 silva_tls_dr_botfmvz.pdf: 469730 bytes, checksum: fef540eada210b35cbd086f20dc1bed2 (MD5)<br>Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)<br>Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)<br>O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a qualidade da carne de cordeiros mestiços Santa Inês alimentados com levedura (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) inativa da cana-de-açúcar em substituição ao farelo de soja. Foram ofertadas dietas com quatro níveis de substituição (0, 33, 66 e 100%) de levedura aos animais que foram abatidos com 35 kg de peso vivo. Foram realizadas as análises físicas e a determinação de umidade, proteínas, cinzas, gordura e colesterol no músculo Longissimus dorsi. Os níveis de substituição de 33 e 100% influenciaram a composição protéica da carne e os valores de lipídio não apresentaram diferença entre os tratamentos (P>0,05). O teor de colesterol foi menor para os animais que receberam dietas contendo levedura. O índice de fragmentação miofibrilar apresentou diferença entre os níveis de substituição. A maciez, quando analisado pelo método físico, foi satisfatória em carnes do tratamento 33% de substituição<br>This study aimed to evaluate Santa Inês lambs meat wich was fed with inactive yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) instead of soy meal. The treatments offer were four levels (0, 33, 66 e 100%) of yeast to animals until the weight average 35 kg and they were slaughtered. The analyses were physical and humidity determination, protein, ash, fat cholesterol and in Longissimus dorsi muscle. The inclusion levels influenced in the protein composition of meat. The lipid values were similar (p> 0,05) between the treatments. The values of the tenderness fragmentation index showed variation between treatments. When the softness was analyzed by a physical method it confirmed that the meat has a satisfactory level of tenderness and cholesterol is similar to animals fed with yeast

Orientador: André Mendes Jorge<br>Coorientador: José Teodorico de Araújo Filho<br>Banca: Cledson Augusto Garcia<br>Banca: Paulo Roberto Meirelles<br>Banca: Cristiana Andrighetto<br>Banca: Janaina Haddich Conte<br>Resumo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a qualidade da carne de cordeiros mestiços Santa Inês alimentados com levedura (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) inativa da cana-de-açúcar em substituição ao farelo de soja. Foram ofertadas dietas com quatro níveis de substituição (0, 33, 66 e 100%) de levedura aos animais que foram abatidos com 35 kg de peso vivo. Foram realizadas as análises físicas e a determinação de umidade, proteínas, cinzas, gordura e colesterol no músculo Longissimus dorsi. Os níveis de substituição de 33 e 100% influenciaram a composição protéica da carne e os valores de lipídio não apresentaram diferença entre os tratamentos (P>0,05). O teor de colesterol foi menor para os animais que receberam dietas contendo levedura. O índice de fragmentação miofibrilar apresentou diferença entre os níveis de substituição. A maciez, quando analisado pelo método físico, foi satisfatória em carnes do tratamento 33% de substituição<br>Abstract : This study aimed to evaluate Santa Inês lambs meat wich was fed with inactive yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) instead of soy meal. The treatments offer were four levels (0, 33, 66 e 100%) of yeast to animals until the weight average 35 kg and they were slaughtered. The analyses were physical and humidity determination, protein, ash, fat cholesterol and in Longissimus dorsi muscle. The inclusion levels influenced in the protein composition of meat. The lipid values were similar (p> 0,05) between the treatments. The values of the tenderness fragmentation index showed variation between treatments. When the softness was analyzed by a physical method it confirmed that the meat has a satisfactory level of tenderness and cholesterol is similar to animals fed with yeast<br>Doutor

Thesis (MScAgric) -- Stellenbosch University, 2004.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The ruminant has the ability to utilize forages more efficiently than any other production animal. The utilization of forage fibre is an important aspect of ruminant production systems, as this is the main source of energy available to the animal. The availability of high-fibre forage nutrients is, however, restricted by cell wall degradability, and since low quality forages contribute a great deal to ruminant production systems worldwide, the improvement of this degradation process is of major economic importance. The use of exogenous fibre degrading enzymes has been proposed as a means of enhancing this process, with positive results being obtained from in vitro studies incorporating exogenous enzyme preparations. Positive in vivo results with regard to forage digestibility and other animal production parameters have consequently also been obtained following the addition of exogenous fibre-degrading enzyme preparations to the ruminant diet. Two initial screening experiments were undertaken in order to identify fungal enzyme preparations that may have a positive effect on in vitro fibre degradability. The initial screening employed an in vitro organic matter digestibility technique, and was successful in identifying at least six enzyme preparations displaying enhanced digestibility results that were statistically significant. A second in vitro gas production procedure was used to confirm results obtained from organic matter digestibility assays, as well as to increase screening capacity in order to evaluate new enzyme preparations more time-efficiently. Statistical analysis of results obtained from the secondary screening identified various enzyme candidates producing promising results. Only one of these, Abo 374, proved to be statistically superior to the control and other enzyme preparations. A growth trial was subsequently conducted to assess the performance of this enzyme in vivo. The trial involved individual feeding of 32 Dohne Merino ram lambs grouped according to weights into four groups consisting of 8 lambs each. Each group represented a specific application level of enzyme to the wheat straw component of a high fibre diet, amounting to 10, 5, or 1 ml enzyme supematant/kg straw. The enzyme was diluted with water at appropriate rates to obtain an application rate of 300ml/kg straw. The fourth (control) group was treated with water at the same application rate. The trial was conducted over a period of six weeks, during which feed intakes, weekly weight gains, as well as feed conversion efficiencies were recorded. Results suggested significant weight gains in the high (10ml/kg) and medium (5ml/kg) treatment groups, indicated by a P-value of 0.04. Similarly, feed conversion efficiencies were improved for above-mentioned groups (P=0.05), while feed intakes did not differ significantly between the four experimental groups.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die herkouer besit die vermoee om ruvoere beter as enige ander produksiedier te kan benut. Die gebruik van ruvoervesel is 'n belangrike aspek van herkouer produksiesisteme, aangesien ruvoere die hoof bron van energie aan die herkouer verskaf. Die beskikbaarheid van hoe-vesel ruvoer nutriente word egter beperk deur die degradeerbaarheid van die selwand, en aangesien lae kwaliteit ruvoere 'n groot bydrae tot wereldwye herkouer-produksiesisteme maak, is die moontlike verbetering van hierdie degraderingsproses van groot ekonomiese belang. In 'n poging om hierdie verteringsproses te help bevoordeel, is die gebruik van eksogene veselverterende ensieme ondersoek, en positiewe resultate is verkry wanneer hierdie ensieme in in vitro studies gebruik is. Goeie verbeterings ten opsigte van ruvoer verteerbaarheid en ander diereproduksie parameters is ook verkry deur middel van in vivo studies waar eksogene ensieme by die ruvoer van herkouers gevoeg IS. Twee eksperimente is ondemeem in 'n poging om ensiempreparate wat 'n moontlike positiewe effek op in vitro veselvertering mag he, te identifiseer. Die eerste, 'n in vitro organiese materiaal verteerbaarheid tegniek, was suksesvol in die identifisering van minstens ses ensiem preparate wat statisties betekenisvolle verbeterings ten opsigte van verteringsresultate geproduseer het. 'n Tweede in vitro gasproduksie prosedure is vervolgens gebruik om resultate verkry vanaf die eerste tegniek, te bevestig, asook om evalueringskapasiteit te vergroot en sodoende, nuwe ensiempreparate meer tydseffektief te evalueer. Statistiese evaluering van resultate verkry uit die tweede in vitro tegniek het 'n reeks ensieme met positiewe resultate opgelewer. Een van hierdie, Ab0374, het statisties betekenisvolle resultate ten opsigte van die kontrole, sowel as ander ensieme getoon. In 'n volgende eksperiment is 'n groeiproef gedoen om die effektiwiteit van hierdie ensiem in vivo te toets. In die proef is 32 Dohne Merino ramlammers op grond van hul gewig in vier groepe van agt skape elk verdeel, en individueel gevoer. Die groepe het verskillende toedieningsvlakke van die toetsensiem, toegedien tot die koringstrooi komponent van 'n hoe-vesel dieet, ontvang. Toedieningsvlakke was 10, 5, of lml ensiemkonsentraat/kg strooi. Elke groep se ensiemkonsentraat is verdun met die toepaslike hoeveelheid water om 'n toedieningsvlak van 300ml ensiemoplossing/kg koringstrooi te verkry. 'n Vierde groep is behandel slegs met water teen dieselfde toedieningsvlak, en het gedien as 'n kontrole. Die eksperiment is oor 'n periode van 6 weke uitgevoer. Tydens die proeftydperk is voerinnames, weeklikse gewigstoenames, sowel as voeromsetverhoudings, gedokumenteer. Resultate het betekenisvolle gewigstoenames in die hoe (lOml/kg) en medium (5ml/kg) groepe opgelewer, aangedui deur 'n P-waarde van 0.04. Voeromsetverhoudinge het ook verbeteringe getoon vir bogenoemde twee groepe (P=0.05), terwyl voerinnames nie merkbaar tussen die vier groepe verskil het nie.

A series of studies was conducted using SEM in conjunction with chemical analysis, in situ and in vitro digestion techniques, to characterize the anatomical components from barley, corn, sorghum and wheat grains which constitute "fiber" and investigate their susceptibility to rumen microbial digestion. Fractured grains were used to identify anatomical features and cell types prior to and after extraction or digestion. Certain anatomical features, including pericarp tissue, aleurone cells, endosperm cell walls, corneous and floury endosperm tissue and lemma and palea from barley, were easily identifiable in fractured and ground grains, and in neutral detergent extracted or digested residues. In situ and in vitro incubation conditions were varied to assess the effect of concentrate and/or reduction of pH on the disappearance of identifiable grain fractions. In situ incubations were conducted using steers adapted to 0-, 30- and 90% concentrate diets. In vitro inoculum buffered at pH 7 or 6 was provided by a steer fed 0- or 90% concentrate. Tissues resistant to rumen microbial digestion during extended (144-h) in situ incubations and shorter term (12- to 48-h) in vitro incubations were primarily those identified in NDF, and included pericarp, lemma and palea, and small amounts of corneous endosperm. Remaining tissues identified included barley lemma, palea and pericarp; corn pericarp, tip cap and small amounts of corneous endosperm; sorghum pericarp and corneous endosperm with matrix and protein bodies; and wheat pericarp. In vitro disappearance of isolated NDF after 48-h ranged from 43% for barley to 89% for corn. Labile structures included embryonic tissue and portions of endosperm cell walls, protein matrix and residual starch. Resistant tissues included pericarp, aleurone cell walls, tip cap and portions of the corneous endosperm. Relative rankings of NDF digestibility under all conditions studied were similar (corn > sorghum > wheat > barley) whether determined using isolated NDF or calculated from TIVDMD residues. Neither concentrate level fed to the host animal nor pH of the in vitro incubation flask affected rankings among grains, although increasing concentrate level and/or reducing pH appeared to reduce in vitro NDF disappearance. Evaluation of electron micrographs of fractured grains suggested that similar anatomical structures in the various grains differed in their resistance to microbial digestion. For example, pericarp from barley and wheat appeared to be more resistant than that from corn or sorghum. Endosperm of barley was less resistant than that of sorghum.

Thirty six: Holstein bull calves were assigned to a 3X3 factorial design with ration physical forms of chopped hay (CH), ground hay (GR) and all concentrate (CONC) and rumen degradable nitrogen (RDN) of 30, 45 and 60%. Metabolic body weight, liver weight and blood glucose were greatest in CONC-fed calves. Neither dry matter nor ash content of liver tissue was affected by either physical form or RDN. Within physical form, protein content was highest and fat lowest in livers of CH-fed caIves. Within RDN, livers of calves feel 30% RDN rations had lowest protein and highest fat content. RDN percent had no effect on carbon dioxide production. Livers from CONC-fed calves produced significantly· (P<.05) more carbon dioxide from [1⁻¹⁴C}propionate and [U⁻¹⁴C}lactate.Glucose production from propionate and lactate was greatest for CONC-fed and 60% RDN-fed calves, although significant only from lactate within physical form. Interaction between ration physical form and RDN makes interpretation of propionate data difficult. In 30% RDN-fed calves both lactate and propionate metabolism was similar for GR- and CONC-fed animals. At 45 and 60% RDN rations, CONC- and CH-fed calves had similar gluconeogenic rates from propionate but glucose from lactate was significantly greater in livers of CONC-fed calves compared to GR- and CH-feet animals. Ten lactating and five dry Holstein cows were liver biopsied at various stages of lactation (30,60,90,120,180 days postpartum and dry) and when fed two rations, control ( 18% CF) or high concentrate (HI CONC, 10.5% CF). Lactating cows at 30 and 60 days and dry cows were fed the control ration. After 60 days half the cows remained on the control ration and half the lactating cows were changed to the HI CONC ration. Milk fat percent was depressed in cows fed HI CONC ration. Milk fat percent was depressed in cows fed HI COCC ration. HI CONC cows consumed more dry matter and due to the higher energy content reached a positive energy balance before control cows. Rumen fluid volatile fatty acid production was not affected by stage of Lactation or ration fed. Both plasma glucose and plasma insulin nonsignificantly increased as lactation progressed. Liver tissue protein did not change over lactation but increased when HI CONC ration was fed. Stage of lactation affected (P<.0002) propionate metabolism to carbon dioxide with higher production at 120 days compared to 180 days. By ration, HI CONC cows' livers produced more carbon dioxide than control cows’ livers. Feeding the HI CONC ration significantly increased labelled glucose production. Increased production of both labeled carbon dioxide and glucose by liver from cows fed HI CONC ration was nonsignificant when based on liver protein content. Carbon dioxide/glucose ratio was similar for lactating (>60 days) and dry cows. Cows early in lactation (30 days) had significantly lower carbon dioxide/glucose ratios, indicating a higher glucose production. Ration and stage of lactation are important factors in ruminant metabolism.. Gluconeogenesis, a pathway especially important in ruminants, is affected by both factors. In calves and cows, concentrate rations increased glucose production. Ration RDN, studied in calves, affected lactate metabolism to glucose. The liver of lactating cows showed a greater response (increase in glucose production) to stage of lactation than ration fed demonstrating the importance of energy balance on ruminant metabolism.<br>Ph. D.

Thesis (MScAgric)--Stellenbosch University, 1999.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The rate of hydrolysis of urea in the rumen of animals is a major limitation when considering the substitution of natural protein with urea in the formulation of rations. The aim of this study was to evaluate polymer coated urea prills with variable coating thickness and evaluate its potential as a slow-release NPN compound. A new slowrelease urea compound, made by coating prilled feedgrade urea with a co-polymer of urea-formaldehyde resin and a castor-coconut alkyd was initially evaluated for urea-nitrogen concentration in distilled water in order to evaluate its potential as a slow-release urea product for ruminants. Amino/alkyd or polyester blends are among the cheapest of the modern synthetic systems and are considered because it is non-toxic, low-cost, biodegradable and easy to manufacture. A 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design was used and 16 individual products were made and evaluated. The Wurster method was used to encapsulate urea prills. The slopes of the urea release curves represented the release rate of the encapsulated products and were compared to identify the process variables, which had an effect on release rate. Two of the coating variables, coating weight and alkyd: resin ratio, had a major effect (P = 0.0001) on the release rate of urea. The crushing strength of encapsulated products was significantly (P = 0.0001) higher than that of untreated urea. Results motivated the evaluation of the products in the rumen of sheep in terms of rumen ammonia and blood urea N concentrations. Four slow-release products were made after interpreting results from the first study, and differed on account of the coating weight and the composition of the co-polymer. Fifteen fistulated wethers were randomly allotted into 5 groups and intraruminally received an equivalent of 15g urea. Rumen ammonia and blood ammonia were taken at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36 and 48 h after administration of the various treatments. Slow release urea (SRU) resulted in significantly lower rumen ammonia peaks (P = 0.0001) than untreated urea, while the peaks were also significantly delayed. Untreated urea resulted in the maximum concentration at two hours after administration of the urea (P = 0.0685) while the SRU's reached a maximum at six hours after administration in the rumen. No significant differences between the four different SRU types were found. Responses in blood urea-N was similar to that observed for rumen ammonia nitrogen. The encapsulation was effective in decreasing the rate of ammonia release from the urea for up to six hours after administration. In a third trial four Dehne Merino wethers were used in a 2 x 2 Latin square design. They received a SRU product equivalent to 0.4 g urea per kg body weight orally. Rumen liquor and blood samples were taken at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36 and 48 h after intake. Difficulty was initially experienced with ingestion and palatability of the SRU products due to the strong formaldehyde and butanone odour present in the coating. The maximum rumen ammonia (NH3) concentration for the SRU were lower than that of untreated urea (17.5 mg N/dl vs. 66.9 mg N/dl). The time to reach blood urea levels also differed considerably (6 h vs. 24 h for blood urea nitrogen) between treatments. The encapsulation of urea prills shows potential solutions to reduce the solubility of urea and also reduce the hygroscopic nature of urea and improve the palatability and storage characteristics thereof. Keywords: Slow-release urea, encapsulate, copolymer, urea formaldehyde rumen ammonia, blood urea nitrogen, solubility, palatability, storage characteristics.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die vinnige tempo waarteen ureum in die rumen na ammoniak omgesit word, is die grootste beperking in die optimale benutting van ureum, as vervanging van natuurlike protein in herkouerrantsoene. Die doel van hierdie studie was om 'n stadig vrystellende ureumproduk te ontwikkel wat die rumenammoniakvlak gedurende 'n aansienlike periode van die dag bokant 'n sekere vlak kan hou. 'n Nuwe stadig vrystellende ureumproduk, vervaardig deur ureumkorrels met 'n kopolimeer van ureum-formaldehiedhars en 'n kastor-en klapperalkied te bedek, is geevalueer om die potentiaal as stadig vrystellende nie-protein stikstof (NPN)-produk vir herkouers te ondersoek. Die veiligheid, biodegradeerbaarheid, lae koste en maklike vervaardiging van amino/alkied-kopolimere maak dit een van die goedkoopste sintetiese sisteme om vir stadig vrystellende sisteme te oorweeg. 'n 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 Faktoriale antwerp is gebruik om 16 individuele produkte te vervaardig. Die Wurster-metode is gebruik om individuele korrels te enkapsuleer met die polimeer en die potentiaal van die produkte is aanvanklik geevalueer deur die ureumstikstofvrystelling in gedistilleerde water te meet. Die hellings van die vrystellingsgrafieke is vergelyk om die veranderlikes te bepaal wat die grootste invloed op die vrystellingstempo van ureum uit die ge·inkapsuleerde produkte het. Resultate dui dat twee verandelikes 'n betekenisvolle effek het op die vrystellingstempo, nl. dikte van die omhulsel, en die samestelling van die kopolimeer (P = 0.0001 en P = 0.0135, onderskeidelik) het. Die samedrukbaarheid van die ge ·lnkapsuleerde produkte was ook betekenisvol hoer (P = 0.0001) as die van onbehandelde ureumkorrels, wat lei tot verbeterde bergings- en hanteringseienskappe. lnterpetering van resultate lei tot die vorming van vier stadig vrystellende produkte. Vyf groepe van 3 volwasse rumengefistuleerde Dohnemerinohamels is in 'n proef gebruik om die potentiaal van die produkte verder te ondersoek. 'n Ekwivalent van 15 g ureum is direk in die rumen van elke dier geplaas en ammoniak-en bloed monsters is 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36 & 48 ure na dosering geneem. Die stadig vrystellende ureumprodukte het 'n betekenisvol laer maksimum waardes vir beide ammoniak-en bloedstikstofureum getoon (P = 0.0001 ). Onbehandelde ureum het 'n maksimum rumenammoniakstikstof konsentrasie reeds twee ure na toediening bereik in vergelyking met ses ure vir die stadig vrysellende produkte. Geen betekenisvolle verskille in hierdie parameters is tussen die ge·lnkapsuleerde produkte gevind nie, terwyl geen interaksie is tussen hoofeffekte voorgekom het nie. In 'n derde proef is vier Dohnemerinohamels gebruik om die vrystellingstempos, in terme van rumenammoniak-en bloedureumstikstof te bepaal waar die stadig vrystellende produk en onbehandelde ureum direk aan die diere gevoer is . 'n Ekwivalent van 0.4 g ureum/kg liggaamsmassa is gevoer. Aanvanklik is inname- en smaakliksheidprobleme ondervind, moontlik as gevolg van die sterk butanoon-en formaldehiedreuk van die omhulsel. Die rumenammoniakstikstof het 'n laer maksimum (17.5 vs. 66.9 mg N/1 00 ml) as die van onbehandelde ureum gehad terwyl die tyd wanneer maksimum konsentrasie bereik word ook aansienlik later was. Die polimeer inkapsulering van ureumkorrels toon potensiaal as 'n stadig vrystellende ureumproduk deurdat dit die oplosbaarheid van ureum in die rumen verlaag. Bykomende voordele is dat die omhulsel die higroskopisiteit verlaag en die samedrukbaarheid verhoog, beide eienskappe wat die hantering-en bergingseienskappe bevorder. Sleutelwoorde: Stadig vrystellende ureum, enkapsulering, kopolimeer, ureumformaldehied, rumenammoniak, bloed ureum stikstof, oplosbaarheid, smaaklikheid, bergingseienskappe.

Thesis (MSc)--Stellenbosch University, 2001.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The use of fungal enzymes as ruminant feed digestibility enhancers was investigated. Currently, ruminants may not digest 38 to 80 % of fibrous forages' content. A renewed interest in the potential of feed enzymes for ruminants was prompted by the high costs of livestock production, together with the availability of newer enzyme preparations. Direct application of enzyme preparations can improve in vitro dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) degradation, indicating that direct-fed fibrolytic enzymes may be effective in enhancing in vivo digestion of forages. Two commercial enzyme products, Fibrozyme and Celluclast, and fungal extracellular enzyme extracts from Aureobasidium pullulans, Trichoderma reesei, Aspergillus aculeatus, and Thermomyces lanuginosus were evaluated for enhancing in vitro feed digestibility. Fibrozyme addition to both wheat straw and lucerne hay did not improve their in vitro digestibilities, even after a two hour pre-incubation period. The four fungal enzyme extracts did not enhance wheat straw's digestibility, but marginal increases were evident for lucerne hay. Celluclast addition resulted in marginal increases in the digestibility of both oat hay and oat silage, with no enhanced effect on lucerne hay and NaOH-treated wheat straw. No relationship could be found between the level of enzyme activity and the degree of feed digestion in the in vitro assay. Enzyme hydrolysis with Celluclast, in the absence of rumen fluid, gave more conclusive results. All the feed samples tested showed a positive response to Celluclast addition, even the less digestible feeds, namely sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw. In vitro results show that the assays were unsuccessful, because almost all of the experiments conducted showed inconclusive results. Alternative feed evaluation assays, which include the in vivo, in sacco and in situ methods of analysis, as well as gas production measurement and in vitro analysis with the DAISyII system, should be evaluated. A more detailed study of feed digestibility should be motivated by determining which feeds are hydrolysable, their chemical composition, i.e. how accessible the feeds are, and also evaluation of feed mixtures. The enzyme supplements also need to be evaluated for optimum temperature and pH, as well as the compilation of enzyme cocktails.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die gebruik van swamensieme om die verteerbaarheid van herkouervoere te verhoog, is ondersoek. Tussen 38 en 80 % van veselagtige voere se inhoud is tans onverteerbaar. 'n Hernieude belangstelling in die potensiaal van voerensieme vir herkouers word deur die hoë koste van veeproduksie, asook die beskikbaarheid van nuwe ensiempreparate gedryf Direkte byvoeging van ensiempreparate kan die in vitro droëmateriaal (DM) en neutrale onoplosbare vesel (NOV) vertering verbeter, wat daarop dui dat fibrolitiese ensieme wat direk gevoer word, effektief mag wees tydens die in vivo vertering van voer. Twee kommersiële ensiemprodukte, Fibrozyme en Celluclast, en die vier ekstrasellulêre ensieme van vier swamme, naamlik Aureobasidium pullulans, Trichoderma reesei, Aspergillus aculeatus, en Thermomyces lanuginosus is vir hul vermoë om die in vitro verteerbaarheid van voere te verbeter getoets. Byvoeging van Fibrozyme by beide koringstrooi en lusernhooi het geen verbetering in hulonderskeie in vitro verteerbaarheid tot gevolg gehad nie, selfs nie eens na 'n twee uur vooraf inkubasieperiode nie. Koringstrooi se verteerbaarheid is nie verbeter deur die byvoeging van die vier swam-ensiempreparate nie, maar 'n minimale verbetering is wel waargeneem in die verteerbaarheid van lusernhooi. Byvoeging van Celluclast het 'n minimale verbetering in beide hawerhooi en hawerkuilvoer se verteerbaarheid tot gevolg gehad, maar geen effek op lusernhooi of NaOH-behandelde koringstrooi se verteerbaarheid nie. Geen verwantskap is tussen die vlak van ensiemaktiwiteit en die mate van vertering tydens die in vitro toets gevind nie. Ensiematiese afbraak met Celluclast, in die afwesigheid van rumenvloeistof, het meer konkrete resultate gelewer. Al die voermonsters het 'n positiewe respons op die byvoeging van Celluclast getoon, selfs ook die minder verteerbare voere, nl. suikerrietbagasse en koringstrooi. In die wyer konteks was die resulate van die in vitro verteringstoetse egter onbeduidend as gevolg van groot variasie in die metings. Alternatiewe voerontledingstoetse, wat moontlik beter resultate mag lewer, sluit in in vivo, in sacco en in situ analises, asook die meting van gasproduksie en in vitro analise met die DAISyII sisteem. 'n Meer uitgebreide studie van voerverteerbaarheid wat die bepaling van die afbraak van voere, hul chemiese samestelling, met ander woorde toeganklikheid van voere, en die ondersoek van voermengsels behels, behoort aandag te geniet. Die ensiemmengsels behoort ook ten opsigte van samestelling, optimum temperatuur en pH ondersoek teword.

Thesis (MScAgric (Animal Sciences))--University of Stellenbosch, 2011.<br>Includes bibliography.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Forages are the main feed components in ruminant production systems for the reason that they are often the major source of energy available to the animal. However, only 10 to 35% of energy intake is available as net energy because the digestion of plant cell walls is not complete. This can significantly affect livestock performance and profits in production systems that use forages as a major source of nutrients of the diet. As a result of low and variable nutritive values of forage feedstuffs, attempts to improve ruminal fibre degradability have been an ongoing research topic. The use of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) has been proposed as means to improve forage digestibility. Positive results with regard to rumen forage digestibility and other animal production traits have consequently been obtained due to increased rumen microbial activity following EFE addition in ruminant diets. Two EFE (Abo 374 and EFE 2) and one commercial yeast preparation were firstly identified and selected for their potential to improve the cumulative gas production (GP) at 24 hours of a range of feed substrates using the in vitro GP system as a screening step to identify the superior EFE products. The different feed substrates were lucerne hay, wheat straw, wheat straw treated with urea and a commercial concentrate diet. An in vitro experiment was undertaken on these four different substrates in order to evaluate the two EFE and the yeast preparation. This was to identify the most promising EFE capable of producing a significant effect on feed digestibility using organic matter digestibility (in vitro true digestibility) and fermentation characteristics (in vitro GP system). Results from the in vitro evaluation showed that EFE significantly enhanced in vitro DM degradability and GP profiles (P < 0.05). Abo 374 enzyme showed potential to increase in vitro microbial protein synthesis (MPS) of GP residues of the concentrate diet. In addition, no correlation was found between the in vitro MPS and the 48 hours cumulative GP of all the tested substrates (P < 0.05; R2 < 0.30). Treatments were found to increase in vitro MPS, feed degradability and the cumulative GP of different quality forages and the concentrate diet, with Abo 374 being the best treatment (P < 0.05). However in vitro responses of EFE were variable depending on the energy concentration and chemical composition of different substrates. Variation in MPS was mostly due to the low recovery of purine derivates with the purine laboratory analysis. On the basis of these results, Abo 374 was selected and consequently further tested in another in vitro and in situ trial using a mixed substrate of lucerne hay and wheat straw. Abo 374 significantly improved the cumulative GP, in vitro DM and NDF disappearance of the mixed substrate (P < 0.05). In addition, no correlation was found between the in vitro MPS and the cumulative GP at 48 hours (P = 0.68; R2 < 0.25). The in situ disappearance of feed nutrients (DM, NDF and CP) with Abo 374 was similar to the control. The lack of significance of disappearance was probably due to the small number of sheep used in the study and the relatively high coefficient of variation associated with measuring ruminal digestion. Abo 374 significantly increased the in situ MPS (P = 0.0088) of the mixed substrate of lucerne hay and wheat straw. Evidence of the increased MPS and both in vitro and in situ disappearance of DM and NDF resulted from the Abo 374 activity during either the pre-treatment or the digestion process. The addition of Abo 374 to the mixed substrate of lucerne hay and wheat straw appeared to have been beneficial for microbial colonization of feed particles as a result of the increased rumen activity. It could be speculated that the primary microbial colonization was thus initiated, leading to the release of digestion products that attract in return additional bacteria to the site of digestion. This EFE may be efficient to produce some beneficial depolymerisations of the surface structure of the plant material and the hydrolytic capacity of the rumen to improve microbial attachment and the feed digestibility thereafter. Therefore, the mechanism of action by which Abo 374 improved the feed digestion can be attributed to the increased microbial attachment, stimulation of the rumen microbial population and synergistic effects with hydrolases of ruminal micro-organisms. With regard to these findings, the addition of EFE in ruminant systems can improve the ruminal digestion of DM, NDF and CP to subsequently enhance the supply of the metabolizable protein to the small intestine. Key words: crude protein (CP), exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE), dry matter (DM), gas production (GP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), microbial protein synthesis (MPS).<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Ruvoere is die hoof-voerkomponent in herkouer produksiesisteme aangesien dit dikwels die vernaamstebron van energie aan herkouer is. Slegs 10 tot 35% van die energie-inname is beskikbaar as netto-enrgie, omdat die vertering van selwande onvolledig is. Dit kan die prestasie en profyt in produksiesisteme drasties beïnvloed waar ruvoere as ’n hoofbron van nutriënte in die dieet gebruik word. Aangesien die nutriëntwaarde van ruvoere laag is en baie varieer, is navorsing vir verbeterde ruminale veselvertering steeds ’n voorgesette onderwerp. Dit is voorgestel dat eksogeniese fibrolitese ensieme (EFE) gebruik kan word vir verbeterde ruvoervertering. Positiewe resultate in ruminale ruvoerverterig en ander diereproduksie-eienskappe, is verkry as gevolg van toenemende rumen mikrobiese aktiwiteit na EFE aanvulling in herkouerdiëte. Twee EFE’s (Abo 374 en EFE 2) en `n gisproduk is geïdentifiseer en geselekteer vir hul potensiaal om die kumulatiewe gasproduksie (GP) na 24 uur met ’n reeks voersubstrate te verbeter met die gebruik van die in vitro GP sisteem as seleksiemetode om die superieure EFE produkte te identifiseer. Die verskillende ruvoersubstrate was lusernhooi, koringstrooi, ureumbehandelde koringstrooi en ’n kommersiële konsentraatdieet. ’n In vitro eksperiment was onderneem om die vier verskillende substrate te gebruik om die twee EFE’s en gisproduk te evalueer. Hierdeur sou die belowendste EFE’s identifiseer kon word wat ’n betekenisvolle effek op ruvoervertering het. Die vertering van ruvoer sal bepaal word deur organiese materiaal vertering (in vitro ware vertering), asook fermentasie-eienskappe (in vitro GP sisteem). Resultate van die in vitro evaluering het getoon dat EFE’s in vitro DM degradering en GP profiele verbeter. Dit blyk dat die Abo 374 ensiem ’n potensiële toemame in in vitro mikrobiese proteïensintese (MPS), soos bepaal deur die GP oorblyfsels van konsentraat diëte, tot gevolg gehad het. Daar was geen korrelasie tussen die in vitro GP en MPS van al die proefsubstrate nie. Dit blyk dat die behandelings ’n toename in in vitro GP, MPS en ruvoerdegradeerbaarheid van lae kwaliteit ruvoer- en konsentraatdiëte gehad het, waar Abo 374 die beste behandeling was. Die in vitro reaksies van die EFE’s was egter wisselend, afhangende van die energiekonsentrasie en die chemiese samestelling van die verskillende substrate. Variasie van MPS was meestal as gevolg van die lae herwinning van purienderivate tydens die purienanalise. Op grond van dié resultate, is Abo 374 geselekteer om verdere toetse in ander in vitro en in situ proewe te doen. Die substraat wat gebruik is, was ’n 1:1 mengsel van lusernhooi en koringstrooi. Abo 374 het die kumulatiewe RP, in vitro DM en NBV verdwyning van die gemengde substraat verbeter. Boonop is geen korrelasie tussen die MPS en in vitro GP gevind nie. In situ verdwyning van DM, NBV en RP was hoër vir Abo 374, maar nie betekenisvol nie. Die gebrek aan betekenisvolle verdwynings mag die gevolg wees van die klein hoeveelheid skape wat in die proef gebruik is, asook die relatiewe hoë koëffisient van variasie wat gepaard gaan met die bepaling van ruminale vertering. Abo 374 het die in situ MPS betekenisvol verhoog. Verhoogde MPS en in vitro en in situ verdwyning van DM en NBV is waargeneemwaarskynlik as gevolg van die aktiwiteit van Abo 374 gedurende die voorafbehandeling óf die verterings proses. Die byvoeging van Abo 374 tot die gemengde substraat van lusernhooi en koringstrooi blyk om voordelig te wees vir mikrobiese kolonisering van voerpartikels as gevolg van ’n toename in rumenaktiwiteit. Die primêre mikrobiese kolonisering het waaarskynlik gelei tot die vrystelling van verteringsprodukte wat addisionele bakterieë na die plek van vertering lok. Die EFE mag geskik wees vir voordelige depolimerisasie op die oppervlakstruktuur van die plantmateriaal, asook verbeterde hidrolitiese kapasiteit van die rumen om sodoende mikrobiese aanhegting, asook ruvoervertering te verbeter. Dus, Abo 374 se meganisme van aksie wat verbeterde ruvoervertering tot gevolg het, kan toegeskryf word aan `n verhoogde mikrobiese aanhegting, stimulering van die rumen mikrobiese populasie en die sinergistiese effek met hidrolases van rumen mikroörganismes. Ten opsigte van die bevindings, kan die byvoeging van EFE in herkouersisteme ruminale vertering van DM, NBV en RP verbeter, wat dan daaropvolgend die dunderm met meer metaboliseerbare proteïn sal voorsien. Sleutelwoorde: eksogene fibrolitiese ensieme (EFE), droëmaterial (DM), ruproteïen (RP), neutraal bestande vesel (NBV), mikrobiese proteïensintese (MPS), gasproduksie (GP).

Four studies were conducted to determine the effect of synchronization of protein and starch degradation on nutrient utilization, microbial protein synthesis and milk production in dairy cows. In Experiment 1, five cereal grains and five protein supplements were compared for extent of solubility and degradability of their starch and nitrogen fractions. Results indicated large differences which permitted their ranking from high to low degradability as follows: grains, oats > wheat > barley > corn > milo protein supplements, soybean meal > cottonseed meal, (CSM) > corn gluten meal > brewers dried grains, (BDG) > blood meal. In Experiment 2, the five grains were incubated for varying times in vitro (with added amylase) or in situ to determine rate and extent of degradation of dry matter, crude protein and starch. Results showed that rate of starch degradation followed a similar, but slightly different trend than in trial 1 (wheat > barley > oats > corn > milo). Rates for DM and CP degradation were similar than those for starch. In Experiment 3, high (barley, HS) and low (milo, LS) degradable starch sources were combined with a high (CSM, HP) and a low (BDG, LP) degradable protein sources to formulate four diets; HSHP, HSLP, LSHP and LSLP. Diets were fed to 32 cows, starting two to four weeks postpartum, for a 60-d milk production and digestibility study. Apparent digestibility was calculated using chromium oxide. Organic matter digestibility was higher (P < .05) was found in nutrient output to the small intestine among diets and microbial CP synthesis was higher (P > .05) for barley diets.

Studies were conducted to determine the effects of feeding lasalocid and monensin upon mineral status of ruminants, changes in digestive and renal physiology which bring about altered mineral status, and the effects of dietary K upon the actions of ionophores. Two 84-d grazing trials were conducted with steers fed no ionophore, 200 mg lasalocid, or 150 mg monensin. Monensin tended to increase gain of steers, but lasalocid had no effect. Feeding supplemental lasalocid and monensin altered Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Cu, Fe and Zn status of grazing steers, but effects were not consistent. Twenty-four crossbred steers were individually fed in a 147-d finishing trial to study a possible K x monensin interaction. Steers were fed diets ad libitum containing .4% or 2.3% K, with or without 23 ppm monensin, dry basis. Feeding monensin with low K increased serum Na, Mg, inorganic P, Cu and Zn, but monensin fed with high K had no effect or decreased these serum minerals. Fifteen wethers, fitted with abomasal and ileal cannulae, were fed a basal diet alone or supplemented with 23 ppm lasalocid or monensin; Apparent absorption of Mg, K and Fe increased when ionophores were fed. Magnesium flow through the small and large intestines was decreased by lasalocid and monensin. Effects of lasalocid and monensin differed for metabolism, digestive tract flow and (or) partial absorption of Ca, P, Cu, Fe and Zn. Twelve ewe lambs were used in a renal clearance experiment. Lambs were fed a basal diet with no ionophore, 23 ppm lasalocid, or 23 ppm monensin, dry basis. Ionophores were fed starting on d 1 of the experimental period. Serial collections of blood and urine were made during d 1 and d 5 of the experimental period. Monensin reduced urine flow rate at d 1 and d 5. Feeding monensin lowered serum clearance and urinary excretion rates of Na and K at d 5. Serum clearance and urinary excretion rates of Ca were lower in sheep fed ionophores at d 1. Feeding monensin decreased serum clearance and urinary excretion rates of Cu at d 1. At d 5, urinary excretion rates of Zn were greater when lasalocid was fed, and lower when monensin was fed, compared to feeding no ionophore. These studies indicate that dietary lasalocid and monensin can alter mineral status of ruminants, although their effects may differ. The effects of ionophores may be dependent upon dietary K levels.<br>Ph. D.

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 196-220) Studies the growth, body composition, feed intake of grazing animals, the use of anabolic agents, fatty acid composition of ruminants fats; and, the effect of saturated fat on human health.

Attempts to improve upon the crude protein feeding system have strived to characterize feedstuffs with respect to ruminal protein degradability. In vitro an in situ procedures fall short of this goal by not accounting for ruminal turnover. Six lactating cows, fitted with ruminal and duodenal cannulae, were utilized for in vivo determination of protein degradability by employing a double-marker system. Treatments were corn silage-based diets supplemented with 2:1 soybean meal:fish meal nitrogen (SF) or 1:2 soybean meal:fish meal nitrogen (FS) at levels of 15. 9 and 16.0 percent protein. Ruminal cobalt ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (CoEDTA) infusions marked liquid phase (LP) digesta and Yb-soaked hay was used as a solid phase (SP) marker. Duodenal digesta was separated into SP and LP at 3000xg. Least squares means of LP flows did not differ for total, precipitable protein, or microbial nitrogen, for SF and FS. Total solid phase flow of dry matter was higher for FS (9.06 kg/d) than for SF (7.97 kg/d), although intakes did not differ. Milk composition and yield did not differ for FS and SF. Average daily gain was 0.12 kg/d for SF and 1:26 kg/d for FS. Whole-tract digestibilties were not different although rumen digestibility of dry matter was 24.9% for FS and 35.7% for SF, and duodenal recovery of N was 93.8% for SF and 107.5% for FS. Inclusion of a higher level of fish meal in the diet increased the proportion of feed proteins delivered to the small intestine, increasing weight gain while having no effect on milk production.<br>Master of Science

Thesis (MScAgric) -- University of Stellenbosch, 2002.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Low quality roughage is often used in the Western Cape as the only source of roughage for the young growing ruminant. Production levels of these animals is unsatisfactory and therefore supplementation is required. It is necessary when small grains are fed to also include protein sources in the diets. For high production, these protein sources must also be protected against rumen degradation. Good results are reported with the treatment of sunflower oilcakemeal (SFOCM) with formaldehyde (0.86 g formaldehyde per 100 g protein). Protecting methionine with 2-methyl maleic anhydride results in an increase in wool production. This study looked at the effect on dry matter intake (DM-intake), wool production and live weight change with supplementing a low quality diet with urea, SFOCM and formaldehyde protected SFOCM (FSFOCM). These diets where also supplemented with no methionine, methionine and 2-methyl maleyl methionine (MMM). The DM-intake of total diet are increased (P<0.05) with the supplementing of oats straw and barley (1.1% of live weight) diet with SFOCM and FSFOCM (949 & 935 vs 848 gis/d). Supplementing MMM decreased (P<0.05) the DM-intake with 9 %. Supplementing FSFOCM increased (P<0.05) live weight change from 19 to 44 gis/d. Wool production are increased (P<0.05) with 38 % with supplementation of MMM. The apparent digestibility of crude protein (CP) of the urea diet are increased (P<0.05) by supplementing methionine when compared with no methionine supplementation (67.28 vs. 71.23 %). The apparent digestibility of crude protein (CP) of the SFOCM diet (63.71 and 64.96 vs. 70.15 %) and FSFOCM diet (66.39 and 66.26 vs. 70.89 %) are increased (P<0.05) by supplementing MMM when compared with no methionine and methionine supplementation. The apparent digestibility of fat of the SFOCM diet (61.01 and 65.65 vs. 48.33 %) and FSFOCM diet (60.93 and 63.83 vs. 38.14 %) are decreased (P<0.05) by supplementing MMM when compared with no methionine and methionine supplementation. The apparent nitrogen balance of the SFOCM diet (-0.15 and 5.41 vs. 4.62 gis/d) and FSFOCM diet (2.93 and 5.60 vs. 6.02 gis/d) are increased (P<0.05) by supplementing MMM when compared with no methionine and methionine supplementation. The DM- and CP-degradability of barley and DM-degradability of oats straw did not differ (P<0.05) between different protein treatments. The higher production with the supplementation of amino acids and proteins can be associated with more amino acids available in the lower digestibility tract and not as a result of better rumen function.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die benutting van strooi as 'n laegraadse ruvoer deur die jong groeiende herkouer is 'n algemene praktyk wat in die Weskaap toegepas word. Produksie is egter laag en aanvulling van beperkende voedingstowwe is dus noodsaaklik. Saam met kleingrane word proteïenbronne meestal as aanvulling gebruik. Vir hoë produksie is dit dikwels nodig om proteïen aan te vul wat teen ruminale afbraak beskerm word. Die formaldehiedbehandeling (0.86 g formaldehied per 100 g proteïen) van sonneblomoliekoekmeel (SBOKM) is alreeds baie suksesvol toegepas vir die beskerming van proteïen teen ruminale afbraak. Deur metionien met dimetielmaleïelsuuranhidried te beskerm, is wolproduksie verhoog. Die studie het die effek van aanvulling van ureum, SBOKM en formaldehiedbehandelde SBOKM (FSBOKM) saam met geen metionien, metionien en 2,3 - dimetielmaleïelmetionien (MMM) op droëmateriaal (DM) -inname, wolproduksie en liggaamsmassaverandering ondersoek. Die DM-inname van jong Merinohamels op 'n hawerstrooi en gars (1.1% van liggaamsmassa) dieet is verhoog (P<0.05) deur die aanvulling van SBOKM en FSBOKM (949 & 935 vs 848 g/s/d). Die DM-inname is egter met 9 % verlaag (P<0.05) deur aanvulling van MMM. Die aanvulling van FSBOKM het die liggaamsmassatoename verhoog (P<0.05) van 19 na 44 gIs/d. Wolproduksie is met 38% (P<0.05) deur MMM-aanvulling verhoog. Die skynbare verteerbaarheid van ruproteïen (RP) by die ureumbehandeling is verhoog (P<0.05) met metionienaanvulling teenoor geen metionienaanvulling (67.28 vs. 71.23%). By SBOKM (63.71 en 64.96 vs. 70.15%) en FSBOKM-behandelings (66.39 en 66.26 vs. 70.89%) is skynbare verteerbaarheid van RP verhoog (P<0.05) met MMM-aanvulling teenoor metionien- of geen-metionienaanvulling. By SBOKM (61.01 en 65.65 vs. 48.33%) en FSBOKM-behandelings (60.93 en 63.83 vs. 38.14%) is skynbare verteerbaarheid van vet verlaag (P<0.05) met MMM-aanvulling teenoor metionien- of geen metionienaanvulling. By SBOKM (-0.15 en 5.41 vs. 4.62 gIs/d) en FSBOKM-bahandelings (2.93 en 5.60 vs. 6.02 gIs/d) is skynbare N-balans verlaag (P<0.05) met MMM-aanvulling teenoor metionien- of geen-metionienaanvulling. Die effektiewe verteerbaarheid van DM en RP van gars en effektiewe verteerbaarheid van DM van strooi is nie beïnvloed (P>0.05) deur die aanvulling van proteïen nie. Die verhoogde produksie kan dus geassosieer word met 'n verhoogde voorsienning van aminosure in die SVK deur aanvulling en nie weens verbetering in die rumenfunksie nie.

Bibliography: leaves 107-130. This study evaluates quality of fermentation of the silage and also its nutritive value to ruminants on the basis of "in vitro" and "in sacco" digestability. Animal response to the silage is also evaluated in an "in vivo" digestability and nitrogen balance trial with Australian Merino sheep. The objective of this thesis is to investigate the opportunities for utilising citrus pulp and poultry litter to improve the nutritive value of wheat straw.

CNPq; CAPES<br>Este trabalho consistiu em avaliar a composição química e a cinética de degradação ruminal da Aveia branca (Avena sativa L.) cv. URS Guapa submetida a diferentes níveis de adubação nitrogenada: 0, 60, 120 e 240 kg ha-1 de nitrogênio, em dois anos consecutivos, 2013 e 2014. Os dados obtidos das análises bromatológicas e os valores estimados para os parâmetros do modelo de cinética de degradação foram transformados pelo método de Box-Cox. O modelo estatístico foi ajustado por meio do PROC MIXED do SAS (versão 9.4) usando a máxima verossimilhança restrita (REML) e as variáveis com efeito significativo comparadas através do teste de Tukey-Kramer. Não houve efeito da adubação nitrogenada em nenhum dos anos de cultivo. Os valores observados para as variáveis bromatológicas da cultivar no ano de 2013 foram superiores (p<0,001) para Proteína Bruta (PB), Matéria Mineral (MM), Proteína Insolúvel em Detergente Ácido (PIDA), Carboidratos Solúveis (CHOs) e Carboidratos Não Fibrosos (CNF) em comparação com o ano de 2014. A composição da cultivar em 2014 tendeu a maiores teores de Fibra Insolúvel em Detergente Neutro (FDN), Lignina e Carboidratos Totais (CT). Não houve efeito significativo para os teores de Matéria Seca (MS) e Extrato Etéreo (EE) entre os anos de cultivo. Para os parâmetros da cinética de produção de gás in vitro, a cultivar no ano de 2013 apresentou os valores observados para o volume máximo de gás produzido pela degradação da fração solúvel de rápida digestão (Vf1) e para a taxa específica de produção de gás pela degradação da fração insolúvel potencialmente degradável de digestão lenta (k2) maiores (p<0,001) que 2014. Em 2014 foram observados valores superiores para o volume máximo de gás produzido pela degradação da fração insolúvel potencialmente degradável de digestão lenta (Vf2) e para a latência (L). O parâmetro k1, referente a taxa específica de produção de gás pela degradação da fração solúvel de rápida digestão não foi significativo em nenhum dos períodos experimentais avaliados. A cultivar, especialmente no ano de 2013, apresentou uma elevada qualidade nutricional evidenciada pelos teores de CNF e PB e pelos menores valores de FDN, o que torna o cultivo uma excelente opção para compor pastagens hibernais.<br>This work consisted in evaluating the chemical composition and kinetics of ruminal degradation of white oats (Avena sativa L.) cv. URS Guapa submitted to different levels of nitrogen fertilization: 0, 60, 120 and 240 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, in two consecutive years, 2013 and 2014. The data obtained from the bromatological analyzes and the estimated values for the parameters of the kinetic model of degradation were transformed by the Box-Cox method. The statistical model was adjusted using the PROC MIXED of the SAS (version 9.4) using the maximum restricted likelihood (REML) and the variables with significant effect compared through the Tukey-Kramer test. There was no effect of nitrogen fertilization in any of the growing years. The values observed for the bromatological variables of the cultivar in the year 2013 were higher (P <0.001) for Crude Protein (PB), Mineral Matter (MM), Insoluble Protein Acid Detergent (PIDA), Soluble Carbohydrates (CHOs) Fibrous (CNF) compared to the year 2014. The composition of the cultivar in 2014 tended to higher levels of Insoluble Fiber in Neutral Detergent (NDF), Lignin and Total Carbohydrate (CT). There was no significant effect on the contents of dry matter (DM) and ethereal extract (EE) between the years of cultivation. For the parameters of the in vitro gas production kinetics, the cultivar in the year 2013 presented the values observed for the maximum volume of gas produced by the degradation of the soluble fraction of fast digestion (Vf1) and for the specific rate of gas production by Degradability of the slow degradable fraction of slow digestion (k2) greater than that of 2014. In 2014 higher values were observed for the maximum volume of gas produced by the degradation of the insoluble fraction potentially degradable of slow digestion (Vf2) and for the Latency (L). The parameter k1, referring to the specific rate of gas production by the degradation of the soluble fraction of fast digestion was not significant in any of the evaluated experimental periods. The cultivar, especially in the year 2013, presented a high nutritional quality evidenced by the CNF and CP levels and the lower values of NDF, which makes the crop an excellent option to compose winter pastures.

Thesis (MScAgric) -- Stellenbosch University, 2009.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Ruminants have a compound stomach system that enables them to utilize forages more efficiently than monogastric animals. However, forages alone do not contain sufficient nutrients to meet the requirements of high producing dairy cows. Forages are high in fibre and their nutrient availability depends on the degree of cell wall degradability. Improvements in forage fermentation would increase energy intake and subsequently milk production and performance by dairy cows. It is therefore important to find ways to improve forage degradation and utilization in the rumen. The use of different non-fibre carbohydrate (NFC) sources has different effects on animal performance. Supplementing forage based diets with energy sources containing sugar, starch or pectin results in variation in performance measurements such as milk yield, milk composition and dry matter intake (DMI). This thesis reports on two studies in which the effect of energy supplementation on forage fermentation and digestion parameters was investigated. In the first study an in vitro gas production protocol was used to determine the effect of sugar (molasses), starch (maize meal) and pectin (citrus pulp) on total gas production and rate of gas production of different forages. The forage substrates included wheat straw (WS), oat hay, (OH) lucerne hay (LUC), ryegrass (RYE) and kikuyu grass (KIK). The three energy sources, as well as a control (no energy source) were incubated in vitro with each of the above mentioned forages. Rumen fluid was collected from two lactating Holstein cows receiving a diet consisting of oat hay, lucerne, wheat straw and a concentrate mix. Forages alone (0.25 g DM) and/or together (0.125 g DM) with either molasses (0.1412 g DM), citrus pulp (0.1425 g DM) or maize meal (0.125 g DM) were weighed into glass vials and incubated for 72 hours. The weights of the energy sources were calculated on an energy equivalent basis. Blank vials, that contained no substrates, were included to correct for gas production from rumen fluid alone. The substrates were incubated in 40 ml buffered medium, 2 ml of reducing solution and 10 ml rumen fluid. Gas pressure was recorded automatically every five minutes using a pressure transducer system and the method based on the Reading Pressure Technique (Mauricio et al., 1999). Gas pressure was converted to gas volume using a predetermined regression equation. In the first gas production trial, the gas production included gas produced by the energy sources, while in the second gas production trial, the energy source gas production was deducted from the total gas production to determine the effect of energy source on gas production of respective forage substrates per se. Data were fitted to two non-linear models adapted from Ørskov and McDonald (1979). Significant forage x energy interactions were observed for the non-linear parameter gas production (b) in Model 1 and for b and lag phase (L) in Model 2 in both trials. In the first gas production trial, the higher fermentability of the energy sources supplemented to forage substrates, increased b (Model 1 & 2) of the LUC and WS. The gas production rate was affected in different ways for different forages, with the most noticeable effect on WS when it was supplemented with energy sources. All the energy sources increased c of WS irrespective of the model used. Energy sources had no effect on the L of LUC, OH or RYE, but decreased the L of WS and KIK. In the second trial, maize meal had no effect on b for any of the forages (Model 1 & 2), while molasses (Model 1 & 2) decreased b for all forage substrates, and citrus pulp (Model 1 & 2) decreased b of OH and RYE, to lower values than those of the control treatments. Gas production rate was not affected by molasses for any of the forage substrates, while citrus pulp (Model 1 & 2) increased c of OH and maize meal increased c of OH and KIK. Lag phase was only affected by energy sources in WS and KIK, where all the energy sources had lower L values than the control treatment. It was concluded that forage fermentability is affected differently by different energy sources. These observations may have important implications, in practice, on rumen health and milk production, and the data obtained can potentially be used as guidelines in feed formulations. In the second study, in vitro digestibility trials were undertaken to determine the effect of sugar (molasses and sucrose), starch (maize meal and maize starch) and pectin (citrus pulp and citrus pectin) on neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and dry matter (DM) degradability of forages. Forage substrates used included wheat straw, oat hay, lucerne hay, ryegrass and kikuyu grass. Rumen fluid was collected from two lactating Holstein cows receiving a diet consisting of oat hay, wheat straw and a concentrate mix. In vitro degradability was done with an ANKOM Daisy II incubator and forage substrates were incubated with or without the respective energy sources for 24, 48 and 72 hours. The substrates were incubated in 1076 ml buffered medium, 54 ml of reducing solution and 270 ml rumen fluid. The residues were washed, dried and analyzed for NDF. In the study with the applied energy sources (molasses, maize meal and citrus pulp) there were a forage x energy source interactions. Supplementation with the applied energy sources all improved dry matter degradability (DMD) of forages (24 and 72 hours), when compared to the control treatment, except for RYE supplemented with maize meal and citrus pulp at 24 hours. Molasses seemed to have had the biggest effect on DMD in all forage substrates. Supplementation with maize meal had no effect on neutral detergent fibre degradability (NDFD) of any forage substrate, except for an improvement in NDFD of LUC at 72 hours. Molasses improved NDFD of LUC at 24h, but had no effect on the other forage substrates. Citrus pulp improved NDFD of OH (72 hours), as well as LUC and WS (24 and 72 hours). It is postulated that the NDF of the energy sources was more digestible than that of the respective forages, and that the improved NDFD values could be ascribed to the contribution of the energy source NDFD. Overall, pasture grasses had a higher NDFD than the hays and straw, and appear to be more readily fermentable by rumen microbes than the low quality hays and straw explaining the higher NDFD. In the study involving the purified energy sources (sucrose, maize starch and citrus pectin), forage x energy source interactions were observed. In general, supplementation with these energy sources improved DMD at 24 and 72 hours except for RYE and KIK (72 hours). Pasture grasses (RYE and KIK) had a higher NDFD than LUC, OH and WS. At 72 hours, NDFD was 37.1% for LUC, 42.5% for OH and 40.3% for WS, compared to 70.5% for KIK and 64.9% for RYE. A possible explanation is that KIK and RYE samples came from freshly cut material, harvested after a 28d re-growth period. In general, sucrose (24 and 72 hours) and citrus pectin (72 hours) had no effect on NDFD of forage substrates. However, supplementing oat hay (24 hours) with starch and citrus pectin, and wheat straw (24 and 72 hours) with starch lowered NDFD, when compared to the control treatment. It is hypothesized that microbes fermented the easily fermentable energy sources first, before attacking forage NDF. The study suggested that forage NDFD values are not fixed, and may be altered by type of energy supplementation.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die meervoudige maagsisteem van herkouers stel hulle in staat om ruvoer meer effektief te benut as enkelmaagdiere. Ruvoere alleen bevat egter nie genoeg voedingstowwe om die behoeftes van hoogproduserende melkbeeste te bevredig nie. Ruvoere is ryk aan vesel en hul voedingstofbeskikbaarheid word bepaal deur die graad van selwand degradeerbaarheid. ‘n Verhoging in ruvoerfermentasie sal energieinname verhoog en gevolglik ook melkproduksie en prestasie. Dit is dus belangrik om maniere te vind om ruvoerdegradeerbaarheid en -verbruik in die rumen te verbeter. Die gebruik van verskillende nie-vesel koolhidraat (NFC) bronne het verskillende uitwerkings op die prestasie van diere. Energie-aanvullings soos suiker, stysel en pektien tot ruvoer-gebasseerde diëte, beïnvloed prestasiemaatstawwe soos melkproduksie, melksamestelling en droëmateriaalinname (DMI) op verskillende maniere. Hierdie tesis lewer verslag oor twee studies waar die invloed van energie-aanvullings op ruvoerfermentasie en verteringsmaatstawwe ondersoek is. In die eerste studie is ‘n in vitro gasproduksieprotokol gebruik om die invloed van suiker (melasse), stysel (mieliemeel) en pektien (sitruspulp) op totale gasproduksie (b) en tempo van gasproduksie (c) van verskillende ruvoersubstrate te bepaal. Ruvoersubstrate wat gebruik is, was koringstrooi (WS), hawerhooi (OH), lusernhooi (LUC), raaigras (RYE) en kikuyugras (KIK). Die drie energiebronne, sowel as ‘n kontrole (geen energiebron), is in vitro geïnkubeer saam met elk van die genoemde ruvoere. Rumenvloeistof is verkry van twee lakterende Holsteinkoeie, wat ‘n dieet ontvang het bestaande uit hawerhooi, koringstrooi en ‘n kragvoermengsel. Ruvoere is alleen en/of in kombinasie met melasse (0.1412 g DM), sitruspulp (0.1425 g DM) of mieliemeel (0.125 g DM) in glasbottels afgeweeg en vir 72 uur geïnkubeer. Die massas van die energiebronne is op ‘n energie-ekwivalente basis bereken. Leë bottels wat geen substraat bevat het nie, is ingesluit om te korrigeer vir gasproduksie afkomstig vanaf rumenvloeistof alleen. Substrate is in 40 ml van ‘n buffermedium, 2 ml reduserende oplossing en 10ml rumenvloeistof geïnkubeer. Gasdruk is elke vyf minute outomaties aangeteken deur gebruik te maak van ‘n drukmetersisteem en die metode is gebasseer op die Reading gasdruktegniek. Gasdruk is omgeskakel na gasvolume deur gebruik te maak van ‘n voorafbepaalde regressievergelyking. In die eerste proef het totale gasproduksie die gas wat deur die onderskeie energiebronne geproduseer is, ingesluit. In die tweede proef is gasproduksie afkomstig van die energiebronne afgetrek van totale gasproduksie, om sodoende die invloed van die energiebronne per se op die gasproduksie van die onderskeie ruvoersubstrate, te bepaal. Data is met behulp van twee nie-liniëre modelle gepas. Betekenisvolle ruvoer x energie-interaksies is in albei proewe waargeneem vir die nie-liniëre parameter b (gasproduksie) in Model 1, en vir b en L (sloerfase) in Model 2. In die eerste proef het die energiebronne se hoë fermentasie gelei to ‘n verhoging in b (Model 1 & 2) van LUC en WS. Energie-aanvullings het die c-waarde van die onderskeie ruvoere verskillend beïnvloed, met WS wat die mees opvallende effek gehad het. Al die energiebronne het die c-waarde van WS verhoog, ongeag watter model gebruik is. Energiebronne het geen invloed op die L-waarde van LUC, OH of RYE gehad nie, maar het wel die L-waarde van WS en KIK verlaag. In die tweede proef het mieliemeel geen invloed op die b-waarde van enige van die ruvoere gehad nie (Model 1 & 2), terwyl melasse (Model 1 & 2) die b-waarde van alle ruvoere verlaag het, en sitruspulp (Model 1 & 2) OH en RYE se b waardes verlaag het tot laer as die kontroles. Melasse het geen invloed op die c-waarde van die onderskeie ruvoersubstrate gehad nie, terwyl sitruspulp (Model 1 & 2) die c-waarde van OH, en mieliemeel die c-waarde van OH en KIK, verhoog het. Energiebronne het slegs ‘n invloed op die sloerfase in WS en KIK gehad, waar dit L verlaag het tot laer waardes as dié van die kontroles. Daar is gevind dat ruvoer-fermenteerbaarheid verskillend beïnvloed word deur verskillende energiebronne. Bogenoemde resultate kan in die praktyk betekenisvolle invloede hê op rumengesondheid en melkproduksie en die data wat verkry is, kan potensieël gebruik word as riglyne in voerformulerings. In die tweede studie is in vitro verteerbaarheidsproewe gedoen om die effek van suiker (molasse en sukrose), stysel (mieliemeel en mieliestysel) en pektien (sitruspulp en sitrus-pektien) op neutraalonoplosbare vesel (NDF) en droë materiaal (DM) degradeerbaarheid van ruvoere, te bepaal. Ruvoersubstrate wat gebruik is, was WS, OH, LUC, RYE en KIK. Rumen vloeistof is verkry van twee lakterende Holstein koeie, wat ‘n dieet ontvang het bestaande uit hawerhooi, koringstrooi en ‘n konsentraat mengsel. Die in vitro degradeerbaarheidsproef is gedoen met ‘n ANKOM Daisy II inkubator. Ruvoersubstrate is geïnkubeer met of sonder die onderskeie energiebronne vir 24, 48 en 72 uur. Die substrate is geïnkubeer in 1076 ml buffer medium, 54 ml reduserende oplossing en 270 ml rumen vloeistof. Residue is gewas, gedroog en geanaliseer vir NDF. In die proef met toegepaste energiebronne (molasse, mieliemeel en sitruspulp), was daar ruvoer x energiebron interaksies. Toegepaste energiebron aanvullings het almal DMD van ruvoersubstrate (24 en 72 uur) verbeter, uitsluitend vir RYE wat aangevul is met mieliemeel (24 uur) en sitruspulp (24 uur). Van al die ruvoersubstrate het molasse die grootste effek gehad op DMD. Mieliemeel aanvullings het geen effek gehad op neutraal-onoplosbare vesel degradeerbaarheid (NDFD) van ruvoersubstrate nie, behalwe vir ‘n verbetering in NDFD van LUC by 72 uur. Molasse het NDFD van lucern by 24 uur verbeter, maar geen effek gehad op ander ruvoersubstrate nie. Sitruspulp het NDFD van OH (72 uur), asook LUC en WS (24 & 72 uur) verbeter. Daar word beweer dat die NDF van energiebronne meer verteerbaar is as die van ruvoersubstrate, en dat die verbetering in NDFD waardes toegeskryf kan word aan die bydraes van energiebronne se NDFD. Weidingsgrasse (RYE & KIK) het oor die algemeen ‘n hoër NDFD as hooie en strooi gehad. Rumen mikrobes blyk ook om dié grasse vinniger te verteer as lae kwaliteit hooie en strooi, wat gevolglik die hoër NDFD verduidelik. In die proef met suiwer energiebronne (sukrose, mieliestysel en sitrus-pektien) is ruvoer x energiebron interaksies waargeneem. Energiebronaanvullings het DMD by 24 en 72 uur verbeter, buiten vir RYE en KIK (72 uur). Weidingsgrasse het hoër NDFD as LUC, OH en WS. By 72 uur was die NDFD van LUC 37.1%, OH 42.5%, WS 40.3%, in vergelyking met 70.5% vir KIK en 64.9% vir RYE. ‘n Moontlike verklaring vir die hoër NDFD van KIK en RYE, is omdat dit vars gesnyde material is, geoes na slegs 28 dae hergroei. Oor die algemeen het sukrose (24 & 72 uur) en sitrus-pektien (72 uur) geen effek gehad op NDFD van ruvoersubstrate nie, terwyl stysel en pektien aanvullings tot OH (24 uur), en stysel aanvullings tot WS (24 & 72 uur) NDFD verlaag het. Daar word hipotetieseer dat mikrobes eers die vinnig fermenteerbare energiebronne fermenteer, voordat hulle ruvoer NDF aanval. Hierdie studie beweer dat ruvoer NDFD waardes nie vas is nie, en dat dié waardes beïnvloed mag word deur energiebron aanvullings.

Thesis (MScAgric)--University of Stellenbosch, 2000.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Statistical analysis was conducted on data from two Elsenburg herds, containing 105 Jersey and 232 Holstein cows. The data was examined for external factors which may affect milk yield and milk composition. The data consisted of 337 first lactation records, taken over a 20 year time period. Breed of cow had an effect on milk yield, butterfat and protein production, as did the year in which the cows were born and the age of the heifer at first calving. There was a significant interaction between the breed and year of birth. There are other external factors, which are difficult to quantify, which may have an effect on production. In the following trials, eight ruminally cannulated dairy cows (four Jerseys and four Holsteins) were used to determine the effect of breed on forage digestibility in the rumen. All cows received a high concentrate mixed ration, with supplementary wheat straw. An in situ rumen degradability trial was conducted with three different forages, viz. lucerne, wheat straw and NaOH-treated wheat straw. The bags were incubated in the rumen for time intervals of 2,4, 8, 12, 16,20,24, 36,48, 72 and 96 hours and samples were analysed for dry matter (DM) and neutral-detergent fibre (NDF). Higher rumen degradability values (P<0.01) ofDM and NDF were observed in Jerseys for all three forages. Differences were more apparent for wheat straw and treated wheat straw than for lucerne. The rate of passage of digesta from the rumen was measured in both breeds by a chromium mordanted wheat straw marker. The Holsteins manifested a higher rate of passage (P<0.05) than the Jerseys, while daily feed intakes were also higher (P<O.Ol) for the Holsteins than for the Jerseys. Daily feed intake, expressed as percentage of body weight was, however, slightly higher for the Jerseys than for the Holsteins. The pH value of the rumen fluid was measured at 0, 4, 8, 10 and 12 hours postfeeding. The only significant difference (P<O.OI)in pH between the breeds was at 4 hours post-feeding, when the ruminal pH dropped more rapidly in the Holsteins than in the Jerseys. The pH in the Holsteins dropped below 6.2, which may have inhibited fibrolytic microbe activity in the rumen, resulting in a lower effective degradability of forages. Total volatile fatty acids were higher in Holsteins from four to 10 hours after feeding, but no differences were observed in acetic acid:propionic acid ratios. It was concluded that Jerseys appear to utilize forages more efficiently than Holsteins and that the differences are more apparent in low quality forages than in high quality forages.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Statistiese analises is op data van twee kuddes te Elsenburg uitgevoer, bestaande uit 105 Jersey- en 232 Holsteinkoeie. Die data is ondersoek vir eksterne faktore wat melkproduksie en melksamestelling kan beinvloed. Die data het uit 337 eerste-laktasierekords bestaan, wat oor 'n periode van 20 jaar ingesamel is. Ras van die koei, sowel as die jaar van geboorte en ouderdom met eerste kalwing het 'n invloed op melkproduksie, bottervet- en proteienopbrengs gehad. 'n Betekenisvolle interaksie is tussen ras en jaar van geboorte waargeneem. Ander moeilik kwantifiseerbare faktore mag ook 'n invloed op melkproduksie he. In daaropvolgende proewe is agt rumen-gekannuleerde melkkoeie (vier Jerseys en vier Holsteins) gebruik om die invloed van ras op ruvoerverteerbaarheid in die rumen te bepaal. Al die koeie het 'n hoe-kragvoerdieet ontvang, aangevul met koringstrooi. 'n In situ rumendegradeerbaarheidstudie is met drie verskillende ruvoere, naamlik lusernhooi, koringstrooi en NaOH-behandelde koringstrooi uitgevoer. Die ruvoere is vir tye van 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36, 48, 72 en 96 ure in die rumen geinkubeer en monsters is ontleed vir droemateriaal (DM) en neutraal-bestande vesel (NDF). Hoer rumen-degradeerbaarheidswaardes (P<O.Ol) van DM en NDF is in Jerseys waargeneem as in Holsteins vir al drie ruvoere. Verskille was meer opvallend vir koringstrooi en NaOH-behandelde koringstrooi as vir lusem. Uitvloeitempo van digesta uit die rumen is in beide rasse met behulp van chroomgemerkte koringstrooi bepaal. Hoer uitvloeitempo's is in die Holsteins waargeneem as in die Jerseys, terwyl daaglikse voerinnames ook hoer was (P<O.05) by die Holsteins as by die Jerseys. Daaglikse voerinname, uitgedruk as persentasie van liggaamsmassa, was egter effens hoer (P<O.OI)by die Jerseys as by die Holsteins. Die pH van die rumenvloeistof is op 0, 4, 8, 10 en 12 ure na voeding gemeet. Die enigste betekenisvolle verskil (P<O.OI)in pH tussen die rasse het op 4 ure na voeding voorgekom toe die pH van die rumeninhoud vinniger in die Holsteins as in die Jerseys gedaal het. Die pH in die Holsteins het onder 6.2 gedaal, wat moontlik fibrolitiese mikrobe-aktiwiteit in die rumen kon inhibeer, met 'n gevolglike daling in effektiewe degradeerbaarheid van die ruvoere. Vanaf 10 ure na voeding was die totale vlugtige vetsuurkonsentrasies hoer in die Holsteins, maar geen verskille in asynsuur:propionsuurverhoudings is waargeneem nie. Die gevolgtrekking is gemaak dat Jerseys skynbaar meer doeltreffend is om ruvoere te benut as Holsteins en dat die verskil tussen rasse meer opvallend is vir lae kwaliteit ruvoere as vir hoe kwaliteit ruvoere.

Fire is generally used as a management tool for different vegetation types such as savannas and grasslands in southern Africa. In the False Thornveld of the Eastern Cape, fire is commonly used to control bush encroachment and to increase grass production, as grasses are important source of forage for domestic livestock. At the University of Fort Hare farm in the Eastern Cape, a trial was set up in 1980 to investigate the effect of burning frequency on vegetation. There are six treatments replicated twice in a completely randomized design on a 100 m x 50 m plots. The treatments comprise no burn, annual, biennial, triennial, quadrennial and sexennial burns. From this trial a study was conducted to investigate long term effect of burning frequency on species and soil seed bank diversity. Two 100 m line transects located 25 m apart were laid within each plot, and the herbaceous and woody species were identified and recorded along the line transects. Relative abundances (%) for each species were calculated for each treatment. Soil samples were collected at an interval of 13.3 m along the line transects. The samples were placed in paper bags and kept for use in a germination experiment. The seedling emergence germination method was used in the glasshouse to determine emerging seedlings, pots were filled with Hygromix growth medium and the soils from the fire trials 12 X 6 = 72 were spread on top. Soil from the control plots were also pre-treated with heat, smoke and the combination of heat and smoke. The experiment started in January 2010 and was terminated in April 2010. The Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index was used to determine species diversity for standing vegetation and germinated seedlings. Data were tested for normality and species abundances were transformed. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to test treatment effects on geminated seedlings, species abundance and diversity at α = 0.05 significance level. Significant differences between treatment means were determined by post v hoc tests using Fischer‟s Least Significant Difference test at α = 0.05. The Pearson Moment Correlation test was used to test the relationship between vegetation and soil seed banks. Treatments had significant effects on herbaceous, woody species abundance and diversity (P < 0.05), but there was no significant treatment effect on soil seed bank diversity and on pre-germination treatments (P > 0.05). The annual, biennial and triennial burns were dominated by Themeda triandra while the quadrennial, sexennial and the control treatments were dominated by Sporobolus fimbriatus and Melica decumbens. A. karroo dominated the woody component across all treatments, but it did not change in abundance. S. fimbriatus was the most abundant in the soil seed bank across all the treatments and also in all pre-germination treatments. Species diversity was high in standing vegetation in the quadrennial, sexennial and the control treatments. There was no significant correlation between the standing vegetation and soil seed bank diversities (P > 0.05). Based on these findings it is apparent that fire can change vegetation in an area to be dominated by fire tolerant or fire intolerant species. Fire frequency, heat and smoke affects soil seed banks to a lesser extent in the False Thornveld. For the management of the False Thornveld of the Eastern Cape, less frequent burning is recommended as it increases aboveground species diversity.

[Truncated abstract] Antimicrobial growth promoters are added to feed to prevent lactic acidosis in ruminant animals by selectively inhibiting rumen bacteria that produce lactic acid. However, recently imposed or impending bans on the use of antimicrobial growth promoters in animal production have lead to a critical need to find practical alternatives that are safe for the animal and consumer and that obtain similar production benefits. I investigated bioactive plants of Australia for their potential to prevent lactic acidosis in ruminants. The unifying hypothesis tested was that plants would be identified that selectively inhibit lactic acid-producing bacteria and consequently protect against lactic acidosis. This hypothesis was tested in a three phase process: phase 1, plant selection and collection; phase 2, a three stage protocol for screening plants and essential oils; phase 3, in vivo experiments and chemical fractionation of the most promising plant. I developed an in vitro bioassay that simulated acidosis by adding glucose to rumen fluid in Bellco tubes and incubating for 5 h (Chapter 4). The pH and gas production were used as indicators of acidosis and fermentation activity. I used this bioassay to screen ninety-five plants (dried and ground material from 79 species) and ten essential oils and included a negative control (oaten chaff) and a positive control (virginiamycin). One plant, Eremophila glabra, produced a similar pH (5.63) to the positive control (5.43) although it inhibited gas production to a moderate extent (P < 0.05). ... Seven serrulatane diterpenes were identified to be the major secondary metabolites in E. glabra. The metabolites were screened using a broth dilution and microtitre spectrophotometry method and were selective against S. bovis at between 320 and 1077 [mu]g/ mL. The serrulatanes from E. glabra were probably responsible for the activity against acidosis that I observed in vitro, because they selectively inhibited lactateproducing bacteria. It is also possible that a synergy between serrulatanes and possibly other metabolites are responsible for the activity observed in vitro. The results from my experiments support the role that bioactive plants may have to replace the antibiotics that are added to livestock feed. Australian plants were identified containing compounds that were active against the bacterial processes responsible for ruminant acidosis. To my knowledge this is the first work undertaken to identify bioactive plants of Australia for their potential to prevent acidosis. I developed in vitro screening bioassays that targeted key indicators of acidosis. These bioassays enabled me to identify 5 plants from the 104 screened that could potentially control acidosis. One of these plants in particular, E. glabra, showed a level of activity in vitro that was comparable to antibiotic protection against acidosis. The exciting in vitro results were not demonstrated in vivo but only one dose level of E. glabra was used, which was based on the in vitro work. In contrast to the in vitro system the rumen is a continuous flow system with greater complexity and it is possible that the concentration of E. glabra that I used in vivo was not optimum. This places importance on future dose response experiments to confirm the efficacy of E. glabra in vivo.

Thesis (MSc)--Stellenbosch University, 2000.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Six groups each with six Friesian bull calves were used in this investigation and slaughtered at 20 weeks of age. Calves received a low- (LD) or high (HD) degradable protein diet, each with or without rumen inert fat supplementation. Two commercial fat sources were used, Morlae (m) and Golden Flake (gf), included at 2.5% of the diet. A commercial milk replacer (Denkavit) was fed at 4L for 42 days, followed by 2L until weaning at 49 days of age. The starter diets were fed ad lib. from day 14 to 10 weeks of age and finishing diets ad lib. from 11 to 20 weeks of age. There were no significant differences in body mass gain or dry matter intake over the entire 20 week period. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved significantly (P=0.0032) when fat was supplemented to LD, but not to HD diets. The FCR (kg dry matter/ kg gain) ofLD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgfand HDgfdiets were 3.45,3.44,3.07, 3.81, 3.02 and 3.43, respectively. All 36 calves were used in a digestibility trial, using chromium oxide (Cr203) as a marker, during week 18 of the investigation. Digestibility values (%) for the six diets (LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgfand HDgf) were 61.74, 65.91, 75.44, 69.00, 75.54 and 67.15 for dry matter, 61.44, 61.60, 71.33, 68.23, 75.44 and 66.12 for crude protein and 58.56, 66.45, 75.98, 70.92, 78.43 and 70.79 for fat, respectively. The dry matter (P=O.OOOl)and fat (P=O.OOOl) digestibilities were only significantly higher when fat was added to LD diets. The crude protein (CP) digestibilities were significantly higher when fat was added to either the LD (P=0.0001) or the HD (P=0.0488) diets. All the calves were slaughtered at 20 weeks of age and the fatty acid content of the meat (m. longissimus) and subcutaneous fat layer adjacent to the 12th rib as well as the meat colour, was determined. The fatty acid composition of the longissimus muscle was changed by feeding the rumen inert fat sources. The three predominant fatty acids found were palmitic, stearic and oleic acids. The palmitic acid (CI6:0) content of the muscle and diet was 24.44 & 20.47,25.97 & 22.57,31.06 & 33.23, 30.98 & 37.91, 34.94 & 31.77 and 29.71 & 32.88 of the total fat for the LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf and HDgf diets, respectively. The C16:0 content was significantly higher in the muscle of the calves receiving the LD diets supplemented with fat (P=0.0008). There was also a significant interaction between the two fat sources and protein degradability (P=0.0065), but only in the LD diets. The stearic acid (CI8:0) content of the muscle and diet was 14.35 & 5.22, 19.65 & 8.61, 17.29 & 4.68, 22.59 & 5.78, 22.27 & 15.54, and 26.48 & 20.15 of the total fat for the LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgfand HDgfdiets, respectively. The C18:0 content was significantly higher in the muscle of calves receiving the HD (P=O.OOOl)compared to LD diets. The stearic acid content was also significantly higher when fat was added to LD (P=0.0042) or HD (P=0.0073) diets. The oleic acid (CI8:1) content of the muscle and diet was 36.06 & 21.51,39.99 & 21.11,32.21 & 23.67, 29.13 & 24.59, 25.23 & 18.68 and 35.93 & 16.02 of the total fat for the LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf and HDgf diets, respectively. The linolenic acid (CI8:3) content of the muscle was significantly higher (P=0.0038) when fat was added to LD diets compared to no fat supplementation (0.87 vs. 0.15). The CIELAB values indicated that LD diets resulted in more pink meat. Mean values ofL* =-32.61, 34.19; a* = 7.08, 7.91 and b* = 3.18 and 4.07 were observed for the LD and HD diets, respectively. Meat from the LD diets had significantly lower L*-(P=0.0252), a*-(P=0.0283) and b*-(P=0.0109) values compared to meat from the HD diets. It was concluded that there was a positive response in CP digestibility when rumen inert fats were supplemented to LD or HD diets, although a greater response was shown in the LD diets. The FCR, dry matter and fat digestibility were only increased when fat was added to the LD and not to the HD diets. Similarly, the fatty acid contents of the longissimus muscle of veal calves can be manipulated with the supplementation of rumen inert fat sources, but only when combined with a low protein degradable diet. The low degradable protein diets also produce a more attractive meat colour for the potential veal consumer.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Ses behandelings, lae- (LD) of hoë (HD) degradeerbare diëte, elk met of sonder rumeninerte vetsupplementering, is geëvalueer met ses kalwers in elke groep. Twee kommersiële vetbronne is gebruik, nl. Morlae (m) en Golden Flake (gf) teen 'n 2.5% insluitingspeil. 'n Kommersiële melksurrogaat (Denkavit) is aangebied teen 4L1dag tot 42 dae ouderdom, gevolg deur 2L/dag tot speenouderdom op 49 dae. Aanvangsdiëte is ad lib. aangebied vanaf 14 dae tot 10 weke ouderdom en die groeidiëte ad lib. vanafweek 11 tot 20. Daar was geen betekenisvolle verskille in die totale massatoename of die droëmateriaalinname nie. Die voeromsettingsverhouding is betekenisvol verbeter (P=0.0032) in die behandelings waarin rumeninerte vette by LD diëte ingesluit is, maar nie by die HD diëte nie. Die voeromsettingsverhouding (kg droëmateriaalinname / kg massatoename) van die LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf en HDgf diëte was 3.45, 3.44, 3.07, 3.81, 3.02 en 3.43, onderskeidelik. Al 36 kalwers is in 'n verteringsproef gebruik gedurende week 18 van die proef. Chroomoksied (Cr203) is as merker gebruik. Verteerbaarheidswaardes vir die ses diëte was 61.74, 65.91, 75.44,69.00,75.54 en 67.15 vir droëmateriaal, 61.44, 61.60, 71.33, 68.23, 75.44 en 66.12 vir ruproteïen en 58.56, 66.45, 75.98, 70.92, 78.43 en 70.79 vir vet, onderskeilik. Die droëmateriaal- (P=O.OOOl) en vetverteerbaarheid (P=O.OOOI) was slegs betekenisvol hoër wanneer vet by LD diëte gevoeg is en nie by HD nie. Die ruproteïen (RP) verteerbaarheid Stellenbosch University http://scholar.sun.ac.za VI was betekenisvol hoër (P=0.0002) by LD en HD (P=0.0488) diëte met vet supplementering, teenoor geen vet insluiting. Die kalwers is op 20 weke ouderdom geslag en die vetsuursamestelling van die vleis (m. longissimus) en die subkutane vetlaag teenaan die 12de rib, asook en die vleiskleur, is bepaal. Die vetsuursamestelling van die longissimus spier is deur die supplementering van rumeninerte vet verander. Die drie primêre vetsure wat in die vleis voorgekom het, was palmitiensuur, steariensuur en oleïensuur. Die palmitensuur (CI6:0) inhoud van die spier en diëte was 24.44 & 20.47, 25.97 & 22.57, 31.06 & 33.23, 30.98 & 37.91, 34.94 & 31.77 en 29.71 & 32.88 van die totale vet van die LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf en HDgf diëte, onderskeilik. Die C16:0 was betekinisvol hoër in die spiere van kalwers wat die LD diëte met vet supplementering (P=0.0008) ontvang het. Die steariensuur (CI8:0) inhoud van die spier en diëte was 14.35 & 5.22, 19.65 & 8.61, 17.29 & 4.68, 22.59 & 5.78, 22.27 & 15.54, en 26.48 & 20.15 van die totale vet vir die LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf en HDgf diëte, onderskeidelik. Die C18:0 inhoud was betekinisvol hoër in die spiere van die kalwers wat die HD (P=O.OOOI),teenoor LD diëte ontvang het. Die steariensuur inhoud was ook betekenisvol hoër wanneer vet by LD (P=0.0042) of HD (P=0.0031) diëte gevoeg word. Die oleïensuur (CI8:1) inhoud van die spier en diëte was 36.06 & 21.51, 39.99 & 21.11, 32.21 & 23.67, 29.13 & 24.59, 25.23 & 18.68 en 35.93 & 16.02 van die totale vet vir die LD, HD, LDm, HDm, LDgf en HDgf diëte, onderskeidelik. Die linoleensuur (CI8:3) inhoud van die spier was betekinisvol hoër (P=0.0038) in die LD diëte met vet teenoor LD met geen vet supplementering (0.87 vs. 0.15). Die CIELAB waardes van die LD diëte dui op 'n pienker vleiskleur. Gemiddelde waardes van L* = 32.61 & 34.19, a* = 7.08 & 7.91 en b* = 3.18 & 4.07 is vir die LD en HD diëte, onderskeidelik, waargeneem. Die vleis van die LD diëte het 'n betekenisvol laer L*-(P=0.0252), a*-(P=0.0283) en b*-(P=0.0109) waarde in vergelyking met die HD diëte getoon. Die resultate dui daarop dat daar 'n positiewe respons in die ruproteïenverteerbaarheid by die supplementering van rumeninerte vette by LD en HD diëte voorkom, maar die response op die LD diëte is groter. Die voeromsettingsverhouding, droëmateriaal- en vetverteerbaarheid is egter net bevoordeel in die LD met vet en nie in die HD diëte nie. Die vetsuursamestelling van die longissimus spier in die kalf kan gemanipuleer word met die supplementering van rumeninerte vetbronne, maar slegs wanneer dit gekombineer word met lae degradeerbare proteïen diëte. Die lae degradeerbare proteïen diëte produseer ook die mees aanloklike vleiskleur vir die potensiële kalfsvleisverbruiker.

Made available in DSpace on 2015-08-20T17:10:18Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2015-07-03. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2015-08-20T17:25:35Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 000844813.pdf: 750137 bytes, checksum: 455e0184a4c4de470cab844b2d958c25 (MD5)<br>Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)<br>O experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar a substituição do milho pela raspa de mandioca na dieta de cabras Alpinas sobre o consumo de massa seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e energia metabolizável (EM), sobre a produção e composição do leite, digestibilidade aparente da MS, PB e FDN e também sobre o comportamento ingestivo dos animais em pastagem de capim-tobiatã. O experimento teve duração de 72 dias, em que foram utilizadas oito cabras em lactação, distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos (4 x 4) balanceados. Os tratamentos consistiram em níveis de 0, 33, 67 e 100% de substituição do milho pela raspa de mandioca no concentrado. A inclusão da mandioca proporcionou aumento linear no consumo de CNF e na digestibilidade da MS. A substituição não influenciou a produção e composição do leite e no comportamento ingestivo dos animais, dessa maneira, a raspa de mandioca pode substituir totalmente o milho no concentrado fornecido às cabras sem trazer prejuízos à produção de leite.<br>This study was conducted to evaluate the substitution of corn by cassava in supplementation of Alpine does on dry matter intake (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), total digestible nutrients (TDN) and metabolizable energy (ME), yield and milk composition, apparent digestibility of DM, CP and NDF and also on the grazing behavior in tobiatã grass. The experiment lasted 72 days, were used eight lactating does, distributed in two Latin squares (4 x 4) balanced. The treatments were as following: 0, 33, 67 and 100% replacement of corn by cassava. The inclusion of cassava caused a linear increase in the NFC consumption and DM digestibility. The substitution had no effect on milk yield and feeding behavior of the animals in this way, cassava can replace totally the corn in the supplement provided to does without harming the production of milk.

Orientador: Heraldo César Gonçalves<br>Banca: Paulo Roberto de Lima Meirelles<br>Banca: Marco Aurélio Factori<br>Banca: Otavio Rodrigues Machado Neto<br>Banca: Kleber Tomasde Resende<br>Banca: Carla Maris Machado Bittar<br>Resumo: O experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar a substituição do milho pela raspa de mandioca na dieta de cabras Alpinas sobre o consumo de massa seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e energia metabolizável (EM), sobre a produção e composição do leite, digestibilidade aparente da MS, PB e FDN e também sobre o comportamento ingestivo dos animais em pastagem de capim-tobiatã. O experimento teve duração de 72 dias, em que foram utilizadas oito cabras em lactação, distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos (4 x 4) balanceados. Os tratamentos consistiram em níveis de 0, 33, 67 e 100% de substituição do milho pela raspa de mandioca no concentrado. A inclusão da mandioca proporcionou aumento linear no consumo de CNF e na digestibilidade da MS. A substituição não influenciou a produção e composição do leite e no comportamento ingestivo dos animais, dessa maneira, a raspa de mandioca pode substituir totalmente o milho no concentrado fornecido às cabras sem trazer prejuízos à produção de leite.<br>Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate the substitution of corn by cassava in supplementation of Alpine does on dry matter intake (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), total digestible nutrients (TDN) and metabolizable energy (ME), yield and milk composition, apparent digestibility of DM, CP and NDF and also on the grazing behavior in tobiatã grass. The experiment lasted 72 days, were used eight lactating does, distributed in two Latin squares (4 x 4) balanced. The treatments were as following: 0, 33, 67 and 100% replacement of corn by cassava. The inclusion of cassava caused a linear increase in the NFC consumption and DM digestibility. The substitution had no effect on milk yield and feeding behavior of the animals in this way, cassava can replace totally the corn in the supplement provided to does without harming the production of milk.<br>Doutor

Thesis (PhD (Forest and Wood Science))—University of Stellenbosch, 2007.<br>Sustainable livestock production in semi-arid Botswana could be improved through tree planting on-farm to provide much needed protein and shade. Such action can be encouraged if the growth, productivity, nutritional value of trees and their contribution to mass gain of livestock are known.. A study at Malotwana investigated two indigenous species, Acacia galpinii and Faidherbia albida, and two exotic species, Leucaena diversifolia and L. leucocephala, at three spacings in a randomised complete block design replicated five times. The three spacings represented 400, 317 and 241 trees per hectare. The study was conducted over 6.5 years. Indigenous trees were sampled biennially and exotics annually to evaluate crown width, height, stem diameter, stem number and stem volume index. Complete plant harvesting of exotic trees at 2.5, 4.5 and 6.5 years evaluated agroforestry production. Leaves from all four species and pods of exotic species were analysed for chemical composition. Two groups of eight lambs were balanced for mass at selection for an on-farm feeding trial. Browse from exotic trees, comprising a 2:1 ratio of pods to leaves, was fed at 30% as supplement to hay to one group whose mean mass was contrasted with that of the control group fed sorghum bran at 30%. A. galpinii was a promising species, adaptable to planting away from its origin. Its crown width ranged from 5.86 m in high density plots to 6.08 m at low density and was significantly different among stands (p = 0.0406) at 6.5 years. Diameter at breast height (dbh) was significantly different among stands aged 6.5 years (p = 0.0003) and ranged between 10.38 cm at high density to 12.48 cm in low density plots, demonstrating a capacity to provide both shade and poles on-farm. At 4.5 years, F. albida attained a mean height of 4.5 m and 4.5 cm in dbh but suffered 67% mortality during a severe drought. Annual fodder production of 0.647 and 0.996 metric tonnes ha-1 for leaves and pods of L. diversifolia and 1.237 and 1.431 for L. leucocephala was recorded in years of average rainfall. Yields of 0.3 and 0.59 metric tonnes ha-1 were recorded for both species in the driest year. Equally good agroforestry production was obtained from both low and high density stands suggesting that low density plantings, which foster higher plant survival and reduce disease incidence, are best suited to the semi-arid conditions of Botswana. The crude protein of leaves ranged between 16.26 (L. diversifolia) and 25.25% (F. albida). They were highly digestible with more than twice the calcium content livestock require. Crude protein and digestibility measures were significantly different among leaves and varied significantly at different spacings (p<0.0001). Pods of the exotic species contained significantly more protein than the leaves (p<0.0001). Lambs supplemented with browse gained 102.33 g per animal per day while the control group gained 83.95 g. There were significant differences between groups during growth (p<0.05). Growing of A. galpinii, complemented with L. diversifolia and L. leucocephala, can supply short and long term feed, and greatly enhance livestock production while diversifying farm feed sources

Made available in DSpace on 2014-06-11T19:32:59Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2013-12-16Bitstream added on 2014-06-13T18:44:44Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 barducci_rs_dr_botfmvz.pdf: 1266267 bytes, checksum: e1878e2a411c880df9e2a0200ef4bf96 (MD5)<br>O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da duração de protocolos de adaptação às dietas com alta inclusão de concentrados sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça (CC), comportamento ingestivo (CI) e variação diária na ingestão de matéria seca (VDIMS) de bovinos Nelore terminados em confinamento. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos inteiramente casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 2 × 2, sendo os fatores protocolos de adaptação (escadas e restrição) e tempo de durações dos mesmos (9 e 14 dias), totalizando 24 baias, com 6 repetições (baia) por tratamento (5 animais/baia), com 120 Nelores machos não castrados (361,3 ± 30,2 kg), distribuídos em 6 blocos. Foi observado para os animais do protocolo de restrição menor ingestão de matéria seca (IMS) em quilogramas no período de 0 a 28 dias (P=0,01) e 0 a 56 dias (P=0,10) (9,01 vs. 9,67 e 10,18 vs. 10,66), menor IMS em porcentagem de peso vivo (PV) no período de 0 a 28 dias (P=0,01) e 0 a 56 dias (P=0,03) (2,36 vs. 2,52 e 2,47 vs. 2,58). Para conversão alimentar, eficiência alimentar e custo para ganhar um quilo de PV, os animais do protocolo de restrição tiveram melhores valores no período de 0 a 56 dias (P=0,06) e 0 a 84 dias (P=0,04) (0 a 56 dias: 5,61 vs. 5,97; 0,179 vs. 0,169 e 3,32 vs. 3,53 - 0 a 84 dias: 6,08 vs. 6,38; 0,165 vs. 0,157 e 3,59 vs. 3,77). Foi observado (P=0,0056) efeito principal de protocolo na VDIMS, com maiores valores para os animais adaptados pelo protocolo em escadas na fase de adaptação (0,524 vs. 0,438). No CI, animais do protocolo de restrição apresentaram menor tempo de ruminação (TR) (P<0,01) (304,00 min/d vs. 398,59 min/d), idas ao bebedouro (IB) (P=0,03) (7,40 vs. 8,32), tempo de alimentação por refeição (P<0,01) (5,47 min vs. 7,41 min) e eficiência de ruminação da MS (ERUMS) (P<0,01) (41,93 min/kg vs. 47,76 min/kg)...<br>One hundred and twenty, 24-mo-old Nellore bulls (361.3±30.2 kg) were fed in 24 pens for 84-d to determine effects of adaptation protocol and length period on feedlot performance, carcass traits, feeding behavior and dry matter intake fluctuations (DMIF) of Nellore cattle. A completely randomized block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement and 6 replications was used (5 bulls/pen). Factors include adaptation protocols, restricted finishing diet intake (REST) as a means of dietary adaptation compared with diets increasing in concentrate (STEP) over periods of either 9 or 14 d. Low dry matter intake (DMI) in kilograms for the REST animals in the period from 0 to 28 days (P=0.01) and 0 to 56 days (P=0.10) (9.01 vs 9.67 and 10.18 vs. 10.66) as well as low DMI in percentage of body weight (BW) in the period from 0 to 28 days (P=0.01) and 0 to 56 days (P=0.03) (2.36 vs 2.52; 2.47 vs. 2.58) were observed. REST animals showed better values in the period from 0 to 56 days (P=0.06) and 0 to 84 days (P=0.04) in feed conversion, feed efficiency and cost to gain one kilogram of BW (0 to 56 days: 5.61 vs 5.97, 0.179 vs 0.169 and 3.32 vs 3.53 - 0 to 84 days: 6.08 vs 6.38, 0.165 vs 0.157 and 3.59 vs 3.77). STEP animals presented (P=0.0056) higher DMIF at adaptation phase (0.524 vs 0.438). Regarding feeding behavior, REST animals presented lower chewing time (P<0.01) (304.00 min/d vs 398.59 min/d), lower number of visits to drink water (P=0.03) (7.40 vs 8.32), less meal time (P<0.01) (5.47 min vs 7.41 min) and lower chewing dry matter efficiency (P<0.01) (41.93 min/kg vs 47.76 min/kg). Moreover, interaction between protocol and days (P<.0001) to daily feed time, total chewing time, inactivity time, DMI and daily feed efficiency of dry matter was observed, in which REST animal provided the best values along the observation days... (Complete abstract click electronic access below)

Made available in DSpace on 2015-08-20T17:10:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2015-07-06. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2015-08-20T17:25:35Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 000844494.pdf: 950401 bytes, checksum: 3c8c3567770f69b3eab85141a009262a (MD5)<br>Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)<br>A estratégia mais rápida para alterar o perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de maneira a beneficiar a saúde do consumidor é aumentar o teor do ácido linoléico conjugado (CLA) por meio da suplementação da dieta dos animais com óleos vegetais. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar a inclusão de abacate na dieta de cabras, por meio da polpa da fruta com 16% de extrato etéreo (EE) na matéria seca (MS) e óleo comercial com 8% de EE na MS sobre: consumo, produção, composição e perfil de ácidos graxos do leite. Foram usadas seis cabras Anglo-nubianas em lactação, distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos 3 x 3 balanceados. A dieta com polpa reduziu e a de óleo aumentou o consumo de MS em relação ao controle (3% EE na MS), sendo observada a mesma tendência para os nutrientes, exceção para o EE que foi mais consumido na dieta com polpa em relação ao controle. Os teores de sólidos totais e gordura do leite foram maiores na dieta com óleo em relação ao controle, e estes não diferirem da polpa, os demais constituintes e a produção de leite não foram influenciados pelas dietas. Observou-se redução no teor de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta no leite das cabras suplementadas com fontes lipídicas em relação ao controle, e aumento no nível de CLA em 56,88 e 66,10% nas dietas com polpa e óleo respectivamente. A suplementação de ácidos graxos insaturados por meio do óleo ou da polpa de abacate aumenta a concentração de CLA e diminui os ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, melhorando assim as propriedades nutracêuticas do leite podendo beneficiar a saúde dos consumidores<br>The fastest strategy that alters Milk fatty acid profile in order to benefit consumer health is to improve the level of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) by supplementing animal diets with vegetable oils. This research aimed to evaluate goat diets supplemented with avocado addition using a fruit polp with 16% of ether extract (EE) in dry matter (DM) and commercial oil with 8% EE in DM on: intake and milk production, chemical composition and fatty acid profile. There were used six Anglo Nubian lactating goats, distributed in two balanced 3 x 3 latin squares. Pulp diet reduced and oil diet improved DM intake in relation to control (3% EE), and the nutrients followed the same tendency, except for EE, that was more consumed in pulp and oil diets. The content of milk total solids and fat were higher in oil diet in relation to control, and did not differ from pulp diet, the other constituents and the milk production were not influenced by diets. In relation to fatty acids, it was observed reduction in short chain fatty acids in milk from goats supplemented with lipid sources in relation to control and increase on CLA level in 56,88 and 66,10/% in treatments with pulp and oil respectively. The supplementation with unsaturated fatty acids by avocado oil and pulp increases CLA concentration and decreases short chain fatty acids, improving milk nutraceutical properties, what can benefit consumer health.<br>FAPESP: 13/07146-0

Orientador: Heraldo César Gonçalves<br>Banca: Paulo Roberto de Lima Meirelles<br>Banca: Simone Fernandes<br>Banca: Helen Fernanda Barros Gomes<br>Banca: Gil Ignacio Lara Canizares<br>Resumo: A estratégia mais rápida para alterar o perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de maneira a beneficiar a saúde do consumidor é aumentar o teor do ácido linoléico conjugado (CLA) por meio da suplementação da dieta dos animais com óleos vegetais. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar a inclusão de abacate na dieta de cabras, por meio da polpa da fruta com 16% de extrato etéreo (EE) na matéria seca (MS) e óleo comercial com 8% de EE na MS sobre: consumo, produção, composição e perfil de ácidos graxos do leite. Foram usadas seis cabras Anglo-nubianas em lactação, distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos 3 x 3 balanceados. A dieta com polpa reduziu e a de óleo aumentou o consumo de MS em relação ao controle (3% EE na MS), sendo observada a mesma tendência para os nutrientes, exceção para o EE que foi mais consumido na dieta com polpa em relação ao controle. Os teores de sólidos totais e gordura do leite foram maiores na dieta com óleo em relação ao controle, e estes não diferirem da polpa, os demais constituintes e a produção de leite não foram influenciados pelas dietas. Observou-se redução no teor de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta no leite das cabras suplementadas com fontes lipídicas em relação ao controle, e aumento no nível de CLA em 56,88 e 66,10% nas dietas com polpa e óleo respectivamente. A suplementação de ácidos graxos insaturados por meio do óleo ou da polpa de abacate aumenta a concentração de CLA e diminui os ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, melhorando assim as propriedades nutracêuticas do leite podendo beneficiar a saúde dos consumidores<br>Abstract: The fastest strategy that alters Milk fatty acid profile in order to benefit consumer health is to improve the level of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) by supplementing animal diets with vegetable oils. This research aimed to evaluate goat diets supplemented with avocado addition using a fruit polp with 16% of ether extract (EE) in dry matter (DM) and commercial oil with 8% EE in DM on: intake and milk production, chemical composition and fatty acid profile. There were used six Anglo Nubian lactating goats, distributed in two balanced 3 x 3 latin squares. Pulp diet reduced and oil diet improved DM intake in relation to control (3% EE), and the nutrients followed the same tendency, except for EE, that was more consumed in pulp and oil diets. The content of milk total solids and fat were higher in oil diet in relation to control, and did not differ from pulp diet, the other constituents and the milk production were not influenced by diets. In relation to fatty acids, it was observed reduction in short chain fatty acids in milk from goats supplemented with lipid sources in relation to control and increase on CLA level in 56,88 and 66,10/% in treatments with pulp and oil respectively. The supplementation with unsaturated fatty acids by avocado oil and pulp increases CLA concentration and decreases short chain fatty acids, improving milk nutraceutical properties, what can benefit consumer health.<br>Doutor

Orientador: Mário De Beni Arrigoni<br>Coorientador: Cyntia Ludovico Martins<br>Banca: José Luís Moraes Vasconcelos<br>Banca: Ciniro Costa<br>Banca: Rodrigo Dias Lauritano Pacheco<br>Banca: Sérgio Raposo de Medeiros<br>Resumo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da duração de protocolos de adaptação às dietas com alta inclusão de concentrados sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça (CC), comportamento ingestivo (CI) e variação diária na ingestão de matéria seca (VDIMS) de bovinos Nelore terminados em confinamento. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos inteiramente casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 2 × 2, sendo os fatores protocolos de adaptação (escadas e restrição) e tempo de durações dos mesmos (9 e 14 dias), totalizando 24 baias, com 6 repetições (baia) por tratamento (5 animais/baia), com 120 Nelores machos não castrados (361,3 ± 30,2 kg), distribuídos em 6 blocos. Foi observado para os animais do protocolo de restrição menor ingestão de matéria seca (IMS) em quilogramas no período de 0 a 28 dias (P=0,01) e 0 a 56 dias (P=0,10) (9,01 vs. 9,67 e 10,18 vs. 10,66), menor IMS em porcentagem de peso vivo (PV) no período de 0 a 28 dias (P=0,01) e 0 a 56 dias (P=0,03) (2,36 vs. 2,52 e 2,47 vs. 2,58). Para conversão alimentar, eficiência alimentar e custo para ganhar um quilo de PV, os animais do protocolo de restrição tiveram melhores valores no período de 0 a 56 dias (P=0,06) e 0 a 84 dias (P=0,04) (0 a 56 dias: 5,61 vs. 5,97; 0,179 vs. 0,169 e 3,32 vs. 3,53 - 0 a 84 dias: 6,08 vs. 6,38; 0,165 vs. 0,157 e 3,59 vs. 3,77). Foi observado (P=0,0056) efeito principal de protocolo na VDIMS, com maiores valores para os animais adaptados pelo protocolo em escadas na fase de adaptação (0,524 vs. 0,438). No CI, animais do protocolo de restrição apresentaram menor tempo de ruminação (TR) (P<0,01) (304,00 min/d vs. 398,59 min/d), idas ao bebedouro (IB) (P=0,03) (7,40 vs. 8,32), tempo de alimentação por refeição (P<0,01) (5,47 min vs. 7,41 min) e eficiência de ruminação da MS (ERUMS) (P<0,01) (41,93 min/kg vs. 47,76 min/kg)... (resumo completo, clicar acesso eletrônico abaixo)<br>Abstract: One hundred and twenty, 24-mo-old Nellore bulls (361.3±30.2 kg) were fed in 24 pens for 84-d to determine effects of adaptation protocol and length period on feedlot performance, carcass traits, feeding behavior and dry matter intake fluctuations (DMIF) of Nellore cattle. A completely randomized block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement and 6 replications was used (5 bulls/pen). Factors include adaptation protocols, restricted finishing diet intake (REST) as a means of dietary adaptation compared with diets increasing in concentrate (STEP) over periods of either 9 or 14 d. Low dry matter intake (DMI) in kilograms for the REST animals in the period from 0 to 28 days (P=0.01) and 0 to 56 days (P=0.10) (9.01 vs 9.67 and 10.18 vs. 10.66) as well as low DMI in percentage of body weight (BW) in the period from 0 to 28 days (P=0.01) and 0 to 56 days (P=0.03) (2.36 vs 2.52; 2.47 vs. 2.58) were observed. REST animals showed better values in the period from 0 to 56 days (P=0.06) and 0 to 84 days (P=0.04) in feed conversion, feed efficiency and cost to gain one kilogram of BW (0 to 56 days: 5.61 vs 5.97, 0.179 vs 0.169 and 3.32 vs 3.53 - 0 to 84 days: 6.08 vs 6.38, 0.165 vs 0.157 and 3.59 vs 3.77). STEP animals presented (P=0.0056) higher DMIF at adaptation phase (0.524 vs 0.438). Regarding feeding behavior, REST animals presented lower chewing time (P<0.01) (304.00 min/d vs 398.59 min/d), lower number of visits to drink water (P=0.03) (7.40 vs 8.32), less meal time (P<0.01) (5.47 min vs 7.41 min) and lower chewing dry matter efficiency (P<0.01) (41.93 min/kg vs 47.76 min/kg). Moreover, interaction between protocol and days (P<.0001) to daily feed time, total chewing time, inactivity time, DMI and daily feed efficiency of dry matter was observed, in which REST animal provided the best values along the observation days... (Complete abstract click electronic access below)<br>Doutor

Thesis (MScAgric (Animal Sciences))--University of Stellenbosch, 2011.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: In vitro and in situ methods using the in sacco technique have a wide application in ruminant nutrition as they allow the degradability and quality of forages and ruminant diets to be determined quicker and at a lower cost than in vivo methods. These trials make use of artificial fibre bags, made of polyester (dacron) or nylon which are available in variable pore sizes. Results from such degradability trials are of great value to feed formulation programs such as AMTS.cattle and CPM Dairy and the more accurate the results are obtained from such trials the more accurate feed formulation models are enabling the ruminant nutritionist to formulate the best diet possible to reach the genetic potential of ruminants. The accepted method for in sacco trials (NRC, 2001) requires that the feed samples are ground through a 2 mm screen. This usually results in a variety of particle sizes, including a significant amount of extremely fine particles. Research has, however, shown that these fine particles can potentially be washed out of the dacron bags that are used in in sacco degradability trials. This would result in an overestimation of the soluble and rapidly fermentable nutrient fractions. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of fine particle removal from ground forage samples on the chemical composition and in vitro dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) degradability of forages. Lucerne hay, oat hay and wheat straw samples were sourced from seven different locations in the Western Cape. Samples were milled through a 2 mm screen and then sieved through either 150 μm, 125 μm or 106 μm. All fractions were analysed for DM, crude protein (CP), NDF, fat and ash. Based on the NDF content of the original samples, four samples from each forage type were selected for in vitro trials to determine DM and NDF disappearance over time. Samples were incubated for 0, 6, 24 and 48 hours in an ANKOM Daisy II incubator. Significant variation occurred within forage types in terms of chemical composition. Fine particle removal had no effect on the NDF content of lucerne hay and wheat straw, but sieved oat hay fractions had a higher NDF content than the un-sieved samples. The NDF content was on average 635.9 for the sieved OH fractions, whereas the NDF content of the un-sieved samples was 606.8. The CP content of sieved oat hay (61.4 on average) and wheat straw fractions (47.7 on average) were lower than the un-sieved fractions (65.7 for OH and 55.4 for WS), whereas for lucerne hay, sieving had no effect on CP content. Dry matter and NDF disappearances were significantly higher for the un-sieved samples than for the sieved fractions for all three forage types at all incubation times, which indicates an overestimation of the soluble and readily digestible forage fractions. Compared to sieved samples, DMD values at 0 hours (washing only) of the un-sieved samples were, on average, 13.8% higher for lucerne hay, 27.3% for oat hay and 44.7% for wheat straw. At 48 h, the overestimation of lucerne DMD for the un-sieved samples was between 4.0% (compared to 106 μm sieve) and 7.3% (compared to 150 μm sieve). This over-estimation in the un-sieved samples was carried over to all four time points. No significant differences between the fractions (150, 125 and 106) were found within a forage type at all incubation times. The estimated degradation rates and the predicted digested proportions were also significantly higher for the un-sieved fractions compared to the sieved fractions. It was concluded that fine particle removal from forage samples would result in more accurate estimations of in sacco nutrient degradability.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: In sacco in vitro- en in situ-metodes word dikwels toegepas in die studie van herkouervoeding aangesien hierdie metodes vinniger, meer effektief en meer ekonomies is as in vivo-metodes. Hierdie studies maak gebruik van kunsveselsakkies, gemaak van poliëster (dacron) of nylon wat beskikbaar is in verskeie poriegroottes. Resultate van sulke verteringsproewe is belangrik vir toepassing in voerformuleringsprogramme soos AMTS.cattle en CPM Dairy. Die resultate wat deur hierdie studies verkry word, is belangrik vir akkurate voerformulering deur formuleringsmodelle en stel die herkouervoedingkundige in staat om die ideale voer te formuleer vir die manifestering van die dier se genetiese potensieaal. Die aanvaarde in sacco-metode (NRC, 2001) vereis dat voermonsters deur ‘n 2 mm sif gemaal word wat ‘n groot verskeidenheid partikelgroottes tot gevolg het met ‘n beduidende hoeveelheid baie fyn materiaal. Navorsing het getoon dat hierdie baie fyn partikels uit die dacronsakkies gewas kan word tydens in sacco verteringstudies, met die gevolg dat die oplosbare en vinnig-verteerbare fraksie oorskat kan word. Die doel van die huidige studie was om die invloed van die verwydering van fyn partikels op die chemiese samestelling van ruvoermonsters te bepaal, asook die in vitro droë materiaal (DM) en neutraal-onoplosbaare vesel (NDF) verteerbaarheid daarvan. Monsters van lusernhooi, hawerhooi en koringstrooi, afkomstig van sewe verskillende lokaliteite in die Wes-Kaap, is deur 'n 2 mm sif gemaal en sub-monsters is deur ‘n reeks siwwe met poriegroottes van 150 μm, 125 μm of 106 μm gesif. Al die fraksies is geanaliseer vir DM, ruproteïen (RP), NDF, vet en as. Vier monsters van elke voertipe is op grond van die NDF-inhoud geselekteer vir in vitro-studies om die DM- en NDF- verteerbaarheid oor tyd te bepaal. Monsters is vir 0, 6, 24 of 48 uur geïnkubeer. Die resultate het getoon dat daar betekenisvolle variasie in chemiese samestelling binne ruvoertipes voorgekom het. Die verwydering van die fyn partikels het geen invloed die NDF-inhoud van lusernhooi en koringstrooi gehad nie. Wat hawerhooi betref, was die NDFinhoud van die gesifte monsters egter betekenisvol hoër in vergelyking met die ongesifte monsters. Die NDF inhoud was gemiddeld 635.9 vir die gesifte monsters en vir die ongesifte monsters 606.8. Sifting het geen invloed op die RP-inhoud van lusernhooi gehad nie, maar vir hawerhooi (61.4 gemiddeld) en koringstrooi (47.7 gemiddeld) was die RP-inhoud van die gesifte monsters betekenisvol laer as dié van die ongesifte monsters (65.7 vir hawerhooi en 55.4 vir koringstrooi). In vergelyking met die gesifte monsters, was die in vitro DM- en NDF-verteerbaarhede betekenisvol hoër vir die ongesifte monsters vir al drie ruvoertipes by alle inkubasietye. Hierdie resultate bevestig ‘n oorskatting van oplosbare en maklik verteerbare fraksies in gemaalde voermonsters. In vergelyking met die gesifte monsters, was die DMV-waardes van die ongesifte monsters by 0 ure (slegs gewas) gemiddeld 13.8% hoër vir lusernhooi, 27.3% vir hawerhooi en 44.7% vir koringstrooi. Na 48 h inkubasie was die oorskatting van lusern DMV vir die ongesifte monsters tussen 4.0% (vergeleke met die 106 μm sif) en 7.3% (vergeleke met 150 μm sif). Die oorskatting is oorgedra na al vier inkubasietye. Die resultate het geen noemenswaardige verskille tussen die fraksies (150 μm, 125 μm en 106 μm poriegroottes) van ‘n ruvoertipe by enige inkubasietyd aangedui nie. Die beraamde verteringstempo’s en verteerde fraksies was ook aansienlik hoër vir die ongesifte monsters in vergelyking met die gesifte monsters. Die gevolgtrekking is gemaak dat die verwydering van fyn partikels uit gemaalde ruvoermonsters die akkurate bepaling van in sacco verteerbaarheidswaardes verhoog.

Assignment (MPhil)--University of Stellenbosch, 2004.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance and profitability of different dietary specifications for broiler chickens slaughtered at 35 days of age. Two trials were performed to evaluate different production parameters. The results of these trials were compared to the predicted results of the EFG broiler model. No carcass data were available for the two trials mentioned above. Therefore, in order to evaluate the accuracy of the broiler model when predicting carcass characteristics, two published data sets (Leeson et al., 1996a) were used. Predicted and actual values were compared, evaluated and discussed. Two broiler trials were performed. In Trial One the amino acid density decreased throughout the range of three treatments from prestarter to finisher diets. In Trial Two the amino acid density decreased only in the four finisher diets. The main difference between predicted and actual results was the response to body weight. The model predicted a steady increase in feed intake to compensate for the lower dietary specifications while body weight did not change significantly. This increase in feed intake seems to be enough to maintain body weight. Trial birds also increased their feed intake as dietary amino acid density decreased, but this compensation seemed to be too low to maintain body weight compared to the control diet. The birds may find it easier to compensate when they have time to adapt to the specification. There is evidence in the literature that birds need seven days to adapt their feed intake to a lower feed specification (Leeson et al., 1996a). It can be speculated that the trial birds started to loose body weight due to a lower amino acid intake in this period. The model seems to adapt feed intake immediately after a change in diet specification. The simulation on literature data lead to the following conclusions: 1) Broilers posses the capacity to increase their feed intake with at least 65% should finisher diets with lower amino acid and energy concentrations be supplied. If only the energy concentration of finisher diets were decreased, the increase in feed intake will be around 30%. (see Table 16 and 23) 2) The accurate prediction of feed intake from the given dietary specification has a major influence on the accuracy of the prediction of broiler performance. 3) Amino acid density and DLys:ME ratio plays a significant role in the control and prediction of feed intake. The EFG broiler model is based on sound scientific principles. The model is comprehensive and can be used for a wide range of environmental and management conditions as well as dietary conditions. The nutritionist can use the model with confidence to assist in practical feed formulation. The actual strength of the model lies in the time and money being saved compared to practical trials.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van hierdie studie is om die prestasie en winsgewendheid van braaikuikens te bepaal wanneer voere met verskillende digthede tot op 35 dae gevoer word. Twee eksperimente is uitgevoer om produksieresultate te evalueer. Die resultate van hierdie eksperimente is met die voorspelde waardes uit die EFG simulasie-model vergelyk. Aangesien geen karkasdata vir bogenoemde eksperimente beskikbaar was nie, is twee gepubliseerde datastelle gebruik om hierdie deel van die model te evalueer (Leeson et al., 1996a). Twee braaikuiken eksperimente is uitgevoer. Eksperiment Een het uit drie behandelings bestaan waarvan die aminosuur-konsentrasie vanaf dag een tussen behandelings verskil het. In Eksperiment Twee het die aminosuur-konsentrasie net in die vier afrondingsdiëte verskil. Liggaamsmassa op 35 dae het die grooste verskil tussen voorspelde- en werklike waardes getoon. Beide voorspelde en werklike innames het in albei eksperimente verhoog soos wat aminosuur-konsentrasie afgeneem het. Voorspelde liggaamsmassa het egter konstant gebly terwyl werklike data 'n afname in liggaamsmassa getoon het. Dit bleik dat die voorspelde toename in innames voldoende was om massa te onderhou terwyl die voëls in werklikheid nie genoeg gekompenseer het nie. Leeson et al., 1996a het tot die gevolgtrekking gekom dat braaikuikens minstens sewe dae benodig om hul voeriname by 'n nuwe spesifikasie aan te pas. So 'n stadige aanpassing kan daartoe lei dat energie- en aminosuur-inname daal indien 'n dieet met laer spesifikasie gevoer. Dit sal daartoe lei dat die kuikens liggaamsmassa verloor. Uit die literatuur simulasies is die volgende afleidings gemaak: 1) Braaikuikens besit die vermoeë om voerinname in die afrondingstyd met minstens 65% te verhoog indien 'n afrondingvoer met laer amiosuur- asook energiekonsentrasie gevoer word. Indien net die energiekonsentrasie verlaag word, sal die inname met sowat 30% verhoog. 2) Die akkurate voorspelling van inname is krities vir die akkurate voorspelling van produksieparameters. 3) Aminosuur-digtheid en DLys:ME speel 'n belangrike rol in die beheer en voorspelling van voerinname by braaikuikens. Die EFG braaikuikenmodel is op suiwer wetenskaplike beginsels geskoei. Die model is omvattend en kan vir 'n wye reeks van omgewings- en bestuurstoestande asook dieet-spesifikasies gebruik word. Die voedingkundige kan die model met vertroue gebruik om met praktiese voerformulering by te staan. Die model kan die formuleerder baie tyd spaar aangesien praktiese eksperimente ingeperk kan word.

This research reports on the determination of the effects of fish size and feed pellet size on the settling characteristics of Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) culture, tank cleaning wastes. Flocculant particle settling curves (Type II) were developed from settling column analysis of cleaning wastes from 11-311 gram Rainbow trout fed a moist pellet diet (Oregon Moist Pellet ®). Four feed pellet sizes were investigated: 3/32, 1/8, 5/32 and 3/16 inch. Overall non-filterable residue removal curves and individual particle settling velocity distribution curves, derived from the Type II settling curve of each fish size and feed pellet size group, were compared. Slopes and y-intercepts of the linearized overall non-filterable residue removal curves and individual particle settling velocity distribution curves were compared using the Equality of Slope Test (S:SLTEST). Results of the test for a common regression equation indicated there were no significant differences in the proportional distribution of particle sizes within the cleaning wastes. Variations observed in the initial rates of removal within the overall non-filterable residue removal curves were considered insignificant Settling trials were pooled in order to obtain single curves, characterizing the overall solids removal rate and the individual particle settling velocity distribution of the waste solids.<br>Applied Science, Faculty of<br>Chemical and Biological Engineering, Department of<br>Graduate

<p>A study was conducted using commercial broiler breeders with the males fed a diet containing, either 120/0 or 140/0 protein and body weight maintained at either 900/0 or 1000/0 of that recommended by the primary breeder (fed separately), or allowed to eat from the female feeders (controls). Female feeders in the separately fed pens were equipped with especially designed grills, which denied access to the males. The male feeder in these pens was elevated so that females were denied access.</p> <p> Males fed separately (body weight 90% or 1000/0, and dietary protein 120/0 or 140/0) had a significantly higher percentage fertility (4.20/0) than males allowed to eat with the females. No differences in percentage fertility were found among the four separately fed groups. No differences were noted in percentage hatch of fertile eggs among any of the treatment groups.</p> <p> Males eating from the female feeders had significantly heavier body weights and testes weights at 65 weeks of age than breeder males in the separately fed, groups. Mean body weights were 3819g and 4773g at 35 weeks of age, and 4192g and 5443g at 65 weeks of age for males eating separately and eating with the females, respectively. Furthermore, males in the control group had significantly larger breast angle measurements when compared with the separately fed males. No differences were observed in foot scores and semen concentration among males in the various treatment groups.</p><br>Master of Science

The aim of the first study was to determine if barley could replace maize as an energy source in concentrates fed to dairy cows grazing on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture without affecting the milk production, milk composition, or cause metabolic disorders. Sixty Jersey cows, in early to mid lactation were randomly allocated to one of five treatments (n = 12) based on feeding concentrates with different ratios of maize to barley, ranging from 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100, respectively. Concentrates contained 12 MJ ME kg -1 and 130g CP kg-1 DM and cows were fed 3 kg (as-is) concentrate after each milking for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Cows strip-grazed the irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (15.7 ± 1.8 percent DM; 20.2 ± 4.3 percent CP; 44.7 ± 3.5 percent NDF). Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein content. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Data of all the studies were subjected to a one-way ANOVA. Daily milk yield, FCM, MUN, milk fat yield, milk fat percent, protein yield, protein percent, live weight change, or body condition score change were not affected by treatment and values were 15.8 kg, 17.2 kg, 14.9 mg dl-1, 0.72 kg, 4.56 percent, 0.59 kg, 3.77 percent, 6.67 kg, and 0.15 BCS; 15.6 kg, 17.4 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.73 kg, 4.3 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.71 percent, 1.33 kg and 0.04 BCS; 17.2 kg, 17.9 kg, 15.2 mg dl-1, 0.74 kg, 4.36 percent, 0.63 kg, 3.71 percent, 0.33 kg and 0.08 BCS; 15.6 kg, 16.4 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.33 percent, 0.60 kg, 3.83 percent, -1.46 kg and 0.11 BCS; and 15.0 kg, 16.0 kg, 15.5 mg dl-1, 0.67 kg, 4.57 percent, 0.57 kg, 3.85 percent, 8.86 kg, and 0.05 BCS, respectively for the cows fed 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100 maize to barley ratio concentrate. According to these results, barley can replace maize without significantly affecting the milk production or milk composition. None of the cows presented any visible symptoms of acidosis. As it was clear from the results in the first study that maize could replace barley the aim of study 2A was therefore focused on determining the effect of feeding different levels of such a barley-based (2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1) concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change of Jersey cows on kikuyu/ryegrass pasture (23.1 ± 2.95 percent DM, 11.1 ± 0.11 percent CP, 60.8 ± 0.58 percent NDF). Forty-five Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 15) involving different levels of concentrate (12 MJ ME and 130g CP kg-1 DM) feeding for a period of 42 days (14-day adaptation and 28-day measurement). Milk weights were also recorded daily, and milk samples collected weekly, and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. The results of this study indicated that increasing the concentrate level from 2.4 to 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not increase the milk yield (14.0 kg, 15.2 kg, 14.4 kg; P = 0.19). The FCM production increased from 15.8 to 17.5kg (P = 0.04) as the concentrate level increased from 2.4 to 4.8kg cow-1day-1. Increasing the concentrate from 4.8 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1 did not result in a significant increase in FCM. The milk protein percent increased significantly from 3.4 - 3.6 percent when the concentrate feeding level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2kg cow-1day-1. The MUN levels were 17.09 mg dl-1, 16.03 5 mg dl-1, and 16.36 mg dl-1 for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2kg cow-1day-1 concentrate levels, respectively. This is well within the recommended MUN levels (12 – 18 mg dl-1) indicating that sufficient protein was fed to cows. Increasing the concentrate level from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not increase production, probably due to a higher pasture substitution rate. Supplementing large quantities of rapidly fermentable grains, such as barley, can suppress rumen pH and may have a negative effect on the rate and extent of fibre digestion in the rumen. Therefore the aim of study 2B was not only to determine the effect of feeding different levels of a barley-based concentrate, on milk production, milk composition and live weight change, but was also to determine the effect of a low (4.8 kg cow-1day-1) versus a high (7.2 kg cow-1day-1) level of barley-based concentrate supplementation on ruminal DM and NDF degradability of Westerworld ryegrass sampled from the pastures that these cows were grazing on. Sixty Jersey cows (early- to mid lactation), were randomly allocated to one of three treatments (n = 20) involving different levels of concentrate feeding. Concentrate (12 MJ ME, 130g CP kg-1 DM) was fed at 2.4, 4.8 or 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 for a period of 74 days (14-day adaptation and 60-day measurement). These cows stripgrazed irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures (14.7 ± 4.37 percent DM, 25.1 ± 1.53 percent CP, and 44.4 ± 2.58 percent NDF) at a daily pasture allocation of 10 kg DM cow-1. Milk weights were recorded daily and milk samples collected weekly and analyzed for milk fat and protein. Body condition score and live weight were recorded at the start and end of the experimental period. Twelve Jersey cows, fitted with ruminal cannulae, were randomly allocated to two of the three treatments in the production study and received either 2.4 or 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1, of the same barley-based concentrate, in a two-period crossover design. These cows strip-grazed the same irrigated kikuyu/ryegrass pastures as the sixty cows in the production study. Each period consisted of 21 days for adaptation and seven days for data collection. Rumen liquor samples were collected every 4 hours within a 24-hour cycle and repeated once. Rumen pH was measured immediately, recorded, and the supernatant fluid preserved and frozen, pending VFA analysis. The in situ nylon bag technique was used to determine DM and NDF degradation and dried samples of Westerworld ryegrass pasture were incubated for 0, 4, 8, 12, 20, 30, 48, 72 and 96 hours. The data were fitted in the non-linear model p = a + b (1-exp-ct) (Ørskov & McDonald, 1979). Daily milk production, fat corrected milk, milk fat yield and milk fat percent were not affected by treatment and values were 17.3 kg, 18.4 kg, 0.76 kg and 4.42 percent; 19.0 kg, 20.0 kg, 0.82 kg and 4.35 percent; and 18.1 kg, 19.1 kg, 0.79 kg and 4.37 percent for the 2.4, 4.8 and 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 concentrate treatments, respectively. Milk protein percentage of cows on the 7.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 was significantly higher than that of cows on 4.2 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 feeding level. Live weight increased significantly as the level of concentrate feeding increased and values were 17.9 kg; and 28.9 kg on the 2.4 and 7.2kg concentrate treatment, respectively. There was a significant increase in the live weight of cows that were fed 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is) in comparison to those cows that were fed 2.4 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 (as-is). This may have resulted from more nutrients being partitioned to live weight gain rather than milk production. No further response in milk production was observed when concentrate daily feeding was increased from 4.8 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1. It is postulated that the higher concentrate allowance resulted in a higher substitution rate and lower DMI intake from pasture. 6 There was no significant decline in the rumen pH (6.2 ± 0.4 and 6.2 ± 0.5) when the concentrate level was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1 day-1 (as-is). The total VFA (118.1 ± 45.9 and 139.4 ± 45.6 mmol L-1) and isovalerate (0.009 ± 0.07 and 0.248 ± 0.52 mmol L-1) increased significantly when the concentrate was increased from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1. No other rumen parameters were affected by treatment. Ruminal DM and NDF degradability of the Kikuyu/ryegrass pature were not affected by the level of concentrate supplementation. An increase in the concentrate level from 2.4 to 7.2 kg cow-1day-1 did not reduce degradability of either DM (94.67 ± 5.97, 94.49 ± 5.09; P = 0.919) or NDF (92.15 ± 8.69, 94.4 ± 11.73; P = 0.451), respectively. Results of rumen parameters and PD values were within the range reported by Bargo et al., (2003), viz. pH 5.76 – 6.29, NH3-N concentration 8.7 – 32.2 mg dl-1, total VFA concentration 90.3 - 151.4 mmol L-1 and PD values 89.5 – 93.5 % reported by Bargo et al. (2003). According to these authors, there is no simple relationship between any amount of the concentrate supplemented, and the ruminal pH and concentrate feeding only affects the in situ ruminal digestion of pasture when it is fed, at quantities higher than 8 kg DM cow-1day-1 (Bargo et al., 2003).

Thesis (MScAgric)--University of Stellenbosch, 2002.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Starch is the main component of cereal grains and is usually the primary energy source for pigs and poultry. Feed manufacturing can adopt several measures, including physical treatments such as milling or pelleting and other techniques, such as enzyme treatment, to disrupt cell structure. Grinding and pelleting are the most common food processing methods used for pigs. However, pelleting of complete balanced feeds is no longer such an economical proposition due to rising energy and equipment costs; therefore this cost has to be outweighed by an increased production efficiency. It has been known for many years that grinding is an essential prerequisite for the satisfactory blending of the ingredients of a multi-component food. Feed cost represents the major item in the cost of animal production. Without doubt, research and production efforts will continue to refine feed processing techniques to reduce the cost of feed and to increase the value of feed for a target animal. The possibilities for improvements in feed are endless; however the cost of each innovation must be carefully weighed against demonstrated improvements in animal performance. Experiment 1: The effect of feed processing techniques on weanling pig growth-performance The effects of processing of the carbohydrate source and the feed on growth performance of commercial Landrace x Large White piglets (n=480) weaned at 28 ± 2 d were investigated. Two processing combinations of the carbohydrate source were used with 3 processing conditions of the diet in a 2 x 3 factorial design. The pigs were blocked by weight (7.196 ± 2.03 kg BW) and then allotted randomly to 1 of 6 dietary treatments. Ten pens of 8 piglets each were fed with each dietary treatment. The two main processing conditions of the carbohydrate source were raw or extruded maize and the 3 processing conditions of the diet was meal or pelleted or extruded. No carbohydrate processing x diet processing interactions were observed (P > 0.05) for ADG, ADFI or FeR. In this experiment, extrusion of the maize led to an significant decrease in FeR efficiency (P < 0.05) (1.57 vs. 1.42) when compared to a raw maize diet. Pelleting a diet had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on ADG but tended to decrease ADFI (P < 0.07) and significantly improve FeR efficiency (1.49 vs. 1.66) when compared to a meal diet. Extruding the whole diet did not have any significant (P > 0.05) effect on ADG but tended to decrease ADFI (P < 0.07) and gave an significant improvement in FeR when compared to a meal diet (1.34 vs. 1.66). This processing technique also gave a significant improvement (P < 0.01) in FeR when compared to a pelleted diet (1.34 vs. 1.49). Experiment 2: The effect of pig feed processing conditions on pig metabolism parameters The effects of processing of the carbohydrate source and the diet on certain metabolism and production parameters of commercial Landrace x Large White pigs (n=24) were investigated. Two processing combinations of the carbohydrate source were used with 3 processing combinations in a 2 x 3 factorial design. Six diets were formulated on an iso-nutrient basis (14.48 MJ/kg metabolizable energy (ME), 23.01 crude protein (CP), 1.092% lysine, 0.742% methionine and cystine and 0.271% tryptophan on a DM basis). The pigs were blocked by weight (26.02 ± 0.25 kg BW) and then allotted randomly to I of 6 dietary treatments. The carbohydrate source was raw or extruded maize and the diets was meal or pelleted or extruded. No carbohydrate processing x diet feed form interactions were observed (P > 0.05) for dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter digestible energy (DE), Nitrogen (N) or dry matter intake (DMI). In a metabolism and nitrogen (N) balance study, apparent N digestibility, digestible energy and metabolizable energy contents were found not to be significantly (P > 0.05) influenced by carbohydrate or diet processing.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Stysel is die hoof komponent in grane en is gewoonlik die primêre verskaffer van energie vir varke en pluimvee. Voermeulens kan verskeie metodes implementeer, insluitend fisiese behandeling soos bv. maal, verpilling en ensiem behandelings, om sel struktuur te verander. Maal en verpilling is die mees algemene prosessering metodes wat vir varkvoer gebruik word. Maar, verpilling van totaal geballanseerde voere is nie meer so ekonomies geregverdig nie as gevolg van stygende energie en masjinerie koste. Daarom moet die koste van voervervaardiging oorbrug word deur 'n verhoogde produksiedoeltreffendheid. Dit is al lankal bekend dat maal 'n voorvereiste is vir effektiewe vermenging van grondstowwe van 'n multi-komponent voer. Voerkoste verteenwoordig die hoof item van die koste van intesiewe diereproduksie. Voedingskudiges sal sonder twyfel voortgaan om voerprosessering te verfyn om so die koste van die rantsoen te verlaag en om die waarde van die rantsoen te verhoog vir die dier. Die moontlikhede is veelvuldig, maar die koste van elke ontwikkeling moet opgeweeg word teen verhoogde diereproduksie. Eksperiment 1: Die effek van voerprosesserings-tegnieke op speenvark groei en produksie 'n Proef is uitgevoer om die prosesseringseffek van 'n koolhidraat bron en voer op die groei van Landras x Groot Wit speenvarke (n=480) wat gespeen is op 28 ± 2 d te bepaal. Twee prosesserings-kombinasies van die koolhidraat bron en drie prosesserings-kondisies van die dieet is in 'n 2 x 3 faktoriaal ontwerp uitgevoer. Die varkies is geblok volgens massa (oorspronklik 7.196 kg ± 2 kg) en toe ewekansig in I van 6 dieët behandelings ingedeel. Die proefdiëte is vir lO hokke varkies gevoer, elke hok het 8 varkies in gehad. Die twee hoof prosesserings-kondisies van die koolhidraat bron was rou of gaar mielies en die drie prosesserings-kondisies van die dieët was meelof gaar of geëkstrueer. Geen koolhidraat prosesserings x dieët prosesserings interaksie van die dieët was opgemerk (P > 0.05) vir gemiddelde daaglikse toename (GOT), gemiddelde daaglikse voer inname (GDVI) of voer omset doeltreffendheid (VOD) nie. In die eksperiment was die VOD van die geëkstrueerde mielie dieët, statisties betekenisvol laer (P < 0.05) (1.57 vs.1.42) as die rou mielie dieët. Verpilling van die dieët het geen statisties betekenisvolle effek (P > 0.05) op GDV! gehad nie, maar die VOD was statisties betekenisvol (P < 0.05) beter (1.49 vs. 1.66) wanneer dit met die meel dieët vergelyk word. Ekstrusie van die dieët het geen statisties betekenisvolle effek op GOT en GOVI gehad nie, maar die VOD was statisties betekenisvol (P < 0.05) beter wanneer dit met die meel (1.34 vs. 1.66) en verpilde dieët (1.34 vs 1.49) vergelyk word. Eksperiment 2: Die effek van voer prosessering op vark metabolisme parameters 'n Eksperiment is uitgevoer op Landras x Groot Wit bere (n=24) om die effek van prosessering van 'n koolhidraat bron en voer te bepaal. Twee prosesserings-kombinasies van die koolhidraat bron en drie prosesserings-kondisies van die dieët is in 'n 2 x 3 faktoriaal ontwerp uitgevoer. Ses diëte is geformuleer op 'n iso-nutriënt basis (14.48 MJ/kg metaboliseerbare energie (ME), 23.01 ru-proteïen (RP), 1.092% lisien, 0.742% metionien and sistien en 0.271 % tryptofaan op 'n droeë materiaal (DM) basis). Die varke is geblok volgens massa en ewekansig aan 1 van 6 diëte toegeken. Die koolhidraat bron was gaar of rou mielies en die diëte was meel, verpil of geëkstrueer. Geen koolhidraat-prosessering x dieet interaksie is opgemerk (P > 0.05) nie. In 'n metabolisme en stikstof (N) balans-studie is daar gevind dat DM verteerbaarheid, skynbare N verteerbaarheid, verteerbare energie (GE) en ME inhoud nie beduidend deur die behandelings beïnvloed word nie.

The use of shrimp processing waste with other cheap raw materials such as cassava was studied as a potential low cost animal feed, specially in developing countries. The impact on the economies of the shrimp industry and possible effects on the environmental were taken into consideration in developing the project.