Effects of substituting amaranth silage for corn silage on intake, growth performance, diet digestibility, microbial protein, nitrogen retention and ruminal fermentation in fattening lambs

Effects of Substituting Sweet Sorghum for Corn Silage in the Diet on the Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Rumen Microorganisms of Boer Goats in China

Due to its superior drought tolerance, high biomass yield, and stress resistance, sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) has emerged as an ideal candidate for sustainable forage production in arid, semi-arid, and mildly saline-alkaline regions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of replacing corn silage (CS) with either forage sorghum silage (FSS) or sugar sweet sorghum silage (SSS) on goat meat quality, the rumen microbial community, and meat composition. Thirty 3-month-old Boer goats (average body weight: 13.44 ± 1.67 kg) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments; the control group contained 50% corn silage (CON), while the experimental groups contained 50% FSS (group I), 70% FSS (group II), 50% SSS (group III), or 70% SSS (group V), with each group receiving the same concentrate diet but different roughage sources. The results showed that compared to the CON group (50% CS), the experimental groups had a significantly increased average daily weight gain (ADG) (p < 0.05) and slaughter rate (SR). It is noteworthy that group III (50% SSS) showed a significant increase of 12.4% in SR (p < 0.01). Analysis of the silage characteristics and changes in the rumen microbial community revealed that feeding SSS and FSS increased the relative abundance of Ruminococcus in the rumen, further enhanced the degradation and conversion of silage neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and promoted the synthesis of fatty acids and amino acids. Specifically, FSS significantly increased the amino acid content in the meat, while SSS effectively improved the crude protein (CP) and crude fat (CF) contents. In conclusion, replacing 50% CS with FSS or SSS can effectively improve the meat quality and growth performance of Boer goats.

Stover yield, morphological fractions and nutrient composition of five stay-green sorghum (Sorghum biochar L.) varieties at the physiological maturity stage

Stay-green sorghum varieties are known for their drought resistance and ability to retain green biomass during grain filling, making them crucial for sustainable agriculture in arid regions. However, there is limited information on their stover yield (SY) and nutritional quality when both grain and forage are harvested. This study assessed five stay-green sorghum varieties at the Bako Agricultural Research Centre using a randomized complete block design with three replications in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The research evaluated SY, morphological traits, and nutrient composition. Results indicated that the Chemeda and Gemedi varieties produced the highest SY, digestible dry matter, and organic matter yield, with greater plant height and stem dry matter yield. These varieties are better suited for and could be targeted toward smallholder farmers who require large quantities of fodder for dry-season feeding when feed shortages are prevalent. In contrast, Asosa1 yielded the highest leaf biomass and leaf-to-stem ratio, followed by Adukara, suggesting that stover produced by such varieties would contribute to higher-quality forage that supports livestock productivity. SY varied significantly (P < 0.001) across seasons, with the highest in year 1, followed by year 3, and the lowest in year 2. Ash, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and cellulose concentrations showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) among varieties, though some quality traits differed (P < 0.05). Crude protein ranged from 5.44 % (Chemeda) to 3.18 % (Marara). These levels were below the threshold required for optimal rumen microbial activity, highlighting the need for supplementation with high-quality feed to support effective animal performance. Most traits, except for the leaf-to-stem ratio, showed strong positive correlations. Overall, Asosa1 and Adukara provided less stover with higher nutritional quality, while Chemeda and Gemedi offered greater quantities of lower-quality stover. The choice of variety should be based on the livestock production purpose of the end users. Future research should focus on assessing the performance of ruminant animals fed stover from the recommended varieties.

Utilisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and propionic acid to improve silage quality of amaranth before and after wilting: fermentation quality, microbial communities, and their metabolic pathway

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) and propionic acid (PA) on fermentation characteristics and microbial community of amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriaus) silage with different moisture contents.

Methods

Amaranth was harvested at maturity stage and prepared for ensiling. There were two moisture content gradients (80%: AhG, 70%: AhS; fresh material: FM) and three treatments (control: CK, L. plantarum: LP, propionic acid: PA) set up, and silages were opened after 60 d of ensiling.

Results

The results showed that the addition of L. plantarum and PA increased lactic acid (LA) content and decreased pH of amaranth after fermentation. In particular, the addition of PA significantly increased crude protein content (p < 0.05). LA content was higher in wilted silage than in high-moisture silage, and it was higher with the addition of L. plantarum and PA (p < 0.05). The dominant species of AhGLP, AhSCK, AhSLP and AhSPA were mainly L. plantarum, Lentilactobacillus buchneri and Levilactobacillus brevis. The dominant species in AhGCK include Enterobacter cloacae, and Xanthomonas oryzae was dominated in AhGPA, which affected fermentation quality. L. plantarum and PA acted synergistically after ensiling to accelerate the succession of dominant species from gram-negative to gram-positive bacteria, forming a symbiotic microbial network centred on lactic acid bacteria. Both wilting and additive silage preparation methods increased the degree of dominance of global and overview maps and carbohydrate metabolism, and decreased the degree of dominance of amino acid metabolism categories.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the addition of L. plantarum to silage can effectively improve the fermentation characteristics of amaranth, increase the diversity of bacterial communities, and regulate the microbial community and its functional metabolic pathways to achieve the desired fermentation effect.

Replacing alfalfa hay with amaranth hay: effects on production performance, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility and antioxidant ability in dairy cow

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research was to explore the effects of dietary substitution of alfalfa hay by amaranth hay on production performance, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant ability in dairy cows.

METHODS

A total of 45 healthy Holstein cows with same parity and similar milk yield and body weight were randomly divided into 3 groups: control diet without amaranth hay (CON) or 50% and 100% alfalfa hay replaced by an equal amount of amaranth hay (dry matter basis, AH1 and AH2, respectively). All the cows were fed regularly 3 times a day at 06:30, 14:30, and 22:30 and had free access to water. The experiment lasted for 60 d.

RESULTS

The dry matter intake of CON and AH1 groups was higher (p<0.05) than that of AH2 group. Compared with AH1 group, the milk yield of AH2 group was reduced (p<0.05). Moreover, dietary substitution of alfalfa hay by amaranth hay increased (p<0.05) milk fat, ammonia nitrogen and acetate concentrations. However, the crude protein digestibility of AH2 group was lower (p<0.05) than that of CON group, while an opposite tendency of serum urea nitrogen was found between two groups. The neutral detergent fiber digestibility of AH1 group was increased (p<0.05) when compared to AH2 group. Amaranth hay treatment increased (p<0.05) the serum concentration of glutathione peroxidase in dairy cows. Compared with CON group, the malonaldehyde activity of AH1 group was decreased (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Dietary replacing alfalfa hay with amaranth hay (50% ratio) in dairy cows did not affect production performance but improved their antioxidant ability.

Could Cratylia argentea replace Tifton 85 hay on growing and finishing lamb diets in tropical areas?

Legumes shrubs such as Cratylia argentea have an ability to thrive in environments with low water availability and poor soil. On the other hand, forage grasses such as Tifton 85 have a greater demand for inputs to be productive. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of growing and finishing Lacaune lambs fed Cratylia argentea hay as an alternative to Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp). Twenty-four Lacaune lambs aged between five and six months (average body weight [BW] 21.50 ± 3.38 kg) were arranged in a split-plot randomized block design. The plots consisted of different Cratylia to Tifton 85 hay proportions (0, 20%, 40%, or 100%, dry matter [DM] basis) as a roughage replacement in the total diet. The subplots represented two evaluation times, entitled "initial period" and "final period", which consisted of the early seven days of total feces and urine collection, and the last seven days of the experiment, respectively. The lambs were blocked by weight with six replicates per treatment. The results show that the level of Tifton 85 replacement for Cratylia hay in the roughage portion of the lamb diet did not influence (P > 0.05) weight gain (WG), dry matter intake or dry matter digestibility; feed conversion, feed efficiency; and the evaluated nitrogen balance variables. The digestibility coefficient of neutral detergent fiber decreased linearly as Tifton 85 replacement for Cratylia level was increased, which probably happened due to the presence of highly lignified material within the Cratylia hay. However, the alternative legume maintained animal performance of Tifton 85. In conclusion, Cratylia hay can be recommended as a potential substitute for Tifton 85 hay, which requires greater inputs for the production. Cratylia may be considered a feeding strategy for livestock production, especially for smallholder livestock systems and regions with unfavorable soil and climate.

Silage additives improve fermentation quality, aerobic stability and rumen degradation in mixed silage composed of amaranth and corn straw

The objective of this research was to investigate effects of different additives on the fermentation quality, aerobic stability and rumen degradation of mixed silage composed of amaranth and corn straw. The mixture ratio of amaranth to corn straw was 78%: 22%. Three additives were selected in this study and five groups were as follows: control group (CON, without additive), lactic acid bacteria group (LAB, 5 mg/kg, Lactobacillus plantarum ≥ 1.6×1010 CFU/g and L. buchneri ≥ 4.0×109 CFU/g), glucose group (GLU, 30 g/kg), cellulase group (CEL, 2 mg/kg) and lactic acid bacteria, glucose and cellulase group (LGC, added at the same levels as in individual group). The period of ensiling was 60 days. Fermentation quality, chemical composition and aerobic stability of mixed silage were analyzed. Four cows with permanent ruminal fistula were selected as experimental animals. Nylon bag technique was used to study rumen degradation characteristic of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of mixed silage. Compared with CON group, the addition of different silage additives could improve mixed silage quality of amaranth and corn straw to some extent. Combining three additives significantly increased (P < 0.05) the DM, CP and lactic acid contents, whereas decreased (P < 0.05) the ADF and NDF contents as well as pH and ammonia nitrogen/total nitrogen. Moreover, the aerobic stability and rumen degradation of DM, CP and NDF were significantly improved (P < 0.05) in LGC group when compared to other groups. In conclusion, the combined addition of lactic acid bacteria, glucose and cellulase increased DM, CP and lactic acid contents as well as lactic acid bacteria count, decreased NDF and ADF contents and aerobic bacteria and mold counts, improved aerobic stability and rumen degradation of amaranth and corn straw mixed silage.

Comparing the yield and nutritional value of ensiled amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) cultivars with corn silage (Zea mays) in doublecropping condition

Yield, chemical composition, and fermentation variables were compared for amaranth silages (AMS) from five cultivars (A5, A12, A14, A28, and Maria) and corn (Zea mays; CS). In vitro methane production, organic matter disappearance, microbial protein, ammonia-N concentration, volatile fatty acid levels, cellulolytic bacteria and protozoa populations, and in situ dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) degradability were evaluated. All crops were harvested when the plant was at the mid-milk line stage, then chopped, placed in sealed 5 L plastic bags and stored for 60 days. Data analysis was carried out using the PROC MIXED method of SAS with a randomized complete block design. The mean DM forage yield of CS was higher than the average DM yield of the amaranth cultivars (P < 0.001). In comparison with CS, the AMS had higher CP, lignin, ether extract, ash, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, total phenolics and metabolizable protein (P < 0.001), but had lower DM, neutral detergent fiber, non-fiber carbohydrates, organic matter disappearance, lactic acid (P < 0.01) and in vitro methane production (P = 0.001). The AMS had higher (P < 0.01) pH, ammonia-N concentration, in vitro microbial protein, in situ digestible undegradable protein, and metabolizable protein compared to CS. Overall, in comparison to CS, the amaranths produced a silage of medium-quality.

Lactobacillus plantarum and propionic acid improve the fermentation quality of high-moisture amaranth silage by altering the microbial community composition

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) and propionic acid (PA) on the microbial community and fermentation performance of high-moisture amaranth silage.

Methods

Amaranth silages were rown without addition (AhGCK) as a control and with L. plantarum JYLP-002 (AhGLP) or propionic acid (AhGPA) and then were opened after 60 days of ensiling to determine the microbial community and fermentation quality.

Results

Crude protein (CP) content, lactic acid (LA) content, and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) counts were significantly higher in AhGLP and AhGPA compared with those in AhGCK (p < 0.05). In contrast, pH, acetic acid (AA) content, and yeast and aerobic bacteria counts were significantly lower in AhGLP and AhGPA compared with those in AhGCK (p < 0.05). In addition, propionic acid (PA) levels were markedly higher in AhGPA (p < 0.05). In terms of microbial communities, the silage in the additive groups showed an increased relative abundance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lentilactobacillus buchneri and a reduced relative abundance of Enterobacter cloacae and Clostridium tyrobutyricum. The abundance of Xanthomonas oryzae was significantly increased in AhGPA, but completely inhibited in the silage supplemented with L. plantarum. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed that Lentilactobacillus buchneri and Levilactobacillus brevis were positively associated with LA and negatively associated with pH. Conversely, Clostridium tyrobutyricum and Enterobacter cloacae were negatively associated with LA, but positively associated with pH and AA content. AA content was inversely correlated with Lentilactobacillus buchneri. Functional prediction analysis showed that LAB dominated the three groups of silage and the silages containing additives had improved carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism compared with the control silage; in particular, the AhGLP group had more heterotypic fermentation processes and a richer metabolic pathway. Furthermore, the epiphytic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lentilactobacillus buchneri could inhibit the reproductive activity of undesirable microorganisms to a certain extent, thus slowing the spoilage process of the silage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, L. plantarum can improve fermentation characteristics by modulating the microbial community attached to high-moisture amaranth silage and will prove useful for preserving high-moisture silage.

Comparative Study of the Nutritional Value and Degradation Characteristics of Amaranth Hay in the Rumen of Goats at Different Growth Stages

The objective of this study was to investigate the rumen degradation characteristics of grain amaranth hay (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) at four different growth stages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value of grain amaranth hay at different growth stages by chemical composition, in vivo digestibility, and in situ degradability. Three Boer goats with permanent ruminal fistulas were selected in this study. Amaranthus hay at four different growth stages (squaring stage (SS), initial bloom stage (IS), full-bloom stage (FS) and mature stage (MS)) was crushed and placed into nylon bags. Each sample was set up with three replicates, and two parallel samples were set up in fistulas at each time point. The rumen degradation rates of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) were determined at 0, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h. The results were as follows: (1) The concentration of CP in SS was the highest and was significantly higher than that in other stages (p < 0.05), whereas the contents of NDF and ADF gradually increased with the extension of the growing period and reached a maximum in MS; (2)The degradation of CP in the rumen at 72 h of SS and IS was more than 80%. Compared with other stages, the effective degradability of CP was highest in SS (p < 0.05) and reached 87.05% at 72 h, and the degradation rate was the lowest in MS; and (3) The effective degradability of NDF in IS was the highest (p < 0.05) and reached 69.326% at 72 h. The effective degradability of ADF in MS was the highest (p < 0.05) and reached 65.728% at 72 h. The effective degradability of DM and CP in SS was the highest. In conclusion, among the four stages, IS was superior in chemical composition and rumen degradability characteristics.

Canola as a potential forage

The nutritive quality of four cultivars of canola forage (Brassica napus L.), Orient, Midas, Global, and Hybrid (Cobra × Regent), which were harvested in the early-spring period, were compared with green-winter barley (GWB) in terms of their yields, chemical composition, in vitro gas production variables, in situ crude protein (CP) degradation, and predicted dry matter intake (PDMI). Data were statistically analyzed using a completely randomized design with four replications and three samples per replication. The study was based on a randomized complete block design, and data were analyzed using SAS, general linear model procedure for normal distribution. The canola dry matter (DM) yield was highest in Orient cultivar and lowest in Midas (P &lt; 0.05). Organic matter (OM), CP, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and lignin(sa) concentration of the four cultivars ranged from 862 to 865, 218 to 247, 295 to 340, and 35 to 53 g/kg DM, respectively. The estimated OM disappearance (OMD), effective degradability of CP, effective rumen degradable protein (ERDP), digestible undegradable protein, and metabolizable protein (MP) of the forages were from 636 to 671 g/kg, 878 to 910, 172 to 193, 1.9 to 3.4, and 112 to 126 g/kg DM, respectively. Compared to Global and Hybrid cultivars, Orient and Midas contained higher CP, OMD, ERDP, MP concentration, and PDMI, but lower NDF, acid detergent fiber (ADF), and lignin(sa) concentrations (P &lt; 0.05). The level of glucosinolates in the forages ranged from 0.38 to 1.51 µmol/g DM, which is below the detrimental level for ruminants. Compared to winter canola cultivars, GWB had higher DM yield (P &lt; 0.003), NDF, lignin(sa), PDMI (P &lt; 0.01), and digestible undegradable protein (P &lt; 0.04), but had lower OMD (P &lt; 0.03), ERDP (P = 0.01), and MP (P &lt; 0.009). Based on the obtained results, the variation in the nutritive quality among the canola cultivars is relatively small, and the Orient cultivar, which is most comparable to GWB, was judged to be nutritionally the best among the cultivars.

Lambs fed diets containing by-product from coconut processing: histomorphometry characteristics in the digestive and renal systems

This study aimed to evaluate the histological characteristics in the digestive and renal systems of lambs fed diets containing coconut by-product (CB). A total of 35 male lambs with an initial weight of 16.9 ± 2.93 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design with five levels of CB in the diet (0; 4.8; 9.6; 14.4 and 19.2% in total dry matter). Samples of the liver, kidney, rumen, and intestine were histomorphometrically evaluated, and the data were submitted to regression analysis, at a 5% error probability. The inclusion of CB linearly decreased the dry matter intake and caused a quadratic effect for the height of ruminal papillae, absorption area, epithelium thickness, as well as for average daily gain. The inclusion of CB linearly increased the mucous layer and reduced the submucosal layer, as well as promoted a decrease in goblet cells in the small intestine. The inclusion of CB did not influence hepatic glycogen; additionally, the histopathological examination did not reveal liver damage or congestion, vacuolization, and necrosis of the renal tissue. Therefore, our results indicate that CB can be included in lambs diet up to the level of 7.2% without causing changes in the histomorphometry characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract and changes in liver and kidney tissue that compromise animal performance.

Growth performance and carcass traits of purebred and crossbred fattening lambs from Ghezel ram with Grey Shirazi ewe

In this investigation, performance, feed efficiency, and carcass traits of 48 weaned crossbred Grey Shirazi × Ghezel and purbred Grey Shirazi fattening lambs (mean live weight (LW), 28.5 ± 0.5 kg and age, 115 ± 5 days) were evaluated. Lambs were divided into 4 groups contain the GM group (12 purebred male lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Grey Shirazi ram), the GF group (12 purebred female lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Grey Shirazi ram), the CM group (12 crossbred male lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Ghezel ram), and the CF group (12 crossbred female lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Ghezel ram). The dry matter intakes (DMIs), average daily gain (ADG), and carcass traits in the lambs were determined. The DMI was greater in CF lambs compared to GF lambs (P < 0.001). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was higher in male lambs comparing to female lambs (P = 0.001). The final body weight (FBW), ADG, live weight at the slaughtering, and hot carcass weight (HCW) were lower in GF lambs compared to another lambs (P < 0.0005, P = 0.002, and P = 0.0007, respectively). Cold carcass weight (CCW) in CM lambs was higher than in other groups. The Longissimus lumborum (LL) area was higher in crossbreed male lambs (P = 0.001). Crossbreeding improved grow performance (FBW and ADG) in male and female lambs. Carcass trait was improved by crossbreeding especially in male lambs. Sex effect on growth performance and carcass traits was noticeable and male lambs had superior growth.

Lactobacillus plantarum and molasses alter dynamic chemical composition, microbial community, and aerobic stability of mixed (amaranth and rice straw) silage

BACKGROUND

The objective was to determine how molasses and Lactobacillus plantarum affect chemical composition, fermentation quality, aerobic stability, and the microbial community of an ensiled mixture of amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriaus, AF) and rice straw. Treatments were control (C, no addition), L. plantarum (L; 2 × 10⁵  cfu g^-1 fresh weight), molasses (M; 40 g kg^-1 fresh matter), and their combination (LM). All treatments were ensiled for 1, 3, 5, 7, and 30 days.

RESULTS

All additives improved fermentation quality with greater lactic acid (LA), acetic acid, and lower pH than C silage over the ensiling period. The LM silage combination optimized fermentability, manifested as greater LA contents and a more rapid pH reduction during the first 7 days of ensiling than L or M silages. After 30 days of ensiling, inoculant L. plantarum increased Lactobacillus abundance and reduced bacterial diversity and Enterobacteriaceae abundance compared with silage treated with molasses. Molasses addition reduced the relative concentration of structural carbohydrates (neutral and acid detergent fiber, and hemicellulose) after 30 days of ensiling. Finally, there was spoilage after 2 days and 4 days of aerobic exposure in C and LM silages respectively, whereas L silage had not spoiled after 4 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the combination of L. plantarum and molasses further optimized fermentation characteristics, L silage had better aerobic stability. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Growth performances, nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation and energy partition of Thai native steers fed exclusive rice straw and fermented sugarcane bagasse with Lactobacillus, cellulase and molasses

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of sugarcane bagasse feeding treated with Lactobacillus casei TH14 (L. casei TH14), cellulase and molasses (BG) on nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, energy partition and growth performances of Thai native steers compared to conventional feeding of rice straw (RS). Eight Thai native steers (144 ± 19.5 kg of initial body weight) were randomly allocated to two roughage sources in a completed randomized design: RS (n ꞊ 4) and BG (n ꞊ 4). The feeding trial lasted for 90 days plus 21 days for treatment adaptation. The results showed that the BG group showed (p < 0.05) greater intake (2.34 vs 2.02 kg/day), total intake (3.90 vs 3.55 kg/day) and average daily gain (0.27 vs 0.23 kg/day) while feed conversion ratio was lower compared to RS group. The BG group had a greater (p < 0.05) organic matter and acid detergent fibre intake than the RS group as well as dry matter and neutral detergent fibre digestibility. The steers fed RS and BG were significantly (p < 0.05) different for total volatile fatty acids and propionic acid at 4 h after offering the diet. The intake of nitrogen (g/day) and apparent nitrogen absorption was significantly (p < 0.05) higher for BG than the RS group while nitrogen excretion in faeces was significantly lower in RS than the BG group. BG group showed significantly (p < 0.05) greater gross energy intake and digestible energy partition when compared to the RS group. In conclusion, feeding BG enhanced feed utilization, growth performance, ruminal fermentation, nitrogen utilization and energy utilization.

Nutritive value of sorghum silage for sheep

This study compared ensiled sorghum (ES) from two varieties (first and second cuts) with corn silage (CS) for chemical analysis, total-tract nutrient digestibility, ruminal variables and blood biochemistry metabolites in sheep. Five experimental silages representing first cut ES var. Pegah (PS1), second cut ES var. Pegah (PS2), first cut ES var. Speedfeed (SS1), second cut ES var. Speedfeed (SS2) and CS were assessed for chemical analysis, silage fermentation and anti-quality compounds. Diets consisted of lucerne hay, silage and a premix (at the ratio of 53.5:46:0.5 on a dry matter [DM] basis). Feed consumption, total-tract nutrient digestibility, microbial nitrogen supply (MNS), ruminal variables and blood biochemistry metabolites were determined in a Latin square design of five periods with five male sheep. Compared to sorghum, CS had lower (p < 0.01) concentrations of ash, water-soluble carbohydrates and crude protein, but higher starch, lignin (sa), non-structural carbohydrates and apparent nutrient digestibility. The measurements of pH, lactic acid, NH₃ -N and volatile fatty acids (VFA) confirmed that all silages were well-preserved. The anti-quality compound levels in the silages were below the safe limits for ruminants. No differences were observed in feed consumption (p > 0.05) and total-tract digestibility of DM and nutrients (p > 0.05). Rumen pH, NH₃ -N, VFA concentrations and acetate to propionate ratio showed no difference among treatments (p > 0.05). Sheep fed on sorghum silage showed a decrease (p < 0.01) in total protozoa, and particularly in the Entodiniae population. There were no differences in cellulolytic bacteria counts (p > 0.05) among treatments. Urinary N, MNS and blood biochemistry metabolites showed no difference among treatments (p > 0.05). Silages from both cuts of sorghum had comparable total-tract nutrient digestibility to CS, therefore, these varieties could be used as a more drought resilient silage source in the feeding of sheep.

Nutritive value of ensiled Amaranthus powellii Wild. treated with salt and barley

Silages or ensiled plant parts are important to feed materials for ruminal fermentation and contributed to the feeding of ruminant animals in large share. The current study was conducted to determine the nutritive value of ensiled Amaranthus powellii Wild. (AP) treated with salt and barley. Experimental silages were (1) no supplemented AP forage (control), (2) 1% salt-added AP, (3) 1% salt + 5% barley-added AP, (4) 5% barley-added AP, (5) 1% salt + 7.5% barley-added AP, and (6) 7.5% barley-added AP silages. Silages were analyzed to determine their nutritional contents, physical properties, and microbiota. The DM (g/kg), OM, CP, ADF, NDF, ADL, and ash contents (g/100 g DM) of AP silage were determined as 331.20, 29.84, 12.62, 37.22, 57.72, 42.23, and 3.28, respectively. DM and OM contents were increased by both salt and barley additions while CP and ADF values decreased by these additions (P < 0.01). DDM and RFV values were improved by both salt and barley additions with alone and together usage, reaching the highest levels by 7.5% barley addition (P < 0.01). While salt itself did not affect RFQ, 5%, 7.5% barley, and 1% salt with 5% barley additions decreased this value (P < 0.01), most likely, due to the nutritional content of added barley. The physical properties of AP silage were not affected by any treatment (P > 0.05), except a* and Fleig score (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). Salt caused loss natural red coloring in AP silage compared with control silage, while the other additions saved the natural coloring (P < 0.01). Expectedly, all treatments increased lactic acid bacteria count compared with control (P < 0.01). To conclude, AP had the potential to be a good silage with respective to its nutritional contents, feed value, and physical properties with appropriate microbiological status. Salt and barley both can be used to improve the nutritional status of AP silages. Further studies are needed to determine its in vitro digestibility and preference by animals in vivo.

Cellulase interacts with Lactobacillus plantarum to affect chemical composition, bacterial communities, and aerobic stability in mixed silage of high-moisture amaranth and rice straw

The objective was to evaluate effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and/or cellulase on fermentation, aerobic stability and bacterial community of mixed high-moisture amaranth (AF) and rice straw (RS) silage. The mixtures were treated with no addition (C), L. plantarum (L), cellulase (F) and their combination (LF). Additives increased the abundances of Lactobacillus and reduced the abundances of Weissella, Pediococcus, Lactococcus, decreased pH, acetic acid, ammonia nitrogen and increased lactic acid concentration as compared to C silage over the ensiling period. The LF silage had the highest lactic acid concentration among all silages over the 7 d of ensiling and also the lowest abundance of Enterobacteriaceae over 30 d of ensiling. Aerobic spoilage occurred in C and LF silages after 2 d of aerobic exposure, whereas the L and F silages remained stable > 4 d. In conclusion, silage treated with LF showed best silage quality.

Yield, chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, in vitro ruminal variables, and degradability of ensiled amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) cultivars compared with corn (Zea mays) silage

Silages from four amaranth varieties (A5, A12, A14, and A28) were compared with corn silage (CS) in terms of their yield, chemical composition, phenolic compounds, oxalic acid and nitrate levels, silage fermentation characteristics, in vitro methane production, organic matter disappearance (OMD), microbial crude protein (MCP), ruminal ammonia (NH₃-N), pH, volatile fatty acids, cellulolytic bacteria numbers, protozoa counts, and in situ dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) degradability were determined. Forages were harvested 93 d after planting, chopped, and ensiled in plastic buckets for 60 d. The study was based on a randomized complete block design, and data were analyzed using SAS, general linear model (GLM) procedure for normal distribution. Compared with CS, amaranth silages (AMS) had lower ash-free neutral detergent fiber nitrate, OMD (P < 0.001), phosphorus (P = 0.003), and metabolizable energy (ME) (P = 0.043) but higher (P < 0.001) CP, calcium, non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), acid detergent lignin, ether extract, ash, total phenolics, pH, NH₃-N concentration, MCP, digestible undegradable protein (DUP), and metabolizable protein (MP). Fresh, OM, OMD, ME (P < 0.001), and DM (P = 0.032) yields of AMS from different varieties were higher than CS, with the exception of A5. Overall, amaranth made good quality silage, with some variation, and A28 had the highest yield and nutritional value (CP, NFC, MCP, DUP, and MP). The yield, CP concentration, and nutritional value of A28 silage were higher than CS. Although these in vitro results are promising, they also need to be validated with future in vivo research.

Broccoli byproduct-wheat straw silage as a feed resource for fattening lambs

The effect of feeding broccoli byproduct-wheat straw silage [BBWS; 69:31 ratio, dry matter (DM) basis] on performance, microbial N synthesis (MNS), rumen, and blood parameters in Fashandy lambs were evaluated. Three diets, with equal metabolizable energy and crude protein (CP) with a forage to concentrate ratio of 27:73 (DM basis), were formulated in which forage (lucerne and wheat straw) was replaced by BBWS (0, 100, or 200 g/kg of diet DM). These were assigned to three groups (n = 15/group) in a completely randomized block design for a 70-d period in which diets were offered as a total mixed ration. For each animal, dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), in vivo apparent digestibility, MNS, N retention, rumen, and blood parameters were measured. The BBWS diets had no influence on DMI, ADG, feed conversion efficiency, in vivo apparent digestibility coefficients of DM, organic matter, CP, and ash-free neutral detergent fiber. Neither MNS and N retention nor serum concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, creatinine, cholesterol, urea N, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, total protein, albumin, and globulin were affected. Rumen pH, NH₃-N, short-chain fatty acid concentrations, the ratio of acetic to propionic acid, and protozoa numbers were, also, not influenced. In summary, BBWS may be fed to Fashandy lambs up to 200 g/kg of diet DM without any adverse impacts on growth performance.

Productive and Qualitative Traits of Amaranthus Cruentus L.: An Unconventional Healthy Ingredient in Animal Feed

Agronomic traits, oil content, fatty acid composition, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content were studied on eight A. cruentus accessions cultivated in Southern Italy. A one-way ANOVA model was performed to compare accessions and the Principal Components Analysis was applied to identify patterns in our dataset and highlight similarities and differences. A. cruentus showed valuable seed yield (0.27 kg/m2, on average) comparable to the main tradition cereals used for animal feeding. Seed-oil composition showed significant differences among the accessions. Data showed a higher lipid content than most cereal grains (from 5.6 to 7.3%). Approximately 60% of fatty acids were unsaturated; linoleic fatty acid ranged from 19 to 34%, oleic acid from 29 to 36%, and alfa-linolenic fatty acid from 0.3 to 0.5%, respectively. The saturated/unsaturated fatty acid ratio ranged from 0.5 to 0.8, the hypocholesterolemic:hypercholesterolaemic ratio from 1.7 to 2.7, the Atherogenic Index from 0.38 to 0.66, the Thrombogenic Index from 0.85 to 1.48, the total phenolic content from 0.14 to 0.36 mg/g seeds, and the antioxidant activity (DPPH•) from 0.30 to 0.50. The studied seed-oil composition evidenced A. cruentus as a healthy ingredient for animal feed and consequently, as a possible substitute for traditional cereals. Accessions from Mexico and Arizona emerged for their high qualitative traits.

Effects of Different Growth Stages of Amaranth Silage on the Rumen Degradation of Dairy Cows

Simple Summary

The production of some crops is limited in parts of the world because of the shortage of water resources. Therefore, it is an irresistible trend to make full use of roughage resources. Amaranth is one of the crops which can grow in the poor soils and areas with high temperature and limited rainfall. In addition, the quality and yield of forage depend on harvest stage, and the appropriate growth stage is an important influencing factor of forage quality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the rumen degradation characteristic of amaranth silage including four kinds of growing stages. The results showed that with the extension of the growing period, the crude protein contents decreased gradually, and the contents of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber exhibited an opposite trend. Besides, the ruminal dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber degradability was significantly affected by growth stage. Our result suggested that amaranth silage can be used as a roughage in the diet of dairy cow. However, growth stage is an essential factor to influence the ruminal degradability, thus the growth stage of amaranth should be taken into consideration when making silage.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the rumen degradation characteristic of amaranth silage (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) including four kinds of growing stages (budding stage (BS), 50 d after planting (DAP); early flowering stage (ES), 58 DAP; peak flowering stage (PS), 70 DAP; heading stage (HS), 90 DAP). Four Holstein dairy cows with permanent ruminal cannulas were used as experimental animals. Nylon-bag method was used to assess the ruminal degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). The results showed that the concentration of DM in HS was significantly higher than other stages (p < 0.05), whereas the contents of CP, were lower than in other stages (p < 0.05). With the extension of the growing period, the DM effective degradability of amaranth silage decreased gradually, and the difference was significant (p < 0.05). The ruminal CP degradation of 72 h was more than 80%, and compared with ES and HS, the degradation rate of BS and PS was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared to BS, the effective degradability of CP was increased (p < 0.05) in ES and HS. For ruminal NDF degradability, the effective degradability of HS was minimum, and it had a noticeable difference with BS and ES (p < 0.05). Thus, the different quality of amaranth growth stage including chemical contents and rumen degradation should be taken into consideration when making amaranth silage. In the present study, the optimal growth stage of amaranth was from the peak flowering stage to heading stage for ensiling.

Total replacement of corn silage with sorghum silage improves milk fatty acid profile and antioxidant capacity of Holstein dairy cows

Total mixed rations containing corn silage (CS) or forage sorghum silage (SS) were fed to mid-lactation Holstein cows to determine the effects on feed intake, lactation performance, milk composition and fatty acid profile, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, rumen microbial N synthesis, and antioxidant status. The experiment was designed as a 2-period change-over (two 28-d periods) trial with 2 diets including CS diet or SS diet and 12 cows. Total replacement of CS with SS had no significant influence on dry matter intake. Substituting CS with SS had no effect on milk production, feed efficiency, and milk concentrations of fat, protein, lactose, and solids-not-fat, whereas yields of milk fat, protein, and lactose were greater for cows fed the CS diet. Blood parameters including glucose, albumin, cholesterol, triglyceride, total protein, urea N, and fatty acids were not affected by the dietary treatments. Apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber were not significantly influenced by the diets. Replacing CS with SS had no effect on total saturated fatty acids and total monounsaturated fatty acids, whereas total polyunsaturated fatty acid percentage was greater with the SS diet. Proportions of C20:0, C18:3n-3, and C18:3n-6 were affected by feeding SS. Cows fed CS had a greater amount of urinary purine derivatives. Feeding SS had a positive effect on total antioxidant capacity of blood and milk. In conclusion, SS can be fed to lactating Holstein cows as a total replacement for CS without undesirable effects on animal performance, but with positive effects on antioxidant capacity and polyunsaturated fatty acids of milk. This forage can be an excellent choice for dairy farms in areas where cultivation of corn is difficult due to water shortage.

The effect of lactic acid bacteria inoculation, molasses, or wilting on the fermentation quality and nutritive value of amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriaus) silage1

This study assessed the influence of wilting, lactobacillus (LAB), and/or molasses on the chemical composition, phenolic compounds, in situ degradability, and in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters of amaranth (var. Maria) silage using a randomized complete block design with 6 replicates. Treatments were fresh amaranth forage (FAF), ensiled amaranth without additive (EA), EA inoculated with LAB (EAB), EA + 5% of molasses (EAM), EA inoculated with LAB + 5% of molasses (EABM), and 24-h wilted EA (WEA). The ensiled materials were stored anaerobically for a period of 45 d. Chemical composition, oxalic acid and nitrate levels, silage fermentation characteristics, DM disappearance (DMD), OM disappearance (OMD), in vitro ruminal ammonia-N, volatile fatty acids, cellulolytic bacteria and protozoa counts, and in situ DM and CP degradability were determined. Compared with FAF, EA had lesser values of water-soluble carbohydrates (P = 0.023), nitrate (P = 0.001), total phenolics (P = 0.04), total tannins (P = 0.01), DMD (P = 0.01), ruminal cellulolytic bacteria (P = 0.02), soluble and very rapidly degradable fraction (P = 0.014), and effective degradability (P = 0.01). The EA had lesser OMD and CP degradability compared with FAF (P < 0.05). Adding molasses to EA resulted in increased ash and lactate concentrations and decreased ammonia (P < 0.05), but had no effect on OMD. The WEA had lesser ammonia and greater lactate compared with EA (P < 0.05). Overall, fresh amaranth var. Maria can be preserved as a valuable silage to feed ruminants. Ensiling amaranth var. Maria decreased the antiquality compounds, and molasses addition improved the fermentation quality of the silage.

Chemical composition, silage fermentation characteristics, and in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters of potato-wheat straw silage treated with molasses and lactic acid bacteria and corn silage

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of molasses and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on the chemical composition, silage fermentation characteristics, and in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters of an ensiled potato-wheat straw mixture in a completely randomized design with 4 replicates. Wheat straw was harvested at full maturity and potato tuber when the leaves turned yellowish. The potato-wheat straw (57:43 ratio, DM basis) mixture was treated with molasses, LAB, or a combination. Lalsil Fresh LB (Lallemand, France; containing NCIMB 40788) or Lalsil MS01 (Lallemand, France; containing MA18/5U and MA126/4U) were each applied at a rate of 3 × 10 cfu/g of fresh material. Treatments were mixed potato-wheat straw silage (PWSS) without additive, PWSS inoculated with Lalsil Fresh LB, PWSS inoculated with Lalsil MS01, PWSS + 5% molasses, PWSS inoculated with Lalsil Fresh LB + 5% molasses, PWSS inoculated with Lalsil MS01 + 5% molasses, and corn silage (CS). The compaction densities of PWSS treatments and CS were approximately 850 and 980 kg wet matter/m, respectively. After anaerobic storage for 90 d, chemical composition, silage fermentation characteristics, in vitro gas production (GP), estimated OM disappearance (OMD), ammonia-N, VFA, microbial CP (MCP) production, and cellulolytic bacteria count were determined. Compared to CS, PWSS had greater ( < 0.001) values of DM, ADL, water-soluble carbohydrates, pH, and ammonia-N but lower ( < 0.05) values of CP, ash free-NDF (NDFom), ash, nitrate, and lactic, acetic, propionic, and butyric acids concentrations. When PWSS was treated with molasses, LAB, or both, the contents of CP and lactic and acetic acids increased, whereas NDFom, ammonia-N, and butyric acid decreased ( < 0.05). Based on in vitro ruminal experiments, PWSS had greater ( < 0.05) values of GP, OMD, and MCP but lower ( < 0.05) VFA and acetic acid compared to CS. With adding molasses alone or in combination with LAB inoculants to PWSS, the values of GP, OMD, MCP, cellulolytic bacteria population, VFA, and propionic acid increased ( < 0.05), whereas the acetic acid to propionic acid ratio decreased ( < 0.05). Overall, ensiling potato with wheat straw at a 57:43 ratio DM basis was possible; nevertheless, the fermentation quality of PWSS was lesser than that of CS. However, addition of molasses and molasses + LAB improved fermentation quality of PWSS.

Effect of different combinations of soybean-maize silage on its chemical composition, nutrient intake, degradability, and performance of Pelibuey lambs

Sheep raising in the state of Guerrero, México, is a primary activity that is worth about US$3,251,931 annually. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the chemical composition, degradability, nutrient intake, and animal performance of Pelibuey lambs fed on different combinations of maize-soybean silages. Twenty-one combinations of maize silage (MS) and soybean silage (SS) were evaluated at day 45 post-ensiling; in each combination, MS was replaced by 5 % of SS. The 21 combinations were analysed for crude protein (CP) and chemical composition. In order to obtain a statistical criterion of potential treatments for the animal feeding test, a cluster analysis was performed based on the CP contents of all combinations at day 45 post-ensiling. From cluster analysis, four treatments were selected T1 = 100-0 % (MS/SS), T8 = 65-35 %, T12 = 45-55 %, and T16 = 25-75 %. Results indicated that cluster analysis was useful for identifying the potential treatments for animal feeding based on the crude protein content. The dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and acid detergent lignin (ADL) contents did not declined significantly (P > 0.05) during the fermentation of silages but CP content decreased from day 0 to 45 post-ensiling. The treatment with the highest estimated microbial crude protein synthesis was T8 and it showed the highest metabolizable energy intake, high feed efficiency with a forage-concentrate ratio of 84:16.