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Liesegang A, Burger B, de Vries de Heekelingen T, Schroeter-Vogt C, Hatt JM, Kowalewski MP, Clauss M. Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) increase caecal calcium absorption at increasing dietary calcium levels. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2024; 108:185-193. [PMID: 37664966 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Hindgut fermenting herbivores from different vertebrate taxa, including tortoises, and among mammals some afrotheria, perissodactyla incl. equids, several rodents as well as lagomorphs absorb more calcium (Ca) from the digesta than they require, and excrete the surplus via urine. Both proximate and ultimate causes are elusive. It was suggested that this mechanism might ensure phosphorus availability for the hindgut microbiome by removing potentially complex-building Ca from the digesta. Here we use Ussing chamber experiments to show that rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) maintained on four different diets (six animals/diet) increase active Ca absorption at increasing Ca levels. This contradicts the common assumption that at higher dietary levels, where passive uptake should be more prevalent, active transport can relax and hence supports the deliberate removal hypothesis. In the rabbits, this absorption was distinctively higher in the caecum than in the duodenum, which is unexpected in mammals. Additional quantification of the presence of two proteins involved in active Ca absorption (calbindin-D9K CB; vitamin D receptor, VDR) showed higher presence with higher dietary Ca. However, their detailed distribution across the intestinal tract and the diet groups suggests that other factors not investigated in this study must play major roles in Ca absorption in rabbits. Investigating strategies of herbivores to mitigate potential negative effects of Ca in the digesta on microbial activity and growth might represent a promising area of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Liesegang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Burger
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Böswald LF, Wenderlein J, Siegert W, Straubinger RK, Kienzle E. True mineral digestibility in C57Bl/6J mice. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290145. [PMID: 37585435 PMCID: PMC10431658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Data on mineral digestibility is key to understand mineral homeostasis and refine the recommendations for the dietary intake of these nutrients. In farm animals and pets, there is plenty of data on mineral digestibility and influencing factors. In laboratory mice, however, there is a lack of information on mineral digestibility under maintenance conditions, although this should be the basis for studies on mineral homeostasis under experimental conditions. The aim of the present study was to analyse data on intake, faecal excretion, and apparent digestibility of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, and magnesium in C57BL/6J mice fed different maintenance diets with varying voluntary dry matter intake. Lucas-tests were used to quantify true digestibility and describe correlations between dietary intake and excretion/absorption of the nutrients. Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium showed a linear correlation between intake and faecal excretion (R2: 0.77, 0.93 and 0.91, respectively). Intake and apparently digested amounts of sodium and potassium were correlated linearly (R2: 0.86 and 0.98, respectively). These data show that intake is the major determinant of absorption in the minerals listed above. Faecal calcium and phosphorus excretion were correlated as well (R2 = 0.75).
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda F. Böswald
- Chair for Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Jasmin Wenderlein
- Chair of Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Siegert
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Reinhard K. Straubinger
- Chair of Bacteriology and Mycology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Ellen Kienzle
- Chair for Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU München, München, Germany
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Clauss M, Codron D, Hummel J. Equid nutritional physiology and behavior: an evolutionary perspective. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 124:104265. [PMID: 36893821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Like other members of the even-toed ungulates (the perissodactyls), equids once had a higher species diversity in the fossil record than they have today. This is generally explained in comparison to the enormous diversity of bovid ruminants. Theories on putative competitive disadvantages of equids include the use of a single toe as opposed to two toes per leg, the lack of a specific brain cooling (and hence water-saving) mechanism, longer gestation periods that delay reproductive output, and in particular digestive physiology. To date, there is no empirical support for the theory that equids fare better on low-quality forage than ruminants. In contrast to the traditional juxtaposition of hindgut and foregut fermenters, we suggest that it is more insightful to sketch the evolution of equid and ruminant digestive physiology as a case of convergence: both evolved a particularly high chewing efficacy in their respective groups, which facilitates comparatively high feed and hence energy intakes. But because the ruminant system, less based on tooth anatomy but more on a forestomach sorting mechanism, is more effective, equids depend more on high feed intakes than ruminants and may well be more susceptible to feed shortages. Arguably, the most under-emphasized characteristic of equids may be that in contrast to many other herbivores including ruminants and coprophageous hindgut fermenters, equids do not use the microbial biomass growing in their gastrointestinal tract. Equids display behavioral and morphophysiological adaptations to high feed intakes, and their cranial anatomy that facilitates the cropping of forage while performing grinding chewing at the same time might be unique. Rather than looking for explanations how equids are better adapted to their present niches than other organisms, considering them remnants of a different morphophysiological solution may be more appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich; 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Daryl Codron
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State; Bloemfontein, South Africa.
| | - Jürgen Hummel
- Ruminant Nutrition, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen; 37077 Goettingen, Germany.
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De Cuyper A, Winkler DE, Tütken T, Bosch G, Hummel J, Kreuzer M, Muñoz Saravia A, Janssens GPJ, Clauss M. Digestion of bamboo compared to grass and lucerne in a small hindgut fermenting herbivore, the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2021; 337:128-140. [PMID: 34411456 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Bamboo is an enigmatic forage, representing a niche food for pandas and bamboo lemurs. Bamboo might not represent a suitable forage for herbivores relying on fermentative digestion, potentially due to its low fermentability. To test this hypothesis, guinea pigs (n = 36) were used as model species and fed ad libitum with one of three forages (bamboo, lucerne, or timothy grass) in a fresh or dried state, with six individuals per group, for 3 weeks. The nutrient composition and in vitro fermentation profile of bamboo displayed low fermentation potential, i.e. high lignin and silica levels together with a gas production (Hohenheim gas test) at 12 h of only 36% of that of lucerne and grass. Although silica levels were more abundant in the leftovers of (almost) all groups, guinea pigs did not select against lignin on bamboo. Dry matter (DM) intake was highest and DM digestibility lowest on the bamboo forage. Total short-chain fatty acid levels in caecal content were highest for lucerne and lowest for grass and bamboo. Bamboo-fed guinea pigs had a lower body weight gain than the grass and lucerne group. The forage hydration state did not substantially affect digestion, but dry forage led to a numerically higher total wet gut fill. Although guinea pigs increased DM intake on the bamboo diet, the negative effects on fermentation of lignin and silica in bamboo seemed overriding. For herbivores that did not evolutionary adapt, bamboo as an exclusive food resource can be considered as inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies De Cuyper
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Daniela E Winkler
- Applied and Analytical Palaeontology, Institute of Geosciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.,Department of Natural Environmental Studies, Graduate School of 12 Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Thomas Tütken
- Applied and Analytical Palaeontology, Institute of Geosciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Guido Bosch
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jürgen Hummel
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michael Kreuzer
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Arturo Muñoz Saravia
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Geert P J Janssens
- Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Okita‐Ouma B, Pettifor R, Clauss M, Prins HHT. Effect of high population density of eastern black rhinoceros, a mega‐browser, on the quality of its diet. Afr J Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benson Okita‐Ouma
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group ‐ Wageningen University Wageningen The Netherlands
- Kenya Wildlife Service Nairobi Kenya
- Save the Elephants Nairobi Kenya
| | | | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Herbert H. T. Prins
- Department of Animal Sciences Wageningen University Wageningen The Netherlands
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Naumova EI, Chistova TY, Zharova GK, Kam M, Khokhlova IS, Krasnov BR, Clauss M, Degen AA. Particle size reduction along the digestive tract of fat sand rats (Psammomys obesus) fed four chenopods. J Comp Physiol B 2021; 191:831-841. [PMID: 33738527 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-021-01357-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
It is generally accepted that microbial digestion contributes little to digesta particle size reduction in herbivores, and that faecal particle size reflects mainly chewing efficiency, and may vary with diet. Nevertheless, a decrease in mean particle size (MPS) along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) has been reported, especially in hindgut fermenters. However, to what degree the very fine particle fraction (non-food origin, especially microbes) affects MPS is unclear. Fat sand rats (Psammomys obesus, diurnal herbivores, n = 23, 175 ± sd 24 g) consumed one of four chenopods (natural dietary items in the wild) for 30 days. Digestibility was related negatively to dietary fibre content. We determined digesta MPS in the forestomach, glandular stomach, small intestine, caecum, colon and faeces by wet sieving, including (MPSfines) or excluding (MPSnofines) particles < 0.25 mm. The proportions of fines were higher and of MPSfines were correspondingly lower in GIT sections that harbour microbes (forestomach, hindgut), whereas MPSnofines did not differ between forestomach and glandular stomach. However, MPSnofines decreased along the GIT, indicating MPS reduction due to digestive (enzymatic and microbial) processes. The four different diets led to different MPS, but the magnitude of MPS reduction in the GIT was not correlated with dietary fibre fractions or dry matter digestibility. These results indicate that within a species, MPS cannot be used as a proxy for diet quality or digestibility, and raise the hypothesis that MPS reduction along the GIT may be more pronounced in smaller than in larger mammalian terrestrial herbivores, possibly due to the fine initial particles produced by chewing in small species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena I Naumova
- Laboratory of Ecology, Physiology and Functional Morphology, Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninskii pr. 33, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Tatyana Y Chistova
- Laboratory of Ecology, Physiology and Functional Morphology, Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninskii pr. 33, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Galina K Zharova
- Laboratory of Ecology, Physiology and Functional Morphology, Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninskii pr. 33, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Michael Kam
- Desert Animal Adaptations and Husbandry, Wyler Department for Dryland Agriculture, The French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Irina S Khokhlova
- Desert Animal Adaptations and Husbandry, Wyler Department for Dryland Agriculture, The French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Boris R Krasnov
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Swiss Institute for Dryland Environmental Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer, Israel
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A Allan Degen
- Desert Animal Adaptations and Husbandry, Wyler Department for Dryland Agriculture, The French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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Duque-Correa MJ, Codron D, Meloro C, McGrosky A, Schiffmann C, Edwards MS, Clauss M. Mammalian intestinal allometry, phylogeny, trophic level and climate. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20202888. [PMID: 33563126 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.2888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
An often-stated ecomorphological assumption that has the status of 'textbook knowledge' is that the dimensions of the digestive tract correlate with diet, where herbivores-consuming diets of lower digestibility-have longer intestinal tracts than faunivores-consuming diets of higher digestibility. However, statistical approaches have so far failed to demonstrate this link. Here, we collated data on the length of intestinal sections and body mass of 519 mammal species, and test for various relationships with trophic, climatic and other biological characteristics. All models showed a strong phylogenetic signal. Scaling relationships with body mass showed positive allometry at exponents greater than 0.33, except for the caecum, which is particularly large in smaller species. Body mass was more tightly linked to small intestine than to large intestine length. Adding a diet proxy to the relationships increased model fit for all intestinal sections, except for the small intestine when accounting for phylogeny. Thus, the diet has a main effect on the components of the large intestine, with longer measures in herbivores. Additionally, measures of habitat aridity had a positive relationship with large intestine length. The small intestine was longer in species from colder habitats at higher latitudes, possibly facilitating the processing of peak intake rates during the growing season. This study corroborates intuitive expectations on digestive tract anatomy, while the dependence of significant results on large sample sizes and inclusion of specific taxonomic groups indicates that the relationships cannot be considered fixed biological laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Duque-Correa
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daryl Codron
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, 9300 Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Carlo Meloro
- Research Centre in Evolutionary Anthropology and Palaeoecology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Amanda McGrosky
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Christian Schiffmann
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark S Edwards
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Weber M, Tacail T, Lugli F, Clauss M, Weber K, Leichliter J, Winkler DE, Mertz-Kraus R, Tütken T. Strontium Uptake and Intra-Population 87Sr/86Sr Variability of Bones and Teeth—Controlled Feeding Experiments With Rodents (Rattus norvegicus, Cavia porcellus). Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.569940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Strontium isotopes in biogenic apatite, especially enamel, are widely employed to determine provenance and track migration in palaeontology and archaeology. Body tissues record the 87Sr/86Sr of bioavailable Sr of ingested food and water. To identify non-local individuals, knowledge of the 87Sr/86Sr of a non-migratory population is required. However, varying factors such as tissue turnover rates, feeding selectivity, Sr content, digestibility of food, and the ingestion of mineral dust can influence body tissue 87Sr/86Sr. To evaluate the Sr contribution of diet and water to mammalian hard tissues 87Sr/86Sr, controlled feeding studies are necessary. Here we present 87Sr/86Sr from controlled feeding experiments with two rodent species (Rattus norvegicus, Cavia porcellus). Due to the continuous and fast incremental growth of rat and guinea pig incisors (~0.1 – 0.5 mm/day), their enamel is expected to record isotopic dietary changes. For Experiment-1: Diet Switch, animals were switched from their respective supplier food to a pelleted experimental diet containing either insect-, plant-, or meat-meal and a staggered-sampling approach was used to monitor the 87Sr/86Sr changes in rat incisor enamel and bone over the course of the experiment. In Experiment-2: Basic Diets, separated cohorts (n = 6) of rats and guinea pigs were fed one of the three pelleted diets and received tap water for 54 days. While the rat incisors showed a complete tissue turnover, the slower-growing guinea pig incisors partially retained supplier diet-related isotopic compositions. In addition, one group of rats fed plant-meal pellets received Sr-rich mineral water, demonstrating that drinking water can be an important Sr source in addition to diet. Additionally, a leaching experiment showed that only a small fraction of diet-related Sr is bioavailable. Finally, in Experiment-3: Dust Addition, guinea pigs were fed pellets with and without addition of 4% of isotopically distinct dust (loess or kaolin). Animals that received kaolin-containing pellets displayed increased enamel 87Sr/86Sr. Intra-population 87Sr/86Sr variability within each feeding group was small and thus we conclude that it should not affect interpretations of 87Sr/86Sr in provenance studies. However, the differences between bulk food and leachate 87Sr/86Sr highlight the importance of Sr bioavailability for provenance studies and Sr isoscapes.
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Kumar A, Das A, Kullu SS, Durge SM, Sharma AK. Utilization of macro-nutrients and minerals in captive greater one-horned rhinoceros fed season-specific diets. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2020; 105:406-417. [PMID: 33258509 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This experiment was conducted to study nutrient and mineral utilization in greater one-horned rhinoceros fed season-specific diets. Nine adult greater one-horned rhinoceros (774-2407 kg BW) of Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna, Bihar, India, were used in this experiment. Three digestion trials of 60-d duration were conducted per animal, out of which 55 days was adaptation period and 5 days was collection period. The amount of concentrate was kept constant during all the trials. Green fodder sources were sugarcane, berseem (Trifolium alexndrinum) and chari (Sorghum bicolor) during trials I, II and III respectively. Green fodders were offered 20% in excess of previous day's intake in the afternoon. Apparent digestibility of dry matter and crude fibre was higher (p < .01) in group II as compared to other groups. Apparent digestibility of crude protein was lowest (p < .01) in group I, followed by group III, and the highest value was observed in group II. Apparent digestibility of Ca and P was lower in greater one-horned rhinoceros fed sugarcane and sorghum as green fodder source. In spite of this, sugarcane and sorghum-based diets were able to meet the requirement of Ca, P, Fe and Mn. Berseem supplied Ca in excess of requirement. All the diets were deficient in Zn. Hence, a suitable supplement of Zn should be added to the conventional zoo diet of greater one-horned rhinoceros.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Kumar
- Center for Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Asit Das
- Center for Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Singray Saleeb Kullu
- Center for Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sharad Moreshwar Durge
- Centre for Wildlife Conservation, Management and Disease Surveillance, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anil Kumar Sharma
- Center for Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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SEASONAL VARIATION OF SERUM 25-HYDROXY-VITAMIN D IN TWO CAPTIVE EASTERN BLACK RHINOCEROS ( DICEROS BICORNIS MICHAELI) HOUSED IN A NORTH AMERICAN ZOO. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 49:943-951. [PMID: 30592903 DOI: 10.1638/2017-00090.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Black rhinoceros ( Diceros bicornis spp.) are critically endangered species, with less than 65 individual animals housed in captivity within Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoos within the United States, and an estimated 5,500 individual animals of all subspecies surviving in the wild. Previously published reference values for circulating vitamin D3 (25OHD3; 55.7 ± 34.2 ng/ml) were based upon samples from free-ranging black rhinoceros in Africa. Recent research in human medicine has highlighted the importance of subclinical vitamin D deficiency, with links to increased risks for developing various health conditions. Serum samples collected opportunistically from two captive Eastern black rhinoceros ( Diceros bicornis michaeli) housed with seasonal access outdoors in a North American zoo were tested for 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25OHD) levels over a 3-yr period. A commercially prepared pelleted diet containing vitamin D3 was fed to both rhinos. This study correlates environmental ultraviolet (UV) index, dietary supplementation, and seasonal serum 25OHD levels to compare with known 25OHD3 levels in free-ranging African black rhinoceros. Results in these two individuals suggest that D. bicornis spp. are dependent upon sunlight or UVB for measurable circulating 25OHD, and that current vitamin D3 supplementation levels may have little effect for Diceros spp. in human care housed in northern latitudes.
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Digestive anatomy, physiology, resting metabolism and methane production of captive maras (Dolichotis patagonum). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2019; 235:82-89. [PMID: 31146020 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The digestive physiology of maras (Dolichotis patagonum) has not been investigated in detail. Maras have a particular limb anatomy facilitating a unique cursoriality among rodents. This may also have led to additional adaptations such as a reduced volume of the gastrointestinal tract. We performed macroanatomical measurements of, and determined mean particle size along, the digestive tract of 10 semi-free-ranging animals (7.04 ± 1.05 kg). Additionally, we measured CH4 emission in five captive animals (7.67 ± 0.98 kg) fed a diet of pelleted lucerne, and measured food intake, digestibility, and digesta mean retention time (MRT) of a solute and three particle markers (fed at <2, 10 and 20 mm particle size). The digestive tract contents represented 11.1 ± 1.4% of body mass, similar to other mammals and rodents, and there was slight indication of selective small particle retention in the caecum. Secondary peaks in marker elimination patterns suggested the possibility of caecotrophy. The MRTs were 15.4 h for the solute and 13.6 h, 13.3 h and 13.3 h for the three particle markers, respectively. At a dry matter intake of 61 ± 12 g kg body mass-0.75 d-1, the maras digested organic matter and neutral detergent fibre to 48 ± 8% and 34 ± 10%, respectively, which is in the lower range of results from horses fed on a diet with a similar fibre content. The respiratory quotient (CO2/O2) was 0.93 ± 0.03, the resting metabolic rate 346 ± 35 kJ kg body mass-0.75 d-1, and CH4 emissions averaged at 3.85 ± 0.47 L d-1 and 14.5 ± 5.2 L per kg dry matter intake; this at a CH4/CO2 ratio of 0.042 ± 0.004. Thus, the methane yield was of a magnitude expected for a hypothetical ruminant of this body mass. The results are consistent with the general understanding of hystricomorph rodent digestive physiology, including caecotrophy, but do not indicate a reduction of digestive capacity to support cursoriality. These results, and those obtained from other hystricomorph rodents, suggest that CH4 production may be more prominent in rodents than previously thought.
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Hagen K, Hammer S, Frei S, Ortmann S, Głogowski R, Kreuzer M, Clauss M. Digestive physiology, resting metabolism and methane production of captive Indian crested porcupine ( Hystrix indica). JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND FEED SCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.22358/jafs/102741/2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Kiani A, Clauss M, Ortmann S, Vendl C, Congdon ER, Herrera EA, Kreuzer M, Schwarm A. Digestive physiology of captive capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Zoo Biol 2019; 38:167-179. [PMID: 30623974 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), the largest living rodent, probably has a "mucus-trap" colonic separation mechanism. To test this hypothesis, we measured the mean retention time of a solute marker (MRTSolute ), 2 mm (MRT2 mm ), 10 mm (MRT10 mm ), and 20 mm (MRT20 mm ) particle markers and nutrient digestibility in adult captive capybaras (27-52 kg body mass (BM), 2-11 yr). In addition, total gut fill and the selectivity factor (MRTSolute /MRT2 mm ) were calculated, and mean faecal particle size and metabolic fecal nitrogen of captive capybaras were compared to those of free-ranging specimens. Finally, we also measured methane production in one animal. The MRT2 mm (29.2 ± 8.2 hr) was different (p < 0.01) from MRTSolute (37.0 ± 13.1 hr), MRT10 mm (36.5 ± 8.2 hr), and MRT20 mm (35.1 ± 9.6 hr). The selectivity factor (1.26 ± 0.30) was in the range considered typical for a "mucus-trap" colonic separation mechanism. The estimated total gut fill was 1.50 ± 0.37% and 1.73 ± 0.25% of BM calculated from the results of the 2-mm and 10-mm particle markers, respectively. The CH4 emission was 13.7 L/day. Captive capybaras had greater mean fecal particle size (0.44 ± 0.06 vs. 0.29 ± 0.05 mm, p < 0.001) and metabolic fecal nitrogen (65.5 ± 3.91 vs. 46.8 ± 10.5% of fecal nitrogen, p < 0.001) than free-ranging capybaras. Organic matter digestibility decreased less steeply with increasing dietary crude fiber content in capybaras as compared to published data from rabbits or guinea pigs. Accordingly, the digestive physiology of the capybara is characterized by a comparatively high fiber digestibility, with a "mucus-trap" colonic separation mechanism, allowing capybaras to thrive on forage-only diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Kiani
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Animal Science, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sylvia Ortmann
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Catharina Vendl
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,The School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Elizabeth R Congdon
- Departamento de Estudios Ambientales, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela.,Department of Natural Sciences, Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Florida
| | - Emilio A Herrera
- Departamento de Estudios Ambientales, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Michael Kreuzer
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Schwarm
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
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14
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Hagen KB, Frei S, Ortmann S, Głogowski R, Kreuzer M, Clauss M. Digestive efficiency, digesta passage, resting metabolism and methane production in captive juvenile nutria (Myocastor coypus). EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-018-1239-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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15
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Guerra Aldrigui L, Nogueira-Filho SLG, Mendes A, Souza Altino V, Ortmann S, da Cunha Nogueira SS, Clauss M. Effect of different feeding regimes on cecotrophy behavior and retention of solute and particle markers in the digestive tract of paca (Cuniculus paca). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2018; 226:57-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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16
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Dierenfeld ES, Pernikoff D, Brewer P. DIETARY VITAMIN D3 INFLUENCE ON SERUM 25-HYDROXY VITAMIN D CONCENTRATIONS IN CAPTIVE SUGAR GLIDERS (PETAURUS BREVICEPS). J Exot Pet Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2017.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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17
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Digesta kinetics in two arvicoline rodents, the field vole (Microtus agrestis) and the steppe lemming (Lagurus lagurus). Mamm Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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18
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Matsuda I, Bernard H, Tuuga A, Nathan SKSS, Sha JCM, Osman I, Sipangkui R, Seino S, Asano S, Wong A, Kreuzer M, Ramirez Saldivar DA, Clauss M. Fecal Nutrients Suggest Diets of Higher Fiber Levels in Free-Ranging than in Captive Proboscis Monkeys ( Nasalis larvatus). Front Vet Sci 2018; 4:246. [PMID: 29404345 PMCID: PMC5780573 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2017.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the natural diet of species may provide useful information that can contribute to successful captive maintenance. A common problem experienced with captive foregut-fermenting primate (colobine) diets is that they are deficient in fiber and therefore highly digestible. This may contribute to gastrointestinal disorders often observed in zoos. An approach to obtain information relevant for the improvement of diets is to compare the nutrient composition of feces from free-ranging and captive individuals. In theory, fecal material can be considered a proxy for diet intake integrated over a certain period of time. We collected fecal samples from eight free-ranging proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus, a highly endangered colobine species) groups from a secondary forest along the Kinabatangan River and four from a mixed mangrove-riverine forest along the Garama River, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia. We also collected fecal samples from 12 individual captive adult/sub-adult proboscis monkeys from three different zoos. We confirmed that feces from free-ranging monkeys contained more fiber and less metabolic fecal nitrogen than those from captive specimens, indicating a less digestible diet in the wild. Modifying the diets of captive colobines to include more fiber, comparable to those of free-ranging ones, may contribute to their health and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikki Matsuda
- Chubu University Academy of Emerging Sciences, Kasugai-shi, Japan
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto, Japan
- Japan Monkey Centre, Inuyama, Japan
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Henry Bernard
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Augustine Tuuga
- Sabah Wildlife Department, Wisma Muis, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | | | - John C. M. Sha
- School of Sociology and Anthropology Department, Sun Yat-sen University, Guang Zhou, China
| | - Ismon Osman
- Singapore Zoo, Wildlife Reserve Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rosa Sipangkui
- Sabah Wildlife Department, Wisma Muis, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Satoru Seino
- Zoorasia, Yohohama Zoological Gardens, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Sanae Asano
- Department of Animal Science and Resources, Nihon University, Kameino, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Anna Wong
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Michael Kreuzer
- ETH Zurich, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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19
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Böswald LF, Dobenecker B, Clauss M, Kienzle E. A comparative meta-analysis on the relationship of faecal calcium and phosphorus excretion in mammals. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 102:370-379. [PMID: 29178376 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the relationship between faecal calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) excretion in different mammalian species, a meta-analysis on digestibility data derived from the literature was conducted. Seventy-three studies on carnivores, omnivores, large and small hindgut fermenters, ruminants and hippos (a total of 21 mammalian species, precondition for inclusion dietary Ca/P ratio 1.5/1 - 3.0/1) were analysed for Ca and P digestibility. Dietary Ca/P ratios were lower than faecal Ca/P ratios in carnivores, omnivores, ruminants and hippos. In hindgut fermenters, dietary Ca/P ratios were higher than faecal Ca/P ratios, indicating higher intestinal Ca absorption in these species. In all species investigated, there was a significant positive relationship between Ca intake and faecal Ca excretion and between P intake and faecal P excretion. In the biologically relevant range, these equations predicted lower faecal Ca losses in hindgut fermenters than ruminants, for faecal P vice versa. In all species, faecal Ca and P excretion correlated significantly. In carnivores, this highly linear correlation was exceptionally strong (R² = .92). Yet, the linearity of the correlation was questionable in omnivores and ruminants. Possibly, the strong linear correlation of faecal Ca and P excretion in carnivores is due to the formation of insoluble Ca/P complexes in their relatively short and simple gastrointestinal tract. Another hypothesis is that in carnivores, Ca homeostasis relies on modifying bone turnover to a higher degree than on changes in intestinal Ca absorption. For the formation of bone matrix, a constant ratio of Ca and P absorption is of advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- L F Böswald
- Department of Veterinary Science, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - B Dobenecker
- Department of Veterinary Science, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - M Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - E Kienzle
- Department of Veterinary Science, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
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20
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Molina E, González-Redondo P, Moreno-Rojas R, Montero-Quintero K, Chirinos-Quintero N, Sánchez-Urdaneta A. Evaluation of haematological, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters of growing rabbits fed Amaranthus dubius. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 102:e525-e533. [PMID: 28990224 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Amaranthus dubius is an alternative source of fibre and protein for the feed formulation for growing rabbits, although its effects on their health status are yet unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of three dietary levels (0, 160 and 320 g/kg) of A. dubius on haematological, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters of fattening rabbits. One hundred and thirteen New Zealand White rabbits were fed ad libitum from weaning (35 days) to slaughter (87 days). The health status of the animals was monitored, and mortality was recorded. Before slaughtering, 30 rabbits were randomly selected for haematological and serum biochemical analysis. During slaughter, 18 rabbits were randomly selected for histopathological study in heart, liver, lung and small intestine. The health status of rabbits was good, with no differences among treatments in mortality. Diet and sex did not affect the values of most haematological and serum biochemical parameters. Fibrinogen, glucose and high-density lipoprotein values increased significantly from 0 to 320 g/kg A. dubius diets. The white blood cell count and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase values decreased significantly from 0 to 320 g/kg A. dubius diets. The organs showed histologically well-structured tissues. However, in all experimental groups several samples with lesions were observed, always highly focalized in small tissue areas. The main lesions observed, probably related to conditions of thermal stress affecting the rabbits, were cholesterolosis (heart), steatosis (liver), inflammatory lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate (lung) and chronic inflammatory tissue damage (small intestine). In conclusion, the inclusion of up to 320 g/kg A. dubius in diet did not jeopardize the health status of growing rabbits. Therefore, A. dubius can become an alternative raw material for the formulation of feeds in tropical and subtropical countries where this plant is widespread.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Molina
- Faculty of Humanities and Education, Department of Chemistry, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - P González-Redondo
- Department of Agroforestry Sciences, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - R Moreno-Rojas
- Department of Bromatology and Food Technology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - K Montero-Quintero
- Faculty of Humanities and Education, Department of Chemistry, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - N Chirinos-Quintero
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Endocrine-Metabolic Research Dr. Félix Gómez, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - A Sánchez-Urdaneta
- Faculty of Agronomy, Department of Botany, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
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21
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Pinheiro V, Outor-Monteiro D, Mourão JL, Cone JW, Lourenço AL. Effects of animal type (wild vs. domestic) and diet alfalfa level on intake and digestibility of European adult rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017; 102:e460-e467. [PMID: 28983986 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the level of alfalfa in the diet on feed intake and digestibility of two types of rabbits, wild (Oryctolagus cuniculus algirus) vs. domestic (O. cuniculus cuniculus). Ten wild (W; mean LW = 927 g) and 10 domestic (D; mean LW = 4,645 g) adult rabbit does were fed ad libitum two pelleted diets: a control diet (C) with 15% of dehydrated alfalfa hay (as feed basis) and a test diet (A) with 36% of dehydrated alfalfa hay (as feed basis), according to a change-over design. Wild does dry matter (DM) intake per kg live weight (BW) was 55% higher (p < .001) than the intake of the D ones (58 g vs. 37 g DM per kg BW respectively). However, no difference (p > .05) was found when intake was expressed per kg0.75 BW (ca. 56 g DM) and tended to be higher (p = .07) in D does when expressed per kg0.67 BW (62 g vs. 55 g DM). Domestic does showed a higher (p < .05) DM, organic matter, crude energy and neutral detergent fibre digestibility (3; 2; 3; 3 percentage points respectively) than W does. The amount of nutrients and energy digested by D does was lower per kg BW (p < .001), similar per kg0.75 BW (p > .05) and tended to be higher per kg0.67 BW (p < .1) than in W does. The diet content of alfalfa did not affect (p > .05) the feed intake nor the diet digestibility. This study suggests that W rabbits exhibit a higher intake per kg BW and a lower digestibility than their D counterparts, which results in similar digestible nutrient and energy intake per kg BW powered to 0.75. The nutritive value of dehydrated alfalfa for rabbits, evaluated through intake and digestibility, seems to be equivalent to their base diets (forage plus concentrate).
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Affiliation(s)
- V Pinheiro
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - D Outor-Monteiro
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - J L Mourão
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
| | - J W Cone
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), Vila Real, Portugal.,Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - A L Lourenço
- Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV), Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Animal Science, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
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22
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Abstract
Because most research on rabbit husbandry, welfare, and nutrition was performed on production animals, evidence for best practices in pet rabbits is scarce, and guidelines must be based on transfer of results, deduction, and common sense. Rabbits benefit from being kept with at least one conspecific; from large enclosures and multistory hutches; from drinking water offered ad libitum in open dish drinker systems; and from receiving hay ad libitum, with restricted amounts of fresh grass, herbs, or green leafy vegetables, and a high-fiber complete diet. Offering hay ad libitum bears several advantages and should be considered a matter of course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland.
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
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23
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Richard OK, Codron D, Hagen KB, Südekum KH, Clauss M. Little differences in digestive efficiency for protein and fat in mammals of different trophic guilds and digestive strategies: data constraints or fundamental functional similarity? J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- O. K. Richard
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - D. Codron
- Florisbad Quaternary Research; National Museum; Bloemfontein South Africa
- Centre for Environmental Management; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa, and
| | - K. B. Hagen
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
- Zoological Garden of Halle; Halle Germany
| | - K.-H. Südekum
- Institute of Animal Science; University of Bonn; Bonn Germany
| | - M. Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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24
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Rückert C, Siener R, Ganter M, Coenen M, Vervuert I. [Effects of a supplementation on sodium chloride or ammonium chloride on urolithic potential in the rabbit]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2016; 44:252-259. [PMID: 27299360 DOI: 10.15654/tpk-151071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM Reduction of urolithic potential by means of increased water intake and urine dilution through supplementation of sodium chloride (NaCl) or decrease of urine pH by supplementation of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) in rabbits. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixteen female, 6-month-old dwarf rabbits received the following three feeding regimens in a random order: complete feed without supplements = control; complete feed + 10 g NaCl/kg feed = NaCl; complete feed + 2.5 g NH4Cl/kg feed = NH4Cl. The diets were fed ad libitum over a period of 27 days without roughage. Water was provided ad libitum by a drinker. A 14-day wash-out-period (hay feeding) was performed between the different diets. Blood, faeces, and urine were collected at the beginning of each feeding period, after 21-day adaptation to the respective diet, and after the 3-day collection period. The following parameters were analysed: water and food intake as well as acid-base balance and mineral content in blood, urine, and faeces. RESULTS NaCl supplementation numerically increased the daily water intake from 40.5 ± 14.4 ml/kg body weight (BW) (control) up to 49.5 ± 14.3 ml/kg BW and significantly increased the daily urine volume from 16.9 ± 7.8 ml/kg BW (control group) to 21.1 ± 7.4 ml/kg BW. The specific gravity of urine samples from NaCl supplementation decreased from 1.060 ± 0.008 to 1.044 ± 0.008. NH4Cl supplementation did not induce significant changes in urine pH, blood acid-base parameters, or calcium retention. Relative supersaturations (RSS) for calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate showed no significant changes after treatment. RSS for struvite increased from 360 ± 735 (after hay feeding) to 3312 ± 6188 on control feeding, 2910 ± 4913 with NaCl supplementation, and 3022 ± 6635 with NH4Cl supplementation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS NaCl supplementation significantly increased the urine volume and decreased its specific gravity. Therefore, NaCl supplementation might be an additional dietary treatment to increase the elimination of urine crystals in rabbits. NH4Cl supplementation did not induce acidification of the urine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ingrid Vervuert
- PD Dr. med. vet. Ingrid Vervuert, Institut für Tierernährung, Ernährungsschäden und Diätetik der Universität Leipzig, An den Tierklinken 9, 04103 Leipzig, E-Mail:
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25
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Balsiger A, Clauss M, Liesegang A, Dobenecker B, Hatt JM. Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) drinking preferences: do nipple drinkers compensate for behaviourally deficient diets? J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2016; 101:1046-1056. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Balsiger
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Wildlife and Exotics Pets; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - M. Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Wildlife and Exotics Pets; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - A. Liesegang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - B. Dobenecker
- Chair of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics; Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich; Oberschleissheim Germany
| | - J.-M. Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals; Wildlife and Exotics Pets; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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26
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Hagen KB, Dittmann MT, Ortmann S, Kreuzer M, Hatt JM, Clauss M. Retention of solute and particle markers in the digestive tract of chinchillas (Chinchilla laniger
). J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2016; 100:801-6. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. B. Hagen
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - M. T. Dittmann
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
- Institute for Agricultural Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - S. Ortmann
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - M. Kreuzer
- Institute for Agricultural Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - J.-M. Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - M. Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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27
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Hagen KB, Besselmann D, Cyrus-Eulenberger U, Vendl C, Ortmann S, Zingg R, Kienzle E, Kreuzer M, Hatt JM, Clauss M. Digestive physiology of the plains viscacha (Lagostomus maximus): A large herbivorous hystricomorph rodent. Zoo Biol 2015; 34:345-59. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina B. Hagen
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Dorothea Besselmann
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Cyrus-Eulenberger
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Catharina Vendl
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Sylvia Ortmann
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW); Berlin Germany
| | | | - Ellen Kienzle
- Chair of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics; Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich; Munich Germany
| | - Michael Kreuzer
- Institute of Agricultural Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife; Vetsuisse Faculty; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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