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13 pages, 1274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of γ-Aminobutyric Acid Addition on In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation Characteristics and Methane Production of Diets Differing in Forage-to-Concentrate Ratio

by Yan-Lu Wang, Zhi-Hui Zhang, Wei-Kang Wang, Qi-Chao Wu, Fan Zhang, Wen-Juan Li, Sheng-Li Li, Wei Wang, Zhi-Jun Cao and Hong-Jian Yang

Fermentation 2023, 9(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9020105 - 23 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1561

Abstract

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), known as the most abundant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain, can permeate ruminal epithelia by passive diffusion and enrich in the rumen environment. To explore whether the addition of GABA can regulate rumen fermentation characteristics as well as methane [...] Read more.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), known as the most abundant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain, can permeate ruminal epithelia by passive diffusion and enrich in the rumen environment. To explore whether the addition of GABA can regulate rumen fermentation characteristics as well as methane production, a 2 × 6 factorial in vitro rumen batch culture was conducted to determine the supplemental effect of GABA at inclusion levels of 0 (Control), 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg in culture fluids on rumen fermentation of two total mixed rations (HF—a high-fiber ration consisted of 70% corn silage and 30% concentrate; and LF—a low-fiber ration consisted of 30% corn silage and 70% concentrate). After 72 h in vitro incubation of two rations with mixed rumen microoganisms obtained from five rumen-cannulated lactating Holstein dairy cows, increasing GABA addition linearly increased cumulative gas production in the LF group, though in vitro dry matter digestibility was not affected in either the LF or HF group. Kinetic gas production analysis noted that increasing GABA addition mostly decreased the gas production rate (i.e., RmaxG), as well as the ration digestion rate (RmaxS) to reach maximum fermentation. The GABA addition did not affect pH or microbial growth (i.e., MCP). However, total volatile fatty acid production in both LF and HF groups all linearly increased with the increase in GABA addition. Along with the increase in GABA addition in both LF and HF groups, the ratio of non-glucogenic to glucogenic volatile fatty acids both increased, while the molar proportions of propionate and valerate were significantly decreased, and the acetate and butyrate proportions were increased after 72 h in vitro rumen fermentation. The time-course change of fermentation end-products generally showed that carbon dioxide declined from approximately 89% to 74%, and methane increased from approximately 11% to 26%. After 72 h in vitro fermentation, molar methane proportion was greater in the LF than in the HF group, and increasing GABA addition quadratically increased methane production in the LF group while a slight increase occurred in the HF group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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12 pages, 2526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of the Stirring Speed on the In Vitro Dry Matter Degradability of Feeds

by Sonia Tassone, Chiara Sarnataro, Sara Glorio Patrucco, Sabah Mabrouki and Salvatore Barbera

Fermentation 2023, 9(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9010056 - 09 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1273

Abstract

In vitro methods have been standardized and tested to correctly simulate the rumen environment and fermentation process. A few studies have verified that the feed degradability achieved as a result of stirring the samples is higher when the samples are incubated under continuous [...] Read more.

In vitro methods have been standardized and tested to correctly simulate the rumen environment and fermentation process. A few studies have verified that the feed degradability achieved as a result of stirring the samples is higher when the samples are incubated under continuous stirring than when they are only stirred twice daily. The objective of this study has been to verify the effect of the speed of stirring on feed degradability during In vitro incubation. For this purpose, the apparent and true dry matter degradability (ADMD and TDMD) of grass hay, pelleted alfalfa, corn silage, barley meal, straw, and a total mixed ration (TMR) were measured after 48 h of incubation in jars under different rotation speeds. The same types of feed were placed in the four jars of each instrument, and the rotation system of the machine was modified to ensure the simultaneous rotation of a pair of original jars (which sometimes stopped and/or rotated slowly and irregularly) together with a pair of modified jars under regular and continuous rotation. A rev counter data logger was mounted onto the jars, and the rotation speeds of the original and modified jars were measured and compared under different conditions (empty jars, jars with liquid, jars with rumen fluid, and sample bags). The modifications to the instruments stabilized the rotation of the jars, thereby making the stirring more regular during incubation. The degradability was partly influenced by the regular stirring, albeit with just one instrument, and for grass hay, barley meal, corn silage, and TMR. In short, it has been found that the regular stirring of sample bags is not essential to obtain reliable degradability measurement during incubation, although it is better to maintain a constant rotation to ensure a regular and standardized In vitro incubation process and therefore to allow reproducibility and comparisons of the results on feed degradability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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13 pages, 1705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accuracy of Techniques for Predicting Gas Production by Ruminants Associated with Diet

by Juraci M. A. Suassuna, Alberício P. de Andrade, Daniel R. Menezes, Yanna C. F. Teles, Cintia M. Araujo, Lucas K. S. Lima, Patrícia M. G. Beelen, André L. R. Magalhães, Beatriz D. O. Fernandes and Ariosvaldo N. Medeiros

Fermentation 2023, 9(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9010039 - 31 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1777

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the gas production profiles and nutrient degradability of two diets using automatic and semiautomatic in vitro gas production techniques. A randomized block design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement was adopted, with two diets [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to compare the gas production profiles and nutrient degradability of two diets using automatic and semiautomatic in vitro gas production techniques. A randomized block design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement was adopted, with two diets comprising different proportions of nonfiber carbohydrates (NFCs) (low-NFC vs. high-NFC diets), two gas production measurement techniques (automatic vs. semiautomatic) and four replicates. The blocks represent three in vitro runs. Gas production from the fermentation of fiber carbohydrates (Vf2) was 22% higher when measured with the automatic technique than with the semiautomatic technique. The Vt of the low-NFC diet differed between techniques and was 22.9% higher using the automatic technique. A highly positive correlation (r = 0.96) was observed between the techniques, with a high coefficient of determination between the techniques (R² = 0.93). There was greater degradability of dry matter (DMD) and organic matter (OMD) with the automatic technique. In both diets, the degradability of crude protein (CPD) was greater with the semiautomatic technique (p < 0.0001). The high-NFC diet resulted in a lower pH and lower NH₃-N in the incubation medium than in that of the low-NFC diet, whereas the degradability of DM, OM and CP increased. The automatic and semi-automatic techniques similarly estimated the kinetic parameters and the profiles of total gas production, demonstrating the potential of both techniques for assessing the nutritional value of diets with different proportions of NFCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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10 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Live Yeasts (Pichia guilliermondii) on In Vitro Fermentation of Corn Stover as a Fibrous Substrate

by Bexy González Mora, Oscar Ruiz-Barrera, Francisco Castillo Rangel and Yamicela Castillo-Castillo

Fermentation 2023, 9(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9010017 - 24 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1323

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to examine the potential utilization of the yeast strain Pichia guilliermondii (Levica 27) on the ruminal fermentation of corn stover. Two in vitro treatments were evaluated: (A) filtered rumen liquid + powdered corn stover + yeast-free [...] Read more.

The objective of the present study was to examine the potential utilization of the yeast strain Pichia guilliermondii (Levica 27) on the ruminal fermentation of corn stover. Two in vitro treatments were evaluated: (A) filtered rumen liquid + powdered corn stover + yeast-free culture medium and (B) filtered rumen liquid + powdered corn stover + culture medium inoculated with yeast. Samples were collected at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h and examined for effects on culture pH, ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N), the fiber digestibility percentages of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, the digestibility of dry matter, and the concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFAs). The results showed that the addition of Levica 27 had no effect on the ruminal pH, NH₃-N or the digestibility indicators (p > 0.05). However, at 12 h, the inclusion of Levica 27 increased (p < 0.05) the molar concentrations of total VFAs and acetic and propionic acids in ruminal fluid and decreased (p < 0.05) the C2:C3 ratio. It is concluded that Levica 27 seems to have a stimulating effect on ruminal fermentation over a range within 6 and 12 h, a result that should be taken into account when in vivo studies are performed with this yeast strain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

12 pages, 1543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Rumen Bacterial Profiles and Functions during Adaption to Different Phenology (Regreen vs. Grassy) in Alpine Merino Sheep with Two Growing Stages on an Alpine Meadow

by Xiang Gao and Hucheng Wang

Fermentation 2023, 9(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9010016 - 24 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1262

Abstract

Phenological periods can affect the growth of forage, the single food source for grazing animals, and its nutrition and the stage of growth of the animals can affect the rumen microbiota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of phenological [...] Read more.

Phenological periods can affect the growth of forage, the single food source for grazing animals, and its nutrition and the stage of growth of the animals can affect the rumen microbiota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of phenological periods (regreen vs. grassy) and growing stages (hoggets (1.5 years old) vs. rams (3 years old)) on rumen bacteria communities and functions in Alpine Merion sheep. The result showed that the Alpha diversity indices of ACE (p < 0.001), Chao (p < 0.001), and Shannon (p < 0.001) were higher in the regreen stage. At the phylum level, the abundances of Bacteroidetes (p = 0.003) and Firmicutes (p = 0.017) shifted with plant phenology. The abundance of fiber-degrading bacteria altered at the genus level (p < 0.05). Genes related to fatty acid degradation and metabolism increased in both the growing stage sheep (p < 0.05). In the grassy stage, the abundance of vitamin B6 metabolism (p = 0.046) was increased in hoggets. In summary, this study showed that the phenological stage had a significant effect on the rumen bacterial compartment and functions in two growing stages, while the growing stage only tended to change rumen bacterial diversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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16 pages, 2179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) Culture Promotes the Performance of Fattening Sheep by Enhancing Nutrients Digestibility and Rumen Development

by Jie Wang, Guohong Zhao, Yimin Zhuang, Jianmin Chai and Naifeng Zhang

Fermentation 2022, 8(12), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8120719 - 08 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1847

Abstract

Paraprobiotics are potential agents for improving animal health and performance. This experiment investigated the effect of dietary supplementation of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) culture (YC) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, rumen development and microbiome of fattening sheep. Ninety male Hu sheep [...] Read more.

Paraprobiotics are potential agents for improving animal health and performance. This experiment investigated the effect of dietary supplementation of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) culture (YC) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, rumen development and microbiome of fattening sheep. Ninety male Hu sheep weighed 38 ± 1.47 kg were randomly assigned to three treatments: CON diet (basal diet), LYC diet (basal diet supplied with 10 and 20 g/d yeast culture at the early and late stages, respectively), and HYC diet (basal diet supplied with 20 and 40 g/d yeast culture at the early and late stages, respectively). Treatments (LYC or HYC) were sprinkled on the feed surface according to the required dosage before feeding the basal diet to each sheep throughout the trial. The trial included early (60 days) and later (30 days) fattening periods. The results showed that average daily gain and feed efficiency were higher (p < 0.05) in the LYC group compared with CON in later and whole stages. Digestibility of DM, OM, CP, NDF and ADF were higher (p < 0.05) in LYC and HYC compared with CON. The retained N, the utilization efficiency of N and the biological value of N were higher (p < 0.05) in LYC compared with CON and HYC. Rumen NH₃-N was higher (p < 0.05) in LYC and HYC. The papillary height of the rumen was higher (p < 0.05) in LYC when compared with CON and HYC, whereas rumen wall thickness and muscular layer thickness were higher (p < 0.05) in HYC compared with CON and LYC. The dressing percentage of LYC and HYC was higher (p < 0.05) compared with CON. The diversity, richness and structure of rumen microbiota showed no significant difference (p > 0.05); however, still observed remarkable increases in the relative abundance of several specific genera including Succiniclasticum and Fibrobacter with increasing doses of yeast culture. In addition, at the ASV level, ASV83, ASV123 (Succiniclasticum), and ASV148, ASV250 (Fibrobacter) were increased in YC groups. In conclusion, we confirmed that the supplementation of YC in diet could improve the growth and slaughter performance of fattening Hu sheep through improving nutrient digestion, especially nitrogen utilization, rumen microbial environment and the development of rumen epithelium, which proves the benefits of paraprobiotics in animal production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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11 pages, 316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rumen Fermentation Profile and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation of Three Forage Species from Agroforestry Systems in Dry and Rainy Seasons

by Gary Meza-Bone, Carlos Meza-Bone, Juan Avellaneda-Cevallos, Ronald Cabezas-Congo, Ronald Villamar-Torres, María Cabanilla-Campos, Walter Vivas-Arturo, Frank Intriago-Flor, Fabricio Meza-Bone, Aurelio Zapatier-Santillan, Ricardo Bastidas-Espinoza, Tito Solís-Barros, Luz Muñoz-Arboleda, Walter Garcia-Cox and Marcos Barros-Rodríguez

Fermentation 2022, 8(11), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8110630 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1518

Abstract

The variability of climatic conditions throughout the year and the physiological maturity of plant material can have effects on the nutritional value of plants and the productive performance of animals. The aim was to determine the effect of three tropical forage species ( [...] Read more.

The variability of climatic conditions throughout the year and the physiological maturity of plant material can have effects on the nutritional value of plants and the productive performance of animals. The aim was to determine the effect of three tropical forage species (Tithonia diversifolia, Erythrina poeppigiana and Cratylia argentea) harvested at four cutting ages (30, 45, 60 and 75 days), during the dry and rainy seasons on in vitro gas production, rumen pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and CH₄ production. A completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement (three forage species, four cutting ages and two seasons) was used. Four Brahman bulls of 250.0 ± 20.5 kg of live weight were used, provided with a ruminal cannula for the extraction of ruminal fluid. The animals were kept separately in individual pens, where they were fed with P. maximum and water was provided ad libitum. Gas production among forage species was lower (p = 0.0001) in T. diversifolia and E. poeppigiana in the dry season. The cutting age had an influence on gas production, showing lower production (p = 0.0164) at 30 and 45 days in the dry season. The VFA production showed differences for the effect between forages in the rainy season, with higher values (p < 0.05) for acetic, propionic and butyric acid in the species E. poeppigiana, C. argéntea and T. diversifolia respectively. CH₄ production showed differences between forage species, showing the lowest (p = 0.0001) production of CH₄ in T. diversifolia for the dry and rainy seasons. It is concluded that the use of shrubby species (T. diversifolia, E. poeppigiana and C. argéntea) in ruminant production systems in the rainy and dry seasons, with an early regrowth age (30 and 45 days), present a promising alternative on the reduction of CH₄. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

11 pages, 499 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rumen Function and In Vitro Gas Production of Diets Influenced by Two Levels of Tannin-Rich Forage

by Luis Vargas-Ortiz, Debbie Chavez-Garcia, Marcos Barros-Rodríguez, Veronica Andrade-Yucailla, Raciel Lima-Orozco, Edis Macías-Rodríguez, Carlos Guishca-Cunuhay and Abdelfattah Zeidan Mohamed Salem

Fermentation 2022, 8(11), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8110607 - 04 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2142

Abstract

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of Acacia mearnsii (AM) at different levels of inclusion on ruminal digestion and in vitro gas production. A. mearnsii forage was incorporated in the diet at different levels of 0 [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of Acacia mearnsii (AM) at different levels of inclusion on ruminal digestion and in vitro gas production. A. mearnsii forage was incorporated in the diet at different levels of 0 (AM0), 20 (AM20), and 40 (AM40) %. In situ degradation of dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) showed differences between treatments (P < 0.05), obtaining the highest value of the degradation of soluble fraction (A), insoluble but potentially degradable fraction (B), degradation rate in % per hour (c), potential degradation (A + B), and effective degradation for all passage rates in % h (0.02, 0.05, and 0.08) in AM0 with respect to AM20 and AM40. The in vitro digestibility of DM and OM was higher (P < 0.05) in AM0 with approximately 23.6% and 22.8% of DM and OM, respectively, compared to treatments AM20 and AM40. Cumulative gas production (PG) and gas production asymptote (B) were lower at AM0 and AM20 versus AM40; however, gas production rate (c) and total CH₄ production were lower at AM40 with about 40.1 mL CH₄/0.500 g fermented DM versus AM0 and AM20. Under the conditions of this study, it is concluded that the incorporation of A. mearnsii (20% and 40%) in the feed of ruminants negatively affected the digestion of nutrients; however, it reduced the production of CH₄, which may be associated with the low activity of microorganisms toward the substrate due to the possible tannin/nutrient complex. This shows that in animals with little history of consuming plants rich in tannin, more than 3% of tannin could not be incorporated into the diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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12 pages, 437 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Spring Maize Genotypes on Fermentation and Nutritional Value of Whole Plant Maize Silage in Northern Pakistan

by Mingming Jiang, Yulin Ma, Nadar Khan, Muhammad Zahoor Khan, Ali Akbar, Rifat Ullah Khan, Muhammad Kamran and Nazir Ahmad Khan

Fermentation 2022, 8(11), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8110587 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1832

Abstract

In the current study, we evaluated the growth, biomass yield, ensiling, and nutritional characteristics of spring maize genotypes grown under the climatic conditions of Northern Pakistan. Six promising spring maize genotypes were grown under uniform standard agronomic conditions in 72 plots (8 m [...] Read more.

In the current study, we evaluated the growth, biomass yield, ensiling, and nutritional characteristics of spring maize genotypes grown under the climatic conditions of Northern Pakistan. Six promising spring maize genotypes were grown under uniform standard agronomic conditions in 72 plots (8 m × 10 m), blocked within three replicate fields. Maize crops were harvested at targeted dry matter (DM) content (33 g/100 g DM). Data were collected on plant phonological characteristics and biomass yield, and then the harvested crop of each plot was chopped, and subsamples were ensiled in three replicate 1.5 L laboratory silos (n = 12/genotype). After 90 days of ensiling, subsamples were analyzed for fermentation quality, nutrient composition, Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) carbohydrate subfractions, digestible nutrients, metabolizable energy (ME), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (DMD). Results revealed large differences (p < 0.001) among maize genotypes in the yields (tons/ha) of DM (13.0 to 17.9), crude protein (CP; 0.83 to 1.24), and starch (4.16 to 6.67). Except for total carbohydrates (CHO) and NH₃-N, the contents of all measured chemical components varied (p < 0.001) among the spring maize genotypes. Similarly, all reported CNCPS subfractions varied (p < 0.01) among the genotypes, except for the non-digestible (CC) subfraction. Among the genotypes, there were large variations in the contents (g/100 g DM) of CP (6.60 to 8.05), starch (32.0 to 37.3), non-fiber carbohydrates (40.3 to 43.8), in vitro DMD (61.5 to 67.9), total digestible nutrients (68.1 to 70.6), digestible energy (2.80 to 3.07 Mcal/kg), and metabolizable energy (2.28 to 2.44 Mcal/kg), with genotype QPM300 having the highest values and genotype Azam having the lowest values. It was concluded that QPM300 is the most suitable spring maize genotype for silage production in terms of yields and silage nutritional and fermentation quality under the environmental condition of Northern Pakistan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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15 pages, 3242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Evaluation of γ-Zein Reduction Using Mass Spectrometry—The Influence of Proteolysis Type in Relation to Starch Degradability in Silages

by Marija Duvnjak, Ana Butorac, Kristina Kljak, Marija Nišavić, Mario Cindrić and Darko Grbeša

Fermentation 2022, 8(10), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8100551 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1578

Abstract

The starch availability and nutritional value of corn (Zea mays L.) are affected by zein proteins. The aim of the study was to see whether the proposed reduction of γ-zeins during the fermentation of silages is a result of either the enzymatic [...] Read more.

The starch availability and nutritional value of corn (Zea mays L.) are affected by zein proteins. The aim of the study was to see whether the proposed reduction of γ-zeins during the fermentation of silages is a result of either the enzymatic proteolytic activity or of the acidic environment, and how this reduction affects starch availability and degradability in high-moisture corn. A mass spectrometry (MS) technique was used to quantify the 16- and 27-kDa γ-zeins. Briefly, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) was used for γ-zein separation, followed by densitometry for protein quantification and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF/TOF) for protein identification. The results show that the reduction in γ-zeins induced by the ensiling led to a more pronounced starch availability and in vitro degradation, and this reduction was dependent on the type of proteolysis. More specifically, the results indicate that the reduction of γ-zeins in the ensiled corn was primarily driven by the enzymatic proteolysis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that 2-DE followed by densitometric quantification and the mass spectrometry analysis for protein identification can be used as a state-of-the-art method for γ-zein evaluation both in fresh and fermented/ensiled corn samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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13 pages, 1325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Unsaturated Fatty Acid Ratio In Vitro on Rumen Fermentation, Methane Concentration, and Microbial Profile

by Zhantao Yang, Siyuan Liu, Tian Xie, Qianqian Wang, Zhonghan Wang, Hongjian Yang, Shengli Li and Wei Wang

Fermentation 2022, 8(10), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8100540 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1861

Abstract

It is well known that dairy cows are fed diets with high fat content, which can adversely affect rumen fermentation. However, whether the effects of high fat content on rumen fermentation are related to the composition of fatty acids (FA) is for further [...] Read more.

It is well known that dairy cows are fed diets with high fat content, which can adversely affect rumen fermentation. However, whether the effects of high fat content on rumen fermentation are related to the composition of fatty acids (FA) is for further study. We explored the effects of unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) ratios in vitro on rumen, methane concentration and microbial composition under the same fat levels. The experiment included a low-unsaturated group (LU, UFA proportion: 42.8%), a medium-unsaturated group (MU, UFA proportion: 56.9%), and a high-unsaturated group (HU, UFA proportion: 70.9%). The incubation fluid pH and NH₃-N levels were not significantly different in the three groups. Total volatile fatty acid (TVFA), acetate, propionate, butyrate, and valerate in the MU group had a decreased trend compared to the LU group (0.05 < p < 0.1), and no difference was found in other volatile fatty acids (VFAs) among the three groups. Furthermore, gas production kinetic parameters among the three groups did not differ significantly. The LU group’s CH₄ concentration was significantly higher than the HU group (p < 0.05). The CO₂ concentration in the LU group was also significantly higher than the MU and LU groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, 16S rRNA microbial sequencing results showed that the Shannon diversity value significantly increased in the MU group (p < 0.05) compared to the LU group. Other alpha diversity indices (Chao 1, observed species, and ACE) did not differ among the three groups. The increased proportion of UFA significantly decreased the relative abundance of Succinivibrionaceae_UCG_001 and Fibrobacter (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the multiple Lachnospiraceae bacteria significantly increased in the MU group (p < 0.05). Overall, our findings indicated that the microbial community in the incubation system could be affected by elevating proportions of UFA, affecting the yield of VFA, whereas the CH₄ concentration was reduced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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14 pages, 826 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Three Marine Algae on Degradability, In Vitro Gas Production, and CH₄ and CO₂ Emissions by Ruminants

by Héctor Aarón Lee-Rangel, José Alejandro Roque-Jiménez, Rubén Oswaldo Cifuentes-López, Gregorio Álvarez-Fuentes, Adriana De la Cruz-Gómez, José Antonio Martínez-García, Jaime Iván Arévalo-Villalobos and Alfonso Juventino Chay-Canul

Fermentation 2022, 8(10), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8100511 - 03 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2092

Abstract

Livestock production systems are responsible for producing ~18% of the total anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Numerous alternatives, such as feed additives or supplements, have been proposed to meet these challenges. Marine algae have been proposed for gas reduction in ruminants; nevertheless, there [...] Read more.

Livestock production systems are responsible for producing ~18% of the total anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Numerous alternatives, such as feed additives or supplements, have been proposed to meet these challenges. Marine algae have been proposed for gas reduction in ruminants; nevertheless, there are still very few experimental reports. Thus, the objective of the current study was to identify the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in three marine algae—Kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera), Ulva (Ulva spp.), and Silk (Mazzaella spp.)—and to test their in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics, gas profiles, and ability to mitigate biogas production. The evaluation of the VOCs in marine algae was performed using a flash gas chromatography electronic nose (FGC-E-Nose). The in vitro study was elaborated through in vitro incubation and gas production. The data obtained were analyzed using a completely randomized design. In total, forty-three volatile compounds were identified for Kelp algae, thirty-eight were identified for Ulva algae, and thirty-six were identified for Silk algae; the compounds were from different chemical families and included aromas, alcohols, aldehydes, phenolics, carboxylic acids, esters, and nutraceutical properties. Dry matter degradability was significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the algae type. The cumulative ruminal gas production was different (p < 0.05) between treatments. Kelp algae presented a major (V; p < 0.05) volume of gas produced compared to the other algae. Lag time (l; p < 0.05) was increased by Kelp alga; however, there were no differences (p>0.05) between the Silk and Ulva algae. The gas production rate was higher (s; p < 0.05) for Silk algae compared to the others. Ulva and Silk algae demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. Nevertheless, Kelp algae reduced the proportional methane (CH₄) production (p < 0.05) after 48 h of incubation, with the lowest emission rate of 47.73%. In conclusion, algae have numerous bio compounds that provide some properties for use in ruminant diets as additives to reduce methane and carbon dioxide emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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20 pages, 2737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Different Forage Types on Rumen Fermentation, Microflora, and Production Performance in Peak-Lactation Dairy Cows

by Cheng Guo, Yaqi Wu, Shengli Li, Zhijun Cao, Yajing Wang, Jiang Mao, Haitao Shi, Renhuang Shi, Xiaoge Sun, Yuhui Zheng, Fanlin Kong, Yangyi Hao and Xiaofeng Xu

Fermentation 2022, 8(10), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8100507 - 02 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2204

Abstract

Forages are vital in maintaining the dietary structures of ruminants, and reducing their costs is important for improving dairy production efficiency. Thus, this study investigated the effects of dietary forage types on dry matter intake, production, rumen fermentation, and the microbial profile in [...] Read more.

Forages are vital in maintaining the dietary structures of ruminants, and reducing their costs is important for improving dairy production efficiency. Thus, this study investigated the effects of dietary forage types on dry matter intake, production, rumen fermentation, and the microbial profile in peak-lactating cows. Eight cows (600 ± 25 kg) with days in milk (60 ± 10 days) were assigned to four groups using a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design: OG (oat hay + alfalfa hay + corn silage + concentrate), CW (Leymus chinensis + alfalfa hay + corn silage + concentrate), AS (alfalfa silage + oat hay + corn silage + concentrate), and AC (alkali-treated corn straw + alfalfa hay + corn silage + concentrate). The ruminal butyrate acid concentration was lower in the OG group than in the AS and AC groups post-feeding (12 h; p < 0.05). Ruminal NH3-N content was higher in the AS group than in the AC and CW groups post-feeding (9 h; p < 0.05). The percentage of ruminal Oscillospira and unknown microbes was higher in the CW group than in the other groups (p < 0.05). The total rumination time and rumination time per dry matter intake of AC were significantly higher than those of the other groups (p < 0.05). Milk lactose content in the AS group was highest among the groups (p < 0.05), and milk fat content was higher in the OG group than in the CW group (all p < 0.05). Overall, our results suggested that the butyrate acid content of forage from oat hay in rumen fermentation was significantly lower than that of calcium oxide and alfalfa silage sources when the dietary nutrition level was similar. The diet derived from L. chinensis increased the number of fibrillation helices related to fiber-decomposing bacteria and simultaneously increased unknown strains. Forage derived from alfalfa silage tended to increase milk protein levels. Alkali-treated corn straw could significantly increase the total rumination time and unit dry matter rumination time of dairy cows, which plays an important role in maintaining rumen health. The rational use of low-quality forage has broad prospects in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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12 pages, 1152 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Fermentation and Degradation Characteristics of Rosemary Extract in Total Mixed Ration of Lactating Dairy Cows

by Fanlin Kong, Shuo Wang, Zhijun Cao, Yajing Wang, Shengli Li and Wei Wang

Fermentation 2022, 8(9), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8090461 - 15 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1798

Abstract

Rosemary extract (RE) is characterized as an antioxidant, and it has the potential to reduce methane emission and change microbial fermentation. Hence, to the extent of the evaluation of RE in ruminant nutrition, the in vitro fermentation technique was used to investigate the [...] Read more.

Rosemary extract (RE) is characterized as an antioxidant, and it has the potential to reduce methane emission and change microbial fermentation. Hence, to the extent of the evaluation of RE in ruminant nutrition, the in vitro fermentation technique was used to investigate the effects of RE on the fermentation characteristics of a total mixed ration (TMR) fed to dairy cows. Different doses of RE were added to the TMR to obtain different concentrations of antioxidants, including 0 (CON), 0.05 (LRE), and 0.10 g/kg (HRE). A total of 500 mg ground TMR was incubated in buffer solution and rumen fluid for 48 h at 39 °C. Nutrient degradability, gas production parameters, gas composition, fermentation parameters, and microbial composition were analyzed. The results showed that nutrient degradability and total volatile fatty acid concentration were not affected by the treatments. Furthermore, total methane production and proportion were depressed in a dose-dependent way. The RE increased the propionate concentration and proportion linearly and decreased the acetate concentration and proportion linearly. Finally, microbial diversity analysis showed that the richness and evenness indexes were unchanged by different treatments, while Prevotella_1 was decreased and Prevotella_7 was increased with RE supplementation. In conclusion, RE is an effective inhibitor of methane emission of microbial fermentation and changed the profile of volatile fatty acids with no disadvantageous effects on diet utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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Review

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19 pages, 3055 KiB

Open AccessReview

In Pursuit of Understanding the Rumen Microbiome

by Rey Anthony Sanjorjo, Tenzin Tseten, Min-Kyoung Kang, Moonhyuk Kwon and Seon-Won Kim

Fermentation 2023, 9(2), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation9020114 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6199

Abstract

The rumen plays an indispensable role in ruminants to utilize ligno-cellulosic material and convert non-protein nitrogen into nutrients otherwise unavailable for human consumption. Recent advancements in the sequencing technology and omics approach have provided profound insights into the rumen world, wherein a consortium [...] Read more.

The rumen plays an indispensable role in ruminants to utilize ligno-cellulosic material and convert non-protein nitrogen into nutrients otherwise unavailable for human consumption. Recent advancements in the sequencing technology and omics approach have provided profound insights into the rumen world, wherein a consortium of archaea, bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses exist and interact. These ruminal microbes alter the ruminal environment and execute several interlinked metabolic cascades that produce substrates for the host’s energy and body requirements. Methane is emitted as a by-product during this complex fermentation process in ruminants leading to a loss in productivity while negatively impacting the environment. As ruminants play an ever-increasing role in our food supply chain, manipulating the rumen is the critical step towards maximizing the ruminant product’s nutritional value while reducing its carbon footprint. Diet is the most straightforward way to alter the rumen microbiome, possibly in conjunction with phytobiotics and probiotics as feed supplements. Early life interventions allow the manipulation of microbial population structure and function that could persist later on in adult life. It has also been proven that the host exerts influence on the rumen microbiome as a heritable trait. The goal of this review is to provide a better understanding of the rumen, its key organisms, and its development to better identify, characterize, and engineer the rumen microbiome for efficient feed conversion and methane reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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19 pages, 1643 KiB

Open AccessReview

Role of Chitin and Chitosan in Ruminant Diets and Their Impact on Digestibility, Microbiota and Performance of Ruminants

by Ali Mujtaba Shah, Izhar Hyder Qazi, Maharach Matra and Metha Wanapat

Fermentation 2022, 8(10), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation8100549 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4147

Abstract

The slow progress in the development of the subsector, particularly of alternative feed sources such as agro-industrial byproducts and unconventional feed resources, has deepened the gap in the availability of and accessibility to animal feed. Production of animal feed is highly resource demanding. [...] Read more.

The slow progress in the development of the subsector, particularly of alternative feed sources such as agro-industrial byproducts and unconventional feed resources, has deepened the gap in the availability of and accessibility to animal feed. Production of animal feed is highly resource demanding. Recently, it has been shown that increasing climate change, land degradation, and the recurrence of droughts have worsened the feed gap. In the backdrop of these challenges, there has been attention to food-not-feed components, which have great potential to substitute human-edible components in livestock feeding. Chitosan, a non-toxic polyglucosamine, is widely distributed in nature and used as a feed additive. Chitosan is obtained from the de-acetylation process of the chitin and is mostly present in shrimp, crabs, and insect exoskeletons, and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, antitumor, and immune-stimulatory hypo-cholesterolemic properties. This review article discusses the results of recent studies focusing on the effects of chitosan and chitin on the performance of dairy cows, beef steers, sheep, and goats. In addition, the effects of chitosan and chitin on feed intake, feed digestibility, rumen fermentation, and microbiota are also discussed. Available evidence suggests that chitosan and chitin used as a feed additive for ruminants including dairy cows, beef steers, sheep, goats, and yaks have useful biological effects, including immune-modulatory, antimicrobial, and other important properties. These properties of chitosan and chitin are different from the other feed additives and have a positive impact on production performance, feed digestibility, rumen fermentation, and bacterial population in dairy cows, beef steers, sheep, goats, and yaks. There is promising evidence that chitosan and chitin can be used as additives in livestock feed and that well-designed feeding interventions focusing on these compounds in ruminants are highly encouraged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Fermentation)

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