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The influence of fibre content of hay (H) and concentrate level (C) on local differences in the composition of ruminal digesta (ratio of solid to fluid digesta, DM, NDF, ADF and ADL content), particle size (MPL), specific gravity (SG) and fermentation (pH and concentrations of SCFA and bicarbonate) have been tested on two ruminally cannulated Friesian cows (520 kg BW) which were fed restricted, using individual cows as experimental units. Digesta samples were collected via cannula from three rumen layers: 5 to 10 cm (top) and 25 - 35 cm beneath the top of the particle mat (middle) and 5 - 10 cm above the rumen floor (bottom). For a main plot treatment (H·C), repeated samples were collected at four time intervals (1 h before and 2, 5 and 10 h after morning feeding) on each of two days. From top to bottom rumen the share of solid digesta mass (SM), DM and NDF contents of squeezed digesta fluid (SRF) and concentration of SCFA decreased ( P  < 0.05); pH and bicarbonate concentration increased ( P  < 0.05), while DM, NDF, ADF and ADL contents in SM, MPL and SG did not differ. Higher NDF content of hay (from 47 - 62%) increased SM, fibre fractions in SM, MPL, pH and concentration of bicarbonate in ruminal digesta, especially when 50% concentrate was given, while SG decreased. When the concentrate level was enhanced from 20 to 50%, digesta SM, MPL and the content of DM and NDF in SRF increased, while pH, concentrations of SCFA and acetate decreased when low-fibre hay was given. With longer time after feeding the digesta SM was reduced and fibre content in SM increased. The increase of the fibre content of hay reduced the possible negative effect of high concentrate level on the stratification of ruminal digesta. The decrease of the fibre content of hay promised better conditions for fibre digestion in the rumen when concentrate availability is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to determine the effect of pectin on fermentation parameters in the faeces and caecal digesta of weaned pigs 18 castrated male crossbred pigs with an average body weight of 8 kg were fitted with T-cannulas at the caecum. The animals were randomly distributed into three groups and fed with diets supplemented with 0,5 and 10% pectin. Faeces were collected over a period of 3 days. Thereafter the diets were withdrawn for 24 h followed by ad libitum feeding to enhance the feed intake. Caecal chyme was collected 0,8 and 24 h postprandial. In the faeces the addition of 5% pectin to the diet lowered the content of dry matter and lactic acid. The pH and the digestibility of pectins, the concentration of total SCFA, acetate, propionate, butyrate, bicarbonate and chloride increased. Dietary pectin of 10% increased the content of total SCFA and acetate further. When the diets were withdrawn and fed ad libitum 24 h later, a decline of the pH and an increased concentration of lactate in the caecal chyme could be observed in all groups up to 8 h after feeding. With an interval of 8 to 24 h after feeding, a further decline in pH and a rise of lactate only occurred when the diet was not supplemented with pectin. It was concluded that pectin might be beneficial for the development of fermentative processes in the large intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method was developed for studying local differences in ruminal fermentation. The developed sampler consisted of an acrylic glass container (460 cm⊃3) with an aperture for digesta sampling, which could be opened and closed by the scaled "T" rod. The scale was a reference for defined rumen layers: top. middle, 5 to 10 cm and 25 to 35 cm beneath the top of particles mat, respectively, and bottom 5 to 10 cm above the rumen floor. The repeatability of the method was proved in two rumen cannulated cows. Particle/fluid ratio, pH and sample amount were measured 2 to 2 1/2 h after morning feeding in four replicates each day (over 5 days), tureen layer and animal. No significant differences between replicates were observed. The coefficients of variation (CV) of the particle/fluid ratio varied between 8.7% and 13.6%. Top layer had higher CV than middle and bottom layer. CV of pH ranged between 0.59% and 1.27%. The developed method of sampling showed satisfactory repeatability for investigation of digesta properties and fermentation in different rumen layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attempts to determine the effects and interactions of different particle sizes on feed intake and digestion processes at different intake and concentrate levels in cows and sheep. Determination of particle and fluid passage; Effects of hay particle size on nutrient digestibility and feed intake; Cause of dilation of the hindgut or an increased rate of escape; Influence of the intake level on the fiber digestibility.

Studies the effects of rations with high amounts of sugar beet mash silage (BMS) substituting concentrates on ruminal fermentation, chewing activity, digestion, feed intake and milk yield and composition in dairy cows. Change in the acidity of rumen liquor after feeding; Factors affecting the apparent digestibility of crude nutrients and energy of the rations; Influence of structural fiber content of BMS on chewing and rumination.

Features a study which evaluated the feeding value of Phyllanthus discoideus, also called Margaritaria discoidea leaves, using West African Dwarf sheep fed with natural grass hay. Background of study; Materials and methods; Results and discussion; Conclusions.