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Nos sistemas de produção de ruminantes a alimentação pode responder por 60 a 70% dos custos da atividade, sendo assim, a avaliação nutricional dos alimentos e a formulação de dietas balanceadas, que atendam às exigências dos animais representam um importante desafio na produção pecuária. Diversos métodos têm sido usados para avaliar a modulação da fermentação ruminal e estimar as características da degradação de alimentos e dietas destinadas à alimentação de ruminantes. Esses métodos envolvem a medição do desaparecimento do substrato durante a incubação no rúmen in situ, no líquido ruminal tamponado (in vitro) e são principalmente medidas de ponto final. Além disso, é possível avaliar a cinética da degradação através da medição das diferenças nos resíduos em diferentes tempos de incubação. A avaliação do valor nutricional de alimentos e dietas também é possível ser feita por meio da utilização de técnicas que medem a produção de gás. Essas técnicas medem o aparecimento de produtos da fermentação ruminal, tais como os gases dióxido de carbono (CO2) e metano (CH4), ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, amônia e a biomassa microbiana. Objetivou-se com essa revisão descrever os principais métodos in situ e in vitro utilizados para avaliar alimentos para ruminantes.

Abstract This study tested the hypothesis that naturally and industrially produced trans-fatty acids can exert distinct effects on metabolic parameters and on gut microbiota of rats. Wistar rats were randomized into three groups according to the diet: CONT-control, with 5% soybean oil and normal amount of fat; HVF-20% of hydrogenated vegetable fat (industrial); and RUM-20% of ruminant fat (natural). After 53 days of treatment, serum biochemical markers, fatty acid composition of liver, heart and adipose tissue, histology and hepatic oxidative parameters, as well as gut microbiota composition were evaluated. HVF diet intake reduced triglycerides (≈ 39.39%) and VLDL levels (≈ 39.49%). Trans-fatty acids levels in all tissue were higher in HVF group. However, RUM diet intake elevated amounts of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (≈ 14.7%) compared to CONT, but not to HVF. Furthermore, RUM intake led to higher concentrations of stearic acid and conjugated linoleic acid in all tissue; this particular diet was associated with a hepatoprotective effect. The microbial gut communities were significantly different among the groups. Our results show that ruminant fat reversed the hepatic steatosis normally caused by high fat diets, which may be related to the remodelling of the gut microbiota and its anti-inflammatory potential.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive performance and carcass characteristics of confined Santa Inês sheep, fed different diets, in a Semiarid environment. Twenty whole sheep with 5 ± 0.5 months of age and 27 ± 2.0 kg were used, receiving two different diets for 72 experimental days, one composed of defatted soybean meal and the other of protein-enriched cactus meal. They were evaluated for different diets, consumption, production, carcass characteristics, morphometric measures and edible components. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with two treatments and 10 replications. Performance data and carcass characteristics were evaluated by analysis of variance and means compared by t test at 5% probability level using Statistical Analysis System [SAS]® (1999). Thus, the use of emulsified palm forage protein in the feeding of Santa Inês male lambs proved to be an excellent protein source when compared to the use of defatted soybean meal, since the results of performance and carcass characteristics were similar, being the use of this alternative source advised as it presents the best benefit-cost ratio.

Aim of study: To evaluate the physicochemical and sensory quality of meat from Santa Inês × Dorper lambs fed diets with increasing levels of sunflower cake. Area of study: Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil). Material and methods: Twenty-four castrated lambs (initial weight of 18.9 ± 2.17 kg) were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0, 5, 10 and 15% sunflower cake in diet) with six repetitions and kept in confinement until reaching the average body weight of 32.1 ± 2.6 kg. The Longissimus lumborum muscle was used for proximate composition and physicochemical analyzes, and the Semimembranosus muscle was used for pH (after 24 h of slaughter) and sensory analysis assays. Main results: The increasing levels of sunflower cake did not affect the composition or physicochemical properties. Sensory analysis also did not reveal significant differences in meat obtained from animals in different diets. Principal Components Analysis indicated that juiciness, color, odor and flavor were positioned opposite to protein, texture, and ash. Research highlights: The use of sunflower cake in diets for crossbred sheep Dorper × Santa Inês as soybean meal and corn replacer, up to 15% inclusion of soybean meal and corn, does not affect the proximate composition, physicochemical or sensory characteristics of the meat.

This study aimed to evaluate the productive performance and carcass characteristics of lambs fed diets with different types of carbohydrates associated with polyunsaturated fatty acids. Thirty castrated male lambs (20.5 ± 7.6 kg) were used, distributed in a randomized block design under three experimental diets: High proportion of non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) diet; High NFC diet + spineless cactus (high proportion of NFC and spineless cactus) and Low NFC diet (low proportion of NFC), in a 60 day experimental period. The variables of nutrient intake, performance, and carcass characteristics were evaluated. The animals fed the High NFC + spineless cactus diet presented a higher dry matter intake, organic matter, mineral matter, crude protein, and total carbohydrates intake (p

O objetivo com esta pesquisa foi analisar o efeito das estações seca e chuvosa sobre a produção, qualidade do leite (gordura, lactose, proteína, sólidos totais, CTB e CCS) e as variáveis fisiológicas (temperatura retal e superficial e frequência respiratória e cardíaca) de vacas mestiças (holandês/zebu) em lactação, sob regime de pastejo rotacionado em pastagem cultivada, utilizando-se 10 vacas mestiças (holandês/zebu) em lactação, peso vivo médio de 500 ± 30 kg, sendo que no período chuvoso estavam entre o quarto e quinto mês de lactação e no período seco estavam entre o sétimo e oitavo mês de lactação com uma produção média inicial de 18 ± 4kg de leite/vaca/dia, mantendo homogeneidade do lote nas duas estações. Os animais foram mantidos em sistema semi-intensivo de criação, utilizando pastejo rotacionado em pastagem de Brachiaria decumbens, numa área de 3 hectares, onde existia um conglomerado de árvores que propiciavam 5m²/animal de sombra natural, para abrigar os animais nos horários mais quentes do dia. As estações do ano e os horários do dia influenciaram significativamente (P < 0,05) a temperatura do ambiente, umidade relativa do ar e o índice de temperatura de globo negro e umidade. A frequência respiratória e a temperatura superficial foram mais elevadas (P < 0,05) na estação seca e os valores da temperatura retal e frequência respiratória foram similares (P > 0,05) nas estações. A produção e a proteína do leite apresentaram diferença significativa (P < 0,05) em função das estações do ano. Com o auxílio das variáveis fisiológicas (temperatura retal e superficial e frequência cardíaca e respiratória), mesmo assim, as vacas diminuíram sua produção e aumentaram a concentração de proteína no leite.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of the cactus Opuntia stricta (Haw.) in sheep diets on the feed intake, digestibility, fermentation, and physicochemical characteristics of the ruminal digesta. Five sheep cannulated in the rumen (61.5±9.5 kg body weight) were assigned in a Latin square design (5×5), with five diets and five experimental periods of 21 days each. The first 14 days were the adaptation period, and data were collected over the following seven days, making the total duration of the experiment 105 days. The diets included a control diet and four diets containing cactus at 121, 245, 371, and 500 g/kg of dry matter (DM). The diets had a forage:concentrate ratio of 65:35. The inclusion of cactus increased the DM intake and non-fiber carbohydrates, but reduced the neutral detergent fiber intake. It also increased the apparent digestibility of the DM, reduced the digesta density 4 h after feeding, and increased the production of ruminal fluid foam. The inclusion of cactus quadratically affected the DM rumen turnover, with the lowest value observed in the 336.5 g/kg cactus diet. The DM ruminal disappearance rate increased with the inclusion of cactus to the diets and quadratically affected the ruminal pH, with the highest value found in the 150 g/kg cactus diet. The concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) increased, but the acetate:propionate ratio decreased with the inclusion of cactus at 500 g/kg DM. Taken together, our findings indicate that the evaluated spineless cactus can be added to sheep diets up to the level of 500 g/kg DM. The inclusion of O. stricta (Haw.) improves feed intake, DM digestibility, and SCFA and modifies the physicochemical characteristics of the ruminal digesta.

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to use biometric measurements to predict carcass characteristics of lambs of the Morada Nova breed. We used 48 lambs with mean initial body weight (BW) of 15.0±0.04 kg and slaughter body weight (SBW) of 26.37±2.43 kg. The animals were weighed weekly and underwent a period of adaptation of 15 days before slaughter. The biometric measurements were obtained the day before slaughter, comprising body length, withers height, rump height, thigh length, breast width, rump width, thigh perimeter, rump perimeter, thorax perimeter, leg length, and body condition score. Additional measurements included slaughter BW and empty BW (EBW). The data recorded at slaughter comprised the weights of the viscera, carcass, and internal fat and offal. The in vivo measurements of body length were present in most of the equations for predicting the SBW, EBW, hot carcass weight (HCW), and cold carcass weight (CCW). The SBW and EBW presented a variation of approximately 9%. The variables that evaluated the carcass, HCW, and CCW demonstrated less data variation than SBW and EBW, which was probably because these measurements were obtained following evisceration and skinning, thus removing factors of more significant variation in vivo . The prediction models found in the present study varied with an R² of 0.49-0.93, indicating high levels of variation. In sum, biometric measurements can be used to predict the carcass characteristics of Morada Nova lambs with different body conditions.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate performance traits, intake, nutrient apparent digestibility, and economic analysis of lambs fed diets containing different levels of sunflower cake (SFC) with a certain chemical composition. Thirty-six Santa Inês × Dorper lambs (n = 9 per treatment diet) with an average body weight (BW) of 19.5±2.19 kg at the beginning of the study were randomly allocated to four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets for 63 days. A control diet without SFC was compared with diets containing 5, 10, and 15% of dietary dry matter (DM) of SFC replacing soybean meal and corn. Growth performance and economic indicators were calculated. Moreover, individual faeces were collected using canvas bags to evaluate the apparent digestibility of nutrients between days 30 and 45 of study. The total BW gain linearly decreased with the inclusion of SFC in the lamb diet. However, no differences among treatments were observed for final BW, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, or feed conversion ratio. The inclusion of different levels of SFC in the diet reduced the intakes of DM as g/kg BW and non-fibre carbohydrates on DM basis. The apparent digestibility of all nutrients studied improved with the inclusion of 5% SFC but decreased with diets containing 10 or 15% of SFC. Moreover, the higher benefit:cost ratio was obtained for diet containing 5% SFC. Therefore, SFC from biodiesel production could be used at levels of 5% in lamb rations, reducing feeding costs without worsening productive performance, nutrient intake, and digestibility at the ages studied.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of guava agroindustrial waste (GAW) on ruminal parameters (pH, N-NH3, and microbial protein), volatile fatty acid (VFA), and morphometry of the rumen and intestine of sheep. A total of forty Santa Inês sheep (120 days old and 21.3±2.62 kg) were used. The animals were fed diets with 0, 7.5, 15, 22.5, and 30% inclusion of GAW. The pH, ammonia nitrogen, microbial protein, and VFA were evaluated in the ruminal fluid, alongside the morphometric characteristics of the rumen and intestine. The inclusion of GAW linearly increased fasting and postprandial pH, N-NH3 only showed a quadratic effect for fasting animal, whereas MP presented a quadratic effect for pre- and post-prandial animals. There was a quadratic effect for papilla width, with a maximum value of 393.33 μm at the level of 34.43% GAW in the diet. The papilla absorption area showed a linear effect, in which increasing levels of GAW in the diet had a smaller area of papillae absorption. The inclusion of GAW in the diet of Santa Inês sheep favored pH neutrality, reduced N-NH3 and ruminal MP concentrations, decreased the thickness of the rumen muscular layer, and increased the intestinal mucosa, favoring greater absorption of nutrients.

The physical-chemical characteristics and sensory attributes of milk are variable. This study aimed to evaluate how spineless cactus varieties resistant to carmine cochineal (Dactylopius sp.) influences the composition and sensory characteristics of goat milk. Twelve lactating goats with body weights of 51.35 ± 3.75 kg were distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square, with three simultaneous squares composed of four animals, four periods, and four experimental diets: Control - goats fed tifton grass hay and concentrate; SCOE - goats fed the Orelha-de-elefante spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate; SCB – goats fed the Baiana spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate; SCM – goats fed the Miúda spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate. The levels of protein and non-greasy solids and the sensory attributes of the milk (odor, butter flavor, and global acceptance) did not differ between the treatments (p > 0.05). The lipid content of the milk was reduced in the SCOE treatment compared to the control (p = 0.0014). The milk obtained from animals fed the SCOE and SCM treatments had a stronger flavor (p < 0.05). These results suggest that varieties of spineless cactus resistant to carmine cochineal can be used as goat feed without affecting milk production or global acceptance.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi a caracterização morfogênica, estrutural e bromatológica da Brachiaria humidicola cv. BRS Tupi. Adotou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Os tratamentos consistiram de diferentes idades de corte 14, 28, 42 e 56 dias. A taxa de aparecimento foliar, taxa de alongamento foliar e filocrono foram semelhantes entre os tratamentos (P > 0,05). Entretanto a duração de vida da folha variou entre os tratamentos (P < 0,05). A matéria seca apresentou comportamento linear (P < 0,05). Enquanto que material mineral, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido e lignina apresentaram comportamento quadrático (P < 0,05). A Brachiaria humidicola cv. BRS Tupi apresenta melhor potencial forrageiro para alimentação animal entre 28 e 42 dias de crescimento.

Inadequate estimates of fiber and dry matter intake of sheep raised in tropical conditions may explain part of the inefficiency of those production systems. Therefore, we aimed to estimate dry matter intake (DMI) and neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) of hair sheep raised under tropical conditions. A meta-analysis of 61 independent performance experiments, comprising a total of 413 experimental units (treatment means or animals), was performed. Trials were conducted in tropical conditions, using hair sheep in growing and finishing phases and endowed with the following information: neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in diet, initial and final body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), DMI and NDFI of treatment means (51 studies) or individual data (10 studies). Data on organic matter and NDF digestibilities were collected to estimate D-value (Dv) and B-value (Bv) (20 and 33 studies, respectively). The equations obtained were: [Formula: see text] DMI (g/kg BW) as a function of Dv (g/kg DM) revealed a quadratic relationship, whose point of maximum DMI (38.69 g/kg BW) was obtained at 634.1 g/kg DM Dv. On the other hand, DMI decreased linearly as Bv (g/kg DM) increased. In conclusion, equations to predict DMI from BW and ADG as well to predict NDFI from dietary NDF were fitted with great accuracy and are recommended for hair sheep raised in tropical regions. DMI values were, in general, greater than those reported by the NRC, AFRC and INRA systems, which may be a reflection of the sheep breeds used in this study. Using Dv and Bv concepts was satisfactory to describe an integrated mechanism between metabolic and bulking regulation of DMI in sheep.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of housing density on ingestive behavior of male Santa Inês sheep housed individually and in double. Forty non-castrated males were used with an average initial weight of 21.33±2.62 kg and an average age of 120 days. The males were housed in two types of covered stalls: double stalls (two males/stall) of 3.0 m2 and individual stalls of 1.50 m2. Animals housed in individual stalls spent more time ruminating and less time eating than those in double stalls. These animals also spent more time in idleness. Sheep idled approximately 11.43 hours/day (47% of the time), which can be explained by the shorter time spent in rumination, considering that the diet used in this experiment had adequate nutritional quality. The animals in double stalls consumed more water, which resulted in increased urination. However, this activity did not interfere with total weight gain. Therefore, experiments testing stall density does not interfere with the performance of the animals.

ABSTRACT This study was designed to assess the effects of feeding space availability on social behavior and performance of housed crossbreed sheep through the use of three different types of feeders. Thirty-six crossbreed ewes (Santa Inês × Dorper; 2-3 years old) with initial body weight of 34.99±4.28 kg were randomly assigned to a 3 × 3 (feeder type × available space at the feeder) factorial arrangement among nine pens. Pens had one of three feeder types (concrete bunk, plastic, or wood barrel) and one of three amounts of available space in the feeder (0.33, 0.25, or 0.20 m animal−1). Total dry matter intake/pen, dry matter intake per animal, total weight gain/pen, daily weight gain/animal, and food waste were evaluated. Percentage of time spent at feeding and frequency of aggressive behaviors/12 h were recorded. We observed a higher total daily weight gain in ewes with a feeding space of 0.33 and 0.25 m animal−1. The wastes were essentially insignificant for wood feeders in all feeding space treatments. The average number of aggressive behaviors was lower (P

This study was carried out to estimate efficiencies of the utilization of metabolizable energy for maintenance (km) and weight gain (kg) and to evaluate the Small Ruminant Nutrition System (SRNS) model in predicting dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) of growing Morada Nova lambs. The animals were non-castrated and two months of age, with initial body weights averaging 12.05 ± 1.81 kg. Eight animals were slaughtered at the beginning of the trial as a reference group, in order to estimate initial empty body weight and body composition. The remaining animals were assigned to a randomized block design with eight replications per block and five diets with increasing metabolizable energy levels (0.96, 1.28, 1.72, 2.18 and 2.62 Mcal/kg of dry matter (DM)). The metabolizable energy use efficiencies for maintenance and for weight gain were calculated from the relationship between the dietary net energy for maintenance and gain and ME concentration in the diets. Evaluation of the SRNS model was performed by adjustment of simple linear regression model between the predicted (independent variable) and observed (dependent variable) values. The efficiency of ME utilization for maintenance (0.96 Mcal/kg DM) was 0.24 and decreased (0.60 to 0.40) for the other treatments with increasing energy content. The DMI and ADG predicted by the SRNS model did not differ (P?0.05) from the observed values. Thus, the SRNS model can be used to estimate the DMI and ADG in feedlot Morada Nova lambs.

The effect of the substitution of Tifton hay (0, 33, 66, 100 g/100 g) for pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) stubble hay was evaluated in the characteristics of the carcasses of goats of an unknown breed (UB) in feedlot. Thirty-two bucks with an average initial live weight of 17.5±1.3 kg, at approximately 150 days of age, were housed in individual stalls provided with feeding and drinking troughs. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and eight replications. There was a quadratic effect on the weights of hot carcass and cold carcass, empty body, and loin eye area. A linear increase was observed for losses by carcass cooling. The weights of commercial cuts and the weights of total muscle, total bone, intramuscular fat, and total fat decreased linearly. All morphometric measurements were influenced by the inclusion of pineapple stubble hay in the .diets. Substitution of Tifton hay for pineapple stubble hay at the level of 33 g/100 g improves the carcasses of UB goats qualitatively and quantitatively

The determination of the chemical composition of the body and carcass is important in nutritional and growth regulation studies. The purpose of this study was to develop equations to predict the chemical composition of the body and carcass using the chemical composition of a section from 9-11th rib in Morada Nova lambs. Forty-eight Morada Nova lambs with an initial weight of 12.05 ± 1.81 kg, were used. Eight animals were slaughtered at the beginning of the trial as a reference group in order to estimate the initial empty body weight and body composition. The remaining animals were assigned to a randomized block design with eight replications per block and five diets with increasing metabolizable energy contents (0.96, 1.28, 1.72, 2.18, and 2.62 Mcal/kg of dry matter). Animals were slaughtered when the mean of body weight of the group reached 25 kg. Body chemical composition was determined by evaluating the composition of the right half of the carcass, as well as, by using a sample between the 9–11th ribs (the HH section) from the left half of the carcass. According to Pearson’s correlation coefficient, the use of the HH section precisely predicted the percentages of protein (r = 0.89), ether extract (r = 0.81) and minerals (r = 0.83). Equations were developed to estimate the percentage of protein, ether extract, ash in the carcass from the following components in the HH section: %CP in the carcass = –21.05 + 3.052*%CP in the HH section (r² = 0.83); %EE in the carcass = –6.443+2.879*%EE in the HH section (r² = 0.76); %Ash = 4.52-0.362*%Ash in the HH section (r² = 0.15); %Water = 7.55+0.878*%Water in HH section (r² = 0.85). The cut from the 9-11th ribs satisfactorily predicted the protein and ether extract contents in the empty body, with values of r = 0.84 and 0.78, respectively. The crude protein and ether extract contents of the empty body can be satisfactorily estimated from chemical composition of the HH section; however, more information must be generated to obtain more reliably applicable equations.

The objective of this study was to analyze the behavior of three genetic groups of confined goats by image monitoring using nine unneutered goats of the Azul, Graúna and Moxotó genotypes. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement (genetic groups × periods - morning, afternoon and night), with three replications. Animals were monitored by video cameras placed at the ceiling of each stall for 10 days. There were interaction factors in the frequency of behavioral categories: interaction with the trough, self-cleaning, standing bipedally, social interaction, and other activities. Azul, Graúna and Moxotó native goats kept in the same environment under the same system of containment and feeding show different frequencies and durations in their behaviors, which are influenced by the period of the day.

The objective of the present study was to assess the growth performance and carcass traits of Moxotó goat kids fed different levels concentrate (supplement) (SL) on native pasture under semiarid conditions in Brazil. Thirty-two castrated kids (15.7±0.78 kg initial BW) were allocated randomly to one of the four SL (treatment groups: 0, 5, 10 and 15 g/kg BW). When the animals of treatment group 15 g/kg BW reached 25 kg BW, the animals in the other treatments groups were also slaughtered. Therefore, the animals belonging to the 0, 5, 10 and 15 g/kg of BW were finished with 18.40, 21.04, 22.94 and 25.74 kg of BW, respectively. The concentrate supplementation positively influenced the performance and the carcass traits of animals, providing higher feed intake and thus greater weight gain. The results of cold carcass yields were 405.9, 427.0, 449.1 and 462.9 g/kg of SBW for 0, 5, 10 and 15 g/kg BW, respectively. The weight of the different commercial cuts, (neck, ribs, shoulder, loin and leg) increased linearly as the SL increased; however the yields of the carcass cuts were not influenced, except for the shoulder. Overall, the distribution of non-carcass fat increased as SL increased, with the exception of mesenteric fat yield, which was not influenced. The use of concentrate supplementation to Moxotó goats under grazing conditions on native rangelands of the Brazilian semiarid improves the performance of animals and carcass yield, but does not affect the yields of commercial cuts of Moxotó growing goats.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding behavior and performance of Santa Ines sheep subjected to different levels of substitution of corn by cactus pear in the diet. Forty-fivenon-castrated male Santa Inês sheep with initial live weight of 27.50±0.48 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments (0, 70, 140, 210 and 280 g/kg DM) and nine replicates. Dry matter and neutral detergent fiberintakes showed quadratic behavior. Times spent eating, ruminating and total ruminating chews showed increasing linear behavior, while the idle time decreased with increasing amounts of dietary cactus. The feeding efficiency (gDM/h) increased linearly, while differences in rumination efficiency of the DM (g DM/h); NDF intake efficiency (gNDF/h) and NDF rumination efficiency (gNDF/h) were not significant. There was no significant effect for the number of ruminated boli and number of ruminating chews per bolus. The number of chews per day increased linearly. These results indicate that cactus pear in substitution of corn had no influence on the feeding behavior of feedlot sheep.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of sources of nitrogen on the intake and digestibility of nutrients and production and chemical composition of goat milk. Soybean meal (SBM), soybean meal + urea (SBM+U), cottonseed meal + urea (CM+U), cottonseed cake + urea (CC+U) and whole cottonseed + urea (WC+U) were used, representing the different sources of nitrogen in the diet. Ten crossbred goats were used (Alpine + Saanen), weighing on average 47.90±1.94 kg of body weight at 30 days of lactation, distributed in a double Latin square (5 × 5) with five treatments and five periods. There was influence of the different sources of nitrogen on the intakes of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) of animals, with the lowest values found in most of the variables studied for animals that received CC+U and WC+U. There was an effect of diets on the DM, OM, CP and NFC digestibility coefficients. The diet with sole addition of SBM presented the best result regarding the amount of milk produced, followed by animals fed SBM+U and CM+U and values of 2.05 kg/day; 1.92 kg/day; 1.73 kg/day; 1.47 kg/day; and 1.24 kg/day of milk for diets with SBM, SBM+U, CM+U, CC+U and WC+U, respectively. Milk composition was also changed, and the diet with WC+U showed higher percentages: 0.1208 and 0.0041 percent, for total solids and fat, respectively. There was no difference in nitrogen balance between treatments. The use of SBM+U and CM+U did not compromise the milk performance and characteristics, but the use of CC+U and WC+U is indicated in periods of low milk production.

The objective of this study was to evaluate intake, apparent digestibility, ingestive behavior and blood parameters of milking goats fed cactus pear (Opuntia ficus indica) and increasing urea levels in substitution to soybean meal. Ten multiparous Alpine goats with average weight of 31±6.0 kg were used and distributed into (5 × 5) Latin squares and assessed during five 17-day periods, receiving five treatments with the following substitution levels: 0; 5; 10; 15 and 20 g/kg of urea. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF), non-fiber carbohydrates, ether extract, organic matter and water intake values showed differences, whith average values ranging from 1.03 to 1.13; 0.12 to 0.14; 1.76 to 2.10 kg/day and 0.77 to 1.48 kg/day, respectively. The NDF and crude protein apparent digestibility values were significantly affected by urea levels. In relation to the ingestive behavior, the urea levels did not influence the feeding, idleness or rumination parameters. Difference was observed for the following physiological variables: feces frequency (11.5 to 15.9 times per day), urine frequency (10.8 to 14.2 times per day) and frequency of search for water (0.8 to 2.1 times per day). The urea levels influenced the blood parameters, whose average levels ranged from 29.83 to 40.76 mg/dL. Pear cactus and increasing urea levels in substitution to soybean meal do not alter the dry matter intake or ingestive behavior. The use of urea associated with forage cactus reduces water intake and increases the blood urea concentration of milking goats.

Castrated male goats (n = 40) of the Moxotó (n = 20) and Canindé (n = 20) breeds with an average weight of 15.3 kg were studied to determine intake, nutrient digestibility and weight gain for two diets with different energy levels. The experiment utilized a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement (two breeds and two diets), in which goats were randomly allocated. A diet of low energy density and a forage:concentrate ratio of 70:30 was utilized along with a diet of high energy density and a forage:concentrate ratio of 35:64. To determine the nutrient intake and digestibility, at the end of the experiment, goats were kept in metabolism cages for a period of 15 days. Weighing of the goats was conducted weekly over a period of 90 days. The goats that were fed a diet of high energy density displayed significantly increased consumption of metabolic fractions, with the exception of dry matter and neutral detergent fiber, when compared with those fed a diet of low energy density. The lack of difference in dry matter and neutral detergent fiber intake indicated that goats have a high digestive capacity for the diet containing a greater quantity of Maniçoba hay. Weight gain was significantly greater for those on the diet of greater energy density. Among the breeds, Canindé goats recorded the highest average consumption and weight gain. Coefficients of digestibility were significantly greater for the more energy dense diet, with no difference between breeds. Regardless of diet, the Canindé breed shows greater weight gain than the Moxotó breed.

The objective of this study was to assess the tissue component yields and the physical, chemical and sensory characteristics of meat from Santa Inês sheep fed diets in which cactus pear partially or completely replaced corn. The study used 45 Santa Inês rams with initial live weight of 25±2.5 kg and final weight of 35±1.5 kg in a completely randomized design with five treatments (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) and nine replicates per treatment. The leg of the animal was used to analyze the tissue component yields, and the longissimus dorsi muscle was used for assessment of the sensory characteristics and the physical and chemical compositions. The inclusion of cactus pear in the diet increased the adipose tissue percentage quadratically, up to 50%, reducing the muscle/fat ratio. The lipid content of the meat decreased with the inclusion of cactus pear in the diet. The results indicate that cactus pear can replace 100% of the corn in the diets of Santa Inês sheep kept in confinement, resulting in a decreased lipid percentage and without compromising the physical and sensory characteristics of the meat.

Avaliaram-se o desempenho, o consumo e a digestibilidade aparente de componentes nutritivos em 32 ovinos Morada Nova em confinamento, 20 machos não-castrados e 12 fêmeas, recebendo dietas contendo 0, 30, 60 e 100% de melão em substituição ao milho moído. Os animais tinham em média 6 meses de idade, peso médio inicial de 15 kg e foram abatidos aos 25 kg. Utilizou-se delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos e oito repetições. O consumo de MS apresentou tendência quadrática para ambos os sexos, variando de 769 a 837 g para os machos e de 722 g a 646 g para as fêmeas. Os consumos de matéria orgânica (MO), proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT), carboidratos totais (CT) e carboidratos não-fibrosos (CNF) apresentaram comportamento quadrático, refletindo o mesmo comportamento da ingestão da MS. A digestibilidade aparente da MS apresentou tendência linear decrescente. Os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente de MO, PB, EE, FDN e CT apresentaram comportamento linear crescente com a adição de melão em substituição ao milho moído. O ganho de peso diário com o aumento do nível de melão na dieta foi maior nos machos. A conversão e eficiência alimentar não foram influenciadas pelo aumento do nível de melão na dieta. Os dias de confinamento variaram de 79 a 90 dias. A substituição na dieta do milho moído por melão possibilitou obter desempenho satisfatório em ovinos Morada Nova em confinamento. O nível de 60% de substituição é o que permite melhor retorno financeiro, entretanto, em níveis superiores a 30%, aumentam os dias de confinamento, elevando a idade ao abate.Performance, intake, and nutrients digestibility of 32 Morada Nova confined lambs were evaluated, using diets with increasing levels (0, 30, 60, 100%) of melon (Cucumis melo L.) in substitution of corn grain. Animals were about 6 months old, with an average of 15 kg of initial body weight and slaughtered at 25 kg. They were allocated in a completely randomized design with four treatments and eight replicates. The dry matter intake (DMI) presented a quadratic behavior for both sex, varying from 769 to 837 g for males, and from 722 to 646 g for females. Intakes of OM (organic matter), CP (crude protein), EE (ether extract), NDF (neutral detergent fiber), TDN (total digestible nutrients), TCH (total carbohydrate) and NFC (non fiber-carbohydrate) showed a quadratic curve, reflecting the same behavior of DMI. There was a decreasing linear response for the coefficient of apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM). The apparent digestibility coefficients of OM, CP, EE, NDF, and TCH presented an increasing linear response with the addition of melon in substitution of ground corn in the diet. Concerning the average daily gain (ADG) there was a better performance for males compared with females, as the levels of melon increased. Feed efficiency and conversion were not influenced by the treatments. There was an increasing linear effect for the days of confinement, which varied from 79 to 90. The levels of melon added to the Morada Nova lambs' diets provided reasonable performances. The treatment with 60% participation of melon shows the best economical return. On the other hand, when the level of melon is above 30%, the days in confinement increase, elevating the slaughter age.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da adição de melão em substituição ao milho moído em dietas sobre a composição centesimal e análise sensorial da carne de ovinos da raça Morada Nova. Foram utilizados 20 animais da raça Morada Nova, machos não-castrados, com peso vivo médio inicial de 15 kg, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso para avaliação de quatro níveis (0, 30, 60 e 100%) de inclusão de melão em substituição ao milho moído, cada um avaliado com cinco repetições. Para determinar a composição centesimal da carne, utilizou-se o músculo semimembranosus. Com o músculo longissimus dorsi, procedeu-se à análise sensorial quantificando, por intermédio de notas, os atributos de sabor, odor, suculência, maciez e aparência global. As análises dos dados não apresentaram diferenças significativas para a composição centesimal (umidade, proteína, lipídio e matéria mineral). Na análise sensorial, a suculência apresentou comportamento quadrático, com ponto de máximo de 5,18, e as demais qualidades organolépticas (odor, sabor, maciez e aparência global) não foram influenciadas pela inclusão de melão em substituição ao milho nas dietas. A utilização de melão em substituição ao milho em dietas para ovinos Morada Nova não afeta as principais qualidades organolépticas da carne.The objective of this trial was to evaluate the influence of the addition of melon fruit replacing ground corn in diets on the centesimal composition and sensory analysis of meat from Morada Nova lambs. Twenty Morada Nova males with average weight of 15 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design with four increasing levels (0, 30, 60 and 100%) of melon in substitution of ground corn, each one with five replications. To determine the chemical composition of meat, the semimembranosus muscle was used. With the muscle longissimus dorsi sensory analysis, the attributes of taste, odor, juiciness, softness and overall appearance were conducted by quantifying, by means of scoring. Data analysis showed no significant differences in proximate composition (moisture, protein, lipid and ash). At the sensory analysis, juiciness showed quadratic response with a maximum peak of 5.18 and the other organoleptic qualities (flavor, tenderness and overall appearance) were not affected by the inclusion of melon replacing corn in diets. The use of melon in diets for Morada Nova sheep diets does not affect the main organoleptic qualities of meat.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components in Brazilian semi-arid native goats of different genotypes in feedlot system. It was used 30 non-castrated Azul, Graúna and Moxotó goats with average initial weight of 15.93 ± 2.4, distributed in a completely randomized design with 3 genotypes and 10 replicates. The experimental diet used had a roughage:concentrate ratio of 47:53. There was a significant effect for weight gain and subcutaneous fat thickness according to genotype. Retail cut yields did not differ among the studied breeds. The percentage of non-carcass components in relation to live weight and empty body weight were not different among genotypes. Graúna and Azul genotypes showed daily gain greater than Moxotó genotype. The subcutaneous fat thickness presented by Azul and Moxotó genotypes was greater than that of Graúna genotype. All genotypes have good quantitative and morphometric carcass traits in addition to satisfactory yields of cut and non-carcass components, but for subcutaneous fat thickness (carcass finishing), Azul and Moxotó genotypes stand out.

Avaliou-se o efeito de diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável na dieta sobre a composição corporal e as exigências de proteína líquida de 24 ovinos Santa Inês em crescimento, não-castrados, com idade e peso corporal médio de 50 dias e 13,00 ± 0,56 kg. Após um período de adaptação de 10 dias, quatro animais foram abatidos para serem utilizados como referência para as estimativas do peso do corpo vazio (PCVZ) e da composição corporal inicial dos demais. Os animais remanescentes foram distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos casualizados com rações contendo diferentes níveis de energia metabolizável (2,08; 2,28; 2,47 e 2,69 Mcal/kg MS) e proteína bruta (12,74; 14,36; 15,97 e 17,65% PB na MS) com cinco repetições. A excreção diária de N foi estimada extrapolando-se a equação de regressão de consumo de N (g/kg PC0,75/dia) em função da retenção de N (g/kg PC0,75/dia) para o consumo zero. A derivada da equação de regressão do logaritmo do conteúdo de proteína em função do logaritmo do PCVZ dos animais permitiu a estimativa da exigência proteica líquida para ganho de peso de corpo vazio (GPCVZ). A excreção diária de N foi estimada em 277 ± 0.05 mg/kg PC0,75/dia e a exigência de proteína líquida para mantença em 1,73 g/kg PC0,75/dia. O conteúdo de proteína no PCVZ dos animais diminui de 157,83 para 144,33 g/kg PCVZ quando o peso corporal aumentou de 15 para 30 kg, respectivamente. A quantidade de proteína depositada no ganho diminuiu de 137,47 para 125,71 g/kg GPCVZ com o aumento do peso corporal de 15 para 30 kg, respectivamente. A excreção fecal de nitrogênio e exigência líquida de proteína para mantença de ovinos Santa Inês em crescimento foi inferior ao preconizado pelos principais sistemas de avaliação de alimentos e exigências nutricionais para pequenos ruminantes.This study evaluated the effect of different dietary levels of metabolizable energy on the body composition and net protein requirements of 24 Santa Inês non-castrated growing sheep at average age of 50 days and average body weight of 13.00 ± 0.56 kg. After a ten-day adaptation period, four animals were slaughtered to be used as a reference for estimates of empty body weight (EBW) and initial body composition of the other animals. The remaining animals were assigned into a randomized block design with diets containg different levels of metabolizable energy (2.08; 2.28; 2.47 and 2.69 Mcal/kg of DM) and crude protein (12.74; 14.36, 15.97 and 17.65% CP of DM) with five replicates. The N daily excretion was estimated by extrapolating regression equations of N intake (g/kg BW0.75/day) in function of retention (g/kg BW0.75/day) for zero intake. The derivative regression of the logarithm of protein content in function of the logarithm of EBW enabled the estimation of net protein requirement for empty body weight gain (EBWG). Daily nitrogen excretion was 277 ± 0.05 mg/kg BW0.75/day and net protein requirement for maintenance was 1.73 g/kg BW0.75/day. Protein content of EBW of animals decreased from 157.83 to 144.33 g/kg of EBW when the BW of the animals increased from 15 to 30 kg, respectively. The amount of protein deposited in the gain decreased from 137.47 to 125.71 g/kg of EBWG with the increase of body weight of the animals from 15 to 30 kg, respectively. Nitrogen fecal excretion and protein net requirement for maintenance of Santa Inês growing lambs was lower than the values commonly cited by the main systems of feed evaluation and nutrient requirements for small ruminants.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of using silk flower hay replacing corn and soybean meal on physical-chemical and sensorial traits of lamb meat. It was used 32 intact Morada Nova male lambs (12.7 ± 2 kg initial body weigth) on feedlot system, distributed in a completely randomized design with four levels (0, 15, 30 and 45% on dry matter basis). The use of silk flower hay in the diet influenced quality of meat and carcass, leg weight, tissue composition, moisture, juiciness and flavor. Replacing corn (26.67%) and soybean (3.33%) with silk flower hay does not affect the tissue composition, ratios and muscularity index of leg and physical-chemical parameters of semimembranosus muscle of Morada Nova lambs.Objetivou-se avaliar a influência do uso de feno de flor-de-seda em substituição ao milho e ao farelo de soja nas características físico-químicas e sensoriais da carne de cordeiros. Utilizaram-se 32 cordeiros Morada Nova, machos não-castrados (12,7 ± 2 kg de peso vivo inicial), em confinamento, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso com quatro níveis (0, 15, 30 e 45% com base na MS). A utilização de feno de flor-de-seda na dieta influenciou a qualidade da carcaça e da carne, o peso da perna, a composição tecidual, a umidade, a suculência e o sabor. A substituição do milho (26,67%) e da soja (3,33%) pelo feno de flor-de-seda não altera composição tecidual, relação e índice de muscularidade da perna e os parâmetros físico-químicos do músculo semimembranosus de cordeiros Morada Nova.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biometric and morphometric measures, regional composition, carcass characteristics and non-carcass components of Santa Inês lambs submitted to levels of corn replaced by cactus pear in the diet. It was used 45 Santa Ines non-castrated male lambs, with average initial live weight of 25.50 ± 0.48 kg as a completely randomized block design with five treatments (0; 25; 50; 70 and 100%) and nine replicates. There was an effect of the diet on slaughter weight, empty body weight, hot and cold carcass, cold carcass weight, shoulder weight and loin weight. Cactus pear can replace up to 75% of corn in diets for feedlot Santa Inês lambs, without compromising production, carcass characteristics and production of non-carcass components.O objetivo neste trabalho foi avaliar as medidas biométricas e morfométricas, a composição regional, as características de carcaça e os componentes não constituintes da carcaça de cordeiros Santa Inês, submetidos a níveis de substituição do milho por palma forrageira na dieta. Foram utilizados 45 cordeiros não-castrados da raça Santa Inês com peso vivo inicial de 25,0 ± 0,48 kg, distribuídos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso com cinco tratamentos (0; 25; 50; 75 e 100%) e nove repetições. Houve efeito da dieta sobre o peso ao abate, peso do corpo vazio, peso de carcaça quente e fria, peso da paleta e peso do lombo. A palma forrageira pode substituir até 75% do milho em dietas para cordeiros da raça santa Inês em confinamento, sem comprometer a produção, as características da carcaça e a produção de componentes não constituintes da carcaça.

The objective of this study was to estimate tissue composition of the carcass from physical composition of commercial cuts of F1 crossbred goats (Boer with females of non-defined racial standard) finished on native pasture with four levels of supplementation with concentrate (0.0; 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5% of BW in dry matter). It was used 24 non-castrated animals at initial body weight of 15.52 kg and at 120 days of age. The carcass was sectioned in the half, and from the lefthalf carcass, the following cuts were detached: leg, loin, ribs, shoulder and neck, which were dissected in muscle, bone and fat. Carcass weight and yield were predicted from the weight and yield of tissues in the commercial cuts by regression analysis. All the cuts can be used to predict muscle and fat weight in the carcass. For the muscle, the relationship was linear and positive in the cuts leg, ribs, shoulder and neck, and cubic in the loin; for all the cuts, fat kept a linear relationship with the carcass. Muscle and fat yield of all the commercial cuts showed a positive linear relationship with carcass yield, except for rib fat, for which a cubic relationship was found. Considering all the results obtained and using the relationship with the highest determination coefficient, the ribs were the cut that provided the best estimate of the carcass muscle and fat yields of F1 crossbred goats (Boer with females of non-defined racial standard) finished on native pasture.Objetivou-se estimar a composição tecidual da carcaça a partir da composição física dos cortes comerciais de caprinos mestiços F1 (Boer com fêmeas de padrão racial não definido) terminados em pastagem nativa com quatro níveis de suplementação com concentrado (0,0; 0,5; 1,0 e 1,5% do PC em matéria seca). Utilizaram-se 24 animais não-castrados com peso corporal inicial de 15,52 kg e 120 dias de idade. A carcaça foi seccionada ao meio, e da meia-carcaça esquerda foram separados os cortes: perna, lombo, costilhar, paleta e pescoço, os quais foram dissecados em músculo, osso e gordura. O peso e rendimento da carcaça foram preditos a partir do peso e o rendimento dos tecidos nos cortes comerciais, por meio de análise de regressão. Todos os cortes podem ser utilizados para predizer os pesos de músculo e de gordura na carcaça. Para músculo, a relação foi linear e positiva nos cortes perna, costilhar, paleta e pescoço e cúbica no lombo; para todos os cortes, a gordura manteve relação linear com a carcaça. O rendimento de músculo e de gordura dos cortes comerciais apresentou relação linear positiva com o da carcaça, exceto para gordura do costilhar, para o qual a relação foi cúbica. Considerando todos os resultados e utilizando a relação com o maior coeficiente de determinação, o costilhar foi o corte que possibilitou melhor estimativa do rendimento de músculo e de gordura da carcaça de caprinos mestiços F1 (Boer com fêmeas de padrão racial não definido) terminados em pastagem nativa.

This work aimed to evaluate the influence of daily supplementation with 10 g of polyethyleneglycol (PEG) associated with Sabiá shrub hay (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth.) on the intake and digestibility of in goats and sheep. Twenty animals, ten sheep and ten goats were allocated in a randomized block design, with two treatments and two species: PEG group (supplemented with 10 g of PEG) and control group (without supplementation). Significant differences were not observed between treatments and species regarding the intake and digestibility of dry matter and neutral detergent fiber. Nevertheless, PEG supplementation enhanced the crude protein digestibility of Sabiá shrub hay from 33.96% to 38.74% in sheep and from 43.29% to 54.41% in goats, showing that the supplementation with PEG could become a good feeding strategy against the antinutritional effects of tannin of the forage plants.

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o ganho de peso (GMD), conversão alimentar (CA), eficiência alimentar (EA), características de carcaça e dos cortes comerciais de ovinos Santa Inês, alimentados com diferentes concentrações de energia metabolizável (2,08; 2,28; 2,47 e 2,69 Mcal de EM kg-1 de MS). Vinte cordeiros, com idade e peso corporal médio de 50 dias e 13,00 . 0,56 kg, respectivamente, foram distribuídos em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. Verificou-se efeito linear crescente (p < 0,05) sobre o GMD. A perda ao jejum, CA, EA, rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria, bem como a perda por resfriamento não foram influenciados (p > 0,05) pelosníveis energéticos das rações. No entanto, os pesos de carcaça quente e fria, e o peso do corpo vazio, expressos em kg, apresentaram efeito quadrático (p < 0,05) à medida que se aumentaram os níveis de energia metabolizável nas rações experimentais. Conclui-se que a manipulação do nível energético das rações altera o GMD, o peso da carcaça quente e fria, o rendimento da paleta, o peso da costela e a área de olho de lombo em ovinos Santa Inês.This study evaluated the weight gain (ADG), feed conversion (FC), feed efficiency (FE), characteristics of carcass and retail cuts of Santa Inês sheep fed different levels of metabolizable energy (2.08, 2.28, 2.47 and 2.69 Mcal kg-1 of DM). Twenty lambs, with age and mean body weight of 50 days and 13 . 0.56 kg, respectively, were distributed in randomized block design with five replications. We verified a linear increase effect (p < 0.05) on the ADG. The loss at fasting, FC, FE, hot and cold carcass dressing, as well as the weight loss by cooling were not affected (p > 0.05) by the energy levels of the rations. Nevertheless, the weights of hot and cold carcass and theempty body , expressed in kg, presented quadratic effect (p < 0.05), as we increase the levels of metabolizable energy in experimental diets. The energy levels influenced the yield of rib and shoulder, as the loin eye area (p < 0.05). In conclusion, themanipulation of the energy level of the ration changes the ADG, the hot and cold carcass weight, the shoulder yield, the rib weight and the loin eye area of Santa Ines sheep.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the quantitative characteristics of carcasses of Moxotó and Canindé goats finished in feedlots and fed diets of two levels of energy. It was used 40 castrated young goats, 20 from Moxotó breed and 20 from Canindé breed, each one with an average body weight of 15.2 kg. The animals were fed with diets containing 2.20 and 2.71 (Mcal/kg DM). The experimental period lasted 86 days. There was no difference among the barometric measures of Moxotó and Canindé kids. Canindé goats showed higher final weight, higher weight after fasting and higher hot and cold carcass weights when compared to the Moxotó animals. Animals that consumed diets with higher energy level had higher final weight and conformation as well as higher carcass yield. Considering the percentage values of the commercial meat cuts, no difference among treatments was observed. The diet was the factor that most influenced the non-constituent components of the carcass of Moxotó and Canindé goats. In general, animals belonging to the Canindé breed presented higher quantitative characteristics than the Moxotó breed. Supply of diets with higher energetic level (2.71 Mcal/kg DM) for goats from Moxotó and Canindé breeds, in feedlots, favors the production of carcass with higher yields and heavier commercial meat cuts.Objetivou-se avaliar as características quantitativas da carcaça de caprinos Moxotó e Canindé terminados em confinamento e recebendo dietas com dois níveis de energia. Foram utilizados 40 cabritos castrados, com peso médio de 15,2 kg, sendo 20 da raça Moxotó e 20 da raça Canindé, suplementados com dietas contendo 2,20 e 2,71 (Mcal/kg MS). O período experimental consistiu de 86 dias. Não se constatou distinções entre as medidas barimétricas de cabritos Moxotó e Canindé. Os cabritos da raça Canindé caracterizam-se por apresentar maior peso final, peso vivo pós-jejum e peso de carcaça quente e fria, que animais da raça Moxotó. Os animais que consumiram dietas com maior nível de energia apresentaram maior peso final e conformação, assim como maiores rendimentos de carcaça. Considerando-se os valores percentuais dos cortes comerciais não se observaram distinções entre os tratamentos. A dieta atuou como principal fator de influência sobre os componentes não constituintes da carcaça de caprinos das raças Moxotó e Canindé. De modo geral, caprinos da raça Canindé apresentam características quantitativas de carcaça superior a raça Moxotó. O fornecimento da dieta com maior nível energético (2,71 Mcal/kg MS) para caprinos da Raça Moxotó e Canindé, em confinamento, favorece a produção de carcaças com rendimentos superiores e cortes comerciais mais pesados.

O experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar o ganho de peso, o consumo e a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes de dieta à base de palma forrageira em ovelhas nativas confinadas na região do semiárido nordestino. Foram testadas duas formas de oferecimento da palma-forrageira (Opuntia ficus-indica): separada da mistura feno de capim-tifton + concentrado e junto da mistura feno + concentrado. Utilizaram-se 40 fêmeas das raças nativas Barriga-preta, Cara-curta, Cariri e Morada Nova, com peso inicial médio de 36,76 kg, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 4 × 2, com quatro raças e duas estratégias de alimentação. Os genótipos e as estratégias de alimentação influenciaram os consumos médios de fibra em detergente neutro e nutrientes digestíveis totais e os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente da fibra em detergente neutro. O genótipo influencia o ganho de peso e a conversão alimentar em ovelhas alimentadas com palma forrageira na dieta, uma vez que animais das raças Cariri e Cara-curta apresentam maiores ganhos de peso.The experiment was carried out with the objective of evaluating the weight gain, intake of nutrients, and the apparent digestibility of diets based on spineless cactus in native ewes in feedlot system in Brazilian semiarid region. Two spineless cactus feeding strategies were evaluated: spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) separated from the Tifton hay + concentrated mixture, and with Tifton hay mixture + concentrate. It was used forty native breed ewes (Barriga Preta, Cara Curta, Cariri and Morada Nova), with average initial body weight of 36.76 kg, distributed in a complete randomized design in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme (four breed and two feeding strategies). The genotypes and feeding strategies neutral fiber detergent had effect on the average intake of neutral fiber detergent and total digestible nutrient, and on the coefficients of neutral fiber detergent. Genotypes affect weight gain and food conversion in ewes fed spineless cactus diets since Cariri and Cara curta breeds show greater weight gain.

Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar a possibilidade da inclusão dos óleos de Licuri ou Mamona, em dois níveis, na dieta de cabras mestiças Moxotó, por meio do estudo do consumo de matéria seca, da digestibilidade e dos níveis de ureia, glicose e ácidos graxos não esterificados (AGNE) no sangue. Os tratamentos consistiam em um grupo controle sem óleo (SO) e adição de 3 ou 5% de óleo de Licuri (OL-3 ou OL-5) ou Mamona (OM-3 ou OM-5), com base na matéria seca. Foram utilizadas 10 cabras mestiças Moxotó em lactação, confinadas, distribuídas em um quadrado latino duplo (5 x 5), no qual cada período consistia em 12 dias de adaptação e três dias de coleta. A inclusão de óleo na dieta reduziu o consumo de matéria seca, com exceção do consumo dos animais suplementados com OM-3. No entanto, a adição de 3% de óleo não alterou o consumo de energia metabolizável e proteína bruta. Já a suplementação com OL-5 reduziu o consumo dos nutrientes, com exceção do consumo de extrato etéreo. A suplementação lipídica não alterou a digestibilidade da matéria seca, entretanto aumentou a digestibilidade da FDN e a digestibilidade aparente da PB e EE. Os níveis de glicose, ureia e AGNE sanguíneos não diferiram entre os tratamentos. É possível utilizar 3% de óleo de Mamona na dieta de cabras em lactação.The objective of this research was to evaluate the possibility of including Castor or Licuri oil at two levels in the diets of crossbred Moxotó goat's through dry matter intake, digestibility and levels of urea, glucose and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the blood. The treatments consisted of control groups without oil, 3% or 5% of Licuri (LO-3 or LO-5) or Castor (CO-3 or CO-5) oil, based on dry matter supplementation. Ten Moxotó lactating goats were used according to a double Latin Square (5 x 5) experiment design. The addition of oil to the diet reduced the dry matter intake, except for animals that were supplemented with CO-3. However, the addition of 3% of oil didn´t alter the intake of metabolizable energy and crude protein. The animals supplemented with LO-5 oil showed smaller nutrients intake, except for ether extract intake. The lipid supplement didn´t alter the dry matter digestibility, however increased the NDF digestibility the CP and EE apparent digestibility. There was no difference among the glucose levels, urea and NEFA in the blood. It is possible to use 3 %Castor oil in the diet of lactating goats.

Avaliou-se o efeito da inclusão de óleos de licuri ou de mamona na dieta sobre a produção, a composição química do leite de cabras leiteiras e a viabilidade econômica dessas dietas. No delineamento experimental foram utilizadas cabras Mestiças Moxotó distribuídas em quadrado latino 5 × 5 com duas repetições, composto de cinco dietas: uma controle, sem lipídio suplementar, e as demais com 3% ou 5% de óleo de licuri ou de mamona. A suplementação com 5% de óleo de licuri reduziu a produção de leite, mas não influenciou a produção de leite corrigida para 4% de gordura. A adição de 3% de óleo de mamona reduziu o teor de gordura e de sólidos totais em comparação ao óleo de licuri, aumentando o teor de lactose. O teor de proteína do leite, no entanto, não foi alterado pela adição de óleo na dieta. Os indicadores econômicos apontaram a dieta controle como a mais rentável, no entanto, a suplementação com 3% de óleo de licuri, em comparação ao de mamona, pode ser interessante quando o leite se destina ao processamento, em virtude do maior teor de gordura.The effect was assessed of including licuri and castor oils in the diet on the production and chemical composition of milk from goats and the economic viability of the diets. Crossbred Moxotó goats in a 5 × 5 Latin square design were used with two replications consisting of five diets: a control treatment without supplementary oil (control), and the others with 3% or 5% licuri or castor oil. Milk production decreased with the inclusion of 5% licuri oil, but it did not influence the production of milk corrected to 4% fat. The addition of 3% castor oil reduced the fat content and total solids production compared to licuri oil, but it increased the lactose content. There was no significant difference in the protein content among treatments. The simple financial analyses showed that the control diet was more profitable, but supplementation with 3% licuri oil when compared to castor oil supplementation can be an alternative when the milk is for processing because of the higher fat content.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do genótipo sobre as características morfométricas e quantitativas de carcaça de cabritos e cordeiros terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 34 animais machos não-castrados (12 cabritos ½ Boer ´ ½ SRD; 12 cabritos ½ Anglo-Nubiana × ½ SRD; e 10 cordeiros Santa Inês) com peso corporal médio de 18,3 kg e idade média de 135 dias no início do experimento. As médias de altura de cernelha, compacidade corporal e perímetro torácico do genótipo Santa Inês foram superiores às dos genótipos caprinos. Os rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria dos genótipos foram semelhantes, porém, as perdas por resfriamento nos mestiços anglo-nubianos e dos cordeiros Santa Inês foram maiores que nos mestiços Boer. Foram observadas diferenças significativas entre genótipos apenas para compacidade da carcaça. Cordeiros depositam mais gordura de cobertura na carcaça e apresentam maior área de olho-de-lombo e circunferência da perna que cabritos.The objective of this study was to evaluate the genotype effect on the morphometric and quantitative characteristics of carcasses of kids and lambs finished in feedlot. A total of 34 entire male animals was used, 12 kid goats (½ Boer ´ ½ SRD), 12 kid goats (½ Anglo Nubiano ´ ½ SRD) and 10 Santa Inês sheep, with initial live weight of 18.3 kg, average age of 135 days at the beginning of the trial. The averages of withers height, corporal compactness and thoracic perimeter of the Santa Inês genotype were superior to those of the kid genotypes. The hot and cold carcass dressing of the genotypes was similar, but losses from cooling in the Anglo Nubiano crossbred kid goats and Santa Inês lambs were larger than in the Boer crossbreds. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes only for carcass compactness. The lambs deposited more covering fat, presented larger loin eye area and leg circumference than the kid goats.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar a utilização do feno de maniçoba (Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg.) em diferentes níveis (30, 40, 50 e 60%) sobre os consumos e as digestibilidades de matéria seca (MS), matéria orgânica (MO), proteína bruta (PB), energia bruta (EB), extrato etéreo (EE), carboidratos totais (CT), carboidratos não-fibrosos (CNF), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) e os consumos de água e nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT). Utilizaram-se oito cabras da raça Moxotó, multíparas, com aproximadamente 60 dias de lactação, pesando 44,26 ± 4,23 kg, em delineamento quadrado latino duplo 4 × 4, com quatro tratamentos, quatro períodos e quatro animais. Cada período teve duração de 15 dias (10 de adaptação dos animais às dietas e 5 para coleta de dados). Utilizou-se a fibra em detergente ácido indigestível (FDAi) como indicador interno para estimativa da produção de matéria seca fecal. A utilização do feno de maniçoba nos níveis de 30, 40, 50 e 60% nas dietas para cabras em lactação não alterou os consumos de MS, MO, PB, EE, MM e CT. Os consumos de CNF, NDT e água diminuíram linearmente com o aumento no nível de feno de maniçoba nas dietas, enquanto os de FDN e FDA (kg/dia, %PC e g/kg0,75) aumentaram linearmente. A digestibilidade aparente de MS, MO, PB, EE, CT, CNF, EB e FDA reduziu linearmente, enquanto a da FDN não se alterou com o aumento dos níveis de feno na dieta.This research was conducted with the objective of evaluating the use of different Maniçoba hay (Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg) levels (30, 40, 50 and 60%) on intake and apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), gross energy (GE), ether extract (EE), total carbohydrates (TCHT), non fiber carbohydrates (NFC), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), water intake (WI), besides total digestible nutrients intake (TDNI). Eight multiparous Moxotó dairy goats with initial weight of 44,26 ± 4,23 kg were assigned to two 4 × 4 Latin squares design, with four treatments, four experimental periods and four animals. Each experimental period lasted 15 days (ten days for animal adaptation to diets and five days for feed, refusal and feces collection. Indigestible acid detergent fiber (iADF) was used as an internal marker to estimate fecal dry matter yield. The use of Maniçoba hay in the levels (30, 40, 50 and 60%) in diets did not affect the DM, OM, CP, EE, MM, and TCHT intakes. The NFC, TDN and water intakes decreased linearly with the increase of dietary hay levels while NDF and ADF (kg/day; %BW and g/kg0.75) intakes increased linearly. The apparent DM, OM, CP, EE, CHT, NFC, GE and ADF digestibility decreased linearly while the NDF digestibility was not affected with the increase in the dietary hay levels.

With the objective of evaluating the relative development of live weight (LW) components, commercial meat cuts and carcass tissues, 40 Saanen male kids were used. These animals were slaughtered when they reached 5.0, 12.5, 20.0, 27.5 and 35.0 kg of LW. The carcass was sectioned as follows: shoulder, neck, 1st to 5th rip, 6th to 13th rip, brisket, chump and leg. The leg was dissected into bones, muscle and fat. An allometric equation was used Y=aXb for relative development estimation. Osseous tissue showed a precocious growth, intermediary muscle and adipose tissues had a late growth, being the subcutaneous fat the latest. All commercial meat cuts showed an isogonic allometric coefficient, with exception for the 6th to 13th rip, and brisket. Carcass development and non-carcass components followed the empty body weight. Goats with 35 kg of LW showed adequate muscle proportion and muscle:bone ratio, but higher fat proportion than kids slaughtered at 20 kg of LW.Objetivando avaliar o desenvolvimento relativo dos componentes do peso vivo (PV), dos cortes comerciais e dos tecidos da carcaça, utilizaram-se 40 cabritos Saanen. Os animais foram abatidos ao atingir 5,0; 12,5; 20,0; 27,5 e 35,0 kg de PV e a carcaça foi seccionada em paleta, pescoço, 1ª a 5ª costelas, 6ª a 13ª costelas, peito/fralda, lombo e perna. A perna foi dissecada em ossos, músculos e gordura. Utilizou-se a equação alométrica Y=aXb para estimar o desenvolvimento relativo. O crescimento do tecido ósseo foi precoce, o do tecido muscular intermediário e o da gordura crescimento tardio, uma vez que a gordura subcutânea é depositada mais tardiamente. Os cortes comerciais apresentaram coeficiente de alometria isogônico, com exceção do corte da 6ª a 13ª costelas e do peito/fralda. O desenvolvimento da carcaça e dos não-componentes da carcaça acompanhou o peso de corpo vazio. Cabritos com 35 kg de PV possuem proporção de músculos e relação músculo:osso adequadas, mas apresentam proporção de gordura maior que a observada nos animais abatidos com 20 kg de PV.

The Calotropis procera has been an alternative feed for the ruminants in the brasilian semiarid region, presenting fast establishment and constant availability of fitomassa, until 3.0 t of DM/cut, in the dry season. On the aspect biochemical studies have detected various active substances as cardiac glycosides, non enzymatic proteins and enzimatics proteins, that can cause toxicity in animals when inserted in their diet. In nutritional terms, this species provides important nutrients with emphasis on protein, average value of 20%, and in vitro digestibility above 70%. It researches they showed that the intake of C. procera by goats and sheep in the form in nature can cause deaths, however, to make the process of hay and silage the toxicological effects are reduced. The utilization of C. procera is promissing, needing studies for maximize of the productivity; biochemical evaluation for identification of active substances, their mechanisms and local action in the animal, as well as testing to obtain the safe levels for inclusion in various forms of supply (in natura, hay and silage).

It had the aim to evaluate chemical composition functioning of two systems, three planting densities and four height of plant. It had been used randomized blocks an sub-divided parcels of factoring 2x3x4 with 5 repetition being two soil management (with/without camalhao) three densities of planting (6666; 3333 and 2500 plants/ha) and sub-parcels four planting cutting (5, 15, 30 and 45 cm). Studied variable were: crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), non-fibrous carbohydrates e total, (NFC) (CT). Management system and others did not influence (P>0.05), CP mean with medium value of 11%, NDF and ADF were affected (P0.05). CHOT mean with medium value of 78.0%.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of the manicoba silage use (Manihot glaziovii Muel Arg.) in different roughage:concentrate ratios (30:70; 40:60; 50:50 and 60:40 %) on the fatty acids profile of the milk from Moxotó goats. Eight multiparous goats with approximately 60 post-birth days and weigh 44 kg on average were used in a Double Latin Square with four treatments, four periods and four animals. Each period lasted 15 days with 10 days of adaptation to experimental diets and 5 days of milk collection. The results of the fatty acids analyses were submitted to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression. An increasing linear effect for the miristic acid (C14:0) and decreasing for the linoleic acid (C18:3) was observed in function of the silage levels in diet. The milk fat presented high contents of desirable fatty acids (C18:0 + unsaturated acids), considered as nutritionally important due to their benefits to the human health. It could be concluded that the manicoba silage could be included in the diet with the participation of up to 60%, presenting a nutrient supply of high nutritional value.O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da utilização de silagem de maniçoba (Manihot glaziovii Muel Arg.) em diferentes relações volumoso:concentrado (30:70; 40:60; 50:50 e 60:40 %) no perfil de ácidos graxos do leite de cabras da raça Moxotó. Foram utilizadas oito cabras multíparas com aproximadamente 60 dias pós-parto, pesando em média 44 kg, em um Quadrado Latino duplo 4 x 4, com quatro tratamentos, quatro períodos e quatro animais. Cada período teve duração de 15 dias, com 10 de adaptação às dietas experimentais e cinco dias de colheita de leite. Foi verificado efeito linear crescente do ácido mirístico (C14:0) e decrescente para o ácido linolênico (C18:3), em função dos níveis de silagem da dieta. A gordura do leite apresentou elevado teor de ácidos graxos desejáveis (C18:0 + insaturados), considerados importantes nutricionalmente pelos seus benefícios à saúde humana.

Utilizaram-se 26 animais da raça Moxotó, machos não-castrados, com peso vivo (PV) médio inicial de 15 kg e 7 a 8 meses de idade, alimentados com dieta contendo 2,6 Mcal de energia metabolizável, com o objetivo de avaliar a composição corporal e as exigências de energia para ganho de peso. Ao início do experimento, seis animais foram abatidos e serviram como referência na estimativa da composição corporal e do peso do corpo vazio (PCVZ) iniciais. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (alimentação à vontade - AV; e 85, 70 ou 55% do consumo observado no grupo com AV) e cinco repetições. Quando o PV dos animais com AV se aproximava de 25 kg, um animal de cada tratamento com restrição alimentar era abatido. Ajustaram-se as equações do logaritmo (log) dos conteúdos corporais de gordura (CCG) e energia (CCE) em função do log do PCVZ. A concentração de água no corpo dos animais experimentais foi baixa, entretanto, as deposições de gordura, proteína e cinzas aumentaram com a maturidade dos animais. Foram observados aumentos de 78,55 para 125,38 g/kg de PCVZ nos conteúdos corporais de gordura e de 1,90 para 2,34 Mcal/kg de PCVZ nos conteúdos corporais de energia com o aumento de 15 para 25 kg no PV dos animais. Verificou-se relação linear positiva entre a composição em energia do ganho em PCVZ (GPCVZ) (Mcal/kg GPCVZ) e o PCVZ. Resposta semelhante foi constatada para os conteúdos de gordura no ganho. Os conteúdos corporais de gordura (g) e energia (Mcal) de caprinos Moxotó aumentam de 14,33 para 22,87 e 0,26 para 0,32 por 100 g de GPCVZ, respectivamente, à medida que aumenta o PCVZ.Twenty-six Moxotó non-castrated males kids, with average 15 kg BW and 7 to 8 mo old, were fed a diet containing 2.6 Mcal/kg ME were used to evaluate the body composition and energy requirements for weight gain. At the beginning of the experiment, six animals were slaughtered as a reference to estimate initial body composition and initial empty body weight (EBW). While, the remaining animals (four groups of five animals, one for each feeding regime, were distributed to a completely randomized experimental design, with four feeding regime (100% or ad libitum (AL), and 85, 70 or 55% of the intake recorded for the animals from the AL group) and five replications. As the animals from the AL group approached 25 kg BW, an animal from each feeding regime was slaughtered. Logarithm (log) equations body fat (BFC) and energy (BEC) content were fitted on log10 of EBW. The concentration of water in the body of animals was low, however, the deposition of fat, protein and ash content increased with the maturity of animals. There was an increase from 78.55 to 125.38 g/kg of EBW in BFC and from 1.90 to 2.34 Mcal/kg of EBW in BEC with the increase from 15 to 25 kg of LW of the animals. There was a positive linear relationship between energy composition of gain in EBW (EBWG) (Mcal/kg EBWG) and EBW. Similar response was observed to BFC in the gain. The body fat (g) and energy (Mcal) contents of Moxotó goats kids increased from 14.33 to 22.87 and 0.26 to 0.32 per 100 g of EBWG, respectively, as EBW increased.

Com o objetivo de verificar a influência da ordem de parto e do período da ordenha na produção e composição físico-química do colostro e do leite de transição de cabras Saanen, utilizaram-se três grupos de animais (16 animais de primeira parição; 17 animais de segunda parição e oito animais de terceira ou mais parições) e coletaram-se amostras nos horários de 0, 8, 12 e 24 horas após o parto. A ordem de parto não influenciou a produção do colostro e leite de transição e não afetou significativamente as características estudadas (acidez, densidade, gordura, extrato seco total e proteína total), com exceção do pH, que diferiu significativamente (6,70; 6,50 e 6,46) entre os animais de terceira, mais de primeira e segunda parições, respectivamente. O período da ordenha influenciou os teores de gordura (8,29 e 5,14%), extrato seco total (10,52 e 6,68%), proteína total (9,24 e 4,37%) e acidez (46,1 e 25,1ºD) nos períodos de 0 e 24 horas pós-parto, respectivamente. A ordem de parto não influencia a produção nem a composição físico-química das secreções lácteas de fêmeas caprinas nas primeiras 24 horas após o parto, com exceção do pH.Aiming to study the influence of parturition order and milking time in the production and physical-chemical composition of colostrum and transition milk secretion of Saanen goats, three groups of animals were used (16 from the first parturition; 17 from the second and 8 from the third or more parturitions) and samples were collected at zero, 12 and 24 h after kidding. Parturition order did not interfere in colostrum and transition milk secretion productions, neither in the studied characteristics (acidity, density, fat, total dry extract and total protein), except for pH, which differ (6.70; 6.50; 6.46) among goats of 3rd or more, 1st and 2nd parturition, respectively. Milking time influenced fat contents (8.29 and 5.14%); total dry extract (10.52 and 6.68%); total protein (9.24 and 4.37%); acidity (46.1 and 25.1ºD) in the period from 0 and 24h post kidding, respectively. Parturition order did not affected milky secretion production and physical-chemical composition in the first 24 hours post kidding, except for pH.

The objective of the present work was to quantify the constitution and composition chemistry of the precooked goat buchada produced in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. The goat buchada presented considerable yield in relation to the live weight. High protein content was observed in the products analyzed. The lipid content presented high variation as result of the lack of standardization of products produced in the state and no control on parameters such as age, weight and breed of the slaughtered animals was observed. Although no difference (PObjetivou-se com o presente trabalho, quantificar os constituintes e determinar a composição química da buchada caprina pré-cozida produzida no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. A buchada apresentou um considerável rendimento em relação ao peso vivo. Verificou-se um elevado teor protéico nos produtos analisados. O conteúdo lipídico apresentou alta variação, em decorrência da falta de padronização dos produtos confeccionados no estado, não havendo controle dos parâmetros de idade, peso, sexo e raça dos animais abatidos. Embora não se tenha observado diferença (P

Avaliaram-se os efeitos da utilização de silagem de maniçoba (Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg.) nas relações volumoso:concentrado 30:70; 40:60; 50:50 e 60:40% sobre a composição do leite, o perfil de ácidos graxos e as características sensoriais do leite de cabras Moxotó. Utilizaram-se oito cabras multíparas com aproximadamente 60 dias pós-parto, pesando em média 44 kg, em um delineamento quadrado latino duplo 4 × 4, com quatro tratamentos, quatro períodos e quatro animais. Cada período teve duração de 15 dias: dez de adaptação dos animais às dietas e cinco de coleta do leite. Não foi observado efeito das dietas na composição química do leite, que apresentou valores médios de proteína (3,79%), gordura (3,97 %), lactose (4,66 %), extrato seco total (13,12%), densidade (1,033) e acidez (19ºD). O fornecimento de silagem de maniçoba influenciou de forma linear crescente as concentrações de ácido mirístico (C14:0), que apresentaram valores de 6,15 a 7,85%, e de forma decrescente os teores de ácido linolênico (C18:3), cujos valores médios foram de 2,13 a 0,76% conforme aumentaram os níveis de silagem na dieta. Os resultados da ADQ (análise descritiva quantitativa) indicam que a utilização de silagem de maniçoba em dieta para cabras não confere mudanças sensoriais perceptíveis no leite. A inclusão de silagem de maniçoba na alimentação de cabras leiteiras em níveis de até 60% da dieta não altera a composição e as características sensoriais do leite.The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of the use of maniçoba silage (Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg.) in different forage:concentrate ratio (30:70; 40:60; 50:50 and 60:40%) in milk composition, fatty acids profile and sensorial characteristics of Moxotó dairy goat milk. Eight multiparus goats were used, with approximately 60 days postpartum and about 44 kg on average, in a 4 × 4 Latin square design, with four treatments, four periods and 4 animals. Each period lasted 15 days : 10 of adaptation of the animals to the diets and 5 of milk collection. No effect of the diets was observed on milk chemical composition, which showed mean values of protein (3.79%), fat (3.97%), lactose (4.66%), total dry extract (13.12%), density (1.033) and acidity (19ºD). A positive linear effect was observe for the miristic acid (C14:0), with mean values from 6.15 to 7.85%, and a negative linear effect was observed for the linolenic acid (C18:3), with mean values from 2.13 to 0.76%, due to the increase of silage levels in the diet. The results of ADQ (quantitative and descriptive analyses) show that the use of maniçoba silage in goats diet did not cause sensorial perceptible changes in the milk. The maniçoba silage inclusion in feeding of milk goat up to the level of 60% in the diet did not change the composition and sensorial characteristics of Moxotó breed goat milk.

O efeito da suplementação com óleos de algodão e de girassol sobre a composição do leite foi testado em cabras mestiças Moxotó alimentadas com cinco dietas: controle, sem adição de óleo; adição de óleo de algodão a 3%; óleo de algodão a 5%; óleo de girassol a 3%; e óleo de girassol a 5% (%MS). Foram utilizadas dez cabras em lactação, confinadas, distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos (5 × 5), com 12 dias de adaptação e três dias de coleta em cada período. A suplementação com óleo de algodão a 5% MS elevou o teor de gordura (4,99%) e de extrato seco total (13,48%) do leite, mas não alterou a concentração dos demais componentes. A adição de 5% de óleo de girassol, no entanto, promoveu aumento na concentração do ácido linolênico (C18:3). A adição de óleo vegetal em dietas para cabras nativas promoveu aumento do percentual de gordura no leite e aumento nos teores de ácidos graxos insaturados resultando em um produto de melhor qualidade para a saúde humana.The effects of cottonseed and sunflower oil supplementation on milk composition were tested using crossbred Moxotó goats. Experimental diets were as follows: control, without addition of oil; addition of 3% cottonseed oil; 5% cottonseed oil; 3% sunflower oil and 5% sunflower oil (%DM). Ten confined lactating goats were allotted to a double Latin square experimental design (5 × 5). Each period was comprised by 12 days of adaptation to the diet and three days of sampling in each period. Cottonseed oil supplementation at 5 %DM increased the fat content (4.99%) and the total solid (13.48%) of milk. However, the addition of sunflower oil at 5% promoted an increase in the linolenic acid (C18:3) concentrations. Therefore, the vegetal oil addition in diets for native goats promoted an increase in the percentage of milk fat and in unsaturated fatty acid contents in milk, resulting in a product of better quality for the human health.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar as características físico-mecânicas de couros de um genótipo ovino e de três genótipos caprinos. Utilizaram-se 43 peles curtidas ao cromo, provenientes de 9 ovinos Santa Inês, 12 caprinos ½ Anglo Nubiano, 16 ½ Boer, todos mestiços com animais Sem Raça Definida (SRD), e 6 caprinos nativos denominados SRD. No período pré-experimental, todos os animais foram desmamados aos 90 dias de idade aproximadamente e criados em sistema de produção semi-intensivo utilizando pastagem cultivada. O período experimental iniciou quando os caprinos (5 meses de idade) e os ovinos (4 meses de idade), alcançaram o peso médio de 18,3 kg. Os animais foram abatidos com peso médio de 30 kg e idades de 180 e 270 dias, para ovinos e caprinos, respectivamente. O genótipo e a direção amostrada influenciaram o resultado do teste de resistência ao rasgamento progressivo, apesar de todos os valores terem sido inferiores aos valores de referência recomendados para um couro de boa qualidade. Nas determinações da medida de distensão e resistência da flor, não foram detectadas diferenças entre os genótipos, no entanto, no teste de resistência à tração e ao alongamento, observaram-se diferenças entre os genótipos ou a direção da amostra. Todos os resultados foram superiores aos recomendados para um produto de qualidade industrial.This work had as objective to evaluate the physical-mechanic characteristics of the leather from one genotype of sheep and three genotypes of goat. Forty three tanned chrome skins were used: 9 Santa Inês sheep, 12 ½ Anglo Nubiano, 16 ½ Boer, all crossbed with animals of non-defined breeds (NDB) and six NBD native goats. In the pre-experimental period, all animals were weaned at 90 days of age approximately and raised under semi-intensive production systems using cultivate pasture. The experimental phase began when the goat (5 moths of age) and sheep (4 moths of age) reached 18.3 kg. The animals were slaughtered with average weight of 30 kg with ages of 180 and 270 days, for sheep and goats, respectively. Genotype and direction factors influenced the results for the progressive tear strength, although all values have been inferior to the reference values recommended for good quality leather. In measurement of the grain distention and strength, no differences were detected among the genotypes, however, for the tensile strength and percentage elongation were observed differences among genotypes or the samples direction. All results were above to the recommended for an industrial quality product.