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Tropical pastures have been little explored for haylage, due to the lack of information on nutritional quality. This study aimed to evaluate the fermentation quality of different genotypes of forage grasses from tropical pastures in the form of haylage. Six genotypes of grasses were used to evaluate the fermentation characteristics, losses and presence of microorganisms in the in the haylage. The completely randomized design was used for all variables. Data were subjected to analysis of variance with all genotype’s means compared by the Scott Knott’s test at 5% probability. There was effect of interaction between form of material x genotype (P0.05). The concentrations of O2 in the haylage after 60 days of storage were lower for the genotypes Xaraés and Tupã. The highest levels of acetic acid were observed in genotypes Xaraés, Planaltina and Tupã. The Planaltina genotype presented the highest DM loss in the process of production and storage of the haylage, averaging 8.2 ± 0.37%. The haylage of the species B. brizantha and M. maximus presented better nutritional characteristics.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the feeding behavior of feedlot-finished bulls and cull cows in the Cerrado region of Piauí State, Brazil. Forty Zebu cattle were used, of which 20 steers averaging 283.0 ± 20.82 kg initial body weight and 30 months of age; and 20 cull cows averaging 296.1 ± 17.80 kg initial body weight and 100 months of age. Animals were grouped according to the following treatments: bulls and cull cows, using a completely randomized design. Feeding behavior was evaluated by means of visual observations every five minutes during 24h. Results were subjected to analysis of variance by the F test (p < 0.05) using the System for Statistical and Genetic Analysis - SAEG (version 9.1). The feeding behavior was expected not to affect the feed intake of cull cows and bulls, so that feed management can be the same for both categories. For all variables, there were differences between the categories (p > 0.05), showing that feeding behavior is influenced by the cattle category.

This study was realized to evaluate the production and economic viability of finished beef cattle in feedlot in the Cerrado biome of Piauí State, Brazil. One hundred and fifty cattle -50 bulls (B) with an body weight of 283.0 ± 20.82 kg, at 30 months of age; and 100 cull cows (CC) with an body weight of 296.1 ± 17.80 kg, at 100 months of age- were used in a completely randomized design. The animal performance indicators for the evaluation of economic viability were initial age (months), slaughter age (months), was initial body weight (kg), final body weight (kg), daily feed intake (kg animal-1; kg kg-1 BW), diet cost (R$ kg-1 of diet), cost of kg produced (R$ kg-1 produced), and average price of the kg of meat for finishing (R$). The CC consumed more sorghum silage and concentrate than B (p < 0.05).There was a difference between the categories (p < 0.05) for gross revenue, balance, opportunity cost, and net revenue per animal, with higher values found for the steer category. The animal category did not affect the profitability of the system, although the bulls provided lower revenues than cull cows.

The aim of this study was to evaluate silages produced with different mixtures of melon biomass and different levels of ground corn. The experiment was conducted under a completely randomized design in factorial scheme (3 × 4), with four replications. The first factor consieted of three mixtures of plant (branch and leaf) and fruit (melon; scraps) on natural matter (NM) as follows: 0, 100 and 1000 g kg-1 fruit. The second factor consisted of the use of different amounts of ground corn (0, 50, 100 and 200 g kg-1). Experimental silos with capacity for 5 kg and density of 500 kg m-3 were used. After 90 days, the silos were opened and the evaluations were carried out. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means were analyzed through the Tukey’s test (fermentative losses, chemical composition, aerobic stability), Scott-Knott test (microbiology and organic acids) and regression, and were compared with a significance level of p

Fermentation losses and aerobic stability of elephant grass silages with inclusion of 4 levels of Parkia platycephala pod meal (PP) (0, 10, 20 and 30 %) and 2 levels of urea (0 and 1.5 %) on as-fed basis were evaluated. The silages were analyzed for gas and effluent losses, dry matter recovery (DMR), pH and aerobic stability (pH and temperature) to determine effects of interactions between levels of urea and PP on gas losses, dry matter recovery, temperature and pH of the silages. The combination of urea and PP increased gas losses and reduced the DMR. PP reduced effluent losses and urea increased aerobic stability of the silages. pH values decreased with inclusion of PP and increased with use of urea. Silages containing 20 and 30 % PP showed greater stability over time, especially when associated with urea. PP with urea were effective in reducing effluent losses, maintaining DMR and allowing higher aerobic stability, with stability rupture from 40 h with the inclusion of 20 % of PP in elephant grass silages.

Objetivou-se avaliar a inclusão da glicerina bruta (GB) oriunda da produção de biodiesel, a partir de óleos residuais de frituras, em substituição ao milho, sobre o consumo, parâmetros de fermentação e da degradabilidade ruminal da matéria seca (MS) e da proteína bruta (PB). Utilizou-se quatro ovinos canulados no rúmen, recebendo dietas contendo 0, 25, 50 e 75 g GB kg-1 da MS total da dieta. O delineamento utilizado foi o quadrado latino 4×4. Para determinação da degradabilidade, amostras do concentrado foram incubadas no rúmen nos tempos 0h, 3h00, 6h00, 12h00, 18h00, 24h00, 48h00 e 72h00. Contrastes ortogonais foram testados para efeitos linear e quadrático, considerando estes significativos quando o P < 0,05 e tendência quando P < 0,10. A inclusão da GB não influenciou os consumos de MS (média = 991,5 g dia-1) e de PB (média = 114,65 g dia-1), no entanto, o consumo de extrato etéreo (EE) aumentou linearmente (P < 0,05), o qual variou de 20,8 a 36,7 g dia-1, respectivamente, para os níveis de 0 e 75 g GB kg-1 MS da dieta. Não houve efeito da interação (P > 0,05) entre o tempo de coleta e o nível de GB para o pH e o N-NH3 ruminal. Os menores valores de pH foram observados 2 h (5,83) e 4 h (5,87) após a alimentação. O N-NH3 sofreu redução quadrática (P = 0,02), com valor mínimo de 8 mg dL-1 ao nível de 41,5 g GB kg-1 MS. A fração “A” da MS do concentrado reduziu de forma quadrática (P = 0,05), com menor valor (19,7%) ao nível de 74,1 g GB kg-1 MS, a fração “B” e a degradabilidade efetiva (DE; 8%h-1) reduziram linearmente (P < 0,05) e a degradabilidade potencial (DP) tendeu a reduzir (P < 0,10) com o aumento do nível de GB. Não foi observado efeito da inclusão da GB sobre a fração “c”, o lag time e a DE (2% h-1) da MS do concentrado. Para a PB, não foi observado efeito paras as frações “A” (média = 41,5%), “B” (média = 51,0%) e “DP” (média =92,4%), por outro lado, a fração “c” e a DE aumentaram linearmente (P < 0,05), ao passo que o lag time diminuiu linearmente (P < 0,05) com o aumento do nível de GB. Conclui-se que a GB usada nesta pesquisa pode ser adicionada até 75 g kg-1 da MS total da dieta de ovinos.

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of Tanzania grass (Panicum maximum) haylage with varying contents of dry matter (DM) and stored for 90 days. The quality of this grass was evaluated through the lens of a variety of physiochemical properties (e.g., chemical composition, aerobic stability, pH, microbial profile, etc.). A completely randomized design was used with four treatments (in natura, 400, 500, and 600 g kg-1 DM) and five replicates. Treatment with 600 g kg-1 DM yielded the highest DM haylage (p < 0.01) and soluble carbohydrate content (p < 0.01). Treatment in natura resulted in the highest O2 concentration inside the bales (p < 0.01), whereas treatments with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM resulted in the highest CO2 values. The highest acetic acid concentrations of 36.4 ± 1.6, 38.2±1.6, and 48.9 ± 1.6 g kg-1 DM (p < 0.01) were observed post the in natura, 500 g kg-1 DM, and 600 g kg-1 DM treatments, respectively. Treatment with 600 g kg-1 DM yielded the highest pH value at hour zero (p < 0.01). Tanzania grass with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM produced the highest quality haylage. Highlights: • Haylage can be defined as stored pre-dried forage with a dry matter (DM) content of approximately 400 to 800 g/kg. • Aerobic stability was affected by the interaction between the different plant DM contents and hours of exposure of the Tanzania grass haylage to air after opening the bales. • Haylage surface temperature has a linear relationship with the length of time the materials are exposed to air. • Higher plant DM yields Tanzania grass haylage of high quality. • Tanzania grass with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM for haylage production is indicated.

The objective of this study was to obtain different dry matter contents and proportions of melon plant biomass for silage making. A completely randomized design with factorial arrangement (3 × 2) and four replications was adopted. The first factor consisted of three melon biomass mixtures based on as-fed composition of plant (branches + leaves) and harvested melon (fruits)—100% plant (0% fruit), 90% plant + 10% fruit, and 100% fruit. The second factor corresponded to the ensiled material, which was either fresh or dehydrated in the field after harvest (40% dry matter). Silages produced from dehydrated biomass after fruit harvest, containing 0% and 10% fruit, showed the highest dry matter contents: 297 g/kg and 293 g/kg, respectively. Silages produced from fresh biomass containing 0% and 10% fruit showed high concentrations of acetic acid, reaching 14.9 g/kg and 14.1 g/kg, respectively. Silages produced from dehydrated biomass containing 10% and 100% fruit showed better results in terms of the indicators associated with high-quality silage. Dehydration improves the fermentative profile and overall quality of melon silage.

This study aimed to create an equation to predict dry matter intake (DMI) and milk production and N-ureic in the milk of dairy cows managed in tropical conditions in Brazil. We used 113 observations from three experiments using lactating Jersey, Girolando, and Holstein cows. The goodness of fit of the developed equations was evaluated using the coefficients of determination (r2) and root mean square error (RMSE). There was a positive correlation between body weight and milk yield (MY) of r = 0.73. The equation considered DMI to be the most important variable to estimate the MY (r2 = 0.65). Four equations were adjusted to estimate the DMI, where, by a stepwise procedure, the first variable included in the equation was the neutral detergent fibre intake, which explained 92% of the DMI of the cows. However, when the variables BW, MY, and milk fat were included in the equation, there was a reduction of 0.06 in RMSE and an increase in precision (r2 = 0.94). The nutrient intake, milk production, and characteristics prediction equations present satisfactory precision and accuracy for dairy cows managed in tropical conditions in Brazil.

The objective was to evaluate the fermentation parameters, chemical composition and in situ degradability of sesame silage in comparison to usual silages. The losses, fermentation quality and chemical composition of the forages and silages were evaluated using a completely randomised design with four treatments (sesame, corn, millet and sunflower) and four replicates per treatment, the silages were produced in experimental silos. In-situ degradability was evaluated using a completely randomised design with four treatments and three replicates (animals) per treatment. The results were statistically evaluated by analysis of variance and Tukey’s test with a level of 5% of probability. Three rumen fistulated non-castrated Santa Inês rams were used. Sunflower and corn silages presented higher percentages of losses through gases (p = .0256). Millet silage presented higher losses by effluent (p

Currently, there is no use for melon plant biomass in agriculture and animal feeding. Using this biomass as silage provides a more sustainable production system. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the silage produced with different mixtures of melon plant biomass and ground corn. The experimental design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme (5 × 2) with five replications. The treatments consisted of five mixtures of melon plant biomass between the plant (branch + leaf) and the fruit (melon scrapings) in amounts of 0% fruit, 5% fruit, 10% fruit, 20% fruit, and 100% fruit on an as-fed basis and ground corn in amounts of 0% and 5% AF of the ensiled biomass. The greatest dry matter contents were found in silages with corn and 0 and 5% fruit, which were 225.6 g/kg and 235.2 g/kg, respectively. The highest concentrations of acetic acid were found in the silages with 0% fruit without corn and 20% fruit with ground corn and were 10.96 and 10.00 g/kg DM, respectively. The use of melon fruit biomass with 0%, 5%, and 100% fruit is the most suitable for silage making, and adding ground corn improves silage quality parameters.

Forage sorghum is a crop that can be planted in semiarid regions, due to its greater adaptability to dry climate environments, and can replace maize in these regions, which are often unsuitable for its production. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the structural, morphological and nutritional characteristics of 23 sorghum hybrids forage cultivated in rainfed conditions, planted in different climate conditions, comparing the hybrids, in order to determine what produces the best in the climatic conditions of the explored region, and also to indicate whether this crop can be planted as a replacement for maize in environments not suitable for planting it. The research was conducted in climate BSh in the Municipality of Alvorada do Gurgueia, and climate Aw in the Municipality of Bom Jesus, both in the state of Piauí from 2014 to 2015. Each trial consisted of 20 experimental forage sorghum hybrids [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], and three commercial hybrids. A randomized block design was used, with three replications in a factorial scheme (2 × 23). The growth characteristics determined were hybrid × climate interaction for the variables plant height, lodging and leaf/stem ratio. For the variable number of tillers, there was a significant difference only between hybrids. There was no difference between hybrids only for the lodging variable of climate Aw. The other variables showed a difference in all hybrids evaluated. There was an interaction for production of dead matter and total dry forage mass between the different environments and hybrids evaluated. For leaf production, there was an effect only for the different environments. For the chemical characteristics, there was an interaction for all variables analyzed between the different environments and hybrids evaluated. The semi-arid region of the State of Piauí, climate BSh which presents a high climatic risk for maize cultivation, proved to be favorable for forage sorghum production. The forage sorghum also presented agronomic characteristics similar to those found in semi humid climate Aw, a favorable region for maize cultivation. In addition, the tested hybrids showed good chemical characteristics, so the BSh climate has great exploratory potential for the cultivation of forage sorghum.

The objective of this study was to evaluate water loss and chemical composition of cactus pear genotypes submitted to post-harvest storage periods. The experimental design adopted was a the completely randomized, in a 3 × 5 factorial arrangement, with three cactus pear genotypes and five storage periods, and ten replications. The cactus pear genotypes [Doce, Baiana and Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM)] were harvested after 2 years of cultivation under rainfed conditions, and stored in a ventilated shed (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days). The genotype Baiana showed greater water reduction in the stored cladodes when compared to the other genotypes. All cactus pear genotypes showed reduction in crude protein and carbohydrates in the storage period of 60 days. There were no losses of nutrients, dry matter and ether extract during the storage periods for the genotype Doce. There was increase in the fiber content of the cladodes of all stored genotypes. During the storage period of the cladodes of all genotypes, there was reduction in the contents of Ca, Mg and Cu. The cactus pear genotypes Doce and OEM can be stored for up to 60 days after harvest. Highlights: • Cactus is also considered a strategic forage reserve and, in this case, the frequency of cutting can vary according to the producer's needs and weather conditions. • Post-harvest storage can be an alternative to reduce costs, as well as transporting the material. • The variety Doce Baiana showed greater water loss in relation to the other varieties.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the silage produced with different mixtures of melon biomass with urea used as an additive. It adopted a completely randomized design in a 5 × 2 factorial scheme with five replications. The first factor was made up of five mixtures on an as-fed basis (AF) of the melon, including plant (branch and leaf) and fruit (culled melon, after harvest), where the amount of fruit varied as follows: 0% fruit, 5% fruit, 10% fruit, 20% fruit, and 100% fruit. The second factor was represented by the use of urea in the silage as follows: 0% and 1.5% urea AF. The highest silage dry matter (DM) content (200 g/kg DM) was observed in the silage with 20% fruit. Regarding the crude protein, the highest content (69.8 g/kg DM) was found in the silage with the addition of urea. The highest loss through the gas (GAS) was observed in the silages with 0% and 100% fruit (0.6 and 1.13%), with no addition of urea. The silages made with melon biomass and the addition of 20% and 100% fruit showed differences regarding the fermentative pattern, chemical composition, and aerobic stability, thus being the most indicated mixtures for silage making.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Parkia platycephala pod meal (PP) on feeding behavior, rumen health, blood markers, and physiological responses in lactating goats. Eight apparently healthy, adult, multiparous Anglo-Nubian goats, with an average body weight of 42.06±3.5 kg and approximately 52±4 days in lactation, were randomly assigned into two Latin squares (4×4) composed of four levels of PP (0, 33.3, 66.7, and 100% of dry matter) for four periods. Daily feed intake, feeding behavior, rumen health, blood markers (hemogram and biochemical parameters), and physiological responses (rectal temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate, and sweating rate) were assessed. Intake, feeding efficiency, and rumination efficiency were not affected by the replacement of ground corn with PP. At these replacement levels, the goats significantly spent more time feeding and ruminating. There was a significant decrease in the number of chews (number/day and number/min) with an increase in PP inclusion. Rectal temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate, and sweating rate were higher in the afternoon for the three periods measured. There were no negative changes in blood markers or rumen health with the use of PP. The current findings indicate that PP can be used to replace up to 100% of the corn in the diet of lactating goats without causing significant changes in animal health, feeding behavior, or physiological parameters.

The objective of this study was to identify the hybrids of sorghum most suitable for the production of silage in the semiarid regions of northeastern Brazil. Twenty-three hybrids were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replicates. The dry mass yield; dry mass of leaf, stem, panicle, grains, and senescent matter; and chemical composition of the plant were evaluated. The pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3), and chemical composition of the silage were also assessed. The hybrids 947252, FEPAGRO 18, 12F042226, and SF 11 performed best in terms of morphological characteristics, with the highest mass of leaves and grains. The hybrid FEPAGRO 19 had the highest dry matter value (443.3 ± 17.0 g kg-1), whereas the hybrid 12F042496 had the lowest value (271.3 ± 17.0 g kg-1). The dry matter (DM) content of the other hybrids was within the recommended values for silage production (280 to 400 g kg-1). High levels of crude protein were observed in the grouped hybrids 12F042496, 947254, and 12F042422. The hybrid 12F042496 had the highest neutral detergent fiber content. The hybrids 9929036, 9929030, 9929012, 947254, 947072, PROG 134 IPA, 12F042226, 12F042422, and BRS 506 had pH values ranging between 3.8 and 4.2, indicating good quality silage. Overall, the sorghum hybrids 9929030, 12F042224, 12F042150, FEPAGRO19, and FEPAGRO11 had the best growth and production characteristics, and plant and silage chemical composition, and are thus recommended for the production of silage in the semiarid of northeastern Brazil.

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of concentrate supplementation containing crude glycerin (CG) before and during the breeding season on the physiological and blood biochemical variables as well as on the reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes. A total of 24 ewes (12 pluriparous and 12 nulliparous ewes, 4 and 1.5 years old, weighing an average of 40 ± 5 and 27 ± 3 kg, respectively) were randomly assigned to three treatments consisting of different dietary concentrations of CG (0%, 5%, and 10 % of the total dry matter). The experiment lasted 63 days and was divided into three 21-day phases. In the first and second phases, the animals were subjected to flushing. In the second and third phases, we evaluated the animals’ reproductive performance. Weather, physiological, and blood biochemical variables were also studied. The results indicated that the inclusion of CG did not influence significantly (P > 0.05) either the ewes’ body weight or their body condition score. All ewes exhibited estrus during the breeding season. Their respiratory rate was significantly influenced by the time of day (P < 0.0001). A 10% CG supplementation did not drastically change the hematological and biochemical variables, which were within the reference ranges. However, the week of supplementation influenced serum metabolites (P < 0.05). Thus, these results indicate that CG could be used in up to 10% in replacement of ground corn without significantly affecting the physiological, hematological, and biochemical parameters of the ewes or their reproductive performance before and during the breeding season.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein energetic, enzymatic and mineral profile of Nellore cows during the pregnancy, parturition and postpartum. Fifteen multiparous cows with 4 ± 1 years of age and live weight of 400 ± 50 kg were used at different stages (non-pregnant, in the initial, middle and late pregnancy, at birth, one day postpartum, 30 and 60 days postpartum). Blood collections were performed every 30 days and assayed for the following blood biomarkers: Protein (total proteins, albumin, urea and creatinine), energetic (cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and beta hydroxybutyrate), mineral (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium) and enzymatic (alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase). Calcium had the lowest concentrations (p < 0.05) in the initial pregnancy, while phosphorus had the highest concentration at parturition (p < 0.05). Triglycerides, glucose and beta hydroxybutyrate were influenced by the stages of pregnancy, reducing in the late pregnancy and at parturition. Glucose had a reduction in the late pregnancy and elevation in the postpartum. Beta hydroxybutyrate showed increase at the late pregnancy. Although lipomobilization occurred in the phases of higher metabolic demands in the attempt to maintain homeostatic conditions. Nellore cows did not present negative energy balance in the late pregnancy period, maintaining normal variation in blood markers throughout the experimental period.

Este trabalho objetiva a caracterização de seis cultivares de gramíneas forrageiras para a produção de feno. Na determinação dos componentes morfológicos e morfométricos dos seis cultivares de gramíneas forrageiras foi utilizado delineamento inteiramente casualizado, e para curva de desidratação da matéria seca e da perda de proteína bruta utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 6 x 5, onde os fatores corresponderam aos seis cultivares e cinco tempos de desidratação (0, 1, 2, 3 e 4 horas), ambos utilizaram três repetições. Para análise dos dados das características morfogênicas, morfométricas e composição química dos cultivares foi utilizado o teste de Scott Knott e para análise no tempo de desidratação foi utilizado análise de regressão linear, todos a 5% de probabilidade. Houve efeito significativo (P < 0,05) para as análises morfométricas e morfológicas, exceto para as variáveis espessura de colmo (EC) (P=0,1) e relação matéria verde/matéria morta (P=0,27). Para relação lâmina foliar/colmo o capim-massai apresentou maior valor de lâmina foliar em relação ao colmo de 1,23±0,60. É possível observar resposta linear crescente (p < 0,05) para curva de desidratação dos 6 cultivares estudados neste experimento. O capim-massai atingiu ponto de feno (80% matéria seca) após 3 horas e 11 minutos de exposição ao sol, e taxa de desidratação com aumento de 10,34% de matéria seca por hora. Em relação ao teor de proteína bruta (PB) na desidratação, os capins paredão e marandú apresentam efeito linear decrescente para os períodos de coleta, onde o material in natura apresentaram 22,07 e 21,38±0,55% e após 4 horas de exposição ao sol apresentaram 20,13 e 18,11±0,55% respectivamente. O capim-massai foi o mais eficiente para desidratação, atingindo o ponto de feno em 3 horas e 6 minutos, com teor de PB de 18,63%.

A produção do sorgo se destaca na alimentação animal por permitir a sua utilização para conservação verde como silagem. Objetivou-se determinar a caracterização agronômica e composição química entre híbridos de sorgo em condições de sequeiro visando a produção de silagem. Foram utilizados 25 híbridos de sorgo em delineamento em blocos casualizados com três repetições. Avaliou-se número de perfilhos, altura planta, porcentagens de folha, colmo, panícula, grão e material morto, relações de folha:colmo e material vivo:material morto, produtividade total de massa verde e seca e produtividade de folha, colmo, panícula, grãos e material morto em t ha-1 MS e composição química. Os dados foram analisados pelo procedimento Scott-Knott ao nível 5% de significância. Maiores alturas observadas foram de 214,53, 229,00 e 240,07 cm para os híbridos SF15, SF25 e PROG134IPA, respectivamente. Houve efeito na caracterização morfológica (P < 0,001) em que as melhores médias foram observadas nos 9929030 e 9929026. Maior produtividade total de massa verde foi constatada em SF15, SF11, 12F042150 com 93,95, 82,61 e 79,27 t ha-1, respectivamente. Já para teor de matéria seca adequado para ensilagem, foi obtido nos 9929030, 12F042224, 12F042150, FEPAGRO18, FEPAGRO19, FEPAGRO11, SF15, SF25, 1141572, 1141570 e BRS Ponta Negra. Com relação à proteína bruta, destacaram-se 9929030, FEPAGRO18, FEPAGRO11, 9929026, 947072, 947252, 12F042226 e BRS Ponta Negra com teores entre 6,55 a 8,64%. Os híbridos 9929030, 12F042224, 12F042150, FEPAGRO19, FEPAGRO11, 1141572 e 1141570 apresentam potencial para produção de silagem.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential hay production from Spiny Amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus), Hairy Woodrose (Merremia aegyptia), Malva (Sida galheirensis), Mucuna (Mucuna pruriens) and Ervanço (Froelichia humboldtiana), native forage species of the semiarid region of Brazil by observing morphological components of the plant, such as the dehydration curve, crude protein loss (CPL) curve, chemical composition of plant and hay and hay degradability in situ. There were differences (P < 0.05) among species on leaf, stem and inflorescence quantification with Ervanço, Hairy Woodrose, and Mucuna having a greater number of leaves. There was a linearly increasing response for the dehydration curve of the five forage plants species. Mucuna forage had the greatest hay point at 800 g kg-1 dried matter (DM) after 11.8 hours and Woodrose had a lower dehydration efficiency, which required 25 hours of sun exposure. There was no difference in CPL. Mucuna had the lowest crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) content, 8.4, 67.7 and 73.8 g kg DM-1 in hay in relation to the plant, respectively. Ervanço, Spiny Amaranth, Hairy Woodrose and Malva hay had more of soluble fraction “a” of DM of 31.0, 26.2, 22.1 and 9.7 g kg-1 DM than Mucuna, respectively. Spiny Amaranth and Malva hay had values of 335.4 and 193.2 g kg-1 DM of fraction “b” more than Ervanço hay, respectively. For fraction “a’’ of CP, Spiny Amaranth and Hairy Woodrose hay obtained 312.6 and 227.4 g kg-1 CP more than that observed for Malva, respectively. Mucuna had better hay potential among the forage studied in the semiarid region of Brazil.

This study was conducted to evaluate changes in hematological biomarkers of Nellore cows at different reproductive stages. Fifteen multiparous cows with 4 ± 1 years of age and live weight of 400 ± 50 kg were used at different stages (non-pregnant, in the initial, middle and late pregnancy, at birth, one day postpartum, 30 and 60 days postpartum). Blood collections were performed every 30 days and assayed for the following hematological biomarkers: hemogram (red blood cells, globular volume, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)) and leukogram (total and differential counts). The erythrogram was influenced (p < 0.001) by the reproductive stages, with variation in the results obtained for the total red cell count, hemoglobin content, globular volume, MCV, MCHC and total plasma proteins. The reproductive stages influenced the leukocyte profile with variation in the total leukocyte count and in the absolute values of neutrophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes and monocytes. Hematological biomarkers of Nellore cows showed significant changes due to the physiological adjustments required in response to the metabolic requirements imposed in the final stage of pregnancy and in the beginning of lactation, ensuring the nutritional contribution in energy and oxygen transported through the blood.

The objective was to determine chemical composition and in situ degradability for silages of dual-purpose sorghum hybrids. Twenty-five hybrids of double-purpose sorghum were investigated in a randomized block design with three replicates. Ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N), pH, chemical composition of the silage and in situ degradability were determined. Silage of the hybrids 9929012, 947216, 947030, 947254, 947072, 947252, 12F042066, 1141570 and 1141562 presented greater dry matter content, ranging from 402.9 to 470.7 g kg-1. The greatest crude protein content was presented by silages from the hybrids 9929036, 9929030, 12F042224, FEPAGRO19, FEPAGRO11, 9929026, 947030, 947072, 947252, 12F042226 and BRS Ponta Negra. The silage of hybrid 1141562 exhibited the lowest neutral detergent fiber content (588 g kg-1). The highest values of dry matter and crude protein degradability were observed in the silages of the hybrids 9929030, 947252, 947072, 12F042066 and 12F042226. The use of ensilage of the 9929030 and 12F042226 hybrids is recommended because these silages present a better chemical composition of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber and better dry matter and crude protein degradability.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) inclusion levels (0, 15, 30, and 45 g kg−1 in dry matter) replacing ground corn on the feeding behavior, as well as physiological and hematological variables of crossbred lactating Anglo Nubian goats. Eight Anglo Nubian goats were used, which were distributed in a double 4 × 4 Latin square experimental design (four periods and four levels of buriti oil) replacing corn in the total dry matter. For the evaluation of feeding behavior, single animals were observed every ten minutes for 24 h on three days. Respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), rectal temperature (RT), and sweating rate (SR) of the animals were evaluated in the morning (09:00 h) and in the afternoon (15:00 h). Blood samples were always taken in the morning, before feeding, by puncturing the jugular vein for the complete blood count and white blood cell count. The levels of buriti oil had no effect on feeding, rumination, idling time, water intake, defecation and urination, DM intake, feed efficiency, and rumination efficiency of DM and NDF, but had effects on NDF intake. Physiological variables (RT, SR, RR, and HR) in both periods of the day were not influenced by the inclusion of buriti oil. However, SR and RR were higher in the afternoon than in the morning. In erythrocyte, results showed that the hematocrit and mean corpuscular volume increased with the inclusion of buriti oil. Hemoglobin, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and total plasma protein were not affected by the inclusion of buriti in the goat diet. The inclusion of buriti oil is recommended in up to 45 g kg−1 (DM basis) as a replacement for ground corn in diet of lactating goats without affecting the feeding behavior and physiological and hematological variables.

This study was realized to evaluate the effect of concentrate supplementation and time scales of evaluation on behavioral and physiological responses of pregnant ewes on grazing system. The experimental design was a randomized 2 x 2 x 3 factorial arrangement (two breeds: Morada and Santa Inês; two concentrate supplementation levels: 0.5 and 1.5% of body weight; and three time scales of evaluation: 10, 20 and 30 minutes) with six replicates per treatment. The physiological parameters were influenced by period of the day and breeds, with higher values in the afternoon to Santa Inês ewes. Also, influence of concentrate supplementation was found between the breeds with greater values in Santa Inês ewes. But, it did not alter the physiological parameters among animals of the same genetic group. The grazing activity was influenced (p < 0.05) by the scales of observation intervals. Interval of 10 minutes was the most effective methodology to assess accurately the behavior of these animals due to higher number of the registries, offering higher data reliability. Morada Nova breed exhibited less time grazing (p < 0.05) on the 10-minute scale compared to 20 and 30 minutes, which were similar (p > 0.05) for such a feature. Thus, the pregnant ewes exhibited high adaptive capability with observations of 10 minutes for better description of grazing activity in Morada Nova.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of concentrate supplementation level on hematological profile of Santa Ines ewes, at the last third of pregnancy and postpartum, and of their lambs. We used eleven ewes at the last 75 days of pregnancy and the first 75 days of lactation and eight lambs born from these ewes, allotted in a completely randomized design and split-plot arrangement in time. Blood samples were collected every fourteen days. Neither the erythrocyte nor the leukocyte profile was affected by the different levels of supplementation (P>0.05) and the blood components evaluated were within the reference range for adult sheep. The animal category affected (P0.05). For the lymphocyte count, the values found in lambs (2858.8 /µL) were similar to those in pregnant ewes (2,982.0/µL); lactating ewes (4119.8/µL) showed the highest values. Concentrate supplementation (0.5% BW) at pre and postpartum does not alter the erythrocyte and leukocyte profile of Santa Inês sheep, with the largest differences between the two sheep categories and lambs.

The objective of this study was to determine how concentrate supplementation during late third gestation and lactation affects ewe and offspring performance from birth to weaning. Thirty-six ewes and their offspring (n = 32) were used. Eighteen Morada Nova and 18 Santa Inês ewes were artificially inseminated with semen from Dorper ram and distributed in a completely randomized factorial arrangement (2 × 2) consisting of two supplementation levels (5 and 15 g kg-1 of BW) and two breeds (Morada Nova and Santa Inês) or two crosses (Dorper × Morada Nova and Dorper × Santa Inês). The ewes were weighed, their body condition was evaluated during pregnancy, and the weaning weight of the lambs at up to 70 days old was measured. There was no effect of breed or supplementation on the prolificacy or type of birth. The Santa Inês ewes had a faster rate of development, although the weight loss during lactation was lower in the Morada Nova ewes. The weight development of the Dorper × Santa Inês lambs during the maternal-dependent phase was 34 g/100 g higher than that of the other cross, with no difference in the maternal-independent phase. Dorper × Santa Inês lambs gain more weight during the 70 days of development. However, the Dorper × Morada Nova lambs show a better response in terms of production efficiency when comparing the weight of the lambs with the weight of the sheep.

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.

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.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência do nível de suplementação com concentrado sobre o perfil hematológico de ovelhas Santa Inês no terço final da gestação e puerpério, assim como dos cordeiros. Utilizaram-se onze ovelhas, aos 75 últimos dias de gestação e nos primeiros 75 dias de lactação e oito cordeiros progênie das ovelhas, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em arranjo de parcelas subdivididas no tempo. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas sempre pela manhã a cada 14 dias. A suplementação não afetou (P>0,05) o eritrograma e o leucograma dos animais e os componentes sanguíneos avaliados encontraram-se dentro do intervalo de referência para a espécie. A categoria animal influenciou (P0,05). Já na contagem de linfócitos, os valores encontrados nos cordeiros (2858,8/µL) foram semelhantes aos das fêmeas gestantes (2982,0/µL); as fêmeas em lactação (4119,8/µL) apresentaram os maiores valores. A suplementação com concentrado (0,5% do PV) no pré e pós-parto não altera o perfil eritrocitário e leucocitário de ovelhas Santa Inês, sendo as maiores diferenças observadas entre as ovelhas das duas categorias e os cordeiros. Palavras–chave: hemograma; neutrófilos; ovinos nativos; suplementação.

This study aimed to evaluate the intake, digestibility, milk yield and indicators of the metabolic status of native lactating ewes supplemented under grazing system. In the present study 28 lactating ewes were selected: 14 Morada Nova (MN) and 14 Santa Inês (SI), distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with a 2x2x2 factorial arrangement of two breeds, two supplementation levels and two experimental periods. Blood samples were collected from lambing to 70 days of lactation, with 14 days interval. Laboratory analyses consisted in determining serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, urea and creatinine. Concentrate intake (g/day) during the lactation differed (P0.05) the serum levels of these metabolites. Indicators of the metabolic status were not affected by concentrate supplementation, which was effective for the maintenance of normal serum concentrations. However, these values differ between breeds within the permissible standards, indicating a high adaptation to postpartum.

O experimento avaliou o efeito da redução dos níveis de fósforo disponível da ração de poedeiras de ovos de casca marrom de 0,373% para 0,307% e 0,203% e o aumento dos níveis de fitase de 0% para 0,01% e 0,02%, respectivamente, 0, 500 e 1.000 UF/kg sobre o desempenho e a qualidade interna e externa dos ovos de 324 aves. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3x3, totalizando nove tratamentos com seis repetições de seis aves. As coletas foram realizadas em dois períodos de 28 dias de duração. Não houve efeito de interação entre os níveis de fósforo disponível com os níveis de fitase. Os níveis de fósforo disponível como efeito principal também não afetaram as variáveis estudadas (consumo de ração, produção, peso e massa de ovos, peso do albúmen, gema e casca e porcentagem de albúmen, gema e casca). O aumento do nível de fitase para 0,02% melhorou linearmente a conversão alimentar por massa de ovos (kg/kg), com 0,235% de fósforo disponível nas rações. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Enzima, peso da gema, produção de ovos.

This research was conducted with objective to evaluate the utilization of maniçoba hay (Manihot glaziovii Muell Arg.) in different levels (30, 40, 50 e 60%) on performance and composition of Moxoto goat milk. It was used eight multiparous does (44 kg BW) averaged 60 days of lactation, allocated in two 4 x 4 Latin squares design, with four treatments, four experimental periods and four animals. Each experimental period lasted 15 days (ten for animal adaptation to the diets and five days for data collection. The animal were milked twice daily at 06h30min and 16h00min, being made the milk control through individual weighing of the milk during five days each experimental period. The values to average milk yield (1,38 kg/day), milk fat corrected milk yield (1,43 kg/day), as well as, the mean daily milk fat contents (4,26%), total protein (3,69%), lactose (4,48%), total solids (13,12%) solids nonfat (8,97%) and acidity (18oD) from milk was not affected by the diets. The net energy balance was positive to all the treatments. Therefore, the Maniçoba hay can be used in until 60% of diet, without causing damage to the performance of animals.Objetivou-se determinar a utilização do feno de Maniçoba (Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg.) em diferentes níveis (30, 40, 50 e 60%) sobre a produção e composição do leite de cabras Moxotó. Utilizaram-se oito cabras multíparas com aproximadamente 60 dias de lactação, com peso, em média, 44,26±4,23 kg em delineamento quadrado latino duplo 4x 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). As cabras foram ordenhadas manualmente duas vezes ao dia (6:30 e 16:00 h), sendo realizada a pesagem individual do leite nos cinco dias de cada período experimental. Não foi observado efeito dos tratamentos sobre a produção (PL) e composição do leite. Os valores médios foram de: 1,38kg PL; 1,43kg/dia PL corrigida (4% gordura); gordura (4,26%); proteína total (3,69%); lactose (4,48%); sólidos totais (13,21%); sólidos não gordurosos (8,97%) e acidez (0,18oD). O balanço de energia líquida foi positivo para todos os tratamentos. Concluiu-se que o feno de maniçoba pode ser usado em até 60% da dieta, sem prejudicar o desempenho dos animais.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar os efeitos da adição do acid-pak 4 Way sobre o ganho médio de peso (GMP), consumo médio de ração (CMR) e conversão alimentar (CA) de leitões desmamados em média aos 28 dias. Utilizaram-se 32 leitões mestiços (LD x LW) – 16 machos castrados e 16 fêmeas – com peso médio inicial de 5,67 kg. Utilizou-se um delineamento inteiramente casualisado, fatorial 2x2 (com e sem o acid-pak 4-way e 2 sexos), 4 repetições e parcela experimental constituída por 2 animais. Pelos resultados obtidos, verificou-se que não houve diferença significativa entre os tratamentos para as variáveis estudadas.

O experimento avaliou o efeito da redução dos níveis de fósforo disponível da ração de poedeiras de ovos de casca marrom de 0,373% para 0,307% e 0,203% e o aumento dos níveis de fitase de 0% para 0,01% e 0,02%, respectivamente, 0, 500 e 1.000 UF/kg sobre o desempenho e a qualidade interna e externa dos ovos de 324 aves. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3x3, totalizando nove tratamentos com seis repetições de seis aves. As coletas foram realizadas em dois períodos de 28 dias de duração. Não houve efeito de interação entre os níveis de fósforo disponível com os níveis de fitase. Os níveis de fósforo disponível como efeito principal também não afetaram as variáveis estudadas (consumo de ração, produção, peso e massa de ovos, peso do albúmen, gema e casca e porcentagem de albúmen, gema e casca). O aumento do nível de fitase para 0,02% melhorou linearmente a conversão alimentar por massa de ovos (kg/kg), com 0,235% de fósforo disponível nas rações. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Enzima, peso da gema, produção de ovos.

ABSTRACT A comparative slaughter trial was conducted to estimate the body composition and net requirements of Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Co for growth of castrated Moxotó goat kids, with15.69±0.78 kg initial body weight (BW), grazing in the semiarid region of Brazil. The baseline group consisted of four randomly selected kids (15.37±0.30 kg BW). Thirty-two kids were randomly allocated into eight groups (considered as block), distributed among four levels of concentrate supplementation (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% BW). Animals in a group were slaughtered when the 1.5% BW treatment kids in the group reached approximately 25 kg BW. The trace element content (mg/kg of empty body weight) ranged from 23.68 to 27.81 mg Zn, 35.70 to 47.29 mg Fe, 0.86 to 1.09 mg Mn, 1.45 to 1.75 mg Cu, and 0.83 to 0.87 mg Co for Moxotó kids at 15 and 25 kg BW, respectively. The net requirements (mg/kg of empty body weight gain) ranged from 30.43 to 35.74 mg Zn, 53.48 to 70.84 mg Fe, 1.22 to 1.54 mg Mn, 1.93 to 2.32 mg Cu, and 0.91 to 0.95 mg Co for animals with BW ranging from 15 to 25 kg, respectively. Indigenous goats grazing in the semiarid region of Brazil have different requirements from those values recommended by international committees for dairy and meat goats.