Effect of replacing concentrates with cassava root-top silage on feed utilization, rumen fermentation, blood parameters and growth performance in beef cattle

Objective This experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of replacing concentrates with cassava root-top silage (CARTOS) on feed intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, blood parameters, and growth performance of beef cattle. Methods Twenty crossbred bulls with a body weight (BW) of 226±56 kg were randomly assigned to one of five treatments for 90 d in a randomized complete block design having four blocks based on BW. The concentrates were replaced by CARTOS at levels of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% dry matter (DM). Animals were fed dietary treatments at 1.8% BW, with rice straw offered ad libitum. Results The DM and crude protein (CP) intake were decreased (p