A Comparative Study of the Effect of Non-Antibiotic Feed Additives on Experimental Colonization of Salmonella Enterica Serovar Enteridis and Intestinal Pathomorphology in Broiler Chickens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of eubiotics on the intestinal morphology of broilers. For this purpose, 125 birds were divided into six groups with two replicates each (10 birds in each replicate). Group A was given a Basal diet. All groups except group A were challenged with Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis. Group B was provided the basal diet, group C was fed a Probiotic-added diet; group D was fed a Prebiotics-based diet; group E was given essential oils plus the basal diet; and group F was provided with organic acids plus the basal diet. Two separate experiments were carried out for Salmonella recovery, checking the cecal tonsils and conducting an intestinal pathomorphic evaluation. Villus length, villus width, villus surface area, and crypt depth were measured by micrometry. There was an overall improvement (p<0.05) in intestinal morphometric parameters for all the treatment groups except for the negative control group, which showed the lowest villus height and villus depth values. Maximum villus height (p<0.05) of the duodenum was achieved by group E, which was fed a diet containing essential oils, whereas a maximum villus surface area index (p<0.05) was recorded for the birds of Group D, which were fed a diet containing prebiotics. Maximum villus height (p<0.05) and surface area index in ileum mucosa was recorded (p<0.05) in the birds of group D (treated with prebiotics). It is concluded that there is an overall increase in the gut histology of broilers fed non-antibiotic based feed.(AU)

Performance, Gut Integrity, Enterobacteria Content in Ceca of Broiler Fed Different Eubiotic Additives

An experiment was carried out to study the effect of different eubiotics on productive characteristics, intestinal integrity, as well as the content of enterobacteria in the cecum of broiler chickens. A completely randomized design with five treatments and 8 replicates of 25 birds each was used. In total 1000 mixed broiler chickens from Ross308 strain, one day old were obtained from a commercial hatchery. The birds were housed on concrete floors in a conventional house. A sorghum+soybean meal control diet was used, to which the additives under study were added. The treatments were distributed as follows: T1 = Control diet without antibiotic or eubiotic; T2 = T1 + bacteriophages; T3 = T1 + antibiotic; T4 = T1 + probiotic; T5 = T1 + symbiotic. The results obtained at 49 days of age for weight gain and feed conversion rate improved (p<0.05) with the addition of the antibiotic and eubiotics. A lower (p<0.05) intestinal density was observed with the probiotic. The height, width, and area of villi in duodenum was higher (p<0.05) when antibiotic and eubiotics were included. In the histological score, in duodenum, the antibiotic and eubiotics resulted with a higher score (p<0.05), associated to a physiological and controlled inflammation response that allowed improving productivity. Finally, the relative expression of enterobacteria, such as Lactobacillus salivarius, allowed associating positive changes in the microbiome and better productive parameters when including the symbiotic, with comparable results to the antibiotic when including the eubiotics.(AU)

Different phytase levels and energy densities in broiler diets on performance, nutrient digestibility, and bone integrity from 28 to 35 days of age / Diferentes níveis de fitase e de densidades energéticas em dietas de frangos de corte sobre desempenho, digestibilidade de nutrientes e integridade óssea de 28 a 35 dias de idade

The study was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effects of using phytase levels at different energy densities in the diet of broilers, from 28 to 35 days of age. The experimental diets contained increasing levels of apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen balance and different levels of phytase. Growth performance variables, nutrient digestibility, as well as variables related to bone integrity were examined. Diets containing 500 FTU/kg in combination with 3150kcal.kg-1 of AMEn resulted in better growth performance. Supplementation with 500 and 1000 FTU/kg in the diets provide better coefficients of apparent and ileal digestibility of calcium and phosphorus, but negatively influence the deposition of calcium, phosphorus, dry matter, and ash in the tibia, in addition to adversely affecting the breakage and area of these bones in broilers. Bone length and the levels of magnesium and zinc present in the tibias were not influenced by the energy and phytase levels of the diets. There is no interaction between the different energetic densities and the phytase doses in the variables analyzed in the studied period. Increasing the energy density of diets resulted in improved apparent and ileal digestibility for most nutrients.

O estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos da utilização de níveis de fitase em diferentes densidades energéticas na dieta de frangos de corte, no período de 28 a 35 dias de idade. As dietas experimentais contiveram níveis crescentes de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida para balanço de nitrogênio e diferentes níveis de fitase. Foram avaliadas variáveis de desempenho zootécnico, digestibilidade de nutrientes e variáveis relacionadas à integridade óssea. Dietas contendo 500 FTU/kg de fitase em combinação com 3150kcal.kg-1 de EMAn resultam em melhor desempenho zootécnico. A suplementação com 500 e 1000 FTU/kg nas dietas propicia melhores coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente e ileal do cálcio e do fósforo, mas influencia negativamente na deposição de cálcio, fósforo, matéria seca e cinzas das tíbias, além de afetar adversamente a quebra e a área desses ossos em frangos de corte. O comprimento do osso e os níveis de magnésio e zinco presentes nas tíbias não são influenciados pelos níveis energéticos e de fitase das dietas. Não há interação entre as diferentes densidades energéticas e as doses de fitase nas variáveis analisadas no período estudado. O aumento da densidade energética das dietas resulta em melhora na digestibilidade aparente e ileal para a maioria dos nutrientes.

Genome-enabled prediction through quantile random forest for complex traits / Predição genômica por meio do random forest quantílitico para características complexas

ABSTRACT: Quantile Random Forest (QRF) is a non-parametric methodology that combines the advantages of Random Forest (RF) and Quantile Regression (QR). Specifically, this approach can explore non-linear functions, determining the probability distribution of a response variable and extracting information from different quantiles instead of just predicting the mean. This evaluated the performance of the QRF in the genomic prediction for complex traits (epistasis and dominance). In addition, compare the accuracies obtained with those derived from the G-BLUP. The simulation created an F2 population with 1,000 individuals and genotyped for 4,010 SNP markers. Besides, twelve traits were simulated from a model considering additive and non-additive effects, QTL (Quantitative trait loci) numbers ranging from eight to 120, and heritability of 0.3, 0.5, or 0.8. For training and validation, the 5-fold cross-validation approach was used. For each fold, the accuracies of all the proposed models were calculated: QRF in five different quantiles and three G-BLUP models (additive effect, additive and epistatic effects, additive and dominant effects). Finally, the predictive performance of these methodologies was compared. In all scenarios, the QRF accuracies were equal to or greater than the methodologies evaluated and proved to be an alternative tool to predict genetic values in complex traits.

RESUMO: Quantile Random Forest (QRF) é uma metodologia não paramétrica, que combina as vantagens do Random Forest (RF) e da Regressão Quantílica (QR). Especificamente, essa abordagem pode explorar funções não lineares, determinando a distribuição de probabilidade de uma variável resposta e extraindo informações de diferentes quantis em vez de apenas prever a média. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho do QRF em predizer o valor genético genômico para características com arquitetura genética não aditiva (epistasia e dominância). Adicionalmente, as acurácias obtidas foram comparadas com aquelas advindas do G-BLUP. A simulação criou uma população F2 com 1.000 indivíduos genotipados para 4.010 marcadores SNP. Além disso, doze características foram simuladas a partir de um modelo considerando efeitos aditivos e não aditivos, com número de QTL (Quantitative trait loci) variando de oito a 120 e herdabilidade de 0,3, 0,5 ou 0,8. Para treinamento e validação foi usada a abordagem da validação cruzada 5-fold. Para cada um dos folds foram calculadas as acurácias de todos os modelos propostos: QRF em cinco quantis diferentes e três modelos do G-BLUP (com efeito aditivo, aditivo e epistático, aditivo e dominante). Por fim, o desempenho preditivo dessas metodologias foi comparado. Em todos os cenários, as acurácias do QRF foram iguais ou superiores às metodologias avaliadas e mostrou ser uma ferramenta alternativa para predizer valores genéticos em características complexas.

Complexo enzimático em rações para leitões nas fases pré-inicial e inicial / Enzymatic complex in piglet feeds in the pre-initial and initial phases

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar o efeito da utilização de complexo enzimático em rações para leitões sobre o desempenho zootécnico nas fases pré-inicial e inicial. Foram utilizados, para isso, 292 leitões, machos castrados e fêmeas, de linhagem comercial. O período de suplementação da enzima, na maternidade, foi do sétimo ao vigésimo primeiro dia de idade, e, na creche, foi do desmame até a saída para a fase de crescimento. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado, sendo a matriz e sua leitegada consideradas a unidade experimental durante a maternidade e uma baia com dez leitões na creche. Na maternidade, os tratamentos consistiram em: T1 - ração controle, sem complexo enzimático; T2 - ração controle com adição on top do complexo enzimático com inclusão de 5%. Na creche, foram definidos três tratamentos: T1 - ração controle; T2 - ração controle com inclusão on top de 5% do complexo enzimático na fase de maternidade; T3 - ração controle com inclusão de 5% de complexo enzimático nas fases de maternidade e creche. A suplementação durante a lactação não influenciou o desempenho da leitegada na maternidade até o 21º dia. Na creche, leitões alimentados com ração controle apresentaram maior peso inicial em relação aos suplementados na fase de maternidade e creche. Ao término da fase, os leitões mostraram desempenho semelhante, independente da dieta. Conclui-se que a inclusão do complexo enzimático na forma on top em dietas para leitões não influenciou parâmetros de desempenho na maternidade, porém, favoreceu a recuperação de leitões desmamados com menor peso.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using an enzymatic complex in piglet feeds on the zootechnical performance in the pre-starter and initial phases. For this purpose, 292 piglets, castrated males and females, of commercial lineage were used. The enzyme supplementation period in the maternity hospital was from the seventh to the twenty-first day of age, and in the nursery, it was from the waning until the exit for the growth phase. The design used was completely randomized, with the mother and her litter considered the experimental unit during maternity and a stall with 10 piglets in the nursery. In maternity, the treatments consisted of: T1 - control feed, without the enzymatic complex; T2 - control diet with on top addition of the enzymatic complex with 5% inclusion. Three treatments were defined at the nursery: T1 - control feed; T2 - control diet with inclusion on top of 5% of the enzymatic complex in the maternity phase; T3 - control feed with the inclusion of 5% enzymatic complex in the maternity and nursery phases. Supplementation during lactation did not influence litter performance in the maternity unit until 21 days. In the nursery, piglets fed with control feed had higher initial weight compared to those supplemented in the maternity and nursery phases. At the end of the phase, the piglets showed similar performance, regardless of diet. It is concluded that the inclusion of the enzymatic complex used in the on top form in diets for piglets did not influence performance parameters in maternity; however, it favored the recovery of weaned piglets with lower weight.

Genetic control of quality melon traits / Controle genético de caracteres de qualidade do melão

ABSTRACT: This research studied the genetic control of the traits related to melon fruit quality. The F1, F2, BC1, BC2 generations from the OL x A-16 and OL x PV crossings were evaluated in two separate trials conducted in randomized blocks with three replications. The evaluated traits were: average fruit weight, shape index, pulp thickness, pulp firmness, soluble solids content and cracking rate. The analyses were accomplished through a classic study of generations involving mixed models. The parameters on heritability and number of loci controlling the traits were evaluated in a broad and narrow sense. The inheritance of the evaluated traits is complex, presenting one gene of greater effect and polygenes with additive and dominant effects.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar o controle genético de caracteres relacionados à qualidade do fruto do melão. Foram avaliadas as gerações F1, F2, RC1, RC2 dos cruzamentos OL x A-16 e OL x PV em dois ensaios separados conduzidos em blocos casualizados com três repetições. Os caracteres avaliados foram: peso médio do fruto, índice de formato, espessura da polpa, firmeza da polpa, sólidos solúveis e porcentagem de rachadura. As análises foram feitas por meio de estudo clássico de gerações envolvendo modelos mistos. Foram estimados os parâmetros de herdabilidades nos sentidos amplo e restrito e número de loci que controlam o caráter. A herança dos caracteres estudados é complexa com a presença de gene de efeito maior e poligenes com efeitos aditivos e de dominância.

Thermo-resistant enzyme-producing microorganisms isolated from composting

Abstract Organo-mineral fertilizers supplemented with biological additives are an alternative to chemical fertilizers. In this study, thermoresistant microorganisms from composting mass were isolated by two-step procedures. First, samples taken at different time points and temperatures (33 days at 52 ºC, 60 days at 63 ºC, and over 365 days at 26 ºC) were pre-incubated at 80 oC for 30 minutes. Second, the microbial selection by in vitro culture-based methods and heat shock at 60 oC and 100 oC for 2h and 4h. Forty-one isolates were able to grow at 60 °C for 4h; twenty-seven at 100 °C for 2h, and two at 100 °C for 4h. The molecular identification by partial sequencing of the 16S ribosomal gene using universal primers revealed that thirty-five isolates were from eight Bacillus species, one Brevibacillus borstelensis, three Streptomyces thermogriseus, and two fungi (Thermomyces lanuginosus and T. dupontii). Data from amylase, phytase, and cellulase activity assays and the enzymatic index (EI) showed that 38 of 41 thermo-resistant isolates produce at least one enzyme. For amylase activity, the highest EI value was observed in Bacillus licheniformis (isolate 21C2, EI= 4.11), followed by Brevibacillus borstelensis (isolate 6C2, EI= 3.66), Bacillus cereus (isolate 18C2, EI= 3.52), and Bacillus paralicheniformis (isolate 20C2, EI= 3.34). For phytase, the highest EI values were observed for Bacillus cereus (isolate 18C2, EI= 2.30) and Bacillus licheniformis (isolate 3C1, EI= 2.15). Concerning cellulose production, B. altitudinis (isolate 6C1) was the most efficient (EI= 6.40), followed by three Bacillus subtilis (isolates 9C1, 16C2, and 19C2) with EI values of 5.66, 5.84, and 5.88, respectively, and one B. pumilus (isolate 27C2, EI= 5.78). The selected microorganisms are potentially useful as a biological additive in organo-mineral fertilizers and other biotechnological processes.

Resumo Os fertilizantes organo-minerais suplementados com aditivos biológicos são uma alternativa aos adubos químicos. Neste estudo, microrganismos termoresistentes foram isolados de compostagem por procedimentos de duas etapas. Inicialmente, as amostras tomadas em diferentes períodos e temperaturas (33 dias a 52 ºC, 60 dias a 63 ºC e mais de 365 dias a 26 ºC) foram pré-incubadas a 80 oC por 30 minutos. Posteriormente, a seleção microbiana foi conduzida por métodos baseados em cultura in vitro e choque térmico a 60 oC e 100 oC por 2h e 4h. Quarenta e um isolados foram capazes de crescer a 60 °C por 4h; vinte e sete a 100 °C por 2h e dois a 100 °C por 4h. A identificação molecular por sequenciamento parcial do gene ribossomal 16S usando primers universais revelou que trinta e cinco isolados eram de oito espécies de Bacillus, um Brevibacillus borstelensis, três Streptomyces thermogriseus e dois fungos (Thermomyces lanuginosus e T. dupontii). Os dados dos ensaios de atividade de amilase, fitase e celulase e o índice enzimático (IE) mostraram que 38 dos 41 isolados termorresistentes produziram pelo menos uma enzima. Para a atividade da amilase, o maior valor de IE foi observado em Bacillus licheniformis (isolado 21C2, IE = 4,11), seguido por Brevibacillus borstelensis (isolado 6C2, IE = 3,66), Bacillus cereus (isolado 18C2, IE = 3,52) e Bacillus paralicheniformis (isolado 20C2, IE = 3,34). Para a fitase, os maiores valores de IE foram observados para B. cereus (isolado 18C2, IE = 2,30) e B. licheniformis (isolado 3C1, IE = 2,15). Em relação à produção de celulose, B. altitudinis (isolado 6C1) foi o mais eficiente (IE = 6,40), seguido por três Bacillus subtilis (isolados 9C1, 16C2 e 19C2) com valores de IE de 5,66, 5,84 e 5,88, respectivamente, e um B. pumilus (isolado 27C2, IE = 5,78). Pode-se inferir que os microrganismos selecionados são potencialmente úteis como aditivos biológicos em fertilizantes organo-minerais e outros processos biotecnológicos.

Natural Growth Promoters Replacing Traditional Growth Promoters in Diets for Light Replacement Pullets: A Systematic Approach

The effect of using natural growth promoters (NGP) to replace traditional antimicrobials on performance, biometry of digestive and reproductive organs, sexual maturity and bone characteristics of replacement pullets was evaluated; and the relationship between these variables according to the diets was verified. Eight-week-old birds were randomly assigned to a completely randomized design and fed different diets: negative control (without growth promoters); positive control - conventional growth promoter; organic acids (OA); symbiotic (S); essential oil (EO); OA + S; and EO + S. The performance, relative weight of digestive and reproductive organs and length intestines, height and crest length, sternum length, bone quality and sexual maturity of birds were similar (p>0.05) between treatments. The heat map combined with cluster analysis showed a uniform static pattern with the formation of three horizontal groups formed by the treatments: 1) negative control, S and OA + S; 2) positive control and OE and 3) OA and OE + S. A null relationship between the treatments and the variables under study was observed. The principal components analysis revealed an association of variables in three components with 60.55% of variation. NGP can replace traditional promoters, as they do not interfere with performance, biometrics or sexual maturity. Height and length are predictive variables for the development of reproductive organs, especially the oviduct. A similarity was identified through multivariate techniques between symbiotic and organic + symbiotic acids; positive control and essential oils; and organic and symbiotic acids + essential oils.(AU)

Effect of a Feed Additive Based on Organic Acids and Tangerine Wort (Citrus reticulata) as Growth Promoter for Broiler Chickens

Feed additive alternatives to antibiotics, such as organic acids, and substances rich in polyphenols, such as tangerine wort, can promote improved intestinal health in broilers by modulating the microbial population and improving nutrient utilization. In this work, a product which combines organic acids (fumaric acid 0.5%, lactic acid 5.13%, citric acid 5.44% and ascorbic acid 1.2%) and tangerine wort (Citrus reticulata) 8.36% was studied. To determine the effect and the most appropriate level of inclusion of product in the diet of broilers, an experiment was carried out with 1400-day-old male chicks, in a conventional poultry house, evaluating the performance until 42 days of age. The birds were housed in RCB design with 5 treatments and 7 replicates of 40 birds each, and the diets with the additive inclusions were evaluated: A250 (250 mg/kg), A500 (500 mg/kg), A1000 (1000 mg/kg), a negative control (NC, not supplemented), and a positive control (PC, 10 mg/kg of enramycin). The diets were formulated based on corn and soybean meal, containing added phytase and without anticoccidial; the additives replaced an inert in the basal diet. Performance characteristics, microbiota count, morphometry and jejunum morphology were evaluated. Considering the overall experimental period, the inclusion of the alternative additive based on organic acids and tangerine wort at different levels (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) did not result in difference from the negative control diet or the positive control with the inclusion of the antibiotic enramycin for performance traits (p>0.05), as well as for the microbiota count, morphology, jejunal morphometry and viability. Considering the period of 29-35 days alone, treatment with 500 mg/kg of alternative additive improved weight gain and feed intake of the chickens (p<0.05), but had no effect on feed conversion.(AU)

A blend of thyme and rosemary powders with poultry by-product meal can be used as a natural antioxidant in broilers

A total of 500, 14-d old male Ross 308 broilers were allocated into five treatments (4 replicates each) including: a negative (NC) and positive control diet (PC) which supplemented without and with 7% poultry by-product meal (PBPM), respectively and three levels of additive supplementation of thyme and rosemary powders in the basal diets: 0.750% rosemary powder (PCR); 0.375% thyme powder + 0.375% rosemary powder (PCRT), and 0.750% thyme powder (PCT) rosemary powder. The PCRT diet improved (p<0.05) average daily gain and feed conversion ratio by 5.62 and 10.37% compared to PC, respectively. The serum concentration of lipids (triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein) was decreased while the ilealvillus heightand ratio of villus height to crypt depth as well as ileal microbiota population were improved(p<0.05) in response to inclusion PCRT diet compared to PC diet. The blood serum concentration of malondialdehyde was statistically decreased (p<0.05) by supplementation of PCRT in broiler diets. Our results suggested that supplementation of a blend of thyme and rosemary powders at the level of 0.375% of each into broiler diet during d 14-42 has merit to be used as a natural antioxidant in diets formulated by PBPM.(AU)

Semen quality and sperm characteristics in broiler breeder cockerels fed vitamin E during hot season

Thirty-two Arbor Acres (AA) cockerels aged 27 weeks were used to determine the effect of vitamin E (VE) on the semen characteristics and sperm quality during hot season. The birds were fed diets containing 0, 50, 100 and 150mg VE kg-1 feed. There were 4 replicates and two birds per replicate. Semen collection was done thrice a week for three weeks in all birds. Dietary vitamin E significantly (p < 0.05) increased the semen volume (SV) and number of sperm cells (NS) in AA cockerels. CONTROL birds (0.71 mL) had lower SV than birds fed 150 mg VE (0.94 mL). Birds on 100 and 150 mg VE recorded similar NS, which was higher than 0 and 50 mg VE groups. The least NS was in the CONTROL group. Sperm abnormality gradually (p < 0.05) decreased as dietary VE increased from 0 to 150 mg. Significant (p < 0.01) effect of dietary VE was recorded in percentage live sperm (PLS). Semen from cockerels on VE treatment had higher PLS than the CONTROL. In conclusion, it may be beneficial to supplement the broiler breeder cockerel diet with VE up to 150 mg kg-1 feed during hot season as it increased SV, NS and PLS and decreased sperm abnormality.(AU)

Propolis extract as a feed additive of the Nile tilapia juveniles / Extrato de própolis como aditivo alimentar para juvenis de tilápia-do-nilo

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary propolis alcohol extract supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, intestinal morphometry, and physiologic parameters Nile tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) juveniles. For performance experiment and intestinal morphometry, 120 fish averaging 1.41±0.3g were randomly distributed into 24 tanks (70L each) in a closed recirculation water system with constant aeration and biofilter. The animals were distributed into four treatments using a completely randomized design with six replicates per treatment. The treatments consisted of four pellet feeds with different alcohol propolis concentrations extract (AEP) (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5gkg-1). The performance experiment period was conducted for 45 days. For the digestibility experiment, an inert marker in the feed and the adapted Guelph feces collecting system were used. The results showed no differences in the performance parameters, crude protein apparent digestibility and dry matter of the feeds, intestinal morphometry, and physiologic parameters. However, there was an increasing linear effect on the energy digestibility with increasing PAE concentrations in the fish feed. The usage of the propolis extract supplementation levels of 1% is recommended for optimum effect on villus morphometry in Nile tilapia.

Avaliaram-se os efeitos da suplementação de extrato de própolis na dieta sobre o desempenho, a digestibilidade, a morfometria intestinal e os parâmetros fisiológicos de juvenis de tilápia-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). No desempenho e na morfometria intestinal, 120 peixes (1,41±0,3g) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 24 tanques (70L cada), em sistema de recirculação de água com aeração constante e biofiltro. Os animais foram distribuídos em quatro tratamentos, num delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com seis repetições por tratamento. Os tratamentos consistiram em quatro rações, com concentrações de extrato de própolis (AEP) (0,0, 0,5, 1,0 e 1,5g kg-1). O período experimental foi de 45 dias. Para a digestibilidade, foi utilizado um sistema adaptado de Guelph para a coleta de excretas e um marcador inerte na ração. Os resultados não mostraram diferenças nos parâmetros de desempenho, digestibilidade aparente da proteína bruta e da matéria seca dos alimentos e morfometria intestinal, bem como nos parâmetros fisiológicos. No entanto, houve um efeito linear crescente sobre a digestibilidade da energia com o aumento das concentrações de AEP na ração. Os resultados também indicaram que a suplementação com 1% de própolis teve efeito positivo na morfometria intestinal de tilápia-do-nilo, sendo esse o nível recomendado na dieta.

Genome-enabled prediction through quantile random forest for complex traits / Predição genômica por meio do random forest quantílitico para características complexas

Quantile Random Forest (QRF) is a non-parametric methodology that combines the advantages of Random Forest (RF) and Quantile Regression (QR). Specifically, this approach can explore non-linear functions, determining the probability distribution of a response variable and extracting information from different quantiles instead of just predicting the mean. This evaluated the performance of the QRF in the genomic prediction for complex traits (epistasis and dominance). In addition, compare the accuracies obtained with those derived from the G-BLUP. The simulation created an F2 population with 1,000 individuals and genotyped for 4,010 SNP markers. Besides, twelve traits were simulated from a model considering additive and non-additive effects, QTL (Quantitative trait loci) numbers ranging from eight to 120, and heritability of 0.3, 0.5, or 0.8. For training and validation, the 5-fold cross-validation approach was used. For each fold, the accuracies of all the proposed models were calculated: QRF in five different quantiles and three G-BLUP models (additive effect, additive and epistatic effects, additive and dominant effects). Finally, the predictive performance of these methodologies was compared. In all scenarios, the QRF accuracies were equal to or greater than the methodologies evaluated and proved to be an alternative tool to predict genetic values in complex traits.

Quantile Random Forest (QRF) é uma metodologia não paramétrica, que combina as vantagens do Random Forest (RF) e da Regressão Quantílica (QR). Especificamente, essa abordagem pode explorar funções não lineares, determinando a distribuição de probabilidade de uma variável resposta e extraindo informações de diferentes quantis em vez de apenas prever a média. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho do QRF em predizer o valor genético genômico para características com arquitetura genética não aditiva (epistasia e dominância). Adicionalmente, as acurácias obtidas foram comparadas com aquelas advindas do G-BLUP. A simulação criou uma população F2 com 1.000 indivíduos genotipados para 4.010 marcadores SNP. Além disso, doze características foram simuladas a partir de um modelo considerando efeitos aditivos e não aditivos, com número de QTL (Quantitative trait loci) variando de oito a 120 e herdabilidade de 0,3, 0,5 ou 0,8. Para treinamento e validação foi usada a abordagem da validação cruzada 5-fold. Para cada um dos folds foram calculadas as acurácias de todos os modelos propostos: QRF em cinco quantis diferentes e três modelos do G-BLUP (com efeito aditivo, aditivo e epistático, aditivo e dominante). Por fim, o desempenho preditivo dessas metodologias foi comparado. Em todos os cenários, as acurácias do QRF foram iguais ou superiores às metodologias avaliadas e mostrou ser uma ferramenta alternativa para predizer valores genéticos em características complexas.

Substitute a half dose of macro fertilizers with liquid organic fertilizers on sweet corn plants (Zea mays saccharata) on Inceptisol Soil in Indonesia / Substitua metade da dosemacrofertilizantes por fertilizantes orgânicos líquidos em plantas de milho doce (Zea mays saccharata) em Cambissolosna Indonésia

Corn is a promising commodity economically for cultivation. A part from not requiring a long harvest time, sweet corn has a high selling value, without a long post-harvest process. The locationof the research was conducted in rice fields in Tawangargo Village, Karangploso District, Malang Regency. Altitude ± 749 m above sea level, Inceptisol soil type and moderate tropical climate. The implementation was carried out from December 2019 to July 2020. The research design was carried out using a Complete Randomized Block Design, with 2 factors. Factor 1, is the recommended fertilizer dosage of 3 doses (0, ½ and 1 dose), the second factor is the dose of liquids fertilizer organic (0, 4, 8, and 12 g /l) with 4 repetitions, with intervals onceevery 7-10 days. Giving 4 ml/l dose of inorganic fertilizer at an interval of once a week, together with 1 recommended dosage of Macro fertilizer affects the growth and yield of sweet corn plants. The highest production per ha in this treatment was 13,339 kg. The highest RAE value is 325.6% in the recommended 1 dose of NPK treatment plus 4 g / l of "liquids fertilizer organic". The economic approach is by calculating the R/C ratio, the treatment with the highestRAEis the R/C ratio of 8.59 with a net income of Rp. 176,785,041.(AU)

O milho é uma commoditypromissora economicamente para o cultivo. Além de não exigir um longo tempo de colheita, o milho doce tem alto valor de venda, sem um longo processo de pós-colheita. O local da pesquisafoi conduzido em campos de arroz na vila de Tawangargo, distrito de Karangploso, regência de Malang(Indonésia). A altitude é de ±749 m acima do nível do mar, cambissoloe clima tropical moderado. A implementação foi realizada de dezembro de 2019 a julho de 2020. O projeto de pesquisa foi realizado usando um projeto de bloco aleatório completo, com 2 fatores. O fator 1, é a dosagem recomendada de adubo de trêsdoses (0, ½ e 1 dosagem), o segundo fator é a dosagem de adubo líquido orgânico (0, 4, 8 e 12g/l) com quatro repetições, em intervalos de 7-10 uma vez por dia. Administrar 4 ml/l de fertilizante inorgânico com intervalos de uma vez porsemana, juntamentecom 1 dose recomendada de Macrofertilizante, afeta o crescimento e rendimento das plantas de milho doce. A maior produção por ha neste tratamento foi de 13.339 kg. O maior valor de RAE é de 325,6% no recomendado 1 dose do tratamento NPKmais 4 g/l de "fertilizante orgânico líquido". A abordagem econômica é calcular a relação R/C, o tratamento com o RAE mais alto é a relação R/C de 8,59 com um lucro líquido de Rp. 176.785.041.(AU)

Association of additives in supplemented grazing cattle during the finishing phase at the rainy season

The objectives were to evaluate the effects of monensin and virginiamycin, alone or combined, on supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season. Two experiments were conducted simultaneously to evaluate intake, digestibility, CH4 emissions, blood parameters, performance, and carcass characteristics (Exp. 1), and ruminal fermentation and relative abundance of ruminal microorganisms (Exp. 2). Animals (n = 92 Exp. 1 and n = 12 Exp. 2) were distributed in a completely randomized design and allocated in twelve paddocks composed of Urochloa brizantha (A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Xaraés. A protein-energetic supplementation of 3 g/kg of BW per day was provided to all animals. Supplements were: without additives (WA), monensin alone at 80 mg/kg of product (MN), virginiamycin alone at 150 mg/kg of product (VM), and monensin (80 mg/kg of product) combined with virginiamycin (150 mg/kg of product; MNVM). Treatments did not affect intakes of total dry matter (DM), supplement DM, and nutrients. However, the intakes of forage DM and crude protein decreased in cattle fed MNVM compared with animals fed WA, MN, and VM. Total volatile fatty acids increased in animals fed VM. Ruminal NH3-N decreased, and pH increased in animals fed MN, VM, and MNVM. Relative abundance of total F. succinogenes and S. ruminantium decreased and R. flavefaciens increased in animals fed MN and VM at d 118. Treatments had no effect on enteric CH4 emissions. The average daily gain (ADG) and total gain were greater in cattle fed MNVM than in cattle fed MN. Combination of monensin and virginiamycin altered the rumen microbial populations but did not decrease enteric CH4 emissions. However, it decreased forage dry matter intake without altering the ADG and total weight gain, leading to an increase in feed efficiency. Results from this study indicate an advantage in including feed additives combined in the diet of supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season.

Effects of functional oil blend on performance, blood metabolites, organ biometry and intestinal morphometry in nursery piglets / Efeitos da mistura de óleo funcional no desempenho, metabólitos sanguíneos, biometria de órgãos e morfometria intestinal em leitões de creche

This study was conducted to assess the effects of functional oil (FO) blend on performance, blood metabolites, organ biometry and intestinal morphometry in piglets. A total of 128 crossbreed piglets (Landrace × Large White, 64 uncastrated males and 64 females, 21 d of age, and 6.79 ± 1.76 kg BW) were allocated in a randomized complete block design with two dietary treatments: a FO-free (FOF) diet or a diet based on added FO (1,500 mg/kg of diet with castor oil plus cashew nutshell oil). Piglets fed FO showed higher (p ≤ 0.05) average daily feed intake, daily body weight gain and final body weight after 23 d of study. For the total period, piglets fed FO showed greater (p = 0.007) feed conversion ratio. On d 23, higher serum total protein (p = 0.026) and globulin (p = 0.050) concentration, lower liver (p = 0.042) and stomach (p = 0.074) weight, and greater (p = 0.082) villi height (VH) in duodenum were observed in piglets fed FO. Nonetheless, piglets fed FOF showed greater (p = 0.054) ileal VH, but greater (p = 0.004) crypt depth (CD) in jejunum. Piglets fed FO showed higher VH to CD ratio in jejunum (p = 0.068) and duodenum (p = 0.074) on d 23 and 37, respectively. Based on the results, FO blend improved the performance of weaned piglets; however, it negatively affected the feed conversion ratio in the total period. Moreover, FO blend promoted changes in total protein concentrations and improvements in digestive and absorptive capacity assessed through VH to CD ratio, with a significant reduction in organs.

Este estudo foi conduzido para avaliar os efeitos de uma mistura de óleo funcional (OF) no desempenho zootécnico, nos metabólitos sanguíneos, na biometria de órgãos e na morfometria intestinal de leitões. Um total de 128 leitões mestiços (Landrace × Large White, 64 machos inteiros e 64 fêmeas; 21 dias de idade e peso corporal de 6,79 ± 1,76 kg) foram alocados em um delineamento de blocos casualizados completos, com dois tratamentos dietéticos: uma dieta sem OF (SOF) ou uma dieta baseada na adição de OF (1.500 mg/kg de dieta com OF de mamona e castanha de caju). Os leitões alimentados com OF apresentaram maior (p ≤ 0,05) consumo de ração diário médio, ganho de peso corporal diário e peso corporal aos 23 dias de experimento. Entretanto, os leitões que consumiram dietas com OF tiveram conversão alimentar superior (p = 0,007) no período total. No dia 23, houve aumento na concentração de proteína total (p = 0,026) e globulina (p = 0,050), menor peso de fígado (p = 0,042) e estômago (p = 0,074), e maior (p = 0,082) altura de vilosidade (AV) no duodeno em leitões que consumiram OF; entretanto, os leitões SOF tiveram (p = 0,054) AV superior no íleo, mas apresentaram (p = 0,004) profundidade de cripta (PC) superior no jejuno. Uma maior relação AV:PC no jejuno (p = 0,068) e duodeno (p = 0,074) foi observada em leitões com OF nos dias 23 e 37, respectivamente. Com base nos resultados, a mistura de OF melhorou o desempenho dos leitões desmamados; no entanto, afetou negativamente a taxa de conversão alimentar no período total. Além disso, a mistura de OF promoveu alterações nas concentrações proteínas totais e melhorias na capacidade digestiva e absortiva avaliadas através da relação AV:PC, com uma redução significativa nos órgãos.

Selection of parents and segregating populations of carioca common bean resistant to Fusarium wilt / Seleção de genitores e populações segregantes de feijão carioca resistentes à murcha de fusário

Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli) is one of the most common diseases in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) crop, and the most viable alternative for its control is the use of resistant cultivars. However, the number of "carioca" cultivars, the most important commercial group in Brazil, which has a good level of resistance to this disease, is still low. To obtain populations with a higher degree of resistance, seven parents with different levels of resistance to Fusarium and which produce carioca grains were crossed in a complete diallel design. The 21 segregating populations obtained were evaluated in the years/generations 2012/F3, 2013/F4, and 2014/F5 in experiments in Santo Antônio de Goiás, GO, in the winter crop season (sowing in May), together with the check cultivars BRS Notável (resistant) and BRS Cometa (susceptible) in an area naturally infested with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli, under a center pivot irrigation system. Reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight were evaluated. Additive and non-additive effects contributed to control of reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight. The statistically negative general combining ability (gi) estimates for BRS Notável (-0.51), CNFC 15872 (-0.20), IPR Juriti (-0.18), and BRSMG Talismã (-0.13) indicate that these parents are recommended for obtaining populations more resistant to Fusarium wilt. Among them, cultivar BRS Notável also showed a statistically positive gi estimate for grain yield (87.90). Among the parents recommended for resistance to Fusarium wilt, cultivars IPR Juriti (0.99) and BRS Notável (0.23) are those that most contributed to obtaining populations with larger-sized beans. Cultivar BRS Notável is the most promising parent for participation in new crossing blocks, showing non-zero gi estimates for all traits, favoring an increase in resistance to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight. Populations BRS Notável / CNFC 15872, BRS Ametista / BRS Notável, BRS Notável / BRSMG Talismã, and BRS Ametista / BRSMG Talismã showed good mean values for reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight and at least one parent with a good general combining ability estimate for resistance to Fusarium wilt. These four populations are promising for obtaining lines with superior performance for resistance to Fusarium wilt, yield, and larger-sized grains.

A murcha de fusário (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli) é uma das doenças mais importantes para a cultura do feijão (Phaseolus vulgaris) e a alternativa mais viável para o seu controle é a utilização de cultivares resistentes. No entanto, o número de cultivares do grupo comercial carioca, que é o mais importante no Brasil, com bom nível de resistência à essa doença ainda é pequeno. Para a obtenção de populações com maior grau de resistência, sete genitores com diferentes níveis de resistência à murcha de fusário e grãos do tipo carioca foram intercruzados em esquema de dialelo completo. As 21 populações segregantes obtidas foram avaliadas nos anos/gerações 2012/F3, 2013/F4 e 2014/F5, em experimentos em Santo Antônio de Goiás, GO, na época do inverno (semeadura em maio), juntamente com as testemunhas BRS Notável (resistente) e BRS Cometa (suscetível), em área naturalmente infestada com Fusarium oxysporumf. sp. phaseoli, sob irrigação com pivô central. Foram avaliadas a reação à murcha de fusário, produtividade e massa de 100 grãos. Os efeitos aditivos e não aditivos contribuíram no controle da reação à murcha de fusário, produtividade e massa de 100 grãos. As estimativas da capacidade geral de combinação (gi) negativas e diferentes de zero para BRS Notável (-0,51), CNFC 15872 (-0,20), IPR Juriti (-0,18) e BRSMG Talismã (-0,13), indicaram que estes genitores são recomendados para a obtenção de populações mais resistentes à murcha de fusário e entre eles, a cultivar BRS Notável mostrou também estimativa de gi positiva e diferente de zero para produtividade de grãos (87,90). Entre os genitores recomendados para resistência à murcha de fusário, as cultivares IPR Juriti (0,99) e BRS Notável (0,23) são as que mais contribuíram na obtenção de populações com maior tamanho de grãos. A cultivar BRS Notável é o genitor mais promissor para participar de novos blocos de cruzamentos, apresentando estimativas de gi diferentes de zero para todos os caracteres, favorecendo o incremento da resistência à murcha de fusário, produtividade e massa de 100 grãos. As populações BRS Notável / CNFC 15872, BRS Ametista / BRS Notável, BRS Notável / BRSMG Talismã e BRS Ametista / BRSMG Talismã apresentaram boas médias para reação à murcha de fusário, produtividade e massa de 100 grãos, e pelo menos um genitor com boa estimativa da capacidade geral de combinação para resistência à murcha de fusário. Estas quatro populações são promissoras para a obtenção de linhagens superiores para resistência à murcha de fusário, produtividade e maior tamanho de grãos.

Use of phytase and citric acid supplementation on growth performance and nutrient digestibility of Cirrhinus mrigala fingerlings fed on canola meal based diet

Abstract Fishmeal; being a limited and costly feed ingredient is continuously been substituted with locally available plant proteins. However, the occurrence of anti-nutritional factors in plant meal suppresses its potential to be fully replaced. Therefore, in this study we aimed to study the synergistic effects of dietary additives like citric acid and phytase enzyme supplementation on growth performance and nutrient digestibility of Cirrhinus mrigala fingerlings. Canola meal (CM) was used as a test ingredient to replace fishmeal (FM) as; 0%, 25%, 50% and 75%. These four diets were further supplemented by varying levels of phytase (0 and 750 FTU kg-1) and citric acid (0% and 2.5%) to formulate total sixteen test diets as T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, T13, T14, T15 and T16. Each treatment contained three replicates; applied to fish groups having 15 fingerlings each; following 3×3 factorial arrangement. 1% of chromic oxide was added as an inert marker. Maximum weight gain% (288%) and the lowest value of FCR (1.07) were recorded when fish was fed on diet T12 as compared to fish fed control diet (T1). Similarly, optimum nutrient digestibility values such as crude protein (77%), crude fat (84%) and gross energy (70%) were noted on same level. It was concluded that 50% canola meal can optimally replace fishmeal when supplemented with phytase and citric acid at the levels of 750 FTU kg-1 and 2.5%, respectively.

Resumo A farinha de peixe, por ser um ingrediente alimentar limitado e caro, é continuamente substituída por proteínas vegetais disponíveis localmente. No entanto, a ocorrência de fatores antinutricionais na farinha de plantas suprime seu potencial de ser totalmente substituída. Portanto, neste estudo objetivamos estudar os efeitos sinérgicos de aditivos dietéticos como ácido cítrico e suplementação com enzima fitase sobre o desempenho de crescimento e digestibilidade de nutrientes de alevinos de Cirrhinus mrigala. A farinha de canola (CM) foi usada como ingrediente de teste para substituir a farinha de peixe (FM) como: 0%, 25%, 50% e 75%. Essas quatro dietas foram suplementadas por níveis variados de fitase (0 e 750 FTU kg-1) e ácido cítrico (0% e 2,5%) para formular um total de 16 dietas de teste como T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, T13, T14, T15 e T16. Cada tratamento continha três repetições; aplicado a grupos de peixes com 15 alevinos cada; seguindo o arranjo fatorial 3 × 3. 1% de óxido crômico foi adicionado como um marcador inerte. % de ganho de peso máximo (288%) e o valor mais baixo de FCR (1,07) foram registrados quando os peixes foram alimentados com dieta T12 em comparação com peixes alimentados com dieta controle (T1). Da mesma forma, valores ótimos de digestibilidade de nutrientes, como proteína bruta (77%), gordura bruta (84%) e energia bruta (70%) foram anotados no mesmo nível. Concluiu-se que 50% da farinha de canola pode substituir de forma ideal a farinha de peixe quando suplementada com fitase e ácido cítrico nos níveis de 750 FTU kg-1 e 2,5%, respectivamente.

Potential of elephant grass genotypes silages as exclusive roughage on tissue composition and meat quality of lambs: a preliminary study / Potencial de silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante como volumoso exclusivo sobre a composição tecidual e a qualidade da carne de cordeiros: um estudo preliminar

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of diets containing elephant grass genotypes silages as exclusive roughage on leg tissue composition, and physicochemical characteristics of meat of lambs. Twenty-four crossbred male lambs with an average initial body weight of 20.29±2.66kg were distributed in a complete randomized design with three treatments and eight replicates. The treatments consisted of three silages of elephant grass genotypes (IRI-381, Elephant B or Mott), without additives or wilting, as the only roughage. The diets did not affect (P>0.05) the dry matter (898.70±60.10 g/day), crude protein (128.93±6.91g/day), total digestible nutrients (690.20±91.82g/day) intakes, body weight at slaughter (24.83±2.79kg), and carcass yields (P>0.05). The tissue composition of the leg did not differ significantly between silages of elephant grass genotypes (P>0.05). No difference (P>0.05) for the physicochemical characteristics of meat from lambs fed diets tested was observed. Therefore, our results indicate that diets containing 50% elephant grass genotypes silages (IRI-381, Elephant B or Mott), harvested at 60 days of growth, have potential for use in lambs feeding.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de dietas contendo silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante como volumoso exclusivo sobre a composição tecidual da perna e nas características físico-químicas da carne de cordeiros. Vinte e quatro cordeiros machos mestiços, com peso corporal inicial médio de 20,29±2,66kg, foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três tratamentos e oito repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de três silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante (IRI-381, Elephant B ou Mott), sem aditivos ou emurchecimento, como único volumoso. As dietas não afetaram (P>0,05) os consumos de matéria seca (898,70 ± 60,10g/dia), proteína bruta (128,93±6,91g/dia) e nutrientes digestíveis totais (690,20±91,82g/dia), peso corporal ao abate (24,83±2,79kg) e rendimentos de carcaça (P>0,05). A composição tecidual da perna não diferiu significativamente entre as silagens dos genótipos de capim-elefante (P>0,05). Não foi observada diferença (P>0,05) para as características físico-químicas da carne dos cordeiros alimentados com as dietas testadas. Portanto, os resultados indicam que dietas contendo 50% de silagens de genótipos de capim-elefante (IRI-381, Elephant B ou Mott), colhidos aos 60 dias de crescimento, têm potencial para uso na alimentação de cordeiros.

Thermo-resistant enzyme-producing microorganisms isolated from composting / Microrganismos produtores de enzimas termo-resistentes isolados de compostagem

Organo-mineral fertilizers supplemented with biological additives are an alternative to chemical fertilizers. In this study, thermoresistant microorganisms from composting mass were isolated by two-step procedures. First, samples taken at different time points and temperatures (33 days at 52 ºC, 60 days at 63 ºC, and over 365 days at 26 ºC) were pre-incubated at 80 oC for 30 minutes. Second, the microbial selection by in vitro culture-based methods and heat shock at 60 oC and 100 oC for 2h and 4h. Forty-one isolates were able to grow at 60 °C for 4h; twenty-seven at 100 °C for 2h, and two at 100 °C for 4h. The molecular identification by partial sequencing of the 16S ribosomal gene using universal primers revealed that thirty-five isolates were from eight Bacillus species, one Brevibacillus borstelensis, three Streptomyces thermogriseus, and two fungi (Thermomyces lanuginosus and T. dupontii). Data from amylase, phytase, and cellulase activity assays and the enzymatic index (EI) showed that 38 of 41 thermo-resistant isolates produce at least one enzyme. For amylase activity, the highest EI value was observed in Bacillus licheniformis (isolate 21C2, EI= 4.11), followed by Brevibacillus borstelensis (isolate 6C2, EI= 3.66), Bacillus cereus (isolate 18C2, EI= 3.52), and Bacillus paralicheniformis (isolate 20C2, EI= 3.34). For phytase, the highest EI values were observed for Bacillus cereus (isolate 18C2, EI= 2.30) and Bacillus licheniformis (isolate 3C1, EI= 2.15). Concerning cellulose production, B. altitudinis (isolate 6C1) was the most efficient (EI= 6.40), followed by three Bacillus subtilis (isolates 9C1, 16C2, and 19C2) with EI values of 5.66, 5.84, and 5.88, respectively, and one B. pumilus (isolate 27C2, EI= 5.78). The selected microorganisms are potentially useful as a biological additive in organo-mineral fertilizers and other biotechnological processes.

Os fertilizantes organo-minerais suplementados com aditivos biológicos são uma alternativa aos adubos químicos. Neste estudo, microrganismos termoresistentes foram isolados de compostagem por procedimentos de duas etapas. Inicialmente, as amostras tomadas em diferentes períodos e temperaturas (33 dias a 52 ºC, 60 dias a 63 ºC e mais de 365 dias a 26 ºC) foram pré-incubadas a 80 oC por 30 minutos. Posteriormente, a seleção microbiana foi conduzida por métodos baseados em cultura in vitro e choque térmico a 60 oC e 100 oC por 2h e 4h. Quarenta e um isolados foram capazes de crescer a 60 °C por 4h; vinte e sete a 100 °C por 2h e dois a 100 °C por 4h. A identificação molecular por sequenciamento parcial do gene ribossomal 16S usando primers universais revelou que trinta e cinco isolados eram de oito espécies de Bacillus, um Brevibacillus borstelensis, três Streptomyces thermogriseus e dois fungos (Thermomyces lanuginosus e T. dupontii). Os dados dos ensaios de atividade de amilase, fitase e celulase e o índice enzimático (IE) mostraram que 38 dos 41 isolados termorresistentes produziram pelo menos uma enzima. Para a atividade da amilase, o maior valor de IE foi observado em Bacillus licheniformis (isolado 21C2, IE = 4,11), seguido por Brevibacillus borstelensis (isolado 6C2, IE = 3,66), Bacillus cereus (isolado 18C2, IE = 3,52) e Bacillus paralicheniformis (isolado 20C2, IE = 3,34). Para a fitase, os maiores valores de IE foram observados para B. cereus (isolado 18C2, IE = 2,30) e B. licheniformis (isolado 3C1, IE = 2,15). Em relação à produção de celulose, B. altitudinis (isolado 6C1) foi o mais eficiente (IE = 6,40), seguido por três Bacillus subtilis (isolados 9C1, 16C2 e 19C2) com valores de IE de 5,66, 5,84 e 5,88, respectivamente, e um B. pumilus (isolado 27C2, IE = 5,78). Pode-se inferir que os microrganismos selecionados são potencialmente úteis como aditivos biológicos em fertilizantes organo-minerais e outros processos biotecnológicos.