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.

Characterization and effects of DDG on the intake and digestibility of finishing bulls in feedlots

The aim of this study was to characterize four corn and sorghum co-products (DDG) in terms of their protein and carbohydrate fractions; we also evaluated the effects of substituting the protein source of the conventional supplement by DDG on consumption and nutrient digestibility in confined finishing cattle. Thirty-six male Nellore cattle with a mean age of 24 months were used. The treatments were: FA: concentrate with corn as an energy source and cottonseed meal as a protein source; DDG50: concentrate with a 50% substitution of the FA protein source by DDG; DDG100: concentrate with 100% substitution of the FA protein source by DDG. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments and three replicates (pens) containing four animals per pen. We found that the use of DDG in the finishing phase did not interfere with the animals food intake or the digestibility of the nutrients (p > 0.05). Nutrients were used by the animals; therefore, DDGs may be viable substitutes of cottonseed meal. We conclude that the bromatological composition of this co-product is influenced a lot during processing; therefore, the nutritional values of this co-product present in the composition tables may not be true.(AU)

Characterization and effects of DDG on the intake and digestibility of finishing bulls in feedlots

The aim of this study was to characterize four corn and sorghum co-products (DDG) in terms of their protein and carbohydrate fractions; we also evaluated the effects of substituting the protein source of the conventional supplement by DDG on consumption and nutrient digestibility in confined finishing cattle. Thirty-six male Nellore cattle with a mean age of 24 months were used. The treatments were: FA: concentrate with corn as an energy source and cottonseed meal as a protein source; DDG50: concentrate with a 50% substitution of the FA protein source by DDG; DDG100: concentrate with 100% substitution of the FA protein source by DDG. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments and three replicates (pens) containing four animals per pen. We found that the use of DDG in the finishing phase did not interfere with the animals’ food intake or the digestibility of the nutrients (p > 0.05). Nutrients were used by the animals; therefore, DDGs may be viable substitutes of cottonseed meal. We conclude that the bromatological composition of this co-product is influenced a lot during processing; therefore, the nutritional values of this co-product present in the composition tables may not be true.

The quality of crude glycerine influences the fermentation and nutritive value of Piatã grass silage

We aimed to evaluate the effects of crude glycerine purity and levels of glycerol on the fermentative profile, microorganisms counting, and nutritional value of Piatã grass silage. The experiment was carried out in a 3×3+1 completely randomized factorial design using three different types of crude glycerine [low purity (40% of glycerol), medium purity (60% glycerol), and high purity (80% glycerol)], three doses of glycerol (20, 40, and 60 g/kg DM), and a control (no crude glycerine added) as an additional treatment, which were stored for 80 days. Statistical differences were not observed on fermentative losses of the treatments tested. The increase of glycerol doses resulted in higher levels of non-fibrous carbohydrates and lower levels of fibre components. The addition of low-purity crude glycerine increased the levels of fat and in vitro digestibility of silages. The highest levels of lactic acid and acetic acid occurred in the treatments with 60 g/kg of glycerol when using crude glycerine with a low purity. The lowest lactic acid content was observed in the control treatment and in the lowest dose of glycerol. The highest glycerol dose (60 g/kg), associated with the lowest degree of crude glycerine purity (40%) resulted in the greatest nutritional value and provided the best silage conservation.(AU)

Crude glycerin as an alternative to corn as a supplement for beef cattle grazing in pasture during the dry season / Glicerina bruta como alternativa ao milho no suplemento de bovinos de corte em pastagem durante a estação seca

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of inclusion of crude glycerin (CG) in the supplement (0, 70, 140, 210, and 280 g kg-¹ dry matter (DM) of supplement) of Nellore cattle grazing tropical grasses during dry season. In Experiment 1, intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and the rumen microbial profile were evaluated in two simultaneous 5 × 5 Latin squares, using 10 ruminally cannulated Nellore steers (408.8 ± 38.5 kg of body weight (BW)). In Experiment 2, cattle growth performance was evaluated in 50 young Nellore bulls (279.52 ± 16.3 kg of BW) distributed in a randomized complete block design. The increasing inclusion of CG did not affect intake (P= 0.813), diet digestibility (P = 0.895), however linearly increased pH (P=0.001), butyrate concentration (P < 0.001) and Fibrobacter succinogenes (P=0.003) population. CG inclusion linearly decreased total ruminal volatile fatty acids (VFA) (P < 0.001), acetate concentration (P < 0.001) and quadratically affected (P=0.009) acetate: propionate ratio. In experiment 2, the inclusion of CG quadratically affected DM intake (DMI) (P=0.005), DM total-tract apparent digestibility (P < 0.001), linearly increased additional gain (P > 0.001), average daily gain (P > 0.001) and feed efficiency (P > 0.001). CG in the supplement of Nellore steers grazing tropical grass during dry season doesnt affect intake and digestibility but alters ruminal fermentation, without negative effect on relative proportion of cellulolytic bacteria population. The increasing replacement of corn grain by CG in the supplement of pasture-raised growing Nellore bulls (up to 280g/kg DM) improved BW gain and consequently feed efficiency.(AU)

Foram realizados dois experimentos para avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de glicerina bruta (GB) no suplemento (0, 70, 140, 210 e 280 g kg-¹ de suplemento) de bovinos Nelore pastejando gramíneas tropicais durante a estação seca. No experimento 1, o consumo, digestibilidade, fermentação ruminal e o perfil microbiano do rúmen foram avaliados em dois quadrados latinos 5x5 simultâneos, usando 10 novilhos Nelore canulados no rúmen (408,8 ± 38,5 kg de PC). No Experimento 2, o desempenho do crescimento do gado foi avaliado em 50 novilhos Nelore (279,52 ± 16,3 kg de PC) distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados. A inclusão crescente de GB não afetou o consumo (P = 0,813), a digestibilidade da dieta (P = 0,895), mas aumentou linearmente o pH (P=0,001), a concentração de butirato (P < 0,001) e a população de Fibrobacter succinogenes (P = 0,003). A inclusão de GB diminuiu linearmente os ácidos graxos voláteis totais (AGVs) no rúmen (P < 0,001), a concentração de acetato (P < 0,001) e afetou quadraticamente a relação acetato: propionato (p = 0,009). No experimento 2, a inclusão de GB modificou quadraticamente o consumo de matéria seca (CMS) (P = 0,005), a digestibilidade aparente total (P < 0,001), aumentou linearmente o ganho adicional (P > 0,001), o ganho médio diário (P > 0,001) e a eficiência alimentar (P > 0,001). GB no suplemento de novilhos Nelore pastejando gramíneas tropicais durante a estação seca não afeta a ingestão e digestibilidade, mas altera a fermentação ruminal, sem efeito negativo sobre a proporção relativa de bactérias celulolíticas. A crescente substituição do grão de milho por GB no suplemento touros Nelore em crescimento criados em pastagem (até 280g / kg de DM) melhorou o ganho de peso e consequentemente a eficiência alimentar.(AU)

Desempenho de bovinos da raça Gir em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha submetidos a diferentes manejos / Performance of Gir young bull maintained in “Brachiaria brizantha” pastures submitted to different management

O objetivo com este trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação protéico-energética e diferentes ofertas de forragem (OF) durante o período das águas, sobre o ganho de peso de bovinos da raça Gir manejados em sistema de lotação rotacionada em Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu. Avaliou-se a disponibilidade e a composição química do capim Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu. Foram utilizados 24 bovinos da raça Gir com peso médio de 223kg, distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos ao acaso, em parcela subdividida, alocando os tratamentos nas parcelas e os períodos nas subparcelas, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram: novilhos sem suplementação (SS) mantidos em pastos com 4,0% do peso corporal (PC) de OF (SS + 4,0% OF); tourinhos suplementados (SO) com concentrado em 0,5% do peso corporal (PC) e 4% do PC de OF (SO + 4,0%OF); tourinhos suplementados com concentrado em 0,5% do PC e 3,5% do PC de OF (SO + 3,5% OF) e tourinhos suplementados com concentrado em 0,5% do PC e 4,5% do PC de OF (SO + 4,5%OF). Foi verificado, durante o período das águas, aumento (P < 0,05) no ganho de peso dos novilhos suplementados (0,848, 0,813 e 0,905kg/dia, respectivamente nos tratamentos SO + 4%OF; SO + 3,5%OF e SO + 4,5%OF) comparado aos novilhos que não receberam suplementação (0,567kg/dia). Os animais do tratamento SO + 4,5%OF apresentaram maior ganho comparados aos do SO + 4%OF e SO + 3,5%OF. Não houve efeito dos tratamentos sobre a composição química da forragem (P>0,05).(AU)

This research aimed to evaluate the effect of protein and energy supplementation and different herbage allowances (OF) during the rainy season, on the weight gain of Gir young bulls grazing Brachiaria brizantha maintained in a rotational grazing system. Evaluated forage allowance and chemical composition of Brachiaria brizantha pasture. We used 24 Gir young bulls with an average weight of 223kg, distributed in a randomized block design in a split plot scheme, treatments was distributed in plots, and periods in subplots, with six replications. Treatments were not supplemented (SS) young bull grazing in pasture with 4.0% of forage allowance (SS + 4% FA); supplementation with 0.5% body weight (SO) and 4.0% of FA (SO + 4.0 % FA); supplementation with 0.5% body weight and 3.5% FA (SO + 3.5% FA) and supplementation with 0.5% body weight and 4.5% FA (SO + 4.5% FA). During the rainy season, the young bulls weight gain increased (P <0.05) in response to supplementation (0.848, 0.813 and 0.905kg/ day), respectively in the animals of the S0 + 4% OF; SO + 3.5 and SO OF% OF + 4.5, compared to those not supplemented (0.567kg/day). Animals of the SO+ 4.5% OF showed higher gain compared to the SO + 4.0% OF and SO + 3.5% OF. Pasture management strategies and supplementation did not affect the forage chemical composition (P>0.05).(AU)

Desempenho de bovinos da raça Gir em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha submetidos a diferentes manejos / Performance of Gir young bull maintained in “Brachiaria brizantha” pastures submitted to different management

O objetivo com este trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação protéico-energética e diferentes ofertas de forragem (OF) durante o período das águas, sobre o ganho de peso de bovinos da raça Gir manejados em sistema de lotação rotacionada em Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu. Avaliou-se a disponibilidade e a composição química do capim Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu. Foram utilizados 24 bovinos da raça Gir com peso médio de 223kg, distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos ao acaso, em parcela subdividida, alocando os tratamentos nas parcelas e os períodos nas subparcelas, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram: novilhos sem suplementação (SS) mantidos em pastos com 4,0% do peso corporal (PC) de OF (SS + 4,0% OF); tourinhos suplementados (SO) com concentrado em 0,5% do peso corporal (PC) e 4% do PC de OF (SO + 4,0%OF); tourinhos suplementados com concentrado em 0,5% do PC e 3,5% do PC de OF (SO + 3,5% OF) e tourinhos suplementados com concentrado em 0,5% do PC e 4,5% do PC de OF (SO + 4,5%OF). Foi verificado, durante o período das águas, aumento (P 0,05).

This research aimed to evaluate the effect of protein and energy supplementation and different herbage allowances (OF) during the rainy season, on the weight gain of Gir young bulls grazing Brachiaria brizantha maintained in a rotational grazing system. Evaluated forage allowance and chemical composition of Brachiaria brizantha pasture. We used 24 Gir young bulls with an average weight of 223kg, distributed in a randomized block design in a split plot scheme, treatments was distributed in plots, and periods in subplots, with six replications. Treatments were not supplemented (SS) young bull grazing in pasture with 4.0% of forage allowance (SS + 4% FA); supplementation with 0.5% body weight (SO) and 4.0% of FA (SO + 4.0 % FA); supplementation with 0.5% body weight and 3.5% FA (SO + 3.5% FA) and supplementation with 0.5% body weight and 4.5% FA (SO + 4.5% FA). During the rainy season, the young bulls weight gain increased (P 0.05).

Reducing supplementation frequency for Nellore beef steers grazing tropical pastures

Reduced supplementation frequency is a broadly applied management practice. Ruminants consuming low quality forages/pastures, supplemented less than once daily are able to maintain body weight gain (BWG), efficiency of use of dry matter, nitrogen and other nutrients, as compared with animals supplemented once daily. We evaluated the feeding behavior, dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter and organic matter digestibility (DMD and OMD), BWG, Longissimus muscle area and backfat depth of Nellore steers raised on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pastures during the dry season, with different supplementation patterns. Thirty six animals (338 ± 40.7 kg) were distributed over nine paddocks according to a completely randomized design. Treatments were based on supplementation frequency: once daily (OD), once daily except Saturdays and Sundays (SS), or on alternate days (AD), at 1.0 %, 1.4 % and 2.0 % BW, respectively. Average total DMI accounted for 1.6 % BW day-1, with no effect of supplementation frequency. Supplementation frequency had no effect on BWG or grazing time during the day. There was no difference in Longissimus muscle area animals supplemented daily, SS and AD. The backfat depth was thinner in animals supplemented AD, but even in this case, it was within the standards considered satisfactory for a finishing steer. Reducing supplementation frequency seems a good option to lower labor costs without affecting feed efficiency or carcass quality in beef cattle grazing tropical pastures.

Degradabilidade in situ do híbrido de sorgo e do capim-Tanzânia em vacas suplementadas no outono / In situ degrability of sorghum hybrid and Tanzânia guinea-grass in supplented cows during autumn

O experimento foi conduzido na Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, em Ribeirão Preto, com objetivo de avaliar o efeito da suplementação concentrada na degradabilidade in situ dos colmos e das folhas do híbrido de sorgo e do capim-tanzânia colhidos no outono com e sem suplementação de concentrado em vacas. Amostras de folhas e colmos das gramíneas colhidas no início do outono foram incubadas em quatro vacas mestiças canuladas no rúmen, avaliando-se a fração solúvel, fração potencialmente degradável, taxa de degradação (kd) e a degradabilidade efetiva (DE), utilizando-se o delineamento em quadrado latino (4x4). Houve diferença (P<0,001) da fração solúvel do colmo entre as gramíneas, e o híbrido de sorgo apresentou maior resultado. Não houve efeito dos tratamentos (P=0,52) na taxa de degradação (kd), mas houve diferença (P<0,0001) entre os tratamentos para as degradações efetivas a 2%/h, 5%/h, e 8%/h, sendo as degradabilidades efetivas do colmo do capim-tanzânia menores que do híbrido de sorgo. Os resultados observados para fração solúvel, fração potencialmente degradável e DE com taxa de passagem de 2%/h para o hibrido de sorgo foram em média 25,12%; 48,78% e 52,5%/h para colmo e 18,6%; 64,54% e 56,9%/h para as folhas, respectivamente. Para o capim-tanzânia as médias obtidas foram de 12,27%; 43,33% e 36,6%/h para colmo e 14,96%; 60,95% e 54,3%/h para as folhas, respectivamente. A fração solúvel do colmo e das folhas é maior no híbrido de sorgo, e a degradabilidade efetiva é maior apenas no colmo do sorgo. O uso de suplementação concentrada não interfere na degradabilidade ruminal quando os animais consomem folhas e colmos de híbrido de sorgo ou capim-tanzânia em sistema de pastejo no outono.

The trial was carried out at Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, Ribeirão Preto, to compare in situ degradability of dry matter of hybrid sorghum and Tanzania guinea grass, stem and leaves, on fall with and without concentrate on the diet of the cows. Samples of stem and leaves, harvested on fall, were incubated in four rumen-canulated cows, using a latin square design (4x4). The soluble fraction, the insoluble fraction potentially degradable, degradation rate (kd) and the effective degradation (ED) was estimated. There was difference (P<0.001) between grass species for soluble fraction of the stem and it was higher for hybrid sorghum. No influence of treatments (P=0.52) was met for degradation rate (kd) for stem fraction, but the effective (P<0.0001) degradation rate at 2%/h, 5%/h and 8%/h was higher for stem hybrid sorghum. The degradability of leaves was similar for grasses species. The results for soluble fraction, insoluble fraction potentially degradable and ED with passage rate of 2%/h for hybrid sorghum were 25.12%, 48.78% and 52.5% for stem and 18.6%, 64.54% and 56.9% for leaf, respectively. For Tanzania guinea grass the averages were 12.27%, 43.33% and 36.6% for stem and 14.96%, 60.95% and 54.3% for leaves, respectively. The soluble fraction is higher for stem and leaves of hybrid sorghum but the effective degradability is higher just for stem fraction of hybrid sorghum. The use of concentrate supplementation does not interfere in the rumen when animals consume leaves and stem of the sorghum hybrid or Tanzania grass in grazing systems in the fall.

Reducing supplementation frequency for Nellore beef steers grazing tropical pastures

Reduced supplementation frequency is a broadly applied management practice. Ruminants consuming low quality forages/pastures, supplemented less than once daily are able to maintain body weight gain (BWG), efficiency of use of dry matter, nitrogen and other nutrients, as compared with animals supplemented once daily. We evaluated the feeding behavior, dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter and organic matter digestibility (DMD and OMD), BWG, Longissimus muscle area and backfat depth of Nellore steers raised on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pastures during the dry season, with different supplementation patterns. Thirty six animals (338 ± 40.7 kg) were distributed over nine paddocks according to a completely randomized design. Treatments were based on supplementation frequency: once daily (OD), once daily except Saturdays and Sundays (SS), or on alternate days (AD), at 1.0 %, 1.4 % and 2.0 % BW, respectively. Average total DMI accounted for 1.6 % BW day-1, with no effect of supplementation frequency. Supplementation frequency had no effect on BWG or grazing time during the day. There was no difference in Longissimus muscle area animals supplemented daily, SS and AD. The backfat depth was thinner in animals supplemented AD, but even in this case, it was within the standards considered satisfactory for a finishing steer. Reducing supplementation frequency seems a good option to lower labor costs without affecting feed efficiency or carcass quality in beef cattle grazing tropical pastures.(AU)

Degradabilidade in situ do híbrido de sorgo e do capim-Tanzânia em vacas suplementadas no outono / In situ degrability of sorghum hybrid and Tanzânia guinea-grass in supplented cows during autumn

O experimento foi conduzido na Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, em Ribeirão Preto, com objetivo de avaliar o efeito da suplementação concentrada na degradabilidade in situ dos colmos e das folhas do híbrido de sorgo e do capim-tanzânia colhidos no outono com e sem suplementação de concentrado em vacas. Amostras de folhas e colmos das gramíneas colhidas no início do outono foram incubadas em quatro vacas mestiças canuladas no rúmen, avaliando-se a fração solúvel, fração potencialmente degradável, taxa de degradação (kd) e a degradabilidade efetiva (DE), utilizando-se o delineamento em quadrado latino (4x4). Houve diferença (P<0,001) da fração solúvel do colmo entre as gramíneas, e o híbrido de sorgo apresentou maior resultado. Não houve efeito dos tratamentos (P=0,52) na taxa de degradação (kd), mas houve diferença (P<0,0001) entre os tratamentos para as degradações efetivas a 2%/h, 5%/h, e 8%/h, sendo as degradabilidades efetivas do colmo do capim-tanzânia menores que do híbrido de sorgo. Os resultados observados para fração solúvel, fração potencialmente degradável e DE com taxa de passagem de 2%/h para o hibrido de sorgo foram em média 25,12%; 48,78% e 52,5%/h para colmo e 18,6%; 64,54% e 56,9%/h para as folhas, respectivamente. Para o capim-tanzânia as médias obtidas foram de 12,27%; 43,33% e 36,6%/h para colmo e 14,96%; 60,95% e 54,3%/h para as folhas, respectivamente. A fração solúvel do colmo e das folhas é maior no híbrido de sorgo, e a degradabilidade efetiva é maior apenas no colmo do sorgo. O uso de suplementação concentrada não interfere na degradabilidade ruminal quando os animais consomem folhas e colmos de híbrido de sorgo ou capim-tanzânia em sistema de pastejo no outono.(AU)

The trial was carried out at Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, Ribeirão Preto, to compare in situ degradability of dry matter of hybrid sorghum and Tanzania guinea grass, stem and leaves, on fall with and without concentrate on the diet of the cows. Samples of stem and leaves, harvested on fall, were incubated in four rumen-canulated cows, using a latin square design (4x4). The soluble fraction, the insoluble fraction potentially degradable, degradation rate (kd) and the effective degradation (ED) was estimated. There was difference (P<0.001) between grass species for soluble fraction of the stem and it was higher for hybrid sorghum. No influence of treatments (P=0.52) was met for degradation rate (kd) for stem fraction, but the effective (P<0.0001) degradation rate at 2%/h, 5%/h and 8%/h was higher for stem hybrid sorghum. The degradability of leaves was similar for grasses species. The results for soluble fraction, insoluble fraction potentially degradable and ED with passage rate of 2%/h for hybrid sorghum were 25.12%, 48.78% and 52.5% for stem and 18.6%, 64.54% and 56.9% for leaf, respectively. For Tanzania guinea grass the averages were 12.27%, 43.33% and 36.6% for stem and 14.96%, 60.95% and 54.3% for leaves, respectively. The soluble fraction is higher for stem and leaves of hybrid sorghum but the effective degradability is higher just for stem fraction of hybrid sorghum. The use of concentrate supplementation does not interfere in the rumen when animals consume leaves and stem of the sorghum hybrid or Tanzania grass in grazing systems in the fall.(AU)

Caracterização agronômica e bromatológica de híbridos de milho para ensilagem / Agronomic and chemical characteristics of hybrid corn to ensiling

Objetivou-se avaliar as características agronômicas e químico-bromatológicas de híbridos de milho para ensilagem. Os tratamentos avaliados foram nove híbridos de milho (MX 300, RB 9308, 2B655, XB 6012, GNZ 2500, PL6890, PRE 32D10, PRE 22T10 e AG 1051), com três repetições. As maiores produções de MV foram verificadas nos híbridos PL6890 e PRE 32D10, enquanto a maior produção de MS foi observada no híbrido PRE 32D10 (13,43 t ha-1). Os híbridos PRE 32D10 e PRE 22T10 destacaram-se por apresentarem maior porcentagem de lâminas foliares em relação à planta inteira, enquanto a menor porcentagem de colmos foi encontrada nos híbridos MX 300, 2B655 e XB 6012, entretanto a maior relação folha:colmo foi verificada no híbrido XB 6012 (0,49). Observou-se maior teor de PB no híbrido PRE 32D10 (9,10% da MS), enquanto o menor teor de FDN (57,78% da MS) e celulose (24,27% da MS) foram verificados no híbrido GNZ 2500. O híbrido PL6890 apresentou maior teor de FDA (39,20 % da MS) e lignina (8,63% da MS), os demais híbridos apresentaram valores inferiores. Verificou-se menor N retido na FDN (NIDN) no híbrido RB 9308, enquanto a menor retenção de N em FDA (NIDA) ocorreu no híbrido 2B655. A menor capacidade tampão (CT) foi verificada no híbrido 2B655 (0,29). Embora haja diferenças na composição químico-bromatológica dos híbridos de milho avaliados neste estudo, recomenda-se utilizar os híbridos MX 300, PL6890 e PRE 32D10 por apresentarem produção de matéria seca mais elevada, os quais podem refletir na amortização dos custos na produção das silagens.(AU)

Our aim was to evaluate agronomic and chemical characteristics of corn hybrids to ensiling. It were evaluated nine corn hybrids (MX 300, RB 9308, 2B655, XB 6012, GNZ 2500, PL6890, PRE 32D10, PRE 22T10 e AG 1051), with three replicates. The higher fresh matter yield were observed in the hybrids PL6890 and PRE 32D10, while the dry matter yield was observed in the hybrid PRE 32D10 (13.43 t ha-1). The hybrids PRE 32D10 and PRE 22T10 stood out to present higher percent of leaf in relation to whole plant, while the lower percent of stems was found in the hybrids MX 300, 2B655 and XB 6012, however the higher leaves: stems relation was found in XB 6012 (0.49). There was higher CP content in the hybrid PRE 32D10 (9.10% of DM), while the lower NDF (57.78% of DM) and cellulose content (24.27% of DM) were observed in the hybrid GNZ 2500. The hybrid PL6890 presented higher ADF and lignin contents, the others hybrids had values lower. The lower NDIN content was observed in the hybrid RB 9308, while the lower AIDN content occurred on the hybrid 2B655. The lower buffer capacity was observed in the hybrid 2B655 (0.29). There are some differences on chemical composition among the corn hybrids used in this study, however, it is recommended to use the hybrids MX 300, PL6890 and PRE 32D10 for showing higher dry matter yield, which may reflect in the amortization of silage production costs.(AU)

Suplementação como estratégia de produção de carne de qualidade em pastagens tropicais / Supplementation as a strategy for the production of the beef quality in tropical pastures

O manejo do pastejo e a suplementação estratégica permitem maximizar a produção de carne bovina em pastagens de forma sustentável. A intensidade de pastejo influencia diretamente o crescimento individual, taxas de aparecimento e mortalidade de perfilhos, a determinar o acúmulo de forragem e a estrutura do dossel. Dessa forma, nas águas, é função do manejo do pastejo adequar a frequência e intensidade de desfolhação para que o animal possa colher forragem com idade fisiológica e valor nutritivo adequados. A idade e tamanho dos perfilhos determinam a proporção de tecidos de suporte lignificados que reduzem a digestibilidade da forragem. No período seco, o manejo do pasto e a estratégia de diferimento, ao final do período das águas, são determinantes na obtenção de forragem de melhor valor nutritivo. Assim, o manejo das pastagens visa, primeiramente, à produção de forragens com altos teores de fibra potencialmente digestíveis. A partir de então, a caracterização da quantidade e qualidade da forragem são primordiais à adequação dos nutrientes fornecidos, via suplementos, para otimizar a utilização dos recursos forrageiros basais. A suplementação da dieta dos animais em pastejo, com concentrado, permite aumentar o desempenho dos animais, o que reduz a idade de abate e melhora a qualidade da carcaça e da carne obtida, além dos benefícios na preparação dos animais terminados em confinamento. Portanto, o manejo do pastejo e a suplementação da dieta dos animais permitem aumento de produtividade e maior qualidade dos produtos.(AU)

Grazing management and strategic supplementation can maximize the production of beef cattle on pastures in a sustainable system. Grazing intensity affects directly on individual growth, appearance and mortality rate of tillers, and also determines the herbage accumulation and canopy structure. During the rainy season is a function of grazing management to adapt the frequency and intensity of defoliation, to supply the animal with forage in an appropriate physiological stage and nutritive value. The age and size of tillers determine the proportion of lignified tissues that will reduce the digestibility of forage. During dry season, the stockpiled pasture strategies at the end of the rainy season, will be crucial to obtaining forage of highest nutritive value. The pasture management primarily aims to produce forages with high levels of potentially digestible fiber. Since then, the characterization of the forage quantity and quality are essential to adjusting the nutrients supplied by supplements to optimize the available forage utilization. Supplementation of grazing beef cattle with concentrate can increase animal performance, reduce the slaughter age, and improve the quality of carcass and meat. Moreover, it has benefits in the preparation of the animals that will be finished in feedlot, and reducing this phase. Therefore, grazing management and supplementation of the animal diet should increase productivity, and improved carcass and beef quality.(AU)

Suplementação como estratégia de produção de carne de qualidade em pastagens tropicais / Supplementation as a strategy for the production of the beef quality in tropical pastures

O manejo do pastejo e a suplementação estratégica permitem maximizar a produção de carne bovina em pastagens de forma sustentável. A intensidade de pastejo influencia diretamente o crescimento individual, taxas de aparecimento e mortalidade de perfilhos, a determinar o acúmulo de forragem e a estrutura do dossel. Dessa forma, nas águas, é função do manejo do pastejo adequar a frequência e intensidade de desfolhação para que o animal possa colher forragem com idade fisiológica e valor nutritivo adequados. A idade e tamanho dos perfilhos determinam a proporção de tecidos de suporte lignificados que reduzem a digestibilidade da forragem. No período seco, o manejo do pasto e a estratégia de diferimento, ao final do período das águas, são determinantes na obtenção de forragem de melhor valor nutritivo. Assim, o manejo das pastagens visa, primeiramente, à produção de forragens com altos teores de fibra potencialmente digestíveis. A partir de então, a caracterização da quantidade e qualidade da forragem são primordiais à adequação dos nutrientes fornecidos, via suplementos, para otimizar a utilização dos recursos forrageiros basais. A suplementação da dieta dos animais em pastejo, com concentrado, permite aumentar o desempenho dos animais, o que reduz a idade de abate e melhora a qualidade da carcaça e da carne obtida, além dos benefícios na preparação dos animais terminados em confinamento. Portanto, o manejo do pastejo e a suplementação da dieta dos animais permitem aumento de produtividade e maior qualidade dos produtos.

Grazing management and strategic supplementation can maximize the production of beef cattle on pastures in a sustainable system. Grazing intensity affects directly on individual growth, appearance and mortality rate of tillers, and also determines the herbage accumulation and canopy structure. During the rainy season is a function of grazing management to adapt the frequency and intensity of defoliation, to supply the animal with forage in an appropriate physiological stage and nutritive value. The age and size of tillers determine the proportion of lignified tissues that will reduce the digestibility of forage. During dry season, the stockpiled pasture strategies at the end of the rainy season, will be crucial to obtaining forage of highest nutritive value. The pasture management primarily aims to produce forages with high levels of potentially digestible fiber. Since then, the characterization of the forage quantity and quality are essential to adjusting the nutrients supplied by supplements to optimize the available forage utilization. Supplementation of grazing beef cattle with concentrate can increase animal performance, reduce the slaughter age, and improve the quality of carcass and meat. Moreover, it has benefits in the preparation of the animals that will be finished in feedlot, and reducing this phase. Therefore, grazing management and supplementation of the animal diet should increase productivity, and improved carcass and beef quality.

Nitrogen and carbohydrate fractions in exclusive Tifton 85 and in pasture oversown with annual winter forage species / Fracionamento do nitrogênio e dos carboidratos de Tifton 85 exclusivo ou sobressemeado com forrageiras anuais

The experiment was undertaken at the Faculty of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV) Jaboticabal, São Paulo State, Brazil, during winter-spring-summer of 2001-2002, to determine the fractionation of nitrogen and carbohydrates in Tifton 85 (Cynodon dactylon Vanderyst x Cynodon nlemfuensis (L.) Pers), exclusively or oversown with winter annual forage species. Treatments comprised bristle oat (Avena strigosa Schreb), yellow oat (Avena byzantina C. Koch), triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack), bristle oat + yellow oat, bristle oat + triticale, yellow oat + triticale, bristle oat + yellow oat + triticale seeded in Tifton 85 and sole crop (control). Experimental design was composed of completely randomized blocks with three replications. Fodder was cut 20 cm high (presence of winter forage) and 10 cm high (Tifton 85 pasture). Crude protein, total carbohydrate and the fractions of nitrogen compounds and carbohydrates were determined. Decrease was reported in the levels of chemical compounds in winter forage species and in Tifton 85 during the evaluation periods. The content of nitrogen compounds and carbohydrates varied widely during the evaluation period according to the morphological characteristics of grass species and botanical composition of pastures.

O experimento foi conduzido na FCAV ­ Campus de Jaboticabal, no período de invernoprimavera-verão de 2001-2002, com o objetivo de determinar o fracionamento de compostos nitrogenados e de carboidratos do Tifton 85 (Cynodon nlemfuensis Vanderyst x Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers), exclusivo ou sobressemeado com forrageiras anuais de inverno. Os tratamentos testados foram: aveia preta (Avena strigosa Schreb); aveia amarela (Avena byzantina C. Koch); triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack); aveia preta + aveia amarela; aveia preta + triticale; aveia amarela + triticale; aveia preta + aveia amarela + triticale, sobressemeados sobre Tifton 85 e, sem consorciação (testemunha). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos completos ao acaso, com três repetições. O corte das forrageiras foi realizado a 20 cm de altura (presença de forrageiras de inverno) e 10 cm de altura (ausência das forrageiras de inverno). Foram determinados os teores de proteína bruta, carboidratos totais, e o fracionamento dos compostos nitrogenados e de carboidratos. Houve redução nos teores dos compostos químicos das espécies de forrageiras de inverno e no Tifton 85 ao longo dos períodos de avaliações. Os conteúdos de compostos nitrogenados e de carboidratos apresentaram grande variação durante os períodos avaliados, relacionando com as características morfológicas das espécies de gramineas e com a composição botânica das pastagens.

Suplementação da dieta de novilhos de três grupos genéticos em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu / Supplementation of the diets of three genetic groups of crossbred steers on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pasture

Avaliou-se o efeito de níveis de suplementação no desempenho de novilhos de três grupos genéticos (Nelore x Red Angus (NR), Nelore (NL) e mestiço Holandês (MH)), em três períodos experimentais. O desempenho do primeiro período foi analisado em DBC, composto por três tratamentos (NR, NL e MH) e três blocos. No segundo período, usou-se DBC em esquema de análise fatorial 3 x 3, com três blocos. O fator A determinou o grupo (NR, NL e MH) e o fator B, níveis de suplementação (0,2; 0,6 e 1% PV). No terceiro período, usou-se DIC em esquema de análise fatorial 2 x 3. O fator A determinou o grupo (NL e MH) e o fator B, três níveis de suplementação. No início, foi verificado maior ganho de peso (GP) no NR (0,79 kg dia-1) comparado ao MH e N (0,73 e 0,61 kg dia-1). O consumo de concentrado variou no NL. No segundo período, o NR apresentou maior GP (0,91 kg dia-1) comparado ao NL (0,75 kg dia-1) e MH (0,76 kg dia-1), sendo influenciados pelos níveis de suplementação. No terceiro período, MH apresentou maior GP (0,89 kg dia-1). Não houve diferença entre os animais com 0,8 e 1,2% do PV, com GP de 0,82 e 0,92 kg dia-1.

This trial was carried out to study the effects of supplementation level on performance of steers from different genetic groups (Nellore x Red Angus (NR), Nellore (NL) and Holstein crossbred (MH), and three experimental periods. The performance data for first period were analyzed according to randomized block (RB) design, with 3 treatments ((NR, NL and MH)) and 3 blocks. In second period, the RB design used with 3 x 3 factorial design, and 3 blocks. Factor A determined the group (NL and MH) and factor B the supplementation levels (0.2, 0.6 and 1% LW). In third period, the data were evaluated according to completely randomized design, with 2 x 3 factorial design. Factor A determined the group and factor B, three levels of supplementation. In the first, higher weight gain (p < 0.05) was observed for NR (0.79 kg day-1) compared to MH and NL (0.73 and 0.61 kg day-1). The concentrate intake varied for N. NR showed higher (p < 0.05) WG (0.91 kg day-1) compared to NL (0.75 kg day-1) and MH (0.76 kg day-1). The levels of supplements influenced (p < 0.05) WG (0.68, 0.81 and 0.92 referring to levels of 0.2, 0.6 and 1.0% LW). In third period, MH presented greater WG < 0.05) (0.895 kg day-1). No difference was verified on animals with 0.8 and 1.2% LW, with WG of 0.92 and 0.82 kg day-1.

Desempenho de bovinos em pastejo submetidos a duas frequências de suplementação no período da seca / Steers performances in grazing submitted by two supplementation intervals during dry season

Com o objetivo de avaliar diferentes frequências de suplementação no período da seca foram utilizados 48 bovinos da raça Nelore com peso médio inicial de 320 kg, em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu, submetidos aos tratamentos: suplementação diária e suplementação três vezes por semana, a fim de avaliar o ganho médio diário de peso corporal dos animais nesse período. Os animais de ambos os tratamentos receberam, semanalmente 7,0 kg de suplemento animal-1 e foram pesados em intervalos de 28 dias. Os dados foram analisados pelo procedimento MIXED do SAS (2004) com medidas repetidas no tempo. Observou-se oferta de forragem média de 4,2 toneladas de MS ha-1, com teores médios de 3,5% de PB, 82,24% de FDN e 64,97% de FDA na forragem. Não foi observada diferença (p > 0,01) nos ganhos de peso médio diário entre os animais que receberam o suplemento diariamente (0,23 kg dia-1) e aqueles que receberam três vezes por semana (0,13 kg dia-1). Portanto, as frequências de suplementação não influenciaram no ganho diário de peso corporal dos animais no período da seca.(AU)

This work was carried out to evaluate different frequencies of supplementation during the dry season. Forty-eight Nellore steers with 320 kg of initial live weight were fed with Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pasture on a continuous stocking rate. The animals were submitted to following treatments: daily supplementation and supplementation three times a week. The animals in both treatments received 7 kg of supplementation animal-1 weekly, and were weighted at 28-day intervals. The data were analyzed by the MIXED procedure in SAS (2004), with measurements repeated over time. The study observed average forage allowance of 4.2 tons of DM ha-1, with 3.5% CP, 82.24% NDF and 64.97% ADF. There was no difference (p < 0.01) among daily weight gains of animals who received daily supplementation and those received supplementation three times a week (0.23 and 0.13 kg day-1, respectively). Therefore, the supplementation intervals did not influence steer performance during the dry season.(AU)

Influência de fontes de nitrogênio no consumo e digestibilidade aparente total e parcial de novilhos alimentados com cana-de-açúcar / Effects of nitrogen sources in the intake, total and partial digestibility of steers feeding on sugarcane

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar os efeitos de fontes de nitrogênio, utilizando-se como volumoso a cana-de-açúcar, suplementada com ureia, glúten de milho- 60 ou farelo de soja, sobre o consumo e a digestibilidade aparente total e parcial, em novilhos mestiços. Os tratamentos foram: cana-de-açúcar, cana-de-açúcar suplementada com ureia, glúten de milho-60 ou farelo de soja. Foram utilizados oito novilhos canulados no rúmen e duodeno, distribuídos em dois quadrados latinos 4 x 4. Para se determinar a digestibilidade aparente no trato digestivo total foi utilizada a coleta total de fezes. As determinações das digestibilidades ruminal e intestinal e dos fluxos diários de matéria seca foram estimadas por meio da fibra em detergente ácido indigestível (FDAi) como marcador de fluxo duodenal. Os consumos de MS, MO, PB, EE, ED, FDN, FDA e CT foram influenciados (p < 0,05) pelas fontes de nitrogênio, sendo observado consumo inferior nos animais alimentados exclusivamente com cana-de-açúcar em relação aos animais alimentados com as demais rações experimentais. Entretanto, as fontes de nitrogênio não afetaram o consumo de NDT. As digestibilidade aparente total, ruminal e intestinal dos nutrientes não foram influenciadas pela adição de fontes de nitrogênio, com exceção da matéria seca e da proteína bruta.(AU)

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen sources, using sugarcane supplemented with urea, corn gluten meal- 60 or soybean meal. It was evaluated Intake, total and partial apparent digestibility were evaluated using four rumen and duodenal cannulated crossbred steers. The treatments were evaluated in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. The total feces were collected to determine the apparent digestibility on the total intestinal tract. The indigestible acid detergent fiber (iADF) was used as marker of duodenal flux to determine ruminal and intestinal digestibility and dry matter daily flux. The DM, OM, CP, EE, DE, NDF, ADF and TC intakes and digestibility rates were influenced by nitrogen sources, and lower intake was observed in animals fed exclusively with cane sugar compared to animals fed the other experimental diets. Meanwhile the sources of nitrogen did not affect the total digestible nutrients (TDN) values. The RDP sources did not affect the total, ruminal, and intestinal nutrients apparent digestibility. However, the total, ruminal, and intestinal dry matter, and protein apparent digestibility were affected by the RDP sources.(AU)

Influência de fontes de nitrogênio no consumo e digestibilidade aparente total e parcial de novilhos alimentados com cana-de-açúcar / Effects of nitrogen sources in the intake, total and partial digestibility of steers feeding on sugarcane

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar os efeitos de fontes de nitrogênio, utilizando-se como volumoso a cana-de-açúcar, suplementada com ureia, glúten de milho- 60 ou farelo de soja, sobre o consumo e a digestibilidade aparente total e parcial, em novilhos mestiços. Os tratamentos foram: cana-de-açúcar, cana-de-açúcar suplementada com ureia, glúten de milho-60 ou farelo de soja. Foram utilizados oito novilhos canulados no rúmen e duodeno, distribuídos em dois quadrados latinos 4 x 4. Para se determinar a digestibilidade aparente no trato digestivo total foi utilizada a coleta total de fezes. As determinações das digestibilidades ruminal e intestinal e dos fluxos diários de matéria seca foram estimadas por meio da fibra em detergente ácido indigestível (FDAi) como marcador de fluxo duodenal. Os consumos de MS, MO, PB, EE, ED, FDN, FDA e CT foram influenciados (p < 0,05) pelas fontes de nitrogênio, sendo observado consumo inferior nos animais alimentados exclusivamente com cana-de-açúcar em relação aos animais alimentados com as demais rações experimentais. Entretanto, as fontes de nitrogênio não afetaram o consumo de NDT. As digestibilidade aparente total, ruminal e intestinal dos nutrientes não foram influenciadas pela adição de fontes de nitrogênio, com exceção da matéria seca e da proteína bruta.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen sources, using sugarcane supplemented with urea, corn gluten meal- 60 or soybean meal. It was evaluated Intake, total and partial apparent digestibility were evaluated using four rumen and duodenal cannulated crossbred steers. The treatments were evaluated in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. The total feces were collected to determine the apparent digestibility on the total intestinal tract. The indigestible acid detergent fiber (iADF) was used as marker of duodenal flux to determine ruminal and intestinal digestibility and dry matter daily flux. The DM, OM, CP, EE, DE, NDF, ADF and TC intakes and digestibility rates were influenced by nitrogen sources, and lower intake was observed in animals fed exclusively with cane sugar compared to animals fed the other experimental diets. Meanwhile the sources of nitrogen did not affect the total digestible nutrients (TDN) values. The RDP sources did not affect the total, ruminal, and intestinal nutrients apparent digestibility. However, the total, ruminal, and intestinal dry matter, and protein apparent digestibility were affected by the RDP sources.

Desempenho de bovinos em pastejo submetidos a duas frequências de suplementação no período da seca / Steers performances in grazing submitted by two supplementation intervals during dry season

Com o objetivo de avaliar diferentes frequências de suplementação no período da seca foram utilizados 48 bovinos da raça Nelore com peso médio inicial de 320 kg, em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu, submetidos aos tratamentos: suplementação diária e suplementação três vezes por semana, a fim de avaliar o ganho médio diário de peso corporal dos animais nesse período. Os animais de ambos os tratamentos receberam, semanalmente 7,0 kg de suplemento animal-1 e foram pesados em intervalos de 28 dias. Os dados foram analisados pelo procedimento MIXED do SAS (2004) com medidas repetidas no tempo. Observou-se oferta de forragem média de 4,2 toneladas de MS ha-1, com teores médios de 3,5% de PB, 82,24% de FDN e 64,97% de FDA na forragem. Não foi observada diferença (p > 0,01) nos ganhos de peso médio diário entre os animais que receberam o suplemento diariamente (0,23 kg dia-1) e aqueles que receberam três vezes por semana (0,13 kg dia-1). Portanto, as frequências de suplementação não influenciaram no ganho diário de peso corporal dos animais no período da seca.

This work was carried out to evaluate different frequencies of supplementation during the dry season. Forty-eight Nellore steers with 320 kg of initial live weight were fed with Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pasture on a continuous stocking rate. The animals were submitted to following treatments: daily supplementation and supplementation three times a week. The animals in both treatments received 7 kg of supplementation animal-1 weekly, and were weighted at 28-day intervals. The data were analyzed by the MIXED procedure in SAS (2004), with measurements repeated over time. The study observed average forage allowance of 4.2 tons of DM ha-1, with 3.5% CP, 82.24% NDF and 64.97% ADF. There was no difference (p < 0.01) among daily weight gains of animals who received daily supplementation and those received supplementation three times a week (0.23 and 0.13 kg day-1, respectively). Therefore, the supplementation intervals did not influence steer performance during the dry season.