Ingestive behavior of Holstein × Zebu cows managed on deferred supplemented pasture

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing on deferred pasture receiving different supplementation strategies. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 3×4 factorial, with three supplementation strategies and four evaluation periods. The ingestive behavior of 24 cows divided into three groups of supplementation provided at milking was observed, and two of these groups received protein in the pasture. Ingestive behavior was monitored every 10 minutes for 24 hours and analyzed in the form of periods (morning, afternoon, night, and dawn) and total time. The animals remained longer grazing during the afternoon when the BGHI presented values of 83.8. Protein consumption did not influence grazing time but interfered with forage consumption. For the total grazing time, the animals in group 2 spent less time grazing. The groups of animals presented no difference concerning the time spent on rumination and idleness. During night and dawn, when the climate was characterized as thermal comfort, the animals spent more time ruminating. The climatic conditions did not influence the ingestive behavior, as the grazing peak was observed at times of higher BGHI. However, supplementation of the animals in group 2 modified the ingestive behavior of F1 H × Z cows.

Effect of replacement of forage sorghum silage with biomass sorghum silage in diets for dairy heifers / Efeito da substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro por silagem de sorgo biomassa em dietas para novilhas leiteiras

This trial aimed to analyze the replacement of forage sorghum silage (FS silage) with biomass sorghum silage (BRS 716 silage) in diets for heifers ¾ Holstein x » Zebu on their nutrient intake and digestibility, nitrogen balance, microbial production, feeding behavior, and animal performance. Eight heifers with average age 18±4 months (mo) and average body weight (BW) 271 ± 57 kg were used. The experimental design was double-Latin square, 4×4, being four diets, four experimental periods and four animals. Four experimental diets with 0, 33, 67 and 100% substitution of forage sorghum silage with biomass sorghum silage were used. The roughage:concentrate ratio in the total dry matter (DM) of the diets was 75:25. The fraction "b" of DM was higher in the BRS 716 silage. There was no difference (p> 0.05) for dry matter intake (DMI; p = 0.45) and total digestible nutrients intake (p = 0.76). The dry matter digestibility (DMD), crude protein, ether extract and neutral detergent fiber increased linearly with the inclusion of BRS 716 silage. The feeding times, ruminating and idle have not been changed (p > 0.05). The replacement of FS silage with BRS 716 silage did not modify the average daily weight gain (ADG; p > 0.05; mean 1.30 ± 0.025 kg). Biomass sorghum silage can replace up to 100% forage sorghum silage in the diets of ¾ Holstein x » Zebu heifers.(AU)

Objetivou-se analisar a substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro (silagem FS) pela silagem de sorgo biomassa (silagem BRS 716) em dietas para novilhas ¾ Holandês x » Zebu sobre o consumo e digestibilidade de nutrientes, balanço de nitrogênio, produção microbiana, comportamento alimentar e desempenho animal. Foram utilizadas oito novilhas com idade média de 18 ± 4 meses e peso corporal (PC) médio de 271 ± 57 kg. O delineamento experimental foi o quadrado latino duplo, 4 × 4, sendo quatro dietas, quatro períodos experimentais e quatro animais. Foram utilizadas quatro dietas experimentais com 0, 33, 67 e 100% de substituição da silagem de sorgo forrageiro pela silagem de sorgo biomassa. A relação volumoso: concentrado na matéria seca total (MS) das dietas foi de 75:25. A fração "b" da MS foi maior na silagem BRS 716. Não houve diferença (p > 0,05) para consumo de matéria seca (CMS; p = 0,45) e consumo de nutrientes digestíveis totais (p = 0,76). A digestibilidade da matéria seca (DMS), proteína bruta, extrato etéreo e fibra em detergente neutro aumentaram linearmente com a inclusão da silagem BRS 716. Os tempos de alimentação, ruminação e ócio não foram alterados (p > 0,05). A substituição da silagem FS pela silagem de BRS 716 não alterou o ganho em peso médio diário (GMD; p > 0,05; média 1,30 ± 0,025 kg). A silagem de sorgo biomassa pode substituir até 100% a silagem de sorgo forrageiro na dieta de novilhas ¾ Holandês x » Zebu.(AU)

Production and nutritional value of wheat and triticale cultivars in different harvest times in the Minas Gerais semiarid / Produção e valor nutricional de cultivares de trigo e triticale em diferentes épocas de colheita no semiárido mineiro

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the productive performance and nutritional value of forage of wheat and triticale cultivars at different harvest times in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. Eight wheat cultivars and two triticale cultivars harvested at three stages of plant development were evaluated: Rubberization, grain at the stage of soft mass and harvest maturation. The experimental design adopted was a randomized block in a factorial scheme 10 × 3, with three replicates, 10 cultivars and 3 developmental stages for plant collection. The main agronomic characteristics and nutritional value were evaluated of forage of the cultivars under study. The study demonstrated the potential of wheat and triticale cultivation for forage in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. The mean dry matter yield of wheat cultivars was 5.90 t ha-1, 7.85 t ha-1 and 7.98 t ha-1 and triticale 6.47 t ha-1, 9.97 t ha-1 and 10.5 t ha-1 for the rubber harvesting stages, grain at the stage of soft mass and harvest maturation, respectively. For the average crude protein content, the wheat cultivars showed 15.07%, 9.13%, 10.60% and the triticale cultivars showed 14.4%, 9.31% and 10.05% for the harvest stages of rubber formation, grain at the stage of soft mass and harvest maturation, respectively. When evaluating the average levels of total digestible nutrients, the wheat and triticale cultivars showed an average of 48.90% and 48.67% in the rubber harvesting stage and 42.68% and 49.60% in the grain in the mass stage suave and 44.43% and 42.90% at harvest maturation. The highest yield of digestible dry matter was observed with the cultivars harvested at the grain stage at the soft mass stage. Triticale IPR 111 and Wheat IPR PANATY had greater productive potential and better nutritional quality for use as forage.(AU)

Objetivou-se com o presente estudo avaliar o desempenho produtivo e valor nutricional da forragem de cultivares de trigo e triticale em diferentes épocas de colheita no semiárido Mineiro. Foram avaliados oito cultivares de trigo e duas cultivares de triticale colhidas em três estádios de desenvolvimento das plantas: no Emborrachamento, grão no estádio de massa macia e maturação de colheita. O delineamento experimental adotado foi em blocos ao acaso em esquema fatorial 10×3, com três repetições sendo 10 cultivares e 3 estádios de desenvolvimento para colheita das plantas. Foram avaliadas as principais características agronômicas e o valor nutricional da forragem das cultivares em estudo. A pesquisa demonstrou o potencial do cultivo do trigo e triticale para forragem no semiárido de Minas Gerais. A produtividade média de matéria seca das cultivares de trigo foi de 5,90 t ha-1, 7,85 t ha-1 e 7,98 t ha-1 e triticale 6,47 t ha-1, 9,97 t ha-1 e 10,5 t ha-1 para os estádios de colheita de emborrachamento, grão no estádio de massa macia e maturação de colheita respectivamente. Para os teores médios de proteína bruta as cultivares de trigo apresentaram 15,07%, 9,13%, 10,60% e as cultivares de triticale 14,4%, 9,31% e 10,05% para os estádios de colheita de emborrachamento, grão no estádio de massa macia e maturação de colheita respectivamente. Ao se avaliar os teores médios de nutrientes digestíveis totais as cultivares de trigo e triticale apresentaram média de 48,90% e 48,67% no estádio de colheita de emborrachamento, 42,68% e 49,60% no grão no estádio de massa macia e 44,43% e 42,90% na maturação de colheita. A maior produtividade de matéria seca digestível foi observada com as cultivares colhidas no estádio de grão no estádio de massa macia. O Triticale IPR 111 e o Trigo IPR PANATY tiveram maior potencial produtivo e melhor qualidade nutricional para uso como forragem.(AU)

Supplementation strategies for lactating F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on deferred pastures / Estratégias de suplementação para vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu em lactação em pasto diferido

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different concentrate supplementation strategies to lactating F1 Holstein x Zebu cows managed on deferred signal grass pasture on milk yield, composition and body weight gain. Thirty-six F1 Holstein x Zebu cows with average days in milk of 102 ± 10 and body weight of 501 ± 19 kg were allotted to a 4 x 5 completely randomized factorial design, with four feeding strategies and five weeks of evaluation. The treatments consisted of four nutritional strategies: deferred pasture as a source of roughage + 700 grams of protein supplement (PDPI); deferred pasture as a source of roughage + 1,200 grams of protein supplement (PDPII); deferred pasture + 15 kilograms of corn silage (natural basis) + 1,200 grams of protein supplement (PDSP) and corn silage (ad libitum) + 700 grams of protein supplement (CSS). There was no interaction (P = 0.99) between supplementation strategies and test days on milk yield and chemical composition. The mean milk yield of cows managed on PDPI, PDPII and PDSP was 11.50 kg/day (P > 0.05), which was 14.30% lower than that of cows managed on CSS. Fat content (P < 0.01), protein (P < 0.01), lactose (P < 0.01), defatted dry extract (DDE) (P< 0 .01), total solids (P < 0.01) and milk casein (P < 0.01) were affected by different supplementation strategies. F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on deferred Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk pasture and supplemented with concentrate maintains milk production at 11.50 kg with normal composition, maintaining satisfactory body weight and condition score.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de diferentes estratégias de suplementação com concentrado para vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu em lactação manejadas em pastagem de capim-braquiária diferida sobre a produção, composição e ganho de peso corporal do leite. Trinta e seis vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu com média de dias em leite de 102 ± 10 e peso corporal de 501 ± 19 kg foram distribuídas em um planejamento fatorial 4 x 5 inteiramente casualizado, com quatro estratégias de alimentação e cinco semanas de avaliação. Os tratamentos consistiram em quatro estratégias nutricionais: pasto diferido como fonte de volumoso + 700 gramas de suplemento protéico (PDPI); pastagem diferida como fonte de volumoso + 1.200 gramas de suplemento protéico (PDPII); pastagem diferida + 15 quilos de silagem de milho (base natural) + 1.200 gramas de suplemento protéico (PDSP) e silagem de milho (ad libitum) + 700 gramas de suplemento protéico (CSS). Não houve interação (P = 0,99) entre as estratégias de suplementação e os dias de teste na produção e composição química do leite. A produção média de leite das vacas manejadas com PDPI, PDPII e PDSP foi de 11,50 kg / dia (P > 0,05), que foi 14,30% menor que a das vacas manejadas com CSS. O teor de gordura (P < 0,01), proteína (P < 0,01), lactose (P < 0,01), extrato seco desengordurado (DDE) (P < 0,01), sólidos totais (P < 0,01) e caseína do leite (P < 0,01) foram afetados por diferentes estratégias de suplementação. Vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu em Urochloa decumbens diferida cv. O pasto de Basilisk e suplementada com concentrado mantém a produção de leite em 11,50 kg com composição normal, mantendo peso corporal e escore de condição satisfatórios.(AU)

Yield and nutritional value of sorghum genotype silages using Azospirillum brasilense in the northern region of the state of Minas Gerais / Produtividade e valor nutricional das silagens de genótipos de sorgo com uso de Azospirillum brasilense na região norte de Minas Gerais

Sorghum is a crop of great interest in animal feed in semiarid regions. The environment and nitrogen fertilization can influence its productive potential and nutritional quality. This study aimed to evaluate sorghum biomass genotypes associated or not with Azospirillum brasilense managed at different sowing sites on the yield and nutritional value of silage. We evaluated 3 sorghum genotypes combined with 3 fertilization strategies using urea, Azospirillum brasilense and the urea/A brasilense combination in two planting sites (Janaúba, MG, and Montes Claros, MG). A randomized block design was carried out in a 3 x 3 x 2 factorial arrangement of 3 genotypes, 3 fertilization strategies and 2 sowing sites. Azospirillum brasilense foliar spraying was carried out using a costal (Backpack) atomizer and for silage production, PVC silos with weight and length of 50 cm and 10 cm in diameter were used. There was no triple interaction between the studied variables. There were differences between genotypes and between sites for agronomic traits. Statistical differences were detected between genotypes and sites for chemical composition, and sorghum forage on digestibility evaluations. The region of Montes Claros has greater forage production and the region of Janaúba has better quality of silage. Biomass sorghum genotypes have higher forage production and the Volumax genotype has better silage quality(AU)

O sorgo é uma cultura de grande interesse na alimentação animal em regiões semiáridas. O ambiente e a adubação nitrogenada podem influenciar seu potencial produtivo e qualidade nutricional. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar genótipos de biomassa de sorgo associados ou não ao Azospirillum brasilense manejados em diferentes locais de semeadura sobre a produtividade e valor nutricional da silagem. Foram avaliados três genótipos de sorgo associados e três estratégias de adubação utilizando ureia, Azospirillum brasilense e a associação ureia/A. brasilense em dois locais de plantio (Janaúba, MG e Montes Claros, MG). O delineamento foi em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 3 x 3 x 2, com 3 genótipos, 3 estratégias de adubação e 2 locais de semeadura. A pulverização foliar de Azospirillum brasilense foi feita com o auxílio de um atomizador costal e para a produção de silagem foram utilizados silos de PVC com peso conhecido e comprimento de 50 cm e 10 cm de diâmetro. Não houve interação tripla entre as variáveis estudadas. Houve diferenças entre genótipos e entre locais para características agronômicas. Também foram observadas diferenças estatísticas entre os genótipos e locais estudados para a composição química e forrageira de sorgo nas avaliações de digestibilidade. A região de Montes Claros possui maior produção de forragem e a região de Janaúba possui melhor qualidade de silagem. Os genótipos de sorgo biomassa apresentam maior produção de forragem e o genótipo Volumax apresenta melhor qualidade de silagem.(AU)

Physiological parameters of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows fed with banana peel / Parâmetros fisiológicos de vacas F1 Holandês × Zebu alimentadas com inclusão de casca de banana

The objective was to evaluate the effects of different levels of banana peel inclusion on the physiological variables of lactating F1 Holstein × Zebu cows. Ten cows distributed in two 5 × 5 Latin squares were used. Five experimental diets were tested: sorghum silage (control group); and the addition of 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% of banana peel to replace sorghum silage. The experiment lasted 80 days. The environmental and physiological variables of the animals were measured. The Black Globe-Humidity Index presented an alert situation in the morning shift and a dangerous situation in the afternoon shift. The respiratory rate was not influenced by the levels of banana peel inclusion (P > 0.05) in the morning shift. However, it was influenced (P < 0.05) in the afternoon shift. The levels of banana peel inclusion in the diet did not affect the rectal temperature. Under the study environmental conditions, the level of up to 60% of banana peel replacing sorghum silage did not alter the physiological variables of thermoregulation in F1 Holstein × Zebu cows.

Objetivou-se avaliar níveis de inclusão da casca de banana sobre as variáveis fisiológicas de vacas F1 Holandesas × Zebu em lactação. Foram utilizadas 10 vacas distribuídas em dois quadrados latinos 5×5. Sendo cinco dietas experimentais: silagem de sorgo (grupo controle); e a inserção de 15, 30, 45 e 60% da casca de banana em substituição a silagem de sorgo. O experimento teve duração de 80 dias. Mensuraram-se as variáveis ambientais e fisiológicas dos animais. O índice de temperatura de globo negro e umidade encontrada no turno matutino apresentou uma situação de alerta e no turno vespertino uma situação perigosa. A frequência respiratória foi influenciada pelos níveis de inclusão de casca de banana no turno vespertino. A temperatura retal não foi influenciada pelos níveis de inclusão de casca de banana na dieta. Sob as condições ambientais estudadas, o nível de até 60% de casca de banana, em substituição a silagem de sorgo, não alterou as variáveis fisiológicas de termorregulação em vacas F1 Holandesas × Zebu.

Fermentation profile and nutritional value of millet grain silages rehydrated with whey and/or molasses / Perfil fermentativo e valor nutricional de silagens de grãos de milheto reidratadas com soro de leite e/ou melaço

This study aimed to evaluate the fermentation profile and nutritional value of millet grain silages rehydrated with whey and/or molasses. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replications, with a control treatment (water rehydration), whey rehydration, water rehydration plus molasses (2.5%), and whey plus molasses (2.5%). Lower values of dry matter content (DM = 66.37; 1.55%) were found for the control silage, but within the recommended range. The contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, lignin and hemicellulose were not influenced by the use of additives. There was no difference (p>0.05) for aerobic stability and ammonia-N (6.04%) between treatments. For pH, lower values were observed for silages with molasses. There was a higher concentration (p <0.05) of lactic acid in silages with whey, and a higher concentration of butyric acid in silages added exclusively with molasses. The use of whey improved dry matter recovery compared to control silages.

Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil fermentativo e o valor nutricional de silagens de grãos de milheto reidratados com soro de leite e/ou melaço. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições, sendo tratamento controle (reidratação com água), reidratação com soro de leite, reidratação com água mais melaço (2.5%), e soro de leite mais melaço (2.5%). Observou-se menor teor de matéria seca (MS = 66.37; 1.55%) na silagem controle em relação aos demais tratamentos, contudo este se encontra dentro do limite desejável. Os teores de proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido, lignina e hemicelulose não foram influenciados pelo uso dos aditivos. Não houve diferença (p >0.05) para estabilidade aeróbica e N-amoniacal (6.04% NT) entre os tratamentos. Para valores de pH observou-se menores valores para as silagens com melaço em relação as demais. Houve maior concentração (p <0.05) de ácido lático nas silagens com soro de leite e maior concentração de ácido butírico nas silagens aditivadas exclusivamente com melaço. A utilização do soro de leite melhorou a recuperação da matéria seca em relação às silagens controle. Observou-se maior degradabilidade da matéria seca com 8% de taxa de passagem nas silagens aditivadas com melaço e/ou soro em relação ao controle.

Economic viability of different diets for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows in milk production systems / Viabilidade econômica do uso de diferentes ofertas de dietas para vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu no sistema de produção de leite

The aim of this study was to evaluate different levels of feed restriction in the diet for F1 Holstein x Zebu cows during the winter on performance and economic viability. Data from Zootechnical book keeping, and from experiments conducted in the Experimental Field of Felixlândia, belonging to EPAMIG, were used. Total lactation of sixty F1 Holstein x Zebu cows receiving different diets was analyzed, by 2.00%, 2.25%, 2.50%, 2.75% body weight (BW), and a control group (3.4%; no feed restriction), allowing 5% leftovers in relation to the dry matter supplied, distributed in a completely randomized design. Data on milk production and feed cost were collected, evaluating the different periods that characterize the lactation of an animal. The highest milk production was found in the diet levels 3.4 %, and 2.75% BW, 3,636.00, and 3,271.50 kg, respectively. Lower milk production was observed at levels of 2.50%; 2.25%; 2.00% BW, respectively. The highest feed cost was verified without feed restriction followed by the levels of 2.75%, 2.50%, 2.25%, and 2.00% BW. The supply of the no feed restriction diet resulted in a performance superior to levels 2.75; 2.50; 2.25; 2.00% BW. The items profit, profitability were similar between all treatments, indicating that, when there is occasional feed shortage, a restriction in the diet supply of up to 2% BW provides economic security to the rural producer.

Objetivou-se por meio deste estudo avaliar diferentes níveis de restrição alimentar da dieta de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu durante o inverno sobre o desempenho e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados dados da escrituração zootécnica e de experimentos realizados no Campo Experimental de Felixlândia, pertencente à EPAMIG. Foi analisada a lactação total de sessenta vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu submetidas a diferentes ofertas de dieta, em 2,00%, 2,25%, 2,50%, 2,75% do peso corporal (PC) e um grupo controle com alimentação à vontade (3,4%), permitindo 5% de sobras em relação à matéria seca fornecida, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Os dados de produção de leite e custo alimentar foram coletados, avaliando os diferentes períodos que caracterizam a lactação de um animal. A maior produção de leite foi verificada nos níveis de dieta 3.4% e 2,75% PC, sendo 3.636,00 e 3.271,50 kg, respectivamente. Produção de leite inferiores foram verificadas nos níveis de 2,50%; 2,25%; 2,00% do PC. O maior custo com alimentação foi verificado no nível de alimentação à vontade seguido dos níveis de 2,75%; 2,50%, 2,25% e 2,00% do PC. A oferta da dieta sem restrição teve um rendimento superior aos respectivos 2,75 níveis; 2,50; 2,25; 2,00% do PC, respectivamente. Os itens lucro, lucratividade e rentabilidade foram semelhantes entre todos os tratamentos, demonstrando que, quando há escassez eventual de alimento, a restrição no fornecimento da dieta de até 2% do PC oferece segurança econômica ao produtor rural que utiliza vacas em seu sistema F1 Holandês x Zebu.

Effect of grazing management strategies on the yield and nutritional value of Marandu grass in the semiarid of Brazil / Efeito de estratégias de manejo do pastejo na produtividade e valor nutricional do capim-Marandu no semiárido brasileiro

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two grazing management strategies on structural, productive and nutritional parameters of Marandu grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu). A completely randomized block design with two pasture management strategies and eight replications (blocks) was used. The grazing management strategies were: (1) low intensity rotational grazing (LI), with a pre-grazing sward height of 40 cm and a post-grazing sward height of 24 cm, i.e., a defoliation intensity of 50%; (2) High intensity rotational grazing (HI), with a pre-grazing sward height of 40 cm and a post-grazing sward height of 10 cm (±70% defoliation intensity). Pastures were sampled before and after grazing for estimation of forage mass, forage accumulation rate, structural characteristics, nutritional value and dry matter intake. The LI strategy resulted in higher dry matter production than HI before (18.33%) and after grazing (49.06%), increasing pre-grazing forage density by 13.21% (P < 0.05). The production of potentially digestible dry matter was highest (P < 0.05) in LI strategy (21.3% before and 39.6% after grazing, respectively). Higher post-grazing green forage mass (45%) increased the residual crude protein in LI. The LI management strategy increased forage mass production and can be used in Marandu grass pastures.(AU)

Objetivou-se por meio deste trabalho avaliar os efeitos de duas estratégias de manejo do pastejo sobre os parâmetros estruturais, produtivos e nutricionais do capim-Marandu (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu). O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados com duas estratégias de manejo da pastagem e oito repetições (blocos). As estratégias de manejo do pastejo foram: (1) pastejo rotacional menos intensivo (LI), com altura do pasto pré-pastejo de 40 cm e altura do pasto pós-pastejo de 24 cm, ou seja, intensidade de desfolha de 50%; (2) pastejo rotativo mais intensivo (HI), com altura do pasto pré-pastejo de 40 cm e altura do pasto pós-pastejo de 10 cm (±70% densidade de desfolha). As pastagens foram amostradas antes e após o pastejo para estimativa da massa de forragem, taxa de acúmulo de forragem, características estruturais, valor nutricional e consumo de matéria seca. A estratégia LI resultou em maior produção de matéria seca do que HI antes (18,33%) e após pastejo (49,06%), aumentando a densidade de forragem prépastejo em 13,21% (P < 0,05). A produção de matéria seca potencialmente digestível foi maior (P < 0,05) na estratégia LI (21,3% antes e 39,6% após o pastejo, respectivamente). Maior matéria seca verde total póspastejo (45%) aumentou a proteína bruta residual em LI. A estratégia de manejo da LI aumentou a produção em massa de forragem e pode ser utilizada em pastagens de capim-Marandu.(AU)

Behavior of horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding and agonistic behavior of Quarter Horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. A completely randomized design with two treatments (two types of stalls) and seven replicates (seven days of evaluation) was used. Four Quarter Horse mares and four stallions were used per treatment. Behavioral observations were made at 10-minute intervals for 24 hours. The stall environment was characterized by the following variables: air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature for subsequent estimation of the wet-bulb globe temperature. Feeding behavior variables included: time spent eating concentrate and time spent eating roughage (hours), bite rate (bites/min), and the number of daily bites (bites/day). Zinc-roofed stalls had higher air temperatures than clay-roofed stalls and the external environment, averaging 28.2, 27.0, and 27.4 ºC, respectively, while relative humidity was significantly lower in the external environment (65.80%). Horses housed in zinc-roofed stalls had longer feeding times (8.32 h) than animals kept in clay-roofed stalls (7.22 h). Approximately 94% of the total feeding time was spent eating roughage and 73% of the time was spent resting and walking, regardless of the covering type. Although environmental variables showed thermal discomfort, the roofing material did not alter the feeding behavior of stabled horses in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, suggesting an adaptation to the studied conditions. The feeding frequency should be increased to avoid a long resting time.(AU)

Effect of row spacing and maturity at harvest on the fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritional characteristics of biomass sorghum (BRS 716) silage in the semiarid region of Brazil

The objective was to evaluate the effects of maturity at harvest and row spacing on fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritional value of biomass sorghum (BRS 716) silage. The experiment was conducted using a split-plot completely randomized block design with three row spacings (45, 70, and 90 cm) and four maturities at harvest (70, 100, 130, and 160 days) and eight replications. Polyvinyl chloride silos of known weight measuring 50 cm length and 10 cm diameter were used for silage production. Dry matter and total carbohydrate contents of the silage increased linearly, whereas crude protein and ash decreased linearly with maturity at harvest. Row spacing did not influence pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3 ), gas and effluent losses, and dry matter recovery of silage. The concentrations of malic, succinic, and acetic acids and ethanol responded quadratically to maturity at harvest. The levels of neutral detergent fiber, lignin, and indigestible neutral detergent fiber increased linearly with maturity at harvest. Ruminal degradation kinetics of dry matter of biomass sorghum silage was not influenced by row spacing. BRS 716 biomass sorghum should be planted at 70-cm row spacing and harvested at 160 days for silage production based on fermentative profile, dry matter losses, and nutritional characteristics.

Effect of wilting time and enzymatic-bacterial inoculant on the fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass silage

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of wilting times and application of an enzymatic-bacterial inoculant on the fermentative profile and nutritional characteristics of BRS capiaçu grass silage in a semi-arid region. Four wilting times treatments (control, 6, 24, and 30 h), with or without the addition of an enzymatic-bacterial inoculant, were analyzed as a split-plot completely randomized design with eight replications. Parameters of the rumen degradability test were analyzed using a split-plot completely randomized block design with four replications. There was no interaction between wilting times and inoculant application on pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3 -N), and aerobic stability of BRS capiaçu silage. Aerobic stability was reduced by 1.2 h for every 1-h increase in wilting time. Inoculant application reduced the pH values by 2.59% and extended the aerobic stability of the silage by 19 h. There was a significant interaction of wilting times and inoculant application on the levels of malic, succinic, lactic, and acetic acids. Inoculant application increased the contents of dry matter, ash, crude protein, insoluble neutral detergent fiber, and total carbohydrates by 3.63, 6.13, 7.73, 6.39, and 9.97% compared with non-inoculated silages, respectively. Wilting times for up to 30 h and application of enzymatic-bacterial inoculant improves the fermentative profile and chemical composition and reduces dry matter losses of silage of BRS capiaçu grass harvested at 100 days of regrowth.

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.(AU)

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.(AU)

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.

Behavior of horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding and agonistic behavior of Quarter Horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. A completely randomized design with two treatments (two types of stalls) and seven replicates (seven days of evaluation) was used. Four Quarter Horse mares and four stallions were used per treatment. Behavioral observations were made at 10-minute intervals for 24 hours. The stall environment was characterized by the following variables: air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature for subsequent estimation of the wet-bulb globe temperature. Feeding behavior variables included: time spent eating concentrate and time spent eating roughage (hours), bite rate (bites/min), and the number of daily bites (bites/day). Zinc-roofed stalls had higher air temperatures than clay-roofed stalls and the external environment, averaging 28.2, 27.0, and 27.4 ºC, respectively, while relative humidity was significantly lower in the external environment (65.80%). Horses housed in zinc-roofed stalls had longer feeding times (8.32 h) than animals kept in clay-roofed stalls (7.22 h). Approximately 94% of the total feeding time was spent eating roughage and 73% of the time was spent resting and walking, regardless of the covering type. Although environmental variables showed thermal discomfort, the roofing material did not alter the feeding behavior of stabled horses in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, suggesting an adaptation to the studied conditions. The feeding frequency should be increased to avoid a long resting time.

Effects of different banana crop residue hays on ensiling BRS capiaçu grass on fermentation profile, aerobic stability and nutritional value of silage / Efeitos de diferentes fenos de resíduo da bananicultura na ensilagem do capim-BRS capiaçu sobre o perfil de fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia e valor nutricional da silagem

The objective of this study was to evaluate the BRS capiaçu grass silage combined with different hays of banana crop residue on fermentation profile, aerobic stability and nutritional value. The treatments consisted of elephant grass cv. BRS capiaçu (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) ensiled with 37.44% banana peel hay, 36.06% banana pseudostem hay and 37.00% banana leaf hay, on a dry matter (DM) basis and control silage (no additive). The experimental design used was completely randomized, with five treatments and five replicates. Forage was collected when it reached 3.5 meters in height (90 days). Experimental PVC silos of known weight, 50 cm long, 10 cm diameter, were used for silage making. For all treatments, silage aerobic stability breakdown started after 64 hours exposure to air. The BRS capiaçu grass control silage or silage combined with pseudostem hay (mean of 73.15 kg t GM-1) presented effluent losses 40.46% higher than those observed for BRS capiaçu grass silage + banana leaf hay and 69.17% in relation the BRS capiaçu grass silage + banana peel hay. The inclusion of banana crop residue (hay) when ensiling BRS capiaçu grass decreased 13.93% gas losses compared to the control silage (mean of 3.11% DM). Higher values of total digestible nutrients, metabolizable energy and digestible energy content was found in BRS capiaçu grass silage + with banana peel hay. The greater in vitro dry matter digestibility and in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility was observed for BRS capiaçu grass silage combined with pseudostem hay. The inclusion of 37.44% banana peel hay improves the fermentation profile and aerobic stability of BRS capiaçu grass silage.(AU)

Ojetivou-se por meio desta pesquisa avaliar a silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu associada com diferentes fenos de resíduos da cultura da banana sobre o perfil fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia e valor nutricional. Os tratamentos consistiram de capim-elefante cv. BRS capiaçu (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) ensilado com 37,44% de feno de casca de banana, 36,06% de feno de pseudocaule de banana e 37,00% de feno de folha de bananeira, à base da matéria seca (MS), e a silagem controle (sem aditivo). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. A forragem foi coletada quando atingiu 3,5 metros de altura (90 dias). Para a produção da silagem, foram utilizados silos experimentais de PVC de peso conhecido, com 50 cm de comprimento e 10 cm de diâmetro. Para todos os tratamentos, a quebra da estabilidade aeróbia da silagem iniciou a partir de 64 horas de exposição ao ar. A silagem de BRS capiaçu controle ou associada ao feno de pseudocaule (média de 73,15 kg t MN-1) apresentaram perdas de efluentes 40,46% maiores do que as observadas para a silagem de BRS capiaçu associada ao feno de folha de bananeira e 69,17% em relação à silagem de BRS capiaçu associada à casca de banana. A inclusão dos resíduos da cultura da banana (feno) na ensilagem do capim- BRS capiaçu diminuiu 13,93% as perdas por gases em comparação com a silagem controle (média de 3,11% da matéria seca - MS). Maiores teores de nutrientes totais digestíveis, energia metabolizável e energia digestível foram verificadas na silagem de BRS capiaçu associada à casca de banana. A maior digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca e da fibra em detergente neutro foi verificada na silagem de BRS capiaçu associada com feno de pseudocaule. A inclusão de 37,44% de feno de casca de banana melhora o perfil fermentativo e a estabilidade aeróbia da silagem de capim- BRS capiaçu.(AU)

Effects of microbial inoculant and fibrolytic enzymes on fermentation quality and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass silage / Efeitos do inoculante microbiano e das enzimas fibrolíticas na qualidade fermentativa e no valor nutricional de silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different concentrations of fibrolytic enzymes on the fermentation quality and nutritional value of the silage of BRS capiaçu grass. Two bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different levels of enzyme complex were evaluated (Silotrato® (5%) and Biotrato® (8%)) and control silage (without additive) according to a completely randomized design with eight replicates. To evaluate the silage aerobic stability, a completely randomized split plot design was used with three treatments (plots) and seven times after opening (subplots). There was no interaction between treatments and times after opening on values of pH (P=0.79). Regarding bacterial-enzymatic inoculants, the silage pH was 21.66% and 16.16% higher in silage without additive (mean of 6.00) compared to silage with 5% and 8% enzyme complex (P < 0.01). There was no difference between treatments on pH (P = 0.08), lactic acid (p = 0.08) and acetic acid (p = 0.64), means of 3.11, 47.31 g dry matter (DM)-¹ and 11.19 g DM-¹, respectively. There was no difference between treatments for any of the chemical composition variables (P = 0.86). Mean values for DM, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients were 22.31%, 6.65%, 71.15% and 42.07%, respectively. There was a higher concentration of butyric acid in the control silage compared to Silotrato® silage. The control silage and silage treated with Biotrato® presented effluent losses (P = 0.05) 13.99% higher than silage with Silotrato®. For ensiling BRS capiaçu grass, it is recommended to use lactic acid bacteria containing 5% fibrolytic enzymes.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes concentrações de enzimas fibrolíticas sobre a qualidade fermentativa e valor nutricional da silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu. Foram avaliados dois inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes níveis de complexo enzimático (Silotrato® (5%) e Biotrato® (8%)) e silagem controle (sem aditivo) seguindo o delineamento inteiramente casualizado com oito repetições. Para avaliação da estabilidade aeróbia da silagem foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema de parcelas subdivididas com três tratamentos (parcelas) e sete tempos após abertura (subparcelas). Não houve interação entre tratamentos e tempos após a abertura da silagem sobre os valores de pH (P = 0,79). Em relação aos inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos, o pH da silagem foi 21,66% e 16,16% maior na silagem sem aditivo (média de 6,00) em relação à silagem com 5% e 8% de complexo enzimático (P < 0,01). Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos quanto ao pH (P = 0,08), ácido lático (P = 0,08) e ácido acético (p = 0,64), médias de 3,11; 47,31 g matéria seca (MS)-¹ e 11,19 g MS-¹, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos para nenhuma das variáveis de composição química (P = 0,86). As médias para MS, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e nutrientes digestíveis totais foram 22,31%, 6,65%, 71,15% e 42,07%, respectivamente. Houve maior concentração de ácido butírico na silagem controle em relação à silagem com Silotrato®. A silagem controle e a silagem tratada com Biotrato® apresentaram perdas por efluentes (P = 0,05) 13,99% maiores que a silagem com Silotrato®. Durante a ensilagem do capim BRS capiaçu, recomenda-se o uso de bactérias lácticas contendo 5% de enzimas fibrolíticas.

Yield and nutritional value of biomass sorghum (BRS 716) managed in different row spacing and maturity at harvest in the semiarid region of Brazil / Rendimento e valor nutritivo do sorgo biomassa (BRS 716) manejado em diferentes espaçamentos entre linhas de plantio e idades de corte em uma região semiárida do Brasil

The objective was to evaluate the structural, yield and nutritional characteristics of biomass sorghum BRS 716 managed in different row planting spacing and harvest age in a semiarid region of Brazil. Three row spacing (45, 70 and 90 cm; plots) and four maturity at harvest (70, 100, 130 and 160 days; subplots) were evaluated following a randomized block design in a 3 x 4 split plot arrangement, with eight blocks. The useful area was 3 x 15 m. Variation in soil fertility in the area was the blocking factor. There was interaction between row spacing and maturity at harvest (P < 0.05) on plant height (P = 0.01), dry matter yield (DMY; P < 0.01) and proportion of senescent material (P = 0.01). The DMY observed at the age of 160 days and spacing of 90 cm was 41.40% higher than the DMY at the same age and in spacings of 45 and 70 cm (mean of 21.45 t/ha). As the maturity at harvest increased, there was a reduction in the crude protein content (P < 0.01), potential degradability (P < 0.01) and effective degradability (P < 0.01) of dry matter, and the content of non-fiber carbohydrates (P < 0.01), total digestible nutrients (P < 0.01) and the readily soluble fraction (P < 0.01) of the dry matter increased. Considering the yield and nutritional characteristics of biomass sorghum BRS 716 managed in the semiarid region for silage production, the row spacing of 90 cm and the maturity at harvest of 160 days after planting are recommended.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar as características estruturais, produtivas e nutricionais do sorgo biomassa BRS 716 manejado em diferentes espaçamentos de plantio e idade de corte em região semiárida do Brasil. Foram avaliados três espaçamentos entre linhas de plantio (45, 70 e 90 cm; parcelas) e quatro de idades de corte (70, 100, 130 e 160 dias; subparcelas) seguindo o delineamento em blocos casualizados em esquema de parcelas subdivididas 3 x 4 com oito blocos. A área útil da parcela foi de 3 x15 m. A variação da fertilidade do solo da área foi o fator de blocagem. Houve interação do espaçamento de plantio e as idades de corte estudadas (P < 0,05) sobre a altura das plantas (P=0,01), produção de matéria seca (PMS; P < 0,01) e proporção de material senescente (P=0,01). A PMS verificada na idade de 160 dias e espaçamento de 90 cm foi 41,40% superior a PMS verificada na mesma idade e nos espaçamentos de 45 e 70 cm (média de 21,45 t/ha). A medida de que aumentou a idade de corte houve redução no teor de proteína bruta (P < 0.01), degradabilidade potencial (P < 0.01) e degradabilidade efetiva (P < 0.01) da matéria seca e aumentou o teor de carboidratos não fibrosos (P < 0.01), nutrientes digestíveis totais (P < 0.01) e a fração prontamente solúvel (P < 0.01) da matéria seca. Considerando-se as características produtivas e nutricionais do sorgo biomassa BRS 716 manejado na região semiárida para produção de silagem, recomenda-se o espaçamento entre linhas de plantio de 90 cm e a idade de corte de 160 dias após o plantio.(AU)

Effects of microbial inoculant and fibrolytic enzymes on fermentation quality and nutritional value of BRS capiaçu grass silage / Efeitos do inoculante microbiano e das enzimas fibrolíticas na qualidade fermentativa e no valor nutricional de silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different concentrations of fibrolytic enzymes on the fermentation quality and nutritional value of the silage of BRS capiaçu grass. Two bacterial-enzymatic inoculants with different levels of enzyme complex were evaluated (Silotrato® (5%) and Biotrato® (8%)) and control silage (without additive) according to a completely randomized design with eight replicates. To evaluate the silage aerobic stability, a completely randomized split plot design was used with three treatments (plots) and seven times after opening (subplots). There was no interaction between treatments and times after opening on values of pH (P=0.79). Regarding bacterial-enzymatic inoculants, the silage pH was 21.66% and 16.16% higher in silage without additive (mean of 6.00) compared to silage with 5% and 8% enzyme complex (P < 0.01). There was no difference between treatments on pH (P = 0.08), lactic acid (p = 0.08) and acetic acid (p = 0.64), means of 3.11, 47.31 g dry matter (DM)-¹ and 11.19 g DM-¹, respectively. There was no difference between treatments for any of the chemical composition variables (P = 0.86). Mean values for DM, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients were 22.31%, 6.65%, 71.15% and 42.07%, respectively. There was a higher concentration of butyric acid in the control silage compared to Silotrato® silage. The control silage and silage treated with Biotrato® presented effluent losses (P = 0.05) 13.99% higher than silage with Silotrato®. For ensiling BRS capiaçu grass, it is recommended to use lactic acid bacteria containing 5% fibrolytic enzymes.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes concentrações de enzimas fibrolíticas sobre a qualidade fermentativa e valor nutricional da silagem de capim-BRS capiaçu. Foram avaliados dois inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos com diferentes níveis de complexo enzimático (Silotrato® (5%) e Biotrato® (8%)) e silagem controle (sem aditivo) seguindo o delineamento inteiramente casualizado com oito repetições. Para avaliação da estabilidade aeróbia da silagem foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema de parcelas subdivididas com três tratamentos (parcelas) e sete tempos após abertura (subparcelas). Não houve interação entre tratamentos e tempos após a abertura da silagem sobre os valores de pH (P = 0,79). Em relação aos inoculantes bacteriano-enzimáticos, o pH da silagem foi 21,66% e 16,16% maior na silagem sem aditivo (média de 6,00) em relação à silagem com 5% e 8% de complexo enzimático (P < 0,01). Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos quanto ao pH (P = 0,08), ácido lático (P = 0,08) e ácido acético (p = 0,64), médias de 3,11; 47,31 g matéria seca (MS)-¹ e 11,19 g MS-¹, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos para nenhuma das variáveis de composição química (P = 0,86). As médias para MS, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e nutrientes digestíveis totais foram 22,31%, 6,65%, 71,15% e 42,07%, respectivamente. Houve maior concentração de ácido butírico na silagem controle em relação à silagem com Silotrato®. A silagem controle e a silagem tratada com Biotrato® apresentaram perdas por efluentes (P = 0,05) 13,99% maiores que a silagem com Silotrato®. Durante a ensilagem do capim BRS capiaçu, recomenda-se o uso de bactérias lácticas contendo 5% de enzimas fibrolíticas.(AU)