Extruded urea could replace true protein source in supplements for lambs finished in tropical pastures / A ureia extrusada pode substituir a fonte de proteína verdadeira em suplementos para cordeiros terminados em pastagens tropicais

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of replacing 50% of the true protein from soybean meal with extruded urea on the performance and carcass characteristics of lambs finished on pasture. Twenty lambs with initial weight of 29.9±6.2kg and 5 months of age, distributed in two treatments in blocks at random, were kept in pastures of Urochloa spp. Supplemented with 2% of body weight (BW). The treatments consisted of supplements containing soybean meal as the only true protein source (control), or extruded urea replacing 50% of soybean meal (NPN treatment). There was no effect of treatment on total supplement intake. There were differences in average daily gain (242.1 vs. 264.6g/day), slaughter weight (41.9 vs. 45.0kg) and carcass weight (18.9 vs. 20.1kg). There was no effect of the treatment on the final body condition score, hot carcass yield, carcass length, breast depth, subcutaneous fat thickness or rib eye area. The group of animals that received extruded urea showed superior carcass finishing characteristics (99.0% vs. 66.0%), maturity (22.0% vs. 0.0%), marbling (55.0% vs. 33.0%), meat texture (44.0% vs. 33.0%) and fat (66.0% vs. 22.0%). There were no significant effects on tenderness (7.5kg/f) or flesh color (L* = 33.2; a* = 16.2; b* = 8.3). There were no significant changes in the biochemical profile of the animals' blood during the experiment for both treatments. The replacement of 50% of protein from soybean meal by the extruded urea as NPN source in the supplement for lambs finished in Urochloa spp pastures provides better animal performance and qualitative characteristics of meat, without altering quantitative carcass characteristics.

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da substituição de 50% da proteína verdadeira do farelo de soja por ureia extrusada sobre o desempenho e as características de carcaça de cordeiros terminados em pasto. Vinte cordeiros de 29,9+6,2kg de peso inicial e com cinco meses de idade, distribuídos em dois tratamentos em blocos ao acaso, foram mantidos em pastagens de Urochloa spp. suplementado com 2% do peso vivo (PV). Os tratamentos consistiram em suplementos contendo farelo de soja como única fonte de proteína verdadeira (controle), ou ureia extrusada em substituição a 50% do farelo de soja (tratamento NPN). Não houve efeito do tratamento na ingestão total de suplemento. Houve diferenças no ganho médio diário (242,1 vs. 264,6 g/dia), no peso ao abate (41,9 vs. 45,0kg) e no peso da carcaça (18,9 vs. 20,1kg). Não houve efeito do tratamento sobre escore de condição corporal final, rendimento de carcaça quente, comprimento de carcaça, profundidade do peito, espessura de gordura subcutânea ou área de olho de lombo. O grupo de animais que recebeu ureia extrusada apresentou características superiores de acabamento de carcaça (99,0% vs. 66,0%), maturidade (22,0% vs. 0,0%), marmoreio (55,0% vs. 33,0%), textura da carne (44,0% vs. 33,0%) e gordura (66,0% vs. 22,0%). Não houve efeitos significativos na maciez (7,5 kg/f) nem na cor da carne (L*= 33,2; a*= 16,2; b * = 8,3). Não houve mudanças significativas no perfil bioquímico do sangue dos animais durante o experimento para ambos os tratamentos. A substituição de 50% da proteína do farelo de soja pela ureia extrusada como fonte de NPN no suplemento para cordeiros terminados em pastagem de Urochloa spp. proporciona melhor desempenho animal e características qualitativas da carne, sem alterar as características quantitativas da carcaça.

Bioeconomic evaluation of pasture sheep finishing using castor bean cake / Avaliação bioeconômica da terminação de ovinos sob pastejo utilizando torta de mamona

This study evaluates the economic viability of sheep finishing systems on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking, using castor bean cake. Four production systems were simulated: sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with urea (SMUR), sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with urea (CCdUR), sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (SMCC) and sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (CCdCC). A minimum unit of 3 hectares and an average slaughter weight of 28 kg were considered. A minimum selling price, at which the least profitable system would become profitable, was stablished: US$ 2.38 and US$ 4.45/kg per kilogram of body weight and carcass weight equivalent, adopting a minimum rate of return of 3.5% per year, based on the Selic rate. The costs for organic fertilization were 46.01% higher than in systems using chemical fertilization. The selling of live animals was not attractive in any of the systems evaluated, and the opposite was observed for the selling of carcasses and non-carcass components. System SMUR proved to be more profitable, with a gain of US$ 0.53 per kg carcass.

Objetivou-se avaliar a economicidade de sistemas de terminação de ovinos em pastagem irrigada de capim-tamani sob lotação contínua, utilizando torta de mamona. Foram simulados quatro sistemas de produção: ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com ureia (FSUR), ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com ureia (TMdUR), ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (FSTM) e ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (TMdTM). Foi considerada a unidade mínima de 3 hectares e determinado um peso médio ao abate de 28 kg de peso corporal. Estabeleceu-se um preço de venda mínimo, no qual o sistema de criação menos lucrativo se tornasse rentável de 2,38 e 4,45 dólares por quilograma de peso corporal e por equivalente de peso da carcaça, dotando uma taxa mínima de atratividade de 3,5% ao ano, com base na taxa Selic. Os custos com adubação orgânica, em média, são 46,01% superiores aos sistemas que utilizam adubação química. A venda de animais vivos não é atrativa em nenhum dos sistemas avaliados, sendo o contrário observado para a comercialização de carcaças e dos não componentes da carcaça de ovinos. O sistema de produção FSUR se mostrou mais lucrativo, com ganho de US$ 0.53 centavos por kg de carcaça.

Relationship between body weight and scrotal circumference in growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions / Relação entre o peso corporal e a circunferência escrotal em ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criados em condições tropicais

The body weight (BW) of an animal is a vital economic trait that might help in decision-making in the handling of animals. The objective of the present study was to develop equations for the prediction of BW in Pelibuey sheep using scrotal circumference (SC). The BW (23.40 ± 6.96 kg) and SC (20.25 ± 6.19 cm) have been recorded in 405 male Pelibuey at the Southeastern Center for Ovine Integration, Mexico. Linear, logarithmic, quadratic, exponential, cubic, and power regression models were used for data analysis. Pearson correlation (R), Coefficient of determination (R2), Adjusted coefficient of determination (Adj.R2) Root mean square error (RMSE), Akaike information criterion (AIC), and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) were used to select the best model. Power regression model showed the highest R (0.93), R2 (0.86), Adj.R2 (0.86) and lowest RMSE (0.02), AIC (-989.44) and BIC (-981.44). The current study suggests that SC might be used as the only predictor for BW of growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions.

O peso corporal (PC) do animal é uma característica econômica importante, que pode auxiliar na tomada de decisões no manejo dos animais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi desenvolver equações para a predição do PC em ovinos Pelibuey por meio da circunferência escrotal (CE). O PC (23,40±6,96kg) e a CE (20,25±6,19cm) foram registrados em 405 ovinos machos da raça Pelibuey no Centro de Integração Ovina da Região Sudeste do México. Os modelos lineares, logarítmicos, quadráticos, exponenciais, cúbicos e de regressão de potência foram utilizados para a análise dos dados. A correlação de Pearson (R), o coeficiente de determinação (R2), o coeficiente de determinação ajustado (Adj.R2), o erro do quadrado médio (EQM), o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC) e o critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) foram usados para selecionar o melhor modelo. O modelo de regressão de potência apresentou maiores R (0,93), R2 (0,86), Adj.R2 (0,86) e menores EQM (0,02), AIC (-989,44) e BIC (-981,44). O estudo atual sugere que a CE pode ser usada como um único preditor para o PC de ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criadas em condições tropicais.

Grape pomace silage on growth performance, carcass, and meat quality attributes of lambs

Grape pomace is a by-product that can be ensiled and added to animal feed for a sustainable animal production. This study evaluated the effects of grape pomace silage (GPS) on the intake, performance, and carcass and meat quality of feedlot lambs. Twenty-four male lambs (21.5 ± 3.0 kg initial body weight) were distributed into pairs to four diets levels 0, 10, 20, and 30 % of GPS. The addition of grape pomace silage influenced only ether extract (EE) intake linearly without hindering consumption. The diet did not affect performance and meat quality attributes and carcass parameters, with average daily gain (ADG) of 0.235 kg d-¹, feed conversion 4.299, carcass conformation 2.7, compactness index 0.25 kg cm-¹, fat thickness 1.51 mm, loin eye area 13.9 cm², pH 5.79, natural matter moisture 74.05 g 100 g-¹, and crude protein (CP) 19.94 g per 100 g-¹ of dry matter (DM). Grape pomace as could be used as silage in lamb diets with up to 30 % GPS, as the chemical composition of this by-product and the results indicate that GPS did not compromise performance, carcass traits, and meat quality.

Nutritional quality of wet distillers’ grains co–ensiled with whole–plant maize and its feeding value for lambs

The high moisture content of wet distillers' grains with solubles (WDGS) has limited its feeding value despite the relatively high nutritive value. The co–ensiling with whole–plant maize, as a complementary feed, was evaluated for growing lambs by formulating diets whose contents were: whole plant maize silage (WPMS) + sunflower oilcake meal (SOM) (control, WPMS + SOM), whole plant maize silage + dried distillers' grains (WPMS + DDGS), and whole–plant maize (WPM) co–ensiled with WDGS (WPM – WDGS). Rumen fermentation parameters and in situ degradability of the diets were evaluated using three cannulated Merino wethers in a cross over 3 × 3 Latin square design experiment that lasted 39 days. Concurrently, feed intake and growth performance of South Africa Mutton Merino lambs (29.7 ± 3.6 kg) were evaluated over 45 days. The WPMS + DDGS diet had a lower rate of dry matter degradation (p 0.05). No differences in rumen volatile fatty acid, ammonia nitrogen concentration nor rumen pH of the wethers as a result of diet differences were observed. Lambs consuming the WDGS–based diet had a lower average daily intake and average daily gain (p 0.05). In conclusion, co–ensiling WDGS with whole–plant maize provides the opportunity for the long–term storage and utilization of WDGS in lamb feeding.

Prediction of live weight in growing hair sheep using the body volume formula / Predição do peso vivo de ovelhas deslanadas em crescimento usando a fórmula do volume corporal

Due to the conditions in which traditional sheep production systems operate, the evaluation of animal growth from live weight (LW) is limited by the high cost of the livestock scale as well as the sophisticated maintenance required. In this scenario, in recent years, biometric measurements have been investigated as an accurate indirect method to predict the LW of farm animals. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to examine different models for predicting the body weight of growing lambs using the body volume (BV) formula. Body volume, heart girth (HG) and body length (BL) data of 290 lambs aged between two and eight months were recorded. Body volume was calculated from HG and BL data using a formula that calculates the volume of a cylinder. The estimation of LW from the BV formula was achieved through regression equations using three mathematical models (linear, quadratic and exponential). The mean values of LW, HG, BL and BV of the lambs were 29.12±12.04kg, 70.00±11.69cm, 38.40±6.43cm and 23.93±9.90dm3, respectively. The correlation coefficient between LW and BV was r = 0.96 (P<0.001). The quadratic model showed the highest coefficient of determination (0.93) and the lowest prediction error (3.29kg). Under the experimental conditions adopted in this study, it is possible to predict the live weight of growing lambs using the body volume formula.

Devido às condições dos sistemas tradicionais de produção de ovinos, a avaliação do crescimento animal a partir do peso vivo (PV) é limitada pelo alto custo da balança pecuária, bem como pela sofisticada manutenção necessária. Assim, nos últimos anos, as medidas biométricas (MB) têm sido avaliadas como um método indireto e preciso para predizer o PV de animais de criação. Portanto, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar diferentes modelos de predição do PV de cordeiros em crescimento utilizando-se a fórmula do volume corporal (VC). Foram registrados dados de PV, perímetro torácico (PT) e comprimento corporal (CC) de 290 cordeiros entre dois e oito meses de idade. O VC foi calculado com base nos dados PT e CC, sendo usada uma fórmula que calcula o volume de um cilindro. A previsão do PV a partir da fórmula VC foi estimada por meio de equações de regressão, utilizando-se três modelos matemáticos (linear, quadrático e exponencial). Os valores médios do PV, PT, CC e VC dos cordeiros foram 29,12±12,04kg, 70,00±11,69cm, 38,40±6,43cm e 23,93±9,90 (dm3), respectivamente. O coeficiente de correlação entre PV e VC foi r=0,96 (P<0,001). O modelo quadrático apresentou o maior coeficiente de determinação (0,93) e o menor erro de predição (3,29kg) Nas condições do presente estudo, conclui-se que é possível predizer o peso vivo de cordeiros em crescimento por meio da fórmula de volume corporal.

Use of biometrics in the prediction of body weight in crossbred lambs / [Uso da biometria na predição do peso corporal de cordeiros mestiços]

O objetivo deste trabalho foi propor um modelo matemático para predição do peso corporal de cordeiros com base nas medidas biométricas. Foram utilizados dados de 51 cordeiros, com composição genética de pelo menos 50% da raça Santa Inês. O peso corporal (PC) dos animais foi acompanhado durante 91 dias por meio de pesagens semanais. Após as pesagens, foram tomadas as medidas: altura anterior (AA); altura posterior (AP); comprimento corporal (CC); largura de peito (LP); largura de garupa (LG); perímetro torácico (PT) e perímetro de barril (PB). Essas medidas foram utilizadas como variáveis de entrada do modelo. Foi observado correlações positivas e significativas (P<0,05) entre todas as variáveis biométricas com o PC. No entanto, o PC apresentou uma alta correlação com o PT (0,836), seguido do PB (0,818) e AP (0,740). Dessa forma, essas três medidas foram significativas para estimativa do PC. Portanto, o modelo para predizer o PC dos cordeiros foi: Peso (kg)=0,4455* PT - 0,5794 * PB + 0,0019 * AP2 + 0.0053* PB2. O perímetro torácico, perímetro de barril e altura de posterior podem ser utilizados como variáveis preditoras do peso corporal em ovinos mestiços, independente do sexo.(AU)

Influence of non-genetic factors on the maternal ability of Santa Inês ewes / Influência de fatores não-genéticos na habilidade materna de ovelhas Santa Inês

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different non-genetic effects on indicator traits for maternal ability in Santa Inês ewes. Data included performance records of 100 lambs (males and females) born from 59 dams, from 2009 to 2012. The analyzed traits were birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), average daily gain from birth until weaning (ADGBW), total litter weight at birth (TLWB), and total litter weight at weaning (TLWW). The effects analyzed were the year of birth of the lamb, birth season, dam age at lambing, dam weight at lambing, sex of the lamb, lamb birth type, interaction between sex and birth type, and interaction between sex and birth season. SAS® software (SAS University Edition, USA) was used for calculation of the analysis of variance, means, and Pearson correlation coefficients. With the exception of the birth season, all the other environmental effects evaluated had a significant influence on at least one of the studied traits. The correlation estimates ranged from low to high and were either positive or negative. Birth weight was negatively correlated with the birth type and influenced positively all the other performance traits evaluated. The maternal ability of Santa Inês ewes was more clearly influenced by the age and weight of the dam at lambing, and the lamb birth type.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de diferentes efeitos não-genéticos sobre características indicadoras de habilidade materna em ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Os dados utilizados incluíram registros de desempenho de 100 cordeiros (machos e fêmeas) filhos de 59 ovelhas, nascidos de 2009 a 2012. As características analisadas foram peso ao nascimento (PN), peso ao desmame (PD), ganho médio diário do nascimento ao desmame (GMND), peso total das crias ao nascer (PTCN) e peso total das crias ao desmame (PTCD). Os efeitos analisados foram ano de nascimento da cria, estação de nascimento, idade da mãe ao parto, peso da mãe ao parto, sexo da cria, tipo de nascimento da cria, interação entre sexo e tipo de nascimento, e interação entre sexo e estação de nascimento. O programa SAS (SAS University Edition, EUA) foi utilizado para o cálculo de análise de variância, médias e coeficientes de correlação de Pearson. Com exceção da estação de nascimento, os demais efeitos avaliados exerceram influência significativa sobre pelo menos uma das características estudadas. As estimativas de correlação variaram de baixa a alta magnitude e foram tanto positivas quanto negativas. O peso da cria ao nascimento foi negativamente correlacionado com o tipo de nascimento e influenciou positivamente todas as outras características de desempenho avaliadas. A habilidade materna de ovelhas Santa Inês foi mais claramente influenciada pela idade e peso da mãe ao parto e pelo tipo de nascimento da cria.(AU)

Evaluation of mathematical models to describe lamb growth during the pre-weaning phase / Avaliação de modelos matemáticos para descrever o crescimento de cordeiros durante a fase de cria

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of different mathematical models to describe the growth of lambs during the pre-weaning phase and the effect of sex on their growth curve. Data from 51 lambs (26 males and 25 females) with a genetic constitution of at least 50% Santa Inês breed were used. Lamb weight was monitored during the entire pre-weaning phase (91 days) by weighing the animals weekly on a scale suitable for sheep, to draw the body-weight growth curve. The adequacy of the models was evaluated by the coefficient of determination, simultaneous F-test for parameter identity, concordance correlation coefficient, root mean square error of prediction and decomposition of the mean square error of prediction. Pairwise mean square error of prediction analysis and delta Akaike information criterion were used to compare the models in terms of accuracy and precision. The evaluation of the adequacy of the tested models showed that the data predicted by the linear, quadratic and exponential models were similar (P > 0.05) to the observed data. In contrast, the monomolecular model generated predictions that could not be accepted as true. The linear and quadratic models showed better accuracy and precision. The first-degree linear model should be preferred over the other studied models to describe growth of sheep in the pre weaning phase. Males and females exhibited distinct growth patterns.

Os objetivos foram avaliar o uso de diferentes modelos matemáticos para descrever o crescimento de cordeiros durante a fase de cria e também avaliar o efeito do gênero sobre o curva de crescimento destes cordeiros. Foram utilizados dados de 51 cordeiros, 26 machos e 25 fêmeas, com composição genética de pelo menos 50% da raça Santa Inês. O peso dos animais foi acompanhado durante toda fase de cria (91 dias) por meio de pesagens semanais em balança própria para ovinos para desenhar a curva de crescimento do peso corporal. A avaliação da adequação dos modelos foi realizada por meio do coeficiente de determinação, teste F simultâneo para identidade dos parâmetros, coeficiente de correlação de concordância, raiz quadrada do quadrado médio do erro da predição e a decomposição do quadrado médio do erro da predição. A análise do quadrático médio da predição pareada e o critério de informação delta de Akaike foram utilizados para comparar os modelos quanto à acurácia e precisão. A avaliação da adequação dos modelos testados mostrou que os dados preditos pelos modelos linear, quadrático e exponencial são semelhantes (P>0,05) aos dados observados. Já o modelo monomolecular gerou predições que não puderam ser aceitas como verdadeiras. Os modelos linear e quadrático apresentaram melhor acurácia e precisão. O modelo linear de primeiro grau deve ser preferido aos demais modelos estudados para descrever crescimento de ovinos na fase de cria. Machos e fêmeas apresentaram padrão de crescimento distinto.

Evaluation of mathematical models to describe lamb growth during the pre-weaning phase / Avaliação de modelos matemáticos para descrever o crescimento de cordeiros durante a fase de cria

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of different mathematical models to describe the growth of lambs during the pre-weaning phase and the effect of sex on their growth curve. Data from 51 lambs (26 males and 25 females) with a genetic constitution of at least 50% Santa Inês breed were used. Lamb weight was monitored during the entire pre-weaning phase (91 days) by weighing the animals weekly on a scale suitable for sheep, to draw the body-weight growth curve. The adequacy of the models was evaluated by the coefficient of determination, simultaneous F-test for parameter identity, concordance correlation coefficient, root mean square error of prediction and decomposition of the mean square error of prediction. Pairwise mean square error of prediction analysis and delta Akaike information criterion were used to compare the models in terms of accuracy and precision. The evaluation of the adequacy of the tested models showed that the data predicted by the linear, quadratic and exponential models were similar (P > 0.05) to the observed data. In contrast, the monomolecular model generated predictions that could not be accepted as true. The linear and quadratic models showed better accuracy and precision. The first-degree linear model should be preferred over the other studied models to describe growth of sheep in the pre weaning phase. Males and females exhibited distinct growth patterns.(AU)

Os objetivos foram avaliar o uso de diferentes modelos matemáticos para descrever o crescimento de cordeiros durante a fase de cria e também avaliar o efeito do gênero sobre o curva de crescimento destes cordeiros. Foram utilizados dados de 51 cordeiros, 26 machos e 25 fêmeas, com composição genética de pelo menos 50% da raça Santa Inês. O peso dos animais foi acompanhado durante toda fase de cria (91 dias) por meio de pesagens semanais em balança própria para ovinos para desenhar a curva de crescimento do peso corporal. A avaliação da adequação dos modelos foi realizada por meio do coeficiente de determinação, teste F simultâneo para identidade dos parâmetros, coeficiente de correlação de concordância, raiz quadrada do quadrado médio do erro da predição e a decomposição do quadrado médio do erro da predição. A análise do quadrático médio da predição pareada e o critério de informação delta de Akaike foram utilizados para comparar os modelos quanto à acurácia e precisão. A avaliação da adequação dos modelos testados mostrou que os dados preditos pelos modelos linear, quadrático e exponencial são semelhantes (P>0,05) aos dados observados. Já o modelo monomolecular gerou predições que não puderam ser aceitas como verdadeiras. Os modelos linear e quadrático apresentaram melhor acurácia e precisão. O modelo linear de primeiro grau deve ser preferido aos demais modelos estudados para descrever crescimento de ovinos na fase de cria. Machos e fêmeas apresentaram padrão de crescimento distinto.(AU)

Low doses of monensin for lambs fed diets containing high level of ground flint corn

Two experiments were proposed to evaluate the addition of monensin for lambs fed diets containing a high level of mature ground flint corn. The experimental diets were as follows: no inclusion of monensin (M0) and inclusion of 8 (M8), 16 (M16) and 24 mg kg-¹ of monensin (M24). In experiment 1, eight cannulated wethers were divided into a double 4 × 4 Latin square experimental design to evaluate nutrient digestibility, plasma parameters and rumen fermentation. The experiment lasted 112 days, divided into four periods of 28 days each. In experiment 2, ninety-two lambs were used in a randomized block design to evaluate the performance over 56 days. In experiment 1, doses of monensin had no effect on nutrient intake (p >= 0.07) and digestibility (p >= 0.09). There was a quadratic effect for acetate molar proportion (p = 0.01), acetate to propionate ratio (p = 0.04) and rumen pH (p < 0.01). However, there was no effect on the molar proportion of propionate and butyrate. The monensin decreased linearly the total SCFA concentration (p < 0.01). The inclusion of monensin increased glucose (p < 0.01) and decreased lactate concentration in plasma (p = 0.05). In experiment 2, monensin decreased dry matter intake (p = 0.04). However, there was a quadratic effect for average daily gain (p = 0.03) and feed efficiency (p < 0.01), with the greatest values observed for the M8 diet. Thus, the inclusion of 8 mg kg-¹ of dry matter diet (DM) improves ruminal fermentation and plasma parameters, resulting in greater growth performance in lambs.(AU)

Low doses of monensin for lambs fed diets containing high level of ground flint corn

Two experiments were proposed to evaluate the addition of monensin for lambs fed diets containing a high level of mature ground flint corn. The experimental diets were as follows: no inclusion of monensin (M0) and inclusion of 8 (M8), 16 (M16) and 24 mg kg-¹ of monensin (M24). In experiment 1, eight cannulated wethers were divided into a double 4 × 4 Latin square experimental design to evaluate nutrient digestibility, plasma parameters and rumen fermentation. The experiment lasted 112 days, divided into four periods of 28 days each. In experiment 2, ninety-two lambs were used in a randomized block design to evaluate the performance over 56 days. In experiment 1, doses of monensin had no effect on nutrient intake (p >= 0.07) and digestibility (p >= 0.09). There was a quadratic effect for acetate molar proportion (p = 0.01), acetate to propionate ratio (p = 0.04) and rumen pH (p < 0.01). However, there was no effect on the molar proportion of propionate and butyrate. The monensin decreased linearly the total SCFA concentration (p < 0.01). The inclusion of monensin increased glucose (p < 0.01) and decreased lactate concentration in plasma (p = 0.05). In experiment 2, monensin decreased dry matter intake (p = 0.04). However, there was a quadratic effect for average daily gain (p = 0.03) and feed efficiency (p < 0.01), with the greatest values observed for the M8 diet. Thus, the inclusion of 8 mg kg-¹ of dry matter diet (DM) improves ruminal fermentation and plasma parameters, resulting in greater growth performance in lambs.

Characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of lambs fed wet brewery waste as a roughage feed / Características da carcaça e dos componentes não-carcaça de cordeiros alimentados com resíduo úmido de cervejaria como alimento volumoso

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of including wet brewery waste (WBW) as the exclusive dietary roughage source on the characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of feedlot-finished lambs. Thirty-two non-castrated male lambs weaned at 50 days of age, resulting from the cross between the Texel and Ile de France breeds, were used. The diet was constituted by roughage (WBW) and a concentrate composed of crushed maize, soybean meal, limestone and common salt. Treatments consisted of four levels of WBW as the roughage source in the diet (% dry matter), namely, 31, 44, 57 and 70%. Lambs were slaughtered upon reaching 34 kg live weight. The treatments resulted in a linear decrease in hot and cold carcass weights and yields, carcass compactness index, conformation, degree of fatness and rib-eye area. Among the primal cuts, the absolute weights of pallet, ribs and legs decreased as the WBW level was increased. As to the non-carcass components, only the total gastrointestinal content increased linearly with WBW. The increasing levels of WBW led to greater fasting losses and reduced carcass weights and yields. There was also a reduction in the degree of fatness, carcass compactness, carcass conformation index and rib-eye area Wet brewery waste at the concentration of 31% as the roughage source in the diet of finishing lambs in the feedlot provides better carcass traits.

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da inclusão de resíduo úmido de cervejaria (RUC) como fonte exclusiva de volumoso sobre as características da carcaça e dos componentes não-carcaça de cordeiros terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 32 cordeiros, machos, não castrados, desmamados com 50 dias de idade e provenientes de cruzamento entre as raças Texel e Ile de France. A dieta foi composta por volumoso, sendo este o RUC, e por concentrado composto de milho desintegrado, farelo de soja, calcário calcítico e sal comum. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por quatro teores de RUC como volumoso da dieta (% da MS), sendo: 31, 44, 57 e 70%. Os cordeiros foram abatidos quando atingiram 34 kg de peso vivo. Os tratamentos exerceram influência negativa de maneira linear decrescente sobre os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria, índice de compacidade de carcaça, conformação, estado de engorduramento e área de olho de lombo. Entre os cortes comerciais, a medida que aumentou o nível de RUC diminuíram os pesos absolutos de paleta, costilhar e perna. Quando avaliados os componentes não-carcaça, verificou-se que apenas o conteúdo gastrointestinal total aumentou linearmente com a elevação do teor de RUC. O aumento da inclusão de RUC levou a maiores perdas por jejum e reduziu os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça. Também ocorreu redução no estado de engorduramento, no índice de compacidade e conformação da carcaça, bem como da área de olho de lombo. O teor de 31% de RUC como alimento volumoso na terminação de cordeiros em confinamento proporcionou melhores características na carcaça dos animais.

Characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of lambs fed wet brewery waste as a roughage feed / Características da carcaça e dos componentes não-carcaça de cordeiros alimentados com resíduo úmido de cervejaria como alimento volumoso

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of including wet brewery waste (WBW) as the exclusive dietary roughage source on the characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of feedlot-finished lambs. Thirty-two non-castrated male lambs weaned at 50 days of age, resulting from the cross between the Texel and Ile de France breeds, were used. The diet was constituted by roughage (WBW) and a concentrate composed of crushed maize, soybean meal, limestone and common salt. Treatments consisted of four levels of WBW as the roughage source in the diet (% dry matter), namely, 31, 44, 57 and 70%. Lambs were slaughtered upon reaching 34 kg live weight. The treatments resulted in a linear decrease in hot and cold carcass weights and yields, carcass compactness index, conformation, degree of fatness and rib-eye area. Among the primal cuts, the absolute weights of pallet, ribs and legs decreased as the WBW level was increased. As to the non-carcass components, only the total gastrointestinal content increased linearly with WBW. The increasing levels of WBW led to greater fasting losses and reduced carcass weights and yields. There was also a reduction in the degree of fatness, carcass compactness, carcass conformation index and rib-eye area Wet brewery waste at the concentration of 31% as the roughage source in the diet of finishing lambs in the feedlot provides better carcass traits.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da inclusão de resíduo úmido de cervejaria (RUC) como fonte exclusiva de volumoso sobre as características da carcaça e dos componentes não-carcaça de cordeiros terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 32 cordeiros, machos, não castrados, desmamados com 50 dias de idade e provenientes de cruzamento entre as raças Texel e Ile de France. A dieta foi composta por volumoso, sendo este o RUC, e por concentrado composto de milho desintegrado, farelo de soja, calcário calcítico e sal comum. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por quatro teores de RUC como volumoso da dieta (% da MS), sendo: 31, 44, 57 e 70%. Os cordeiros foram abatidos quando atingiram 34 kg de peso vivo. Os tratamentos exerceram influência negativa de maneira linear decrescente sobre os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria, índice de compacidade de carcaça, conformação, estado de engorduramento e área de olho de lombo. Entre os cortes comerciais, a medida que aumentou o nível de RUC diminuíram os pesos absolutos de paleta, costilhar e perna. Quando avaliados os componentes não-carcaça, verificou-se que apenas o conteúdo gastrointestinal total aumentou linearmente com a elevação do teor de RUC. O aumento da inclusão de RUC levou a maiores perdas por jejum e reduziu os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça. Também ocorreu redução no estado de engorduramento, no índice de compacidade e conformação da carcaça, bem como da área de olho de lombo. O teor de 31% de RUC como alimento volumoso na terminação de cordeiros em confinamento proporcionou melhores características na carcaça dos animais.(AU)

Variants in GH, IGF1, and LEP genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep

Growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and leptin (LEP) can be candidate genes for association studies because they play vital roles in the metabolism process. Thus, this study aimed to identify variants in these genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep. The following were recorded: body weight at 100 (BW100) and 240 days (BW240), average daily gain (ADG), withers (WH) and croup (CH) heights, body length (BL), thoracic (TG) and leg (LG) girths, thoracic (TW) and croup (CW) widths, body depth (BD), rib eye area (REA), fat thickness (FT), and carcass finishing score (CFS). Single-locus association analysis was performed with 11 variants in IGF1, 18 in LEP, and 16 in GH. Moreover, two haplotypes in IGF1 and one haplotype in LEP were evaluated in haplotype association analysis. The single-locus analysis revealed 23 suggestive additive effects (p < 0.05), but no additive effect was found at the Bonferroni threshold. Haplotype association analysis revealed 19 additive effects, of which ten were at the Bonferroni threshold (p < 0.0074). In IGF1 gene, haplotype replacements were associated with ADG 20.51(7.37), CH 4.09(1.21), WH 3.52(1.20), BL 3.94(1.19), TG 3.88(1.30), TW 1.13(0.36), and LG 3.40(1.08); while in the LEP gene the haplotype replacement was associated with BW100 1.83(0.51), BD −2.51(0.56), and CFS −0.24(0.06). Therefore, there are haplotypes in IGF1 and LEP genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep, which can be useful in marker-assisted selection.

Energy value of babassu cake as substitute bulk in sheep diets / Valor energético da torta de babaçu em substituição ao volumoso na alimentação de ovinos

The aim of this study was to evaluate the energy value of diets containing babassu cake as a replacement for Tifton-85 hay (70, 140, 210, 280 and 350 g kg-¹ dry matter, DM), using the technique of indirect calorimetry. Twenty-five castrated male Santa Inês sheep, with an average body weight of 49.6 + 9.4 kg, were used in a completely randomised design. The trial was carried out in an individual open-flow respirometry chamber for small ruminants, with each animal remaining for 24 hours inside the chamber. Gross energy and net energy intake were not affected by adding the cake. Digestible energy intake and metabolisable energy intake showed a linear response, ranging from 145.44 to 178.40 and from 121.85 to 158.08 kcal kg-0.75 day-¹ respectively. The energy lost through faeces and methane (% of gross energy intake, GEI) showed decreasing linear behaviour, while the caloric increase, in %GEI, showed a quadratic response. The values for digestible energy and metabolisability presented an increasing linear response. The partial efficiency of use of metabolisable energy for maintenance ranged from 0.71 to 0.81, and showed a quadratic response; however, the net energy values did not differ. For every 10 g of added by-product, there was a reduction of 0.31 g of methane per kg of DM intake. The addition of babassu cake to replace up to 350 g kg-¹ DM in sheep diets increases the energy efficiency of the diet and reduces methane emission by the animals.

Objetivou-se avaliar o valor energético de rações contendo torta de babaçu em substituição ao feno de Tifton-85 (70; 140; 210; 280 e 350 g kg-¹ de matéria seca, MS), pela técnica da calorimetria indireta. Foram utilizados 25 ovinos da raça Santa Inês, machos castrados, com peso corporal médio de 49,6 + 9,4 kg, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. O ensaio experimental foi realizado em câmara respirométrica individual de fluxo aberto para pequenos ruminantes, permanecendo cada animal por período de 24 horas no interior da câmara. Os consumos de energia bruta e energia líquida não foram influenciados pela inclusão da torta. Os consumos de energia digestível e energia metabolizável apresentaram resposta linear, variando de 145,44 a 178,40 e de 121,85 a 158,08 kcal kg-0,75 por dia, respectivamente. As perdas de energia pelas fezes e pelo metano (% do consumo da energia bruta, CEB) apresentaram comportamento linear decrescente, enquanto o incremento calórico, em %CEB, apresentou resposta quadrática. Os valores de energia digestível e metabolizabilidade apresentaram respostas lineares crescentes. A eficiência parcial de uso da energia metabolizável para mantença variou entre 0,71 a 0,81, com resposta quadrática, porém os valores de energia líquida não diferiram. Para cada 10 g de inclusão de subproduto, houve redução de 0,31 g de metano por kg de MS consumida. A inclusão de torta de babaçu, em substituição ao volumoso, na ração de ovinos, em até 350 g kg-¹ MS, aumenta a eficiência energética da ração e reduz a emissão de metano pelos animais.

Variants in GH, IGF1, and LEP genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep

Growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and leptin (LEP) can be candidate genes for association studies because they play vital roles in the metabolism process. Thus, this study aimed to identify variants in these genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep. The following were recorded: body weight at 100 (BW100) and 240 days (BW240), average daily gain (ADG), withers (WH) and croup (CH) heights, body length (BL), thoracic (TG) and leg (LG) girths, thoracic (TW) and croup (CW) widths, body depth (BD), rib eye area (REA), fat thickness (FT), and carcass finishing score (CFS). Single-locus association analysis was performed with 11 variants in IGF1, 18 in LEP, and 16 in GH. Moreover, two haplotypes in IGF1 and one haplotype in LEP were evaluated in haplotype association analysis. The single-locus analysis revealed 23 suggestive additive effects (p < 0.05), but no additive effect was found at the Bonferroni threshold. Haplotype association analysis revealed 19 additive effects, of which ten were at the Bonferroni threshold (p < 0.0074). In IGF1 gene, haplotype replacements were associated with ADG 20.51(7.37), CH 4.09(1.21), WH 3.52(1.20), BL 3.94(1.19), TG 3.88(1.30), TW 1.13(0.36), and LG 3.40(1.08); while in the LEP gene the haplotype replacement was associated with BW100 1.83(0.51), BD −2.51(0.56), and CFS −0.24(0.06). Therefore, there are haplotypes in IGF1 and LEP genes associated with body traits in Santa Inês sheep, which can be useful in marker-assisted selection.(AU)

Energy value of babassu cake as substitute bulk in sheep diets / Valor energético da torta de babaçu em substituição ao volumoso na alimentação de ovinos

The aim of this study was to evaluate the energy value of diets containing babassu cake as a replacement for Tifton-85 hay (70, 140, 210, 280 and 350 g kg-¹ dry matter, DM), using the technique of indirect calorimetry. Twenty-five castrated male Santa Inês sheep, with an average body weight of 49.6 + 9.4 kg, were used in a completely randomised design. The trial was carried out in an individual open-flow respirometry chamber for small ruminants, with each animal remaining for 24 hours inside the chamber. Gross energy and net energy intake were not affected by adding the cake. Digestible energy intake and metabolisable energy intake showed a linear response, ranging from 145.44 to 178.40 and from 121.85 to 158.08 kcal kg-0.75 day-¹ respectively. The energy lost through faeces and methane (% of gross energy intake, GEI) showed decreasing linear behaviour, while the caloric increase, in %GEI, showed a quadratic response. The values for digestible energy and metabolisability presented an increasing linear response. The partial efficiency of use of metabolisable energy for maintenance ranged from 0.71 to 0.81, and showed a quadratic response; however, the net energy values did not differ. For every 10 g of added by-product, there was a reduction of 0.31 g of methane per kg of DM intake. The addition of babassu cake to replace up to 350 g kg-¹ DM in sheep diets increases the energy efficiency of the diet and reduces methane emission by the animals.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o valor energético de rações contendo torta de babaçu em substituição ao feno de Tifton-85 (70; 140; 210; 280 e 350 g kg-¹ de matéria seca, MS), pela técnica da calorimetria indireta. Foram utilizados 25 ovinos da raça Santa Inês, machos castrados, com peso corporal médio de 49,6 + 9,4 kg, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. O ensaio experimental foi realizado em câmara respirométrica individual de fluxo aberto para pequenos ruminantes, permanecendo cada animal por período de 24 horas no interior da câmara. Os consumos de energia bruta e energia líquida não foram influenciados pela inclusão da torta. Os consumos de energia digestível e energia metabolizável apresentaram resposta linear, variando de 145,44 a 178,40 e de 121,85 a 158,08 kcal kg-0,75 por dia, respectivamente. As perdas de energia pelas fezes e pelo metano (% do consumo da energia bruta, CEB) apresentaram comportamento linear decrescente, enquanto o incremento calórico, em %CEB, apresentou resposta quadrática. Os valores de energia digestível e metabolizabilidade apresentaram respostas lineares crescentes. A eficiência parcial de uso da energia metabolizável para mantença variou entre 0,71 a 0,81, com resposta quadrática, porém os valores de energia líquida não diferiram. Para cada 10 g de inclusão de subproduto, houve redução de 0,31 g de metano por kg de MS consumida. A inclusão de torta de babaçu, em substituição ao volumoso, na ração de ovinos, em até 350 g kg-¹ MS, aumenta a eficiência energética da ração e reduz a emissão de metano pelos animais.(AU)

Ewe performance in the post-weaning phase and structural characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars in the dry season

The objective of this study was to examine the performance of ewes in the post-weaning phase and the structural characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars in the dry season. The treatments were represented by four Brachiaria brizantha cultivars (Piatã, Marandu, Paiaguás, and Xaraés), which were evaluated in a randomized-block design with two replicates for the forage variables and eight replicates for the animal performance variables. Canopy height, masses of forage and morphological components and chemical composition of morphological components were evaluated. Thirty-two ½ Santa Inês and ½ Dorper sheep with an initial body weight (BW) of 22.7 ± 1.2 kg were used. Average daily gain (ADG kg animal-1 day-1), stocking rate (in animal units [AU] = 30 kg of body weight) and weight gain per area (kg ha-1 day-1) were measured. There was no cultivar effect (p > 0.05) on the structural characteristics of the pasture. The highest crude protein content in the leaf blade (11.8%) were found in cultivar Marandu. Average daily gain was higher in the animals that grazed on cultivar Marandu (0.08 kg animal-1 day-1) as compared with cultivars Xaraés (0.05 kg animal-1 day-1) and Piatã (0.04 kg animal-1 day-1), whereas the ewes that grazed on cultivar Paiaguás showed intermediate ADG values (0.06 kg animal-1 day-1). There was no difference between the cultivars for stocking rate (9.2 AU). Weight gain per area was highest in cultivar Marandu (0.33 kg ha-1 day-1) and lowest in cv. Piatã (0.16 kg ha-1 day-1). Brachiaria brizantha cultivars Piatã, Marandu, Paiaguás and Xaraés proved to be forage options for the post-weaning phase of ewes supplemented with concentrate in the dry season.(AU)

Ewe performance in the post-weaning phase and structural characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars in the dry season

The objective of this study was to examine the performance of ewes in the post-weaning phase and the structural characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars in the dry season. The treatments were represented by four Brachiaria brizantha cultivars (Piatã, Marandu, Paiaguás, and Xaraés), which were evaluated in a randomized-block design with two replicates for the forage variables and eight replicates for the animal performance variables. Canopy height, masses of forage and morphological components and chemical composition of morphological components were evaluated. Thirty-two ½ Santa Inês and ½ Dorper sheep with an initial body weight (BW) of 22.7 ± 1.2 kg were used. Average daily gain (ADG – kg animal-1 day-1), stocking rate (in animal units [AU] = 30 kg of body weight) and weight gain per area (kg ha-1 day-1) were measured. There was no cultivar effect (p > 0.05) on the structural characteristics of the pasture. The highest crude protein content in the leaf blade (11.8%) were found in cultivar Marandu. Average daily gain was higher in the animals that grazed on cultivar Marandu (0.08 kg animal-1 day-1) as compared with cultivars Xaraés (0.05 kg animal-1 day-1) and Piatã (0.04 kg animal-1 day-1), whereas the ewes that grazed on cultivar Paiaguás showed intermediate ADG values (0.06 kg animal-1 day-1). There was no difference between the cultivars for stocking rate (9.2 AU). Weight gain per area was highest in cultivar Marandu (0.33 kg ha-1 day-1) and lowest in cv. Piatã (0.16 kg ha-1 day-1). Brachiaria brizantha cultivars Piatã, Marandu, Paiaguás and Xaraés proved to be forage options for the post-weaning phase of ewes supplemented with concentrate in the dry season.