Weight Development and Growth Curves of Grazing Santa Inês Sheep Supplemented with Concentrate in the Pre-Weaning Phase.

Monitoring weight development is essential for decision-making and assessing the effectiveness of management strategies. However, this practice is often hindered by the lack of scales on farms. This study aimed to characterize the weight development and growth curves of male and female Santa Inês lambs from birth to weaning, managed on pasture with creep-fed concentrate supplementation. Data from 212 lambs during the pre-weaning phase were analyzed. The animals were weighed every seven days to evaluate total weight gain and average daily gain. Biometric measurements were taken every 28 days. Mixed models were used to assess the effects of sex and birth type on birth and weaning weights. Simple and multiple linear regression models were employed to estimate live weight using biometric measurements. The non-linear Gompertz model was utilized to describe weight development and formulate growth curves. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05. An interaction effect between birth type and sex (p < 0.05) was noted for birth weight, with the lowest weight observed in twin-birth females (2.96 kg) and the highest in single-birth males (3.73 kg) and females (3.65 kg) (p > 0.05). Birth type significantly influenced average daily gain, total weight gain, and weaning weight (p < 0.05). The Gompertz model accurately depicted the growth curves, effectively describing the weight development. Pearson's correlation coefficients between biometric measurements and weight were positive and significant (p < 0.05), ranging from 0.599 for hip height to 0.847 for heart girth. Consequently, the simple and multiple regression equations demonstrated high precision in predicting weaning weight. In conclusion, twin-birth lambs receiving concentrate supplementation via creep-feeding and managed on pasture showed different developmental patterns compared to single-birth lambs under the same conditions. The Gompertz model proved effective for monitoring development during the pre-weaning phase. All simple and multiple linear regression models were effective in predicting weaning weight through biometric measurements. However, for practical application, the model incorporating two measurements-body length and abdominal circumference-is recommended.

Prediction of carcass composition through measurements in vivo and measurements of the carcass of growing Santa Inês sheep.

In vivo and carcass measurements were evaluated to predict carcass physical and chemical composition and to list the measurements that best fit the prediction of the composition of growing Santa Inês sheep carcasses. Thirty-three animals were used to measure the loin eye area by ultrasound in vivo (LEAu) and in the carcass. We used 39 animals for biometric measurement in vivo and 42 sheep for morphometric measurement in the carcass. For the physical and chemical compositions of carcasses, dissection of the half left carcass was carried out in 42 animals. The data were submitted to Pearson's correlation analysis and t test. Simple and multiple linear regressions were performed using a stepwise procedure. All correlations between in vivo measurements and the physical and chemical compositions of carcasses (in kg) were significant, except for LEAu. Biometric measurements and hot (HCW) and cold (CCW) carcass weights were considered as predictors of the carcasses' physical and chemical compositions. Slaughter body weight (SBW) was the variable that most influenced the equations in the assessment of in vivo measurements and HCW and CCW most influenced the equations for measurements on carcasses. Biometric measurements of Santa Inês sheep can be used together with the SBW to estimate the physical and chemical compositions of carcasses, with emphasis on body compactness index, breast width, wither height, and croup height. The morphometric measurements can be used together with carcass weight to estimate the physical and chemical compositions of carcasses, with emphasis on croup width, carcass compactness index, croup perimeter, external and internal carcass lengths, chest width, and leg length and perimeter. The HCW can be used to predict the physical and chemical composition of carcasses without affecting the accuracy of the prediction model.

Nutritional and performance viability of cactus Opuntia-based diets added to concentrate levels for Girolando lactating dairy cows.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of different concentrate levels in diets based on cactus Opuntia Stricta (Haw.) Haw cladodes over the performance of lactating Girolando cows. METHODS: The experiment involved 10 Girolando multiparous dairy cows (512.6 kg of body weight and producing 13.2kg milk/day), allocated into two 5 x 5 Latin squares. The experimental treatments consisted of control diet composed by cactus Nopalea cochenillifera. Salm-Dyck. cladodes (Nopalea), forage sorghum silage and concentrate (20% at DM basis), and four concentrate levels diets (20, 24, 28 and 32%) plus cactus Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. cladodes (Opuntia) and forage sorghum silage. RESULTS: Regarding cows fed control diet, the nutrients intake were greater than for cows fed with cactus Opuntia and concentrate. Regarding concentrate levels, intakes of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) of cows increased linearly. The OM, CP and NDF digestibilities were similar in between to control diet and cactus Opuntia-based diets. The digestibility of NFC increased linearly when the concentrate was inserted. The N balance was the same for control diet and cactus Opuntia-based diets, irrespective the concentrate levels. CONCLUSION: For cows producing 14 kg/day with 3.5% of fat, it is recommended 32% of concentrate inclusion in cactus Opuntia-based diets, and the increase in concentrate level promotes a linear increase in milk yield.

Intake, digestibility, and performance of lambs fed spineless cactus cv. Orelha de Elefante Mexicana.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of the carmine cochineal-resistant spineless cactus genotypes cv. Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (Opuntia) and Miúda (Nopalea) on the intake and digestibility of nutrients, ingestive behavior, performance, and ultrasound measurements of growing lambs. METHODS: Thirty-six male (non-castrated) Santa Inês lambs were used, with an average age of 6 months and an initial average weight of 22.0±2.9 kg. They were distributed in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments (Tifton hay, Nopalea and Opuntia) and 12 replications, using initial weight as a covariate. The experimental period was 86 days, with the first 30 days used for the adaptation of the animals to the facilities, diets and management, and the remaining 56 days used for evaluation and data collection. RESULTS: The intake and apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), total carbohydrates (TC), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC), and total digestible nutrients (TDN) showed a significant difference (p<0.05) as a function of the diets, with the Nopalea treatment (p<0.05) increasing DM intake (g/kg and % body weight [BW]), CP, TDN, and TC digestibility, whereas the Tifton hay diet led to a high (p<0.001) neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap) g/d intake, NDFap (BW %) and digestibility of said nutrient. There was no effect of treatments (p>0.05) on feeding time, however, rumination time and total chewing time were higher (p<0.05) for animals fed Tifton hay. The performance of the animals was similar (p>0.05). For the ultrasound measurements, Nopalea promoted an increase in the final loin eye area, compared to Tifton hay. CONCLUSION: The use of spineless cactus variety Miúda leads to the greater intake and digestibility of nutrients. The evaluated carmine cochineal-resistant spineless cactus genotypes are alternatives for semi-arid regions as they do not negatively affect the performance of growing lambs.

Sugarcane and cactus cladodes plus urea: a new option for Girolando dairy heifers

This study was performed to identify the ideal amount of concentrate required for a diet based on cactus cladodes, sugarcane, and urea used to feed heifers. Twenty Girolando heifers (160±8.39 kg) were randomly distributed into four experimental treatments with 0, 0.40, 0.80, or 1.20 kg day−1 of concentrate. The basal diet contained [on dry matter (DM) basis] 38.1% sugarcane, 56.5% cactus cladodes [ Opuntia stricta (Haw). Haw.], 0.5% common salt, 1.1% mineral mixture, and 3.8% urea plus ammonium sulfate. The concentrate contained [on DM basis] 87% corn meal and 13% soybean meal. The basal diet and the concentrate were formulated to provide 13% crude protein (CP). The intake of DM (4.34-4.96 kg day−1), organic matter (3.96-4.98 kg day−1), CP (0.57-0.64 kg day−1), non-fibrous carbohydrates (2.20-2.61 kg day−1), and metabolizable energy (10.3-12.4 Mcal day−1) increased linearly with concentrate amount. Final body weight (196-224 kg), total body weight gain (36.9-61.2 kg), and average daily body weight gain (0.51-0.85 kg day−1) increased linearly with concentrate amount. The nitrogen balance was positive and increased linearly (54.8-62.3 g day−1) with concentrate amount. Based on the data, we recommend supplying six-month-old Girolando heifers (160 kg body weight) 1.20 kg concentrate day−1 added to a diet based on sugarcane and cactus cladodes plus urea for better productive and economic performance.(AU)

Multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with urea forcattle / Suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com ureia para bovinos

This study was realized to evaluate the effect of the multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with urea (0, 1, 2 and 3% on dry matter basis - DM) as a replacement to a traditional supplement (control) on ruminal parameters and microbial protein synthesis in crossbred steers. Five steers(½ Holstein x Zebu) can nulated in the rumen, with an average initial body weight of 240 ± 22.1 kg were used in a 5 × 5 Latin square. A quadratic effect was observed for DM intake and N retention, with maximum values of 6.97 kg d-1 and 50.9 gd-1 with the inclusion of 1.8 and 2.1% urea, respectively. Maximum concentrations of 16.2, 23.2 and 24.3 mg dL-1of N-NH3were recorded in animals fed spineless cactus enriched with 1, 2, and 3% of urea. There was a quadratic effect on ruminal pH, with a value of 6.45 at 4.08 hours after feeding. Microbial synthesis efficiency of 103 g CPkg-1 TDN was obtained with the inclusion of 1.6% urea. Multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with 1.6 up to 1.8% urea in replacement of a traditional supplement is recommended for cattle.(AU)

Este trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o efeito de suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com ureia (0, 1, 2 e 3% na matéria seca - MS) em substituição a um suplemento tradicional (controle) sobre os parâmetros ruminais e síntese de proteína microbiana em novilhos mestiços. Cinco novilhos canulados no rúmen (½ Holandês x Zebu), com peso corporal inicial de 240 ± 22,1 kg foram utilizados em um Quadrado Latino 5 × 5. Efeito quadrático foi observado para o consumo de MS e retenção de N, com valores máximos de 6,97 kg d-1e 50,9 g d-1com a inclusão de 1,8 e 2,1% de ureia, respectivamente. Concentrações máximas de 16,2; 23,2 e 24,3 mg dL-1 de N-NH3 foram registradas nos animais alimentados com palma forrageira enriquecida com 1, 2 de 3% de ureia. Houve efeito quadrático sobre o pH ruminal, com valor de 6,45 às 4,08 horas após alimentação. Síntese de proteína microbiana de 103 g de proteína bruta kg-1de nutrientes digestíveis totais foi obtida com a inclusão de 1,6% de ureia. Recomenda-se a utilização de suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com 1,6 a 1,8% de ureia em substituição ao suplemento tradicional para bovinos.(AU)

Multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with urea forcattle / Suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com ureia para bovinos

This study was realized to evaluate the effect of the multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with urea (0, 1, 2 and 3% on dry matter basis - DM) as a replacement to a traditional supplement (control) on ruminal parameters and microbial protein synthesis in crossbred steers. Five steers(½ Holstein x Zebu) can nulated in the rumen, with an average initial body weight of 240 ± 22.1 kg were used in a 5 × 5 Latin square. A quadratic effect was observed for DM intake and N retention, with maximum values of 6.97 kg d-1 and 50.9 gd-1 with the inclusion of 1.8 and 2.1% urea, respectively. Maximum concentrations of 16.2, 23.2 and 24.3 mg dL-1of N-NH3were recorded in animals fed spineless cactus enriched with 1, 2, and 3% of urea. There was a quadratic effect on ruminal pH, with a value of 6.45 at 4.08 hours after feeding. Microbial synthesis efficiency of 103 g CPkg-1 TDN was obtained with the inclusion of 1.6% urea. Multiple supplements containing spineless cactus enriched with 1.6 up to 1.8% urea in replacement of a traditional supplement is recommended for cattle.

Este trabalho foi realizado para avaliar o efeito de suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com ureia (0, 1, 2 e 3% na matéria seca - MS) em substituição a um suplemento tradicional (controle) sobre os parâmetros ruminais e síntese de proteína microbiana em novilhos mestiços. Cinco novilhos canulados no rúmen (½ Holandês x Zebu), com peso corporal inicial de 240 ± 22,1 kg foram utilizados em um Quadrado Latino 5 × 5. Efeito quadrático foi observado para o consumo de MS e retenção de N, com valores máximos de 6,97 kg d-1e 50,9 g d-1com a inclusão de 1,8 e 2,1% de ureia, respectivamente. Concentrações máximas de 16,2; 23,2 e 24,3 mg dL-1 de N-NH3 foram registradas nos animais alimentados com palma forrageira enriquecida com 1, 2 de 3% de ureia. Houve efeito quadrático sobre o pH ruminal, com valor de 6,45 às 4,08 horas após alimentação. Síntese de proteína microbiana de 103 g de proteína bruta kg-1de nutrientes digestíveis totais foi obtida com a inclusão de 1,6% de ureia. Recomenda-se a utilização de suplementos múltiplos contendo palma forrageira enriquecida com 1,6 a 1,8% de ureia em substituição ao suplemento tradicional para bovinos.

Concentrate intake and performance of dairy calves subjected to programs of supplementary lighting / Consumo de concentrado e desempenho de bezerras leiteiras submetidas a programas de iluminação suplementar

This research aimed to assess Girolando calves concentrate intake and performance when placed in shelters with distinct roofing materials and programs of supplementary lighting during the milk-feeding stage. In order to so, we used a completely randomized design with a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with three replications. Females Girolando calves (n=27) were assigned in individual shelters at random with 3 different roofing materials (fiber cement tile, recycled tile and thatched roofs) and subjected to three lighting programs (12, 16 and 20 hours). No interaction was observed between roofing material and lighting programs, whilst no significant effect (P>0.05) was observed among the roofing materials. The supplementary lighting, by providing greater light exposure time, has stimulated intake and therefore, significantly affected (P 0.05) the concentrate intake and performance of the animals that were subjected to 20 hours of light.(AU)

Essa pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o consumo de concentrado e o desempenho de bezerras da raça Girolando quando colocadas em abrigos com materiais de cobertura e programas de iluminação suplementar distintos, durante a fase de aleitamento. Para tal, nós utilizamos o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 3×3, com três repetições. As bezerras Girolando (n=27) foram distribuídas ao acaso em abrigos individuais, com materiais de cobertura distintos (telha de fibrocimento, telha reciclada e cobertura com palha), e sujeitas a três programas de iluminação (12, 16 e 20h). Não houve interação entre os mateiral de cobertura×programas de iluminação, ao mesmo tempo que não foi observado efeito significativo (P>0,05) para os materiais de cobertura. A iluminação suplementar, proporcionando maior tempo de luz, tem estimulado a ingestão, e, portanto, apresentou efeito significativo (P 0,05) no consumo de concentrado e desempenho dos animais submetidos a 20h de iluminação.(AU)

Concentrate intake and performance of dairy calves subjected to programs of supplementary lighting / Consumo de concentrado e desempenho de bezerras leiteiras submetidas a programas de iluminação suplementar

This research aimed to assess Girolando calves concentrate intake and performance when placed in shelters with distinct roofing materials and programs of supplementary lighting during the milk-feeding stage. In order to so, we used a completely randomized design with a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with three replications. Females Girolando calves (n=27) were assigned in individual shelters at random with 3 different roofing materials (fiber cement tile, recycled tile and thatched roofs) and subjected to three lighting programs (12, 16 and 20 hours). No interaction was observed between roofing material and lighting programs, whilst no significant effect (P>0.05) was observed among the roofing materials. The supplementary lighting, by providing greater light exposure time, has stimulated intake and therefore, significantly affected (P 0.05) the concentrate intake and performance of the animals that were subjected to 20 hours of light.

Essa pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o consumo de concentrado e o desempenho de bezerras da raça Girolando quando colocadas em abrigos com materiais de cobertura e programas de iluminação suplementar distintos, durante a fase de aleitamento. Para tal, nós utilizamos o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 3×3, com três repetições. As bezerras Girolando (n=27) foram distribuídas ao acaso em abrigos individuais, com materiais de cobertura distintos (telha de fibrocimento, telha reciclada e cobertura com palha), e sujeitas a três programas de iluminação (12, 16 e 20h). Não houve interação entre os mateiral de cobertura×programas de iluminação, ao mesmo tempo que não foi observado efeito significativo (P>0,05) para os materiais de cobertura. A iluminação suplementar, proporcionando maior tempo de luz, tem estimulado a ingestão, e, portanto, apresentou efeito significativo (P 0,05) no consumo de concentrado e desempenho dos animais submetidos a 20h de iluminação.

Concentrate intake and performance of dairy calves subjected to programs of supplementary lighting / Consumo de concentrado e desempenho de bezerras leiteiras submetidas a programas de iluminação suplementar

ABSTRACT: This research aimed to assess Girolando calves' concentrate intake and performance when placed in shelters with distinct roofing materials and programs of supplementary lighting during the milk-feeding stage. In order to so, we used a completely randomized design with a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with three replications. Females Girolando calves (n=27) were assigned in individual shelters at random with 3 different roofing materials (fiber cement tile, recycled tile and thatched roofs) and subjected to three lighting programs (12, 16 and 20 hours). No interaction was observed between roofing material and lighting programs, whilst no significant effect (P>0.05) was observed among the roofing materials. The supplementary lighting, by providing greater light exposure time, has stimulated intake and therefore, significantly affected (P<0.05) the concentrate intake and performance of the animals that were subjected to 20 hours of light.

RESUMO: Essa pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o consumo de concentrado e o desempenho de bezerras da raça Girolando quando colocadas em abrigos com materiais de cobertura e programas de iluminação suplementar distintos, durante a fase de aleitamento. Para tal, nós utilizamos o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 3×3, com três repetições. As bezerras Girolando (n=27) foram distribuídas ao acaso em abrigos individuais, com materiais de cobertura distintos (telha de fibrocimento, telha reciclada e cobertura com palha), e sujeitas a três programas de iluminação (12, 16 e 20h). Não houve interação entre os mateiral de cobertura×programas de iluminação, ao mesmo tempo que não foi observado efeito significativo (P>0,05) para os materiais de cobertura. A iluminação suplementar, proporcionando maior tempo de luz, tem estimulado a ingestão, e, portanto, apresentou efeito significativo (P<0,05) no consumo de concentrado e desempenho dos animais submetidos a 20h de iluminação.

Energy and protein requirements of crossbred cattle in feedlot / Exigências energéticas e proteicas de bovinos mestiços em confinamento

The objective of this study is to predict the energy and protein requirements of crossbred dairy cattle in feedlot. The study was conducted at the Unidade Acadêmica de Serra Talhada, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Brazil with 30 bulls with a body weight of 339.1 ± 35.4 kg. Five animals were slaughtered at the end of the adaptation period to serve as the reference group; the remainder of the animals was slaughtered after 112 days. The latter group was randomly allocated to receive five treatments: 0, 17, 34, 51 and 68% of concentrate in the feed using a completely randomized design. The dietary intake of the animals that were not given concentrate was restricted to 1.5% of their body weight; these animals composed the group fed for maintenance. The body composition and empty body weight (EBW) were estimated by means of the comparative slaughter method and full dissection of a half-carcass. The results showed that for crossbred dairy bulls in confinement, the net and metabolizable energy requirements were 86.49 and 138 kcal EBW-0.75 day-1, respectively, and the efficiency of use of metabolizable energy for maintenance and gain were 62.67% and 31.67%, respectively. The net energy (NEg) and net protein (NPg) requirements for gain can be estimated using the following equations, respectively: NEg= 0.0392*EBW0.75*EBWG1.0529 and NPg= 242.34 x EBWG - 23.09 x RE. The efficiency of use of metabolizable protein for gain was 25.8%, and the protein requirement for maintenance was 2.96 g EBW-0.75 day-1. The rumen degradable protein can supply 62.44% of the crude protein requirements of feedlot dairy crossbred bulls with a body weight of 450 kg while gaining 1 kg day-1.(AU)

Com o objetivo de predizer as exigências energéticas e proteicas de bovinos mestiços leiteiros em confinamento, este trabalho foi conduzido na Unidade Acadêmica de Serra Talhada da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Foram utilizados 30 machos não castrados, com peso corporal inicial de 339,1 ± 35,4 kg. Cinco animais foram abatidos após período de adaptação, compondo o grupo referência, e o restante foi abatido após 112 dias. Os remanescentes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em cinco tratamentos: 0, 17, 34, 51 e 68% de concentrado na ração, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Os bovinos que não receberam concentrado tiveram seu consumo restrito para 1,5% do seu peso corporal, compondo o grupo de animais alimentados ao nível de mantença. A composição corporal e o peso de corpo vazio (PCVZ) foram obtidos pela técnica do abate comparativo e dissecação completa da meia carcaça. Para bovinos mestiços leiteiros, não castrados, confinados, as exigências líquida e metabolizável de energia para mantença foram de 86,49 e 138 kcal PCVZ-0,75 dia-1, respectivamente, enquanto que as eficiências de utilização da energia metabolizável (EUEM) para mantença e ganho foram de 62,67 e 31,67%, respectivamente. Já as exigências líquidas de energia (ELg) e proteina (PLg) para ganho, podem ser estimadas a partir das seguintes equações: ELg = 0,0392*PCVZ0,75*GPCVZ1,0529e PLg = 242,34 × GPCVZ - 23,09 × ER, respectivamente. A eficiência do uso da proteína metabolizável para ganho foi de 25,8% enquanto que as exigências de proteína para mantença foram 2,96 g PCVZ-0,75 dia-1. A proteína degradável no rúmen pode suprir 62,44% das exigências em proteína bruta de bovinos mestiços leiteiros, machos não castrados, em confinamento, com peso corporal de 450 kg e ganho de 1 kg dia-1.(AU)

Intake, performance, and carcass characteristics of lambs fed spineless cactus replacing wheat bran.

To assess the intake, digestibility of nutrients, ingestive behavior, performance, and carcass characteristics of feedlot lambs, 36 F1 Santa Ines × Dorper male lambs with an initial average weight of 19.5 ± 0.27 kg were fed with different levels of spineless cactus (0, 33, 66, and 100 %) as a replacement of the wheat bran. The replacement diets had no effect on the intake of dry matter (DM) or crude protein (CP), whose average values were 962 and 140 g/day, respectively. There was a quadratic effect on the intake of digestible organic matter (OM) and the digestibility of DM, CP, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC). The highest average daily gain (ADG) of 168 g/day was achieved at 58.7 % replacement level. The highest hot and cold carcass weights of 15.4 and 14.5 kg were achieved at 62.4 and 56.9 % replacement levels. For lambs in the feedlot, we recommend replacing wheat bran with up to 58.7 % spineless cactus.

Corn germ meal in replacement of corn in Santa Ines sheep diet: carcass characteristics and tissue composition / Gérmen integral de milho em substituição ao milho na dieta de ovinos Santa Inês: características de carcaça e composição tecidual

The effects of replacing corn to corn germ meal (0; 25; 50; 75 and 100%) in the diet of Santa Ines sheep on the carcass characteristics, weight and yield of meat cuts and tissue composition of the leg were studied. Forty non castrated sheep were slaughtered after 70 days of confinement. The intakes of dry matter, crude protein and total digestible nutrients decreased linearly with the substitution, as well as the weight of all commercial cuts and tissue components of the leg. There was a linear increase in the final pH carcass without effect on the initial pH and the initial and final temperatures. The yield of meat cuts, the percentage of muscle and fat of the leg and the relation muscle : fat were not affected by the replacement. For the percentage of bones and other tissues of the leg there was a linear increase. Relations muscle: bone, subcutaneous fat: intermuscular fat and the leg muscularity index decreased with the replacement. It is not recommended to replace corn by corn germ meal in Santa Ines sheep diets.

Avaliou-se o efeito da substituição do milho pelo gérmen integral de milho (0; 25; 50; 75 e 100%) na dieta de ovinos da raça Santa Inês sobre as características de carcaça, pesos e rendimentos dos cortes cárneos e composição tecidual da perna. Quarenta animais não emasculados da raça Santa Inês foram abatidos após 70 dias de confinamento. Verificou-se efeito linear decrescente para o consumo de matéria seca, proteína bruta e nutrientes digestíveis totais, bem como para os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça, área de olho-de-lombo, pesos dos cortes cárneos comerciais e componentes tissulares da perna. Houve aumento linear para o pH final da carcaça, sem efeito sobre o pH inicial e temperaturas inicial e final. O rendimento dos cortes cárneos, os percentuais de músculos e de gordura da perna e a relação músculo: gordura não foram influenciados pela substituição. Para os percentuais de ossos e de outros tecidos da perna houve efeito linear crescente. As relações musculo : osso, gordura subcutânea: gordura intermuscular e o índice de musculosidade da perna decresceram linearmente com a substituição. Não se recomenda a substituição do milho pelo gérmen integral de milho na dieta de ovinos da raça Santa Inês confinados.

Energy and protein requirements of crossbred cattle in feedlot / Exigências energéticas e proteicas de bovinos mestiços em confinamento

The objective of this study is to predict the energy and protein requirements of crossbred dairy cattle in feedlot. The study was conducted at the Unidade Acadêmica de Serra Talhada, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Brazil with 30 bulls with a body weight of 339.1 ± 35.4 kg. Five animals were slaughtered at the end of the adaptation period to serve as the reference group; the remainder of the animals was slaughtered after 112 days. The latter group was randomly allocated to receive five treatments: 0, 17, 34, 51 and 68% of concentrate in the feed using a completely randomized design. The dietary intake of the animals that were not given concentrate was restricted to 1.5% of their body weight; these animals composed the group fed for maintenance. The body composition and empty body weight (EBW) were estimated by means of the comparative slaughter method and full dissection of a half-carcass. The results showed that for crossbred dairy bulls in confinement, the net and metabolizable energy requirements were 86.49 and 138 kcal EBW-0.75 day-1, respectively, and the efficiency of use of metabolizable energy for maintenance and gain were 62.67% and 31.67%, respectively. The net energy (NEg) and net protein (NPg) requirements for gain can be estimated using the following equations, respectively: NEg= 0.0392*EBW0.75*EBWG1.0529 and NPg= 242.34 x EBWG - 23.09 x RE. The efficiency of use of metabolizable protein for gain was 25.8%, and the protein requirement for maintenance was 2.96 g EBW-0.75 day-1. The rumen degradable protein can supply 62.44% of the crude protein requirements of feedlot dairy crossbred bulls with a body weight of 450 kg while gaining 1 kg day-1.

Com o objetivo de predizer as exigências energéticas e proteicas de bovinos mestiços leiteiros em confinamento, este trabalho foi conduzido na Unidade Acadêmica de Serra Talhada da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Foram utilizados 30 machos não castrados, com peso corporal inicial de 339,1 ± 35,4 kg. Cinco animais foram abatidos após período de adaptação, compondo o grupo referência, e o restante foi abatido após 112 dias. Os remanescentes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em cinco tratamentos: 0, 17, 34, 51 e 68% de concentrado na ração, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Os bovinos que não receberam concentrado tiveram seu consumo restrito para 1,5% do seu peso corporal, compondo o grupo de animais alimentados ao nível de mantença. A composição corporal e o peso de corpo vazio (PCVZ) foram obtidos pela técnica do abate comparativo e dissecação completa da meia carcaça. Para bovinos mestiços leiteiros, não castrados, confinados, as exigências líquida e metabolizável de energia para mantença foram de 86,49 e 138 kcal PCVZ-0,75 dia-1, respectivamente, enquanto que as eficiências de utilização da energia metabolizável (EUEM) para mantença e ganho foram de 62,67 e 31,67%, respectivamente. Já as exigências líquidas de energia (ELg) e proteina (PLg) para ganho, podem ser estimadas a partir das seguintes equações: ELg = 0,0392*PCVZ0,75*GPCVZ1,0529e PLg = 242,34 × GPCVZ - 23,09 × ER, respectivamente. A eficiência do uso da proteína metabolizável para ganho foi de 25,8% enquanto que as exigências de proteína para mantença foram 2,96 g PCVZ-0,75 dia-1. A proteína degradável no rúmen pode suprir 62,44% das exigências em proteína bruta de bovinos mestiços leiteiros, machos não castrados, em confinamento, com peso corporal de 450 kg e ganho de 1 kg dia-1.

Corn germ meal in replacement of corn in Santa Ines sheep diet: carcass characteristics and tissue composition / Gérmen integral de milho em substituição ao milho na dieta de ovinos Santa Inês: características de carcaça e composição tecidual

The effects of replacing corn to corn germ meal (0; 25; 50; 75 and 100%) in the diet of Santa Ines sheep on the carcass characteristics, weight and yield of meat cuts and tissue composition of the leg were studied. Forty non castrated sheep were slaughtered after 70 days of confinement. The intakes of dry matter, crude protein and total digestible nutrients decreased linearly with the substitution, as well as the weight of all commercial cuts and tissue components of the leg. There was a linear increase in the final pH carcass without effect on the initial pH and the initial and final temperatures. The yield of meat cuts, the percentage of muscle and fat of the leg and the relation muscle : fat were not affected by the replacement. For the percentage of bones and other tissues of the leg there was a linear increase. Relations muscle: bone, subcutaneous fat: intermuscular fat and the leg muscularity index decreased with the replacement. It is not recommended to replace corn by corn germ meal in Santa Ines sheep diets.(AU)

Avaliou-se o efeito da substituição do milho pelo gérmen integral de milho (0; 25; 50; 75 e 100%) na dieta de ovinos da raça Santa Inês sobre as características de carcaça, pesos e rendimentos dos cortes cárneos e composição tecidual da perna. Quarenta animais não emasculados da raça Santa Inês foram abatidos após 70 dias de confinamento. Verificou-se efeito linear decrescente para o consumo de matéria seca, proteína bruta e nutrientes digestíveis totais, bem como para os pesos e rendimentos de carcaça, área de olho-de-lombo, pesos dos cortes cárneos comerciais e componentes tissulares da perna. Houve aumento linear para o pH final da carcaça, sem efeito sobre o pH inicial e temperaturas inicial e final. O rendimento dos cortes cárneos, os percentuais de músculos e de gordura da perna e a relação músculo: gordura não foram influenciados pela substituição. Para os percentuais de ossos e de outros tecidos da perna houve efeito linear crescente. As relações musculo : osso, gordura subcutânea: gordura intermuscular e o índice de musculosidade da perna decresceram linearmente com a substituição. Não se recomenda a substituição do milho pelo gérmen integral de milho na dieta de ovinos da raça Santa Inês confinados.(AU)

Feeding management strategy for sheep in feedlot in hot and humid region / Estratégia de manejo alimentar para ovinos confinados em região quente e úmida

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different feeding schedules on the ingestive behavior, dry matter (DM) intake, neutral detergent fiber intake (NDF), respiratory rate (RR) and rectal temperature (RT) of Santa Ines sheep, in feedlot in hot and humid climate region. Five non-castrated male sheep with an initial average weight of 27 ± 3 kg were distributed in a 5x5 Latin Square experimental design. Feed was offered twice daily, the first meal at 7:00h for all treatments, and the second meal, was offered at: 13:30h, 15:00h, 16:30h, 18:00h, or 19:30h. The RR and RT were measured thrice (morning, afternoon and evening) in a day. The feeding behavior (time of eating, rumination and idleness) was recorded in minutes for period of 24 hours visually. The environmental conditions (air temperature and humidity) was measured to determine the thermal comfort index, THI (Temperature-Humidity Index), which ranged between 72 and 83. There was no evidence that different afternoon feeding times affected rectal temperature during the morning (38.9°C), afternoon (39.0°C) or evening (39.0°C). The respiratory rate during the afternoon was higher for animals fed at 15:00h (55.2 mov.min-1) than for animals fed at 18:00h or 19:30h (29.6 and 31.6 mov.min-1, respectively).

O estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito dos diferentes horários de fornecimento da dieta sob parâmetros fisiológicos e comportamento ingestivo de ovinos, confinados em região quente e úmida. Foram utilizados cinco machos de peso médio inicial (27 ± 3 kg), distribuídos em Quadrado Latino 5 x 5. O alimento foi ofertado duas vezes ao dia, a primeira refeição às 7:00h e a segunda refeição (tratamentos) foi ofertada às: 13:30h, 15:00h, 16:30h, 18:00h, ou 19:30h. A frequência respiratória (FR) e a temperatura retal (TR) foram avaliadas em 3 períodos do dia. O comportamento ingestivo (tempo de alimentação, ruminação e ócio) foi avaliado visualmente a cada 10 min durante 24 horas. As condições ambientais foram monitoradas para determinar do ITU (índice de temperatura e umidade) que variou entre 72 a 83. Os animais mantiveram a TR dentro da faixa fisiológica normal e não diferiram dentre os tratamentos experimentais: manhã (38,9°C), tarde (39,0°C) e noite (39,0°). A FR também não foi diferente dentre os tratamentos para os períodos da manhã (37,2 mov.min-1) e noite (34,4 mov.min-1), porém no período da tarde a FR dos animais alimentados às 15:00h (55,2 mov.min-1) foi maior do que os demais tratamentos. Os diferentes manejos adotados não exerceram influência sobre os consumos de consumos de matéria seca (1,015 Kg) e FDN (0,364 Kg). Para os tempos totais das atividades de alimentação (289 min/dia), ruminação (500 min/dia) e ócio (650 min/dia) não foram observadas diferenças em função dos horários de fornecimento da dieta, no entanto houve diferença na distribuição dessas atividades ao longo do dia, em que claramente se observou a adaptação dos animais ao manejo alimentar adotado em cada tratamento experimental. Sugere-se mais estudos específicos a fim de avaliar as interações entre as respostas apresentadas e o desempenho animal.

Liquid residue of cassava as a replacement for corn in the diets of sheep.

The effect of the replacement of corn with the liquid residue of cassava was evaluated at levels of 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% in the diets of sheep on the intake and nutrient digestibility, weight gain, and carcass characteristics. Forty non-castrated crossbred Santa Ines sheep at 4 months of age and an initial body weight of 19.5 ± 2.5 kg were slaughtered after 90 days at the feedlot. A quadratic effect was found for intake of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), and digestible OM, with estimated values of 1130, 1080, 558, and 777 g/day at 11.2, 11.9, 30.8, and 2.18% of replacing corn with liquid residue of cassava, respectively. However, the intake of crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) decreased linearly around 105 to 45.3 g CP/day and 413 to 284 g NDF/day. The same effect was found for digestibility of DM (715 to 649 g/kg), OM (725 to 669 g/kg), CP (801 to 759 g/kg), and NDF (486 to 379 g/kg), which decreased linearly as the dietary liquid residue of cassava increased. The maximum average daily gain (174 g/day) was estimated with a 22.4% replacement level. Liquid residue of cassava can replace up to 25% of the corn in the diets of sheep, since it was possible to obtain a gain above 100 g/day, which is considered to be satisfactory.

Bagaço de cana-de-açúcar como volumoso exclusivo em dietas para ovinos / Sugar cane bagasse as roughage in sheep diet

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de diferentes proporções de concentrado e bagaço de cana-deaçúcar como volumoso exclusivo em dietas para ovinos. Os consumos de matéria seca, matéria orgânica, proteína bruta, carboidratos não fibrosos e nutrientes digestíveis totais expressos em kg/dia, aumentaram linearmente com o aumento da proporção de concentrado na dieta. O mesmo comportamento foi observado para a digestibilidade da matéria seca. O que ocorreu de forma contrária para a digestibilidade da fibra em detergente neutro, que diminuiu com os maiores níveis de concentrado. Com o aumento das proporções de concentrado nas dietas experimentais, foi observado efeito quadrático no tempo despendido com ruminação, alimentação e ócio, e nas concentrações de ácido acético, propiônico e butírico no rúmen. Maiores proporções de concentrado associado ao bagaço de cana-de-açúcar in natura podem ser utilizadas em dietas para ovinos.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different proportions of concentrate and sugar cane bagasse as roughage exclusive for sheep. The dry matter intake, organic matter, crude protein, non-fibrous carbohydrates and total digestible nutrients in kg/day, increased linearly with increasing proportion of concentrate in the diet. The same behavior was observed for dry matter digestibility. It occurred in a manner contrary to the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber that decreased with the higher levels of concentrate. With the increase of the proportion of concentrate in the diets, quadratic effect was observed to time of rumination, feeding and idleness, and the of concentrations of acetic, propionic and butyric acid in the rumen. Higher proportions of concentrate associated with sugar cane bagasse in nature can be used in diets.

Bagaço de cana-de-açúcar como volumoso exclusivo em dietas para ovinos / Sugar cane bagasse as roughage in sheep diet

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de diferentes proporções de concentrado e bagaço de cana-deaçúcar como volumoso exclusivo em dietas para ovinos. Os consumos de matéria seca, matéria orgânica, proteína bruta, carboidratos não fibrosos e nutrientes digestíveis totais expressos em kg/dia, aumentaram linearmente com o aumento da proporção de concentrado na dieta. O mesmo comportamento foi observado para a digestibilidade da matéria seca. O que ocorreu de forma contrária para a digestibilidade da fibra em detergente neutro, que diminuiu com os maiores níveis de concentrado. Com o aumento das proporções de concentrado nas dietas experimentais, foi observado efeito quadrático no tempo despendido com ruminação, alimentação e ócio, e nas concentrações de ácido acético, propiônico e butírico no rúmen. Maiores proporções de concentrado associado ao bagaço de cana-de-açúcar in natura podem ser utilizadas em dietas para ovinos.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different proportions of concentrate and sugar cane bagasse as roughage exclusive for sheep. The dry matter intake, organic matter, crude protein, non-fibrous carbohydrates and total digestible nutrients in kg/day, increased linearly with increasing proportion of concentrate in the diet. The same behavior was observed for dry matter digestibility. It occurred in a manner contrary to the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber that decreased with the higher levels of concentrate. With the increase of the proportion of concentrate in the diets, quadratic effect was observed to time of rumination, feeding and idleness, and the of concentrations of acetic, propionic and butyric acid in the rumen. Higher proportions of concentrate associated with sugar cane bagasse in nature can be used in diets.(AU)

Comportamento de ovinos alimentados com diferentes seqüências de ingredientes em dieta a base de palma forrageira (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) / Behavior of sheep fed different sequences of ingredients in a spineless cactus ("Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck") based-diet

Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de ovinos alimentados com dietas contendo diferentes sequências de ingredientes a base de palma forrageira, devido à escassez de informações disponíveis sobre o melhor método de alimentação, especialmente ao uso da palma forrageira. As variáveis observadas foram tempo diário de ingestão, ruminação e ócio. Cinco ovinos foram distribuídos em um quadrado latino 5 × 5, com cinco tratamentos, cinco animais e cinco períodos, sendo os tratamentos: 1 (ração totalmente misturada- TMR) às 7:00 e às 15:00h; 2 (concentrado- C) às 7:00h, (palma forrageira- PF) às 8:00h, (C) às 15:00h e (feno de capim tifton- FCT) às 16:00h; 3 (C) às 7:00h, (FCT) às 8:00h, (C) às 15:00h e (PF) às 16:00h; 4 (PF) às 7:00h, (C) às 8:00h, (FCT) às 15:00 e (C) às 16:00h e 5 (FCT) às 7:00h, (C) às 8:00h, (PF) às 15:00h e (C) às 16:00h. Não houve efeito de tratamento sobre as atividades de alimentação (horas/dia) no total de tempo diário. Porém quando as atividades foram divididas em períodos, os ovinos na sequência 3: concentrado/ feno/ concentrado/ palma passaram um tempo de ingestão maior no período de 7:00-11:00 h comparados aos da sequência 1: ração total misturada e 2: concentrado/ palma/ concentrado/ feno. A digestibilidade da matéria seca e da matéria orgânica foi maior para concentrado/ palma/ concentrado/ feno e palma/concentrado

The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the ingestive behavior of sheep fed diets containing different sequences of ingredients of a spineless cactus based diet because of the paucity of available information regarding the best method of feeding, especially in relation to the use of spineless cactus. The observed variables were daily time of eating, ruminating and idling. Five sheep were distributed into a 5 × 5 Latin Square with five treatments, five animals and five periods, the treatments 1 (TMR, total mixed ration) at 7:00 and 15:00h; 2 (C, concentrate) at 7:00h, (SC, spineless cactus) at 8:00 h, (C) at 15:00h and (TGH, tifton grass hay) at 16:00h; 3 (C) at 7:00h, (TGH) at 8:00h, (C) at 15:00h and (SC) at 16:00h; 4 (SC) at 7:00h, (C) at 8:00h, (TGH) at 15:00 and (C) at 16:00h and 5 (TGH) at 7:00h, (C) at 8:00h, (SC) at 15:00h and (C) at 16:00h. No treatment effect on feeding activities (hour/day) in time total daily, but when activities were divided into periods, the sheep in sequence 3: concentrate/ hay/ concentrate/spineless cactus spent a longer time eating within the period from 7:00 to 11:00h than the sheep in sequences 1: total mixed ration (TMR) and 2: concentrate/ spineless cactus/ concentrate /hay. The digestibility of dry matter and matter organic was greater for concentrate/ spineless cactus/ concentrate/ hay and spineless cactus/ concentrate