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 effects of using cactus cladodes (Opuntia stricta Haw Haw) to replace sorghum silage in sheep diet.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of replacing the sorghum silage in sheep diet with cactus cladodes [CC - Opuntia stricta (Haw) Haw] on dry matter and its compound intake and digestibility, feeding behavior, and nitrogen balance. The diets consisted of five replacement levels [0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 g/kg on a dry matter (DM) basis] and were formulated to be isonitrogenous [140 g/kg crude protein [CP], considering the ingredients' composition, with a roughage/concentrate ratio of 65:35, on a DM basis. Five uncastrated crossbred sheep, with an average body weight of 52.9 ± 6.0 kg, were assigned to a 5 × 5 Latin square. The trial lasted for 105 days with five consecutive 21-day periods, divided into 14-day adaptation and 7-day sampling periods. Dry matter (DM), organic matter, non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC), total digestible nutrient intake, and DM and NFC digestibility, increased (P ≤ 0.04) with the replacement of sorghum silage by CC. However, the time spent feeding and ruminating decreased, while idle time increased (P ≤ 0.03). Only feeding and rumination efficiency of DM improved (P ≤ 0.01) with the replacement, whereas feeding and rumination efficiency of neutral detergent fiber corrected to ash and protein did not. Nitrogen intake and nitrogen balance were not influenced, and urinary volume increased (P ≤ 0.01) with the addition of CC in the diet. In conclusion, we recommend replacing 80% of the sorghum silage with CC in sheep diets (with 35% concentrate), as CC was found to substantially increase the intake of nutrients, primarily energy.

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)

Low-purity crude glycerin as a nutrient substitute for corn: the effect on yields of goat organs and viscera

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of low-purity crude glycerin (CG, 63.1% of glycerol) in the diets of feedlot-finished goats on the weights and yields of the non-carcass components, with are frequently used in regionals dishes (buchada and panelada). Forty castrated male goats with the initial mean body weight of 19.70 ± 2.30 kg were used. Experimental treatments consisted of inclusion of CG at levels of 0, 6, 12, and 18%, based on dry matter. The weights of the lungs, spleen, total organs (TWO), and TWO yield, as a function of the slaughter body weight, decreased linearly. It was shown that the rumen portion of the weight showed a quadratic effect, at the level of 10.71% of CG, with a minimum point of 0.37 kg. Similar behavior was observed for the reticulum, with a minimum point of 0.08 kg, at the level of 7.5% of CG. The weights and yields of the buchada and panelada were negatively influenced by the experimental diets. Low-purity crude glycerin may partially replace corn and be included in up to 6% of the dry matter of the finished goats' feedlot diet without adversely affecting weights and yields of organs, viscera, and regional dishes, such as buchada and panelada.

Low-purity crude glycerin as a nutrient substitute for corn: the effect on yields of goat organs and viscera

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of low-purity crude glycerin (CG, 63.1% of glycerol) in the diets of feedlot-finished goats on the weights and yields of the non-carcass components, with are frequently used in regionals dishes (buchada and panelada). Forty castrated male goats with the initial mean body weight of 19.70 ± 2.30 kg were used. Experimental treatments consisted of inclusion of CG at levels of 0, 6, 12, and 18%, based on dry matter. The weights of the lungs, spleen, total organs (TWO), and TWO yield, as a function of the slaughter body weight, decreased linearly. It was shown that the rumen portion of the weight showed a quadratic effect, at the level of 10.71% of CG, with a minimum point of 0.37 kg. Similar behavior was observed for the reticulum, with a minimum point of 0.08 kg, at the level of 7.5% of CG. The weights and yields of the buchada and panelada were negatively influenced by the experimental diets. Low-purity crude glycerin may partially replace corn and be included in up to 6% of the dry matter of the finished goats' feedlot diet without adversely affecting weights and yields of organs, viscera, and regional dishes, such as buchada and panelada.(AU)

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of sheep fed alfalfa hay to replace Bermuda grass hay.

The objective of this study was to evaluate carcass characteristics, meat quality, and organ and viscera weight of forty male sheep, not castrated, initially weighed 26.5 ± 1.85 kg, and confined for 100 days (44 days for the adjustment period and 56 days of the experimental period). The treatments were four levels of replacement of Bermuda grass hay with alfalfa hay (0, 200, 400, and 600 g/kg, based on dry matter). The design was randomized blocks (one lighter group and other heavier group) with 10 animals in each treatment. There were no effects on weight gain or carcass parameters. However, an increase was observed on dry matter intake (g/day), crude protein intake (g/day), empty body weight (kg), and subcutaneous fat thickness (mm). There was also an increase in total organ weights in kg and g/kg. The tissue composition of the leg had a quadratic effect on the bone tissue weight (g) and linear effect on adipose tissue relative (g/kg) and muscle-fat relations. There was also a quadratic effect on bone tissues (g/kg) and muscle-bone relations. Likewise, there was a quadratic effect on the qualitative characteristics of meat (measure of luminosity), with the replacement of Bermuda grass hay with alfalfa hay in sheep feed. The replacement of Bermuda grass hay with alfalfa did not change carcass characteristics and meat quality.

Quality of meat from sheep fed diets containing spineless cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm Dyck).

It was aimed to evaluate the effects of replacement of wheat bran in lambs' diets with spineless cactus (0, 33, 66, and 100%) in a lamb's diet on the physicochemical parameters, fatty acids and sensory analyasis of meat. The evaluation utilized 36 loins and legs from F1 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês lambs, with an average initial body weight of 19.5 ±â€¯1.6 kg, were slaughtered after 70 days of confinement. Were found average values of 5.70, 11.27 N, 55.44 mg/100 g, of meat pH, shear force, and cholesterol, respectively. However, stearic acid, linoleic, linolenic, eicosatrienoic and eicosapentaenoic which linearly decreased. The color, aroma, texture, flavor, juiciness and global acceptance of meat were acceptable by the evaluators, additionally, they said they would buy meat coming of animals fed with 100% replacement. It is recommended that wheat bran is replaced by spineless cactus in the diet of lambs when this shows to be an ingredient with better cost-benefit ratio compared to wheat bran.

Different roughage:concentrate ratios with and without liquid residue of cassava for lambs.

This aim of this study was to evaluate the intake and apparent digestibility of nutrients, ingestive behavior, blood parameters, and performance of lambs fed two roughage:concentrate (R:C) ratios, with or without liquid residue of cassava (LRC). Forty lambs (19.5 ± 1.45 kg body weight) were distributed in a completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design. The intake of dry matter (1311 g/day) and total digestible nutrients (755 g/day), and the intake (172 g/day) and digestibility (552 g/kg) of crude protein were higher for lambs fed R:C of 40:60. The R:C ratio of 80:20 promoted a higher intake (585 g/day) and digestibility (461 g/kg) of neutral detergent fiber. There was an intake of LRC of 1.37 L/day for lambs fed R:C of 80:20 and 0.42 L/day for lambs fed R:C of 40:60. The lambs fed R:C of 80:20 spent more time in feeding (326 m/day) and rumination (530 m/day). The metabolic profile and performance of lambs were not affected by LRC inclusion. The body weight gain (220 g/day) was higher in lambs fed R:C of 40:60. A roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60 is recommended for lambs because it resulted in the best performance, regardless of supplementation with liquid residue of cassava.

Can the body composition of crossbred dairy cattle be predicted by equations for beef cattle?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of the Hankins and Howe (HH46), Valadares Filho (V06), and Marcondes (M12) equations for predicting the physical and chemical composition of dairy crossbred bulls carcasses, as well as the chemical composition of their empty bodies. METHODS: This study was conducted using 30 dairy crossbred bulls. One group of five animals was slaughtered at the beginning of the experiment, and the remaining were slaughtered 112 days later. Animals were distributed in a completely randomized design into treatments consisting different levels of concentrate (0%, 17%, 34%, 51%, and 68%). The physical and chemical compositions of the cattle were obtained from the right half of the carcass and using samples taken between the 9th and 11th ribs of the left half of the carcass. The estimated and experimentally determined values were compared using the correlation and concordance coefficient, as well as the mean square error of prediction (MSEP) and its components. RESULTS: The HH46 equations were better at estimating the amount of muscle plus fat in the carcass. The amount of bone in the carcasses could not be well estimated by the HH46 and M12 models. The M12, HH46, and V06 equations were worst at estimating the amounts of protein, ether extract, and water in the carcass, respectively. In the empty body, the amounts of protein and water were well estimated by the HH46 equations. Protein, ether extract, and water were accurately estimated by the V06 equations, and ether extract by the M12 equations. CONCLUSION: The physical and chemical composition of dairy crossbred bull carcasses, as well as the chemical composition of their empty bodies, can be predicted using the equations tested here. The amount of bone in these carcasses could not be accurately predicted.

Sugarcane bagasse as exclusive roughage for dairy cows in smallholder livestock system.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to evaluate sugarcane bagasse as roughage in lactating cow on feed intake, digestibility, ingestive behavior, milk production and composition, and microbial protein synthesis. METHODS: Ten Girolando cows at initial body weight of 450±25.6 kg and at 143.7±30.7 days in milk were assigned in two 5×5 Latin square designs. Five 21-day experimental periods were adopted (1° to 14-day: diets adaptation period; 15° to 21-day: data collection and sampling period). The diets consisted of four different levels of sugarcane bagasse (45%, 50%, 55%, and 60%) and a control diet, commonly adopted in the region, based on spineless cactus (25% sugarcane bagasse), formulated to meet 12 kg/d milk yield. RESULTS: The dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and total digestible nutrients intakes and DM and OM digestibilities observed for 45% and 50% bagasse inclusion were similar to control diet, while that 55% and 60% bagasse inclusion were lower. Cows fed control diet, and bagasse diets of 45%, and 50% levels had the nutritional requirements attended, that guaranteed 12 kg/d of milk yield. The crude protein intake and digestibility of cows fed 45%, 50%, and 55% of bagasse inclusion were similar to control diet. The neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake and digestibility differ for all bagasse diets related to control diet, while the non-fiber carbohydrates intake and digestibility for cows fed 45% of bagasse were similar for control diet. The intakes and digestibilities of nutrients decreased linearly in function of bagasse inclusion; NDF and indigestible NDF intakes did not vary. The ruminating time, feeding and rumination efficiency, microbial protein synthesis and milk yield decreased linearly with sugarcane bagasse inclusion. CONCLUSION: Sugarcane bagasse decreases milk production; however, its inclusion level in between 45% to 50% associated to concentrate could replace diets based on spineless cactus for crossbred dairy cow's producing 12 kg/d of milk.

Cuts of dairy-origin cattle fed mesquite pod meal in replacement of corn / Cortes de bovinos de origem leiteira alimentados com farelo da vagem de algaroba em substituição ao milho

This study was carried out in order to assess commercial front and rear cuts of dairy-origin cattle fed mesquite pod meal. Twenty-five non-castrated male bovines (Holstein-Zebu), distributed according to a completely randomized design, with five animals per treatment, were used. The feed contained about 121.2 and 544.98 g kg-1 of crude protein and total digestible nutrients, respectively, and was composed of tifton grass hay, cornmeal, soybean meal, mesquite pod meal and mineral salt. The right half carcass of each animal was separated between the 5th and 6th ribs, in front and rear quarters, from which commercial cuts were obtained. There was no effect (p > 0.05) as to the replacement of corn for mesquite pod meal on the weights and yields of front cuts (shoulder, brisket, chuck, hump and flanks) and rear cuts (tenderloin, shank, knuckle, thin flank, flat, eye round, rump tail, top side, cap of rump, rump, cut of rump, striploin, cap of cube roll). Mesquite pod meal can substitute cornmeal in 100% in the concentrate without changes in weight and yield of the commercial front and rear cuts of male bovines of dairy origin.(AU)

Este trabalho foi realizado para avaliar os cortes comerciais do dianteiro e traseiro de bovinos de origem leiteira alimentados com farelo da vagem de algaroba. Utilizou-se 25 bovinos machos, não castrados (Holandês-Zebu), distribuídos no delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco animais por tratamento. A ração teve aproximadamente 121,2 e 544,98 g kg-1 de proteína bruta e nutrientes digestíveis totais, respectivamente, e foi composta por feno de capim tifton, farelo de milho, farelo de soja, farelo da vagem de algaroba e sal mineral. A meia carcaça direita de cada animal foi separada entre a 5ª e a 6ª costelas em quarto dianteiro e traseiro, dos quais se obteve os cortes comerciais. Não houve efeito (p > 0,05) da substituição do milho pelo farelo da vagem de algaroba sobre os pesos e rendimentos dos cortes do dianteiro (paleta, peito, acém, cupim e costelas) e traseiro (filé mignon, músculos, patinho, fraldão, chã de fora, lagarto, maminha, chã de dentro, picanha, alcatra, aranha, contra filé, capa do contra filé). O farelo da vagem de algaroba pode substituir o farelo de milho em 100% no concentrado sem que haja alteração nos pesos e rendimentos dos cortes comerciais do dianteiro e traseiro de bovinos de origem leiteira.(AU)

Cuts of dairy-origin cattle fed mesquite pod meal in replacement of corn / Cortes de bovinos de origem leiteira alimentados com farelo da vagem de algaroba em substituição ao milho

This study was carried out in order to assess commercial front and rear cuts of dairy-origin cattle fed mesquite pod meal. Twenty-five non-castrated male bovines (Holstein-Zebu), distributed according to a completely randomized design, with five animals per treatment, were used. The feed contained about 121.2 and 544.98 g kg-1 of crude protein and total digestible nutrients, respectively, and was composed of tifton grass hay, cornmeal, soybean meal, mesquite pod meal and mineral salt. The right half carcass of each animal was separated between the 5th and 6th ribs, in front and rear quarters, from which commercial cuts were obtained. There was no effect (p > 0.05) as to the replacement of corn for mesquite pod meal on the weights and yields of front cuts (shoulder, brisket, chuck, hump and flanks) and rear cuts (tenderloin, shank, knuckle, thin flank, flat, eye round, rump tail, top side, cap of rump, rump, cut of rump, striploin, cap of cube roll). Mesquite pod meal can substitute cornmeal in 100% in the concentrate without changes in weight and yield of the commercial front and rear cuts of male bovines of dairy origin.

Este trabalho foi realizado para avaliar os cortes comerciais do dianteiro e traseiro de bovinos de origem leiteira alimentados com farelo da vagem de algaroba. Utilizou-se 25 bovinos machos, não castrados (Holandês-Zebu), distribuídos no delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco animais por tratamento. A ração teve aproximadamente 121,2 e 544,98 g kg-1 de proteína bruta e nutrientes digestíveis totais, respectivamente, e foi composta por feno de capim tifton, farelo de milho, farelo de soja, farelo da vagem de algaroba e sal mineral. A meia carcaça direita de cada animal foi separada entre a 5ª e a 6ª costelas em quarto dianteiro e traseiro, dos quais se obteve os cortes comerciais. Não houve efeito (p > 0,05) da substituição do milho pelo farelo da vagem de algaroba sobre os pesos e rendimentos dos cortes do dianteiro (paleta, peito, acém, cupim e costelas) e traseiro (filé mignon, músculos, patinho, fraldão, chã de fora, lagarto, maminha, chã de dentro, picanha, alcatra, aranha, contra filé, capa do contra filé). O farelo da vagem de algaroba pode substituir o farelo de milho em 100% no concentrado sem que haja alteração nos pesos e rendimentos dos cortes comerciais do dianteiro e traseiro de bovinos de origem leiteira.

Total replacement of corn by mesquite pod meal considering nutritional value, performance, feeding behavior, nitrogen balance, and microbial protein synthesis of Holstein-Zebu crossbred dairy steers.

The objective of the present study to assess the effects of mesquite pod addition replacing corn (0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 g/kg in the dry matter basis) on nutrient intake, animal performance, feeding behavior, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, and microbial protein synthesis. Twenty-five Holstein-Zebu crossbred dairy steers at 219 ± 22 kg initial body weight and 18 months of age were used. The experiment lasted 84 days, divided into three periods of 28 days. A completely randomized design was used, and data were submitted to analysis using PROC GLM for analysis of variance and PROC REG for regression analysis using the software Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.1. Experimental diets were composed of Tifton 85 hay, soybean meal, ground corn, mesquite pod meal, and mineral salt. Samples of food offered were collected during the last 3 days of each period, and the leftovers were collected daily, with samples bulked per week. At the end of each 28-day period, the remaining animals were weighed to determine total weight gain and average daily gain. The assessment of behavioral patterns was performed through instantaneous scans in 5-min intervals for three consecutive 12-h days. A single urine sample from each animal was collected on the last day of each collection period at about 4 h after the first feeding. The replacement of corn by mesquite pod meal did not significantly influence treatments regarding nutrients intake, animal performance, and feeding behavior. Retained and consumed nitrogen ratio did not statistically differ between replacement levels. Likewise, there were no statistical differences regarding microbial protein synthesis and efficiency between replacement levels. Mesquite pod meal can be used in Holstein-Zebu crossbred dairy steers' diet with total corn replacement.

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)

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.

Testicular and kinetics parameters of spermatozoa from ovines fed with growing levels of hay and alfafa (Medicago sativa) / Parâmetros testiculares e de cinética de espermatozoides de ovinos alimentados com níveis crescentes de feno de alfafa (Medicago sativa)

The objective was to evaluate the inclusion of alfalfa hay in diets for growing sheep on testicular parameters and sperm kinetics sheep. Forty non-castrated male sheep were used, with body weight around 26 kg, ± 1.85 and eight months of age, approximately, evaluated for 100 days (it being 44 days for adaptation at management more diets and 56 for fattening) in feedlot. Treatments were four levels of alfalfa hay 0%, 20%, 40% and 60 %, so that was maintained proportion 60% of roughage for all rations. The type of diet offered to sheep did not affect testicular weight and serum testosterone concentration. The kinetics of sperm ejaculated and epididymal semen recovered also not influenced by the experimental diets. The inclusion of alfalfa hay in sheep diet did not change testicular parameters as well as the kinetics of ejaculated sperm and recovered from epididymal sperm tail may be recommended for nutritional management of breeding.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a inclusão de feno de alfafa em rações para ovinos em crescimento sobre parâmetros testiculares e de cinética espermática de ovinos. Utilizaram-se 40 ovinos em crescimento, com peso corporal médio inicial de 26 ± 1,85 kg e oito meses de idade, aproximadamente, avaliados durante 100 dias (sendo 44 dias para adaptação ao manejo e 56 dias para a terminação) em confinamento. Os tratamentos foram compostos por quatro níveis de feno alfafa: 0%, 20%, 40% e 60%, de modo que foi mantida proporção de 60% de volumoso para todas as rações. O tipo de dieta oferecida aos ovinos não influenciou o peso testicular, bem como a concentração sérica de testosterona.  A cinética espermática do ejaculado e do sêmen recuperado do epidídimo também não sofreu influência das dietas experimentais. A inclusão de feno de alfafa na dieta de ovinos não altera parâmetros testiculares, bem como a cinética espermática do ejaculado e também dos espermatozoides recuperados da cauda do epidídimo, podendo ser recomendado em manejo nutricional de reprodutores.(AU)

Testicular and kinetics parameters of spermatozoa from ovines fed with growing levels of hay and alfafa (Medicago sativa) / Parâmetros testiculares e de cinética de espermatozoides de ovinos alimentados com níveis crescentes de feno de alfafa (Medicago sativa)

The objective was to evaluate the inclusion of alfalfa hay in diets for growing sheep on testicular parameters and sperm kinetics sheep. Forty non-castrated male sheep were used, with body weight around 26 kg, ± 1.85 and eight months of age, approximately, evaluated for 100 days (it being 44 days for adaptation at management more diets and 56 for fattening) in feedlot. Treatments were four levels of alfalfa hay 0%, 20%, 40% and 60 %, so that was maintained proportion 60% of roughage for all rations. The type of diet offered to sheep did not affect testicular weight and serum testosterone concentration. The kinetics of sperm ejaculated and epididymal semen recovered also not influenced by the experimental diets. The inclusion of alfalfa hay in sheep diet did not change testicular parameters as well as the kinetics of ejaculated sperm and recovered from epididymal sperm tail may be recommended for nutritional management of breeding.

Objetivou-se avaliar a inclusão de feno de alfafa em rações para ovinos em crescimento sobre parâmetros testiculares e de cinética espermática de ovinos. Utilizaram-se 40 ovinos em crescimento, com peso corporal médio inicial de 26 ± 1,85 kg e oito meses de idade, aproximadamente, avaliados durante 100 dias (sendo 44 dias para adaptação ao manejo e 56 dias para a terminação) em confinamento. Os tratamentos foram compostos por quatro níveis de feno alfafa: 0%, 20%, 40% e 60%, de modo que foi mantida proporção de 60% de volumoso para todas as rações. O tipo de dieta oferecida aos ovinos não influenciou o peso testicular, bem como a concentração sérica de testosterona.  A cinética espermática do ejaculado e do sêmen recuperado do epidídimo também não sofreu influência das dietas experimentais. A inclusão de feno de alfafa na dieta de ovinos não altera parâmetros testiculares, bem como a cinética espermática do ejaculado e também dos espermatozoides recuperados da cauda do epidídimo, podendo ser recomendado em manejo nutricional de reprodutores.

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

Feeding strategy for sheep in different sequences in supplying ingredients based diet of spineless cactus / Estratégia de nutrientes para ovinos em distintas sequências de fornecimento alimentar em dieta a base de palma forrageira

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the sequence of the supply of ingredients (feeding strategy), based diet forage cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm Dyck) on intake, digestibility of nutrients, pH and ammonia concentration in the rumen fluid. The ingredients were provided five sheep of nondescript breeding, averaging 38,5 kg, gifted with rumen cannule the following sequences: 1 (TMR, total mixed ration) at 7:00 and 15:00 h; 2 (C, concentrate) at 7:00 h, (SC, spineless cactus) at 8:00 h, (C) at 15:00 h and (TGH, tifton grass hay) at 16:00 h; 3 (C) at 7:00 h, (TGH) at 8:00 h, (C) at 15:00 h and (SC) at 16:00 h; 4 (SC) at 7:00 h, (C) at 8:00 h, (TGH) at 15:00 and (C) at 16:00 h and 5 (TGH) at 7:00 h, (C) at 8:00 h, (SC) at 15:00 h and (C) at 16:00 h. Were distributed into a 5 × 5 Latin Square with five treatments, five animals and five periods. The nutrient intake were not influenced by sequences The digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter(OM), total digestible nutrients (TDN), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and total carbohydrates differ between treatments. The ruminal pH and ammonia nitrogen were influenced by the times in collections sequences TGH/ C/SC/ TGH and C/TGH/C/SC. All feeding strategies can be used to feed sheep, except for total mixed ration.

O objetivo com este trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da sequência da oferta dos ingredientes da dieta (estratégia alimentar), a base de palma forrageira (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) sobre o consumo, a digestibilidade dos nutrientes, o pH e a concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal do líquido ruminal. Os alimentos foram fornecidos a cinco ovinos de peso médio de 38kg nas seguintes sequências: mistura completa (MC) às 7:00h e às 15:00h; concentrado às 7:00h e palma às 8:00h e concentrado às 15:00h e feno de capim tifton às 16:00h (CPCF); concentrado às 7:00h e feno de capim tifton às 8:00h e concentrado às 15:00h e palma às 16:00h (CFCP); palma às 7:00h e concentrado às 8:00h e feno de capim tifton às 15:00h e concentrado às 16:00h (PCFC); feno de capim tifton às 7:00h e concentrado às 8:00h e palma às 15:00h e concentrado às 16:00h (FCPC). Foi adotado o delineamento quadrado latino 5X5, com cinco tratamentos, cinco animais e cinco períodos. Os consumos dos nutrientes não foram influenciados pelas sequências. A digestibilidade da matéria seca (MS), matéria orgânica (MO), nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e carboidratos totais (CHOT) diferiram entre os tratamentos. Os valores de pH ruminal e as concentrações de nitrogênio amoniacal foram influenciados pelos horários de coletas nas sequências FCPC e CFCP.