Cross-sectional and longitudinal method for describing growth curve of rabbits / Método transversal e longitudinal para descrição da curva de crescimento de coelhos

Rabbit farming is an activity with high growth potential due to its easy handling, high prolificacy, low polluting impact, and easy adaptability to family farming systems, producing meat of high biological value. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate, using von Bertalanffy's nonlinear model, growth curves of weight as a function of age in 'Flemish Giant Rabbits' and 'New Zealand White' crossbred rabbits. Two different data collections were used: the longitudinal method and the cross-sectional method. The experiment was carried out at the Federal University of Lavras, located in the municipality of Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil, where 10 crossbred rabbits were evaluated, and animals were weighed from 0 to 150 days of age. Both methods proved to be adequate to describe the development of rabbits and the cross-sectional method proved to be an adequate alternative to obtention of growth curves, saving time in data collection and showing consistent estimates.

A cunicultura é uma atividade com alto potencial de crescimento devido à facilidade em seu manejo e à alta prolificidade, por apresentar baixo impacto poluidor, por se enquadrar bem em sistemas próprios de agricultura familiar, além de produzir carne de alto valor biológico. Diante disso, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, por meio do modelo não linear de von Bertalanffy, curvas de crescimento de coelhos mestiços de Gigante de Flandres e Nova Zelândia Branco, utilizando-se dois métodos distintos da coleta dos dados: o método longitudinal e o método transversal, a fim de estimar o crescimento do peso em função da idade. O experimento foi realizado na Universidade Federal de Lavras, situado no município de Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foram avaliados 10 coelhos mestiços, cuja pesagem foi realizada de 0 a 150 dias de idade. Os dois métodos se mostraram adequados para descrever o crescimento de coelhos, e o método transversal se revelou uma boa alternativa, com ganho de tempo na coleta dos dados e apresentando estimativas consistentes.

Effect of crude propolis on the performance and feed digestibility of new zealand white rabbits

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and digestibility of diets containing different levels of crude propolis for growing rabbits. Forty-eight New Zealand White rabbits, 43 days old, of both genders, were used, distributed in a completely randomized design. There were four diets with different inclusion levels of crude propolis (0.0; 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5%). There was no statistical difference for performance regarding the inclusion levels of crude propolis (p = 0.85), as well as for the variables dry matter consumption, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber (p ≥ 0.07). Crude protein consumption showed a statistical difference in relation to gender (p = 0.04): males showed higher consumption. However, final weight, total weight gain, daily weight gain and feed efficiency were not influenced by the addition of crude propolis (p ≥ 0.37). Dry matter digestibility, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber were not influenced by the inclusion levels of crude propolis in the diets (p ≥ 0.12). This study indicates that the inclusion of raw propolis up to 1.5% in the diets does not affect the performance parameters of rabbits.

Effect of crude propolis on the performance and feed digestibility of new zealand white rabbits

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and digestibility of diets containing different levels of crude propolis for growing rabbits. Forty-eight New Zealand White rabbits, 43 days old, of both genders, were used, distributed in a completely randomized design. There were four diets with different inclusion levels of crude propolis (0.0; 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5%). There was no statistical difference for performance regarding the inclusion levels of crude propolis (p = 0.85), as well as for the variables dry matter consumption, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber (p ≥ 0.07). Crude protein consumption showed a statistical difference in relation to gender (p = 0.04): males showed higher consumption. However, final weight, total weight gain, daily weight gain and feed efficiency were not influenced by the addition of crude propolis (p ≥ 0.37). Dry matter digestibility, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber were not influenced by the inclusion levels of crude propolis in the diets (p ≥ 0.12). This study indicates that the inclusion of raw propolis up to 1.5% in the diets does not affect the performance parameters of rabbits.(AU)

Epididymal Sperm Characteristics, Testicular Morphometric Traits and Growth Parameters of Rabbit Bucks Fed Dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or Zinc Oxide

The objectives of this twelve-week feeding trial were to determine the effects of dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or zinc oxide on epididymal sperm characteristics, testicular morphometric traits, and growth parameters of bucks. 16 (New Zealand White) bucks 16-wk-old, weighing 2.8kg were randomly allotted to one of 4 treatment groups. Each treatment was replicated four times, with 1 buck per replicate, in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment group was randomly assigned to one of the four commercial experimental diets designated thus: TA = control diet with no additives, TB = 0.12g/kg Saccharomyces cerevisiae, TC = 150mg/kg zinc oxide and TD = 0.12g/kg Saccharomyces cerevisiae +150 mg/kg zinc oxide. Although treatment had no effect (p>0.05) on final body weight, average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio, epididymal sperm characteristics and testicular morphometric traits differed significantly (p 0.05). Bucks on TB(Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based diet) had improved (p 0.05) sperm concentration, motility and live sperm, tubule diameter, epididymal volume, volume fraction of duct, and total duct volume, but decreased testicular volume. Bucks fed TA (control diet) had improved volume fraction of tubule but recorded the highest incidence of head and tail sperm abnormality. Though, TC(zinc oxide-based diet) enhanced (p 0.05) seminal vesicle volume, sperm pH was better among bucks fed TD (Saccharomyces cerevisiae + zinc oxide-based diet). It can be concluded that dietary inclusion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 0.12g/kg of feed improved epididymal sperm characteristics and testicular morphometric traits of rabbit bucks.

Epididymal Sperm Characteristics, Testicular Morphometric Traits and Growth Parameters of Rabbit Bucks Fed Dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or Zinc Oxide

The objectives of this twelve-week feeding trial were to determine the effects of dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae and/or zinc oxide on epididymal sperm characteristics, testicular morphometric traits, and growth parameters of bucks. 16 (New Zealand White) bucks 16-wk-old, weighing 2.8kg were randomly allotted to one of 4 treatment groups. Each treatment was replicated four times, with 1 buck per replicate, in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment group was randomly assigned to one of the four commercial experimental diets designated thus: TA = control diet with no additives, TB = 0.12g/kg Saccharomyces cerevisiae, TC = 150mg/kg zinc oxide and TD = 0.12g/kg Saccharomyces cerevisiae +150 mg/kg zinc oxide. Although treatment had no effect (p>0.05) on final body weight, average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio, epididymal sperm characteristics and testicular morphometric traits differed significantly (p 0.05). Bucks on TB(Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based diet) had improved (p 0.05) sperm concentration, motility and live sperm, tubule diameter, epididymal volume, volume fraction of duct, and total duct volume, but decreased testicular volume. Bucks fed TA (control diet) had improved volume fraction of tubule but recorded the highest incidence of head and tail sperm abnormality. Though, TC(zinc oxide-based diet) enhanced (p 0.05) seminal vesicle volume, sperm pH was better among bucks fed TD (Saccharomyces cerevisiae + zinc oxide-based diet). It can be concluded that dietary inclusion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 0.12g/kg of feed improved epididymal sperm characteristics and testicular morphometric traits of rabbit bucks.(AU)

Sweet potato vines in diets for growing rabbits on performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality.

The use of residues as substitutes for conventional ingredients in animal feed is a promising alternative able to reduce both costs and environmental pollution. This study aimed to evaluate the viability of using sweet potato vines (SPV) as a replacement for alfalfa hay in diets for growing rabbits. The performance, carcass characteristics, meat composition and metabolic parameters of the liver were evaluated in 30 New Zealand rabbits weaned at 35 days old and an average weight of 900 g. The animals were allotted into three dietary groups: 0SPV, control diet without SPV; 50SPV, diet with 50% replacement of alfalfa hay by SPV; 100SPV, diet with 100% replacement of alfalfa hay by SPV. The animals were slaughtered at 77 days of age. The liver was collected for analysis of glucose and hepatic glycogen and meat samples were collected for analysis of the chemical composition. The data obtained were statistically compared by analysis of variance followed by the Tukey test (0.05). None of the analyzed variables presented differences. It can be concluded, therefore, that SPV may be used as a substitute for alfalfa hay up to 100% in diets for rabbits without impairing the performance and meat composition.

Dehydrated cashew apple meal in the feeding of growing rabbits / Farelo do pseudofruto do caju desidratado na alimentação de coelhos em crescimento

Two trials were conducted aiming to determine the chemical composition, the digestibility of nutrientsand energy from dehydrated cashew apple meal, as well as to evaluate the effects generated by includingincreasing levels (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%) of this ingredient in growing rabbit feed, on performance,carcass characteristics and economic evaluation. In the digestibility trial, were used 24 rabbits with 55days of age, distributed in a completely randomized design with two treatments and twelve repetitions,being one reference feed and the other test feed, composed by 70% of the reference feed and 30%DCAM. The coefficients of the dry matter digestibility, crude protein and gross energy of the DCAMwere, respectively, 67.79; 30.03 and 48.61%. The digestible dry matter, digestible protein and digestibleenergy, based on dry matter, were, respectively, 59.55%; 4.76% and 2,119.66 kcal/kg. In the secondtrial, 120 mixed breed rabbits were used, with an average of 45 days of age and weight 1143 ± 153g.The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design, with six treatments and ten repetitionswith two rabbits of the same sex per cage. It was observed that the inclusion of DCAM did not affect(P > 0.05) the feed intake, but reduced (P < 0.05) the feed conversion efficiency, as well as a linearreduction in carcass yield. A quadratic effect on daily weight gain and the ratio meat/bone was observed,with better inclusion level estimated at 25.31 and 24.65%, respectively. The inclusion of DCAM linearlyimproved economic viability to the level of 50%, however not to harm the weight gain and the ratiomeat/bone, it is recommended to include up to 25%.

Dois ensaios foram conduzidos com o objetivo de determinar a composição química, a digestibilidadedos nutrientes e da energia do farelo do pseudofruto do caju desidratado (FPCD), bem como avaliar osefeitos da inclusão de níveis crescentes (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 e 50%) deste ingrediente em rações para coelhosem crescimento, sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça e avaliação econômica. No ensaio dedigestibilidade foram utilizados 24 coelhos com 55 dias de idade, distribuídos em um delineamentointeiramente casualizado com dois tratamentos e doze repetições, sendo uma ração referência e outraração teste, composta por 70% da ração referência e 30% de FPCD. Os coeficientes de digestibilidade da matéria seca, proteína bruta e energia bruta do FPCD foram, respectivamente, 67,79; 30,03 e 48,61%.Os teores de matéria seca digestível, proteína digestível e energia digestível, com base na matéria seca,foram, respectivamente, 59,55%; 4,76% e 2.119,66 kcal/kg. No segundo ensaio foram utilizados 120coelhos mestiços, com média de 45 dias de idade e peso de 1143±153g. Os animais foram distribuídosem um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com seis tratamentos e dez repetições com dois coelhosdo mesmo sexo por gaiola. Observou-se que a inclusão do FPCD não influenciou (P > 0,05) o consumode ração, porém promoveu uma piora (P < 0,05) na conversão alimentar, bem como uma redução linearno rendimento de carcaça. Observou-se efeito quadrático no ganho diário de peso e na relação carne/osso, com o melhor nível de inclusão estimado em 25,31 e 24,65%, respectivamente. A inclusão doFPCD melhorou linearmente a viabilidade econômica até o nível de 50%, entretanto para não prejudicaro ganho de peso e a relação carne/osso, recomenda-se incluir até 25%.

Dehydrated cashew apple meal in the feeding of growing rabbits / Farelo do pseudofruto do caju desidratado na alimentação de coelhos em crescimento

Two trials were conducted aiming to determine the chemical composition, the digestibility of nutrientsand energy from dehydrated cashew apple meal, as well as to evaluate the effects generated by includingincreasing levels (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%) of this ingredient in growing rabbit feed, on performance,carcass characteristics and economic evaluation. In the digestibility trial, were used 24 rabbits with 55days of age, distributed in a completely randomized design with two treatments and twelve repetitions,being one reference feed and the other test feed, composed by 70% of the reference feed and 30%DCAM. The coefficients of the dry matter digestibility, crude protein and gross energy of the DCAMwere, respectively, 67.79; 30.03 and 48.61%. The digestible dry matter, digestible protein and digestibleenergy, based on dry matter, were, respectively, 59.55%; 4.76% and 2,119.66 kcal/kg. In the secondtrial, 120 mixed breed rabbits were used, with an average of 45 days of age and weight 1143 ± 153g.The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design, with six treatments and ten repetitionswith two rabbits of the same sex per cage. It was observed that the inclusion of DCAM did not affect(P > 0.05) the feed intake, but reduced (P < 0.05) the feed conversion efficiency, as well as a linearreduction in carcass yield. A quadratic effect on daily weight gain and the ratio meat/bone was observed,with better inclusion level estimated at 25.31 and 24.65%, respectively. The inclusion of DCAM linearlyimproved economic viability to the level of 50%, however not to harm the weight gain and the ratiomeat/bone, it is recommended to include up to 25%.(AU)

Dois ensaios foram conduzidos com o objetivo de determinar a composição química, a digestibilidadedos nutrientes e da energia do farelo do pseudofruto do caju desidratado (FPCD), bem como avaliar osefeitos da inclusão de níveis crescentes (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 e 50%) deste ingrediente em rações para coelhosem crescimento, sobre o desempenho, características de carcaça e avaliação econômica. No ensaio dedigestibilidade foram utilizados 24 coelhos com 55 dias de idade, distribuídos em um delineamentointeiramente casualizado com dois tratamentos e doze repetições, sendo uma ração referência e outraração teste, composta por 70% da ração referência e 30% de FPCD. Os coeficientes de digestibilidade da matéria seca, proteína bruta e energia bruta do FPCD foram, respectivamente, 67,79; 30,03 e 48,61%.Os teores de matéria seca digestível, proteína digestível e energia digestível, com base na matéria seca,foram, respectivamente, 59,55%; 4,76% e 2.119,66 kcal/kg. No segundo ensaio foram utilizados 120coelhos mestiços, com média de 45 dias de idade e peso de 1143±153g. Os animais foram distribuídosem um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com seis tratamentos e dez repetições com dois coelhosdo mesmo sexo por gaiola. Observou-se que a inclusão do FPCD não influenciou (P > 0,05) o consumode ração, porém promoveu uma piora (P < 0,05) na conversão alimentar, bem como uma redução linearno rendimento de carcaça. Observou-se efeito quadrático no ganho diário de peso e na relação carne/osso, com o melhor nível de inclusão estimado em 25,31 e 24,65%, respectivamente. A inclusão doFPCD melhorou linearmente a viabilidade econômica até o nível de 50%, entretanto para não prejudicaro ganho de peso e a relação carne/osso, recomenda-se incluir até 25%.(AU)

Effects of dietary inclusion of macaúba seed cake meal on performance, caecotrophy traits and in vitro evaluations for growing rabbits.

The objective was to evaluate the inclusion of macaúba seed cake (MSC) meal in diets for growing rabbits by assessing their growth and slaughtering performance, haematological traits, nutritional contribution of caecotrophs, in vitro digestibility, degradability and fermentation parameters. A total of 88 rabbits were distributed to four groups with 22 animals each and fed diets containing 0, 50, 100 and 150 g/kg of MSC, respectively. The in vitro assays were conducted employing cecum inoculum on the same dietary treatments. The inclusion of MSC yielded a quadratic effect on in vitro dry matter digestibility (p < 0.001). The maximum amount of produced gas was raised linearly with the inclusion of MSC (p = 0.016). MSC linearly reduced several variables as the nutritional contribution of caecotrophs in dry matter (p = 0.017) and crude protein (p = 0.014), live weight at 51 d (p = 0.024), body weight gain (p = 0.039), average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p = 0.001) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (p = 0.007) in the first period evaluated (30-50 d); furthermore the ADFI and FCR the second (51-72 d) and whole period (30-72 d) (p < 0.001). MSC addition caused a quadratic effect on white blood cells count (p = 0.026) and a linear decrease of eosinophils (p = 0.045). In conclusion, the inclusion of up to 150 g/kg of MSC improves the in vitro digestibility and fermentation potential of the diets, reflecting on the ADFI and FCR of the animals, although adverse effects are observed on the weight of the commercial carcass and nutritive contribution of the caecotrophs.

Evaluation of haematological, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters of growing rabbits fed Amaranthus dubius.

Amaranthus dubius is an alternative source of fibre and protein for the feed formulation for growing rabbits, although its effects on their health status are yet unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of three dietary levels (0, 160 and 320 g/kg) of A. dubius on haematological, serum biochemical and histopathological parameters of fattening rabbits. One hundred and thirteen New Zealand White rabbits were fed ad libitum from weaning (35 days) to slaughter (87 days). The health status of the animals was monitored, and mortality was recorded. Before slaughtering, 30 rabbits were randomly selected for haematological and serum biochemical analysis. During slaughter, 18 rabbits were randomly selected for histopathological study in heart, liver, lung and small intestine. The health status of rabbits was good, with no differences among treatments in mortality. Diet and sex did not affect the values of most haematological and serum biochemical parameters. Fibrinogen, glucose and high-density lipoprotein values increased significantly from 0 to 320 g/kg A. dubius diets. The white blood cell count and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase values decreased significantly from 0 to 320 g/kg A. dubius diets. The organs showed histologically well-structured tissues. However, in all experimental groups several samples with lesions were observed, always highly focalized in small tissue areas. The main lesions observed, probably related to conditions of thermal stress affecting the rabbits, were cholesterolosis (heart), steatosis (liver), inflammatory lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate (lung) and chronic inflammatory tissue damage (small intestine). In conclusion, the inclusion of up to 320 g/kg A. dubius in diet did not jeopardize the health status of growing rabbits. Therefore, A. dubius can become an alternative raw material for the formulation of feeds in tropical and subtropical countries where this plant is widespread.

Effect of feed restriction on intake of Moringa oleifera and Leucaena leucocephala and growth performance of rabbits.

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of feed restriction on intake of Moringa oleifera (MO) or Leucaena leucocephala (LL) and growth of rabbits. In experiment one, 45 rabbits (male and female) weighing 1.18 ± 0.15 kg were used. They were randomly distributed to three feed restriction treatments (20, 30, and 40%) with 15 rabbits each (9 females and 6 males) and they were offered M. oleifera (MO) ad libitum. In experiment two, 45 growing male rabbits weighing 0.63 ± 0.113 kg were used. They were randomly assigned to 0, 20, and 30% feed restriction diets, and they have free access to L. leucocephala (LL). Intake of MO increased (P < 0.05) conforming feed restriction increased (40.6, 52.9, and 55.2 g/day of MO for 20, 30, and 40%, respectively). Daily liveweight gain and feed conversion did not differ (P > 0.05), and economic efficiency was similar among treatments. Consumption of LL increased (P < 0.05) in rabbits under the 30% restriction treatment in comparison to that of rabbits restricted 20% (46.0 and 44.4 g/day, respectively). Total feed intake (LL + feed) was highest in 20% restricted rabbits (108.0, 100.8, and 93.2 g/day for 20, 30, and 0%, respectively). Daily liveweight gain and feed conversion were not affected by feed restriction (P > 0.05). Economic efficiency improved twice in feed-restricted rabbits (2.0 and 2.3 for 20 and 30%, respectively) in contrast to that of the control 0% group (1.1). The results suggest that rabbits restricted up to 30% and supplemented with either MO or LL did not affect growth performance and reduced feed cost.

Ensiling on chemical composition and in vitro fermentation in rabbits of different forages / Diferentes silagens sobre a fermentação in vitro em coelhos

The effect of chemical composition of silages on in vitro gas fermentation profiles in rabbits was examined. The study was performed using 7 silages: beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), faba bean (FB, Vicia faba), common vetch (CV, Vicia sativa), ryegrass (Lolium perenne), barley (B, Hordeum vulgare), barley with common vetch (BCV) and barley with faba bean (BFB). We used 3 New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits as donors of caecal content in each incubation run (n=3). Data were analyzed in a completely randomized experimental design. The CV silage showed higher values of crude protein (CP), followed by FB and bean silages (P 0.001). Barley silage had the lowest CP content (96g kg-1 DM) (P=0.001). The NDF and ADF content were lower (P 0.001) for beans and CV compared with the rest of the forage silages. Ryegrass silage had higher values of dry matter degradation, organic matter degradation, relative GP and SCFA (P 0.001). The highest values of digestible energy were for CV and bean silages (P 0.001). Ryegrass and CV silages showed higher levels in GP parameters, which could be associated with their better chemical composition characteristics, mainly protein and fiber content.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a composição química e os padrões in vitro de fermentação cecal em coelhos em crescimento. Foram realizados 7 silagens: feijão (Phaseolus vulgaris), fava (FB, Vicia faba), ervilhaca (CV, Vicia sativa), azevém (Lolium perenne), cevada (B, Hordeum vulgare), cevada com ervilhaca (BCV) e da cevada com fava (BFB). oram usados 3 coelhos New Zealand White (NZW) como doadores de conteúdo cecal em cada série de incubação (n=3). Os dados foram analisados em um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. A silagem de CV apresentaram maiores valores de proteína bruta (PB), seguido de silagens de FB e de feijão (P 0,001). Silagem de cevada apresentou o menor teor de PB (96g kg-1 de MS) (P=0,001). O conteúdo FDN e FDA foram menores (P 0,001) para Feijão e CV em comparação com o resto das silagens de forrageiras. Silagens de azevém apresentaram valores mais elevados de degradação de matéria seca, degradação da matéria orgânica, GP relativa e AGCC (P 0,001). Os maiores valores de energia digestível foram de CV e silagens de feijão (P 0,001). Azevém e CV apresentaram melhores níveis de parâmetros GP, que poderiam ser relacionadas com as suas melhores características de composição química, principalmente proteína e teor de fibra.(AU)

Ensiling on chemical composition and in vitro fermentation in rabbits of different forages / Diferentes silagens sobre a fermentação in vitro em coelhos

The effect of chemical composition of silages on in vitro gas fermentation profiles in rabbits was examined. The study was performed using 7 silages: beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), faba bean (FB, Vicia faba), common vetch (CV, Vicia sativa), ryegrass (Lolium perenne), barley (B, Hordeum vulgare), barley with common vetch (BCV) and barley with faba bean (BFB). We used 3 New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits as donors of caecal content in each incubation run (n=3). Data were analyzed in a completely randomized experimental design. The CV silage showed higher values of crude protein (CP), followed by FB and bean silages (P 0.001). Barley silage had the lowest CP content (96g kg-1 DM) (P=0.001). The NDF and ADF content were lower (P 0.001) for beans and CV compared with the rest of the forage silages. Ryegrass silage had higher values of dry matter degradation, organic matter degradation, relative GP and SCFA (P 0.001). The highest values of digestible energy were for CV and bean silages (P 0.001). Ryegrass and CV silages showed higher levels in GP parameters, which could be associated with their better chemical composition characteristics, mainly protein and fiber content.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a composição química e os padrões in vitro de fermentação cecal em coelhos em crescimento. Foram realizados 7 silagens: feijão (Phaseolus vulgaris), fava (FB, Vicia faba), ervilhaca (CV, Vicia sativa), azevém (Lolium perenne), cevada (B, Hordeum vulgare), cevada com ervilhaca (BCV) e da cevada com fava (BFB). oram usados 3 coelhos New Zealand White (NZW) como doadores de conteúdo cecal em cada série de incubação (n=3). Os dados foram analisados em um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. A silagem de CV apresentaram maiores valores de proteína bruta (PB), seguido de silagens de FB e de feijão (P 0,001). Silagem de cevada apresentou o menor teor de PB (96g kg-1 de MS) (P=0,001). O conteúdo FDN e FDA foram menores (P 0,001) para Feijão e CV em comparação com o resto das silagens de forrageiras. Silagens de azevém apresentaram valores mais elevados de degradação de matéria seca, degradação da matéria orgânica, GP relativa e AGCC (P 0,001). Os maiores valores de energia digestível foram de CV e silagens de feijão (P 0,001). Azevém e CV apresentaram melhores níveis de parâmetros GP, que poderiam ser relacionadas com as suas melhores características de composição química, principalmente proteína e teor de fibra.

Growth traits of four maternal lines of rabbits founded on different criteria: comparisons at foundation and at last periods after selection.

The objective was to compare growth traits in four maternal lines of rabbits (A, V, H and LP), with the aim of understanding the consequence of the different foundation and selection processes on the growth performance of the lines. The lines are currently in the 43th, 38th, 22th and 8th generations, respectively. Two comparisons were performed. One compared the values of the lines at their foundation, using the complete data set, the full pedigree and a two-trait analysis, including data on the selection criteria, litter size. The other comparisons were done during the last period when all the lines were housed together with the same feeding and management. The numbers of records were 323 208 for weaning weight, and 300 553 for slaughter weight and average daily Gain (from 46 708 l). The pedigree file included 346 638 animals. The second analysis used only the data corresponding to each period, and the analysis was conducted using a one-trait model. The model was the same as that defined for the comparisons at the foundation, but the additive effects were excluded. The H and LP lines showed highest values for all the traits compared. In the last periods, a good agreement was observed between the estimated differences, computed with the complete model and data set, or computed with an incomplete model and only data from the comparison period. At last periods, the differences were smaller than at foundation. The importance of the correlated response in growth after selection for litter size at weaning or the importance of a non-programmed intramating selection for the growth traits can explain the changes since foundation.

Utilização digestiva e produtiva de dietas semi simplificadas com fenos enriquecidos com vinhaça para coelhos em crescimento / Digestive and productive utilization of semi- simplifield hay diets enriched with vinasse for growing rabbits

O trabalho foi desenvolvido com os objetivos de avaliar a influência de duas qualidades de feno de Tifton 85 enriquecidos ou não com vinhaça em dietas semi simplificadas, sobre a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes, a composição e contribuição nutritiva dos cecotrofos, o desempenho produtivo, rendimentos de carcaça, vísceras comestíveis e do trato gastrointestinal de coelhos Nova Zelândia branco em crescimento. As dietas contendo feno de tifton 85 de qualidade superior enriquecido com vinhaça (SUPV) e feno de tifton 85 de qualidade inferior enriquecido com vinhaça (INFV) receberam vinhaça in natura na proporção de 2:1, enquanto as dietas contendo feno de tifton 85 de qualidade superior não enriquecido com vinhaça (SUP) e feno de tifton 85 de qualidade inferior não enriquecido com vinhaça (INF) não foram enriquecidas. No ensaio de digestibilidade observou-se que as dietas semi simplificadas não foram influenciadas (P>0,05) pela qualidade do feno e pela adição da vinhaça, com exceção do coeficiente de digestibilidade da matéria mineral (CDMM), que apresentou valores de 52,31% 51,13%, 54,45% e 46,73% para os tratamentos SUP, SUPV, INF e INFV, respectivamente. No ensaio de cecotrofia, a produção, composição química e contribuição nutritiva não se alteraram (P>0,05) em nenhum dos tratamentos. No ensaio de desempenho, não houve diferença significativa (P>0,05) para os parâmetros produtivos e características da carcaça, com exceção do peso de rins (P<0,05). Portanto, é possível o enriquecimento de fenos por meio da inclusão de vinhaça sem prejuízos ao desempenho, contribuição nutritiva dos cecotrofos ou à digestibilidade de coelhos Nova Zelândia branco em crescimento...

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of two qualities of Tifton 85 hay enriched or not with vinasse in semi-simplified diets on the apparent nutrient digestibility, composition and nutritional contribution of cecotropes, productive performance, and carcass, edible viscera and gastrointestinal tract yields of growing New Zealand White rabbits. Fresh vinasse at a proportion of 2:1 was added to the diets containing high-quality (HQV) and low-quality Tifton 85 hay (LQV). The control diets containing high-quality (HQ) and low-quality Tifton 85 (LQ) were not enriched with vinasse. In the digestibility assay, the semi-simplified diets were not influenced (P>0.05) by the quality of hay or by the addition of vinasse, except for the digestibility coefficients of mineral matter, which were 52.31%, 51.13%, 54.45% and 46.73% for treatments HQ, HQV, LQ and LQV, respectively. In the cecotrophy assay, production, chemical composition or nutritional contribution was not altered (P>0.05) in any of the treatments. In the performance assay, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in productive parameters or carcass traits, except for kidney weight (P<0.05). It is therefore possible to include vinasse in hay diets without compromising the performance, nutritional contribution of cecotropes or digestibility of growing New Zealand White rabbits...

Utilização digestiva e produtiva de dietas semi simplificadas com fenos enriquecidos com vinhaça para coelhos em crescimento / Digestive and productive utilization of semi- simplifield hay diets enriched with vinasse for growing rabbits

O trabalho foi desenvolvido com os objetivos de avaliar a influência de duas qualidades de feno de Tifton 85 enriquecidos ou não com vinhaça em dietas semi simplificadas, sobre a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes, a composição e contribuição nutritiva dos cecotrofos, o desempenho produtivo, rendimentos de carcaça, vísceras comestíveis e do trato gastrointestinal de coelhos Nova Zelândia branco em crescimento. As dietas contendo feno de tifton 85 de qualidade superior enriquecido com vinhaça (SUPV) e feno de tifton 85 de qualidade inferior enriquecido com vinhaça (INFV) receberam vinhaça in natura na proporção de 2:1, enquanto as dietas contendo feno de tifton 85 de qualidade superior não enriquecido com vinhaça (SUP) e feno de tifton 85 de qualidade inferior não enriquecido com vinhaça (INF) não foram enriquecidas. No ensaio de digestibilidade observou-se que as dietas semi simplificadas não foram influenciadas (P>0,05) pela qualidade do feno e pela adição da vinhaça, com exceção do coeficiente de digestibilidade da matéria mineral (CDMM), que apresentou valores de 52,31% 51,13%, 54,45% e 46,73% para os tratamentos SUP, SUPV, INF e INFV, respectivamente. No ensaio de cecotrofia, a produção, composição química e contribuição nutritiva não se alteraram (P>0,05) em nenhum dos tratamentos. No ensaio de desempenho, não houve diferença significativa (P>0,05) para os parâmetros produtivos e características da carcaça, com exceção do peso de rins (P<0,05). Portanto, é possível o enriquecimento de fenos por meio da inclusão de vinhaça sem prejuízos ao desempenho, contribuição nutritiva dos cecotrofos ou à digestibilidade de coelhos Nova Zelândia branco em crescimento...(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of two qualities of Tifton 85 hay enriched or not with vinasse in semi-simplified diets on the apparent nutrient digestibility, composition and nutritional contribution of cecotropes, productive performance, and carcass, edible viscera and gastrointestinal tract yields of growing New Zealand White rabbits. Fresh vinasse at a proportion of 2:1 was added to the diets containing high-quality (HQV) and low-quality Tifton 85 hay (LQV). The control diets containing high-quality (HQ) and low-quality Tifton 85 (LQ) were not enriched with vinasse. In the digestibility assay, the semi-simplified diets were not influenced (P>0.05) by the quality of hay or by the addition of vinasse, except for the digestibility coefficients of mineral matter, which were 52.31%, 51.13%, 54.45% and 46.73% for treatments HQ, HQV, LQ and LQV, respectively. In the cecotrophy assay, production, chemical composition or nutritional contribution was not altered (P>0.05) in any of the treatments. In the performance assay, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in productive parameters or carcass traits, except for kidney weight (P<0.05). It is therefore possible to include vinasse in hay diets without compromising the performance, nutritional contribution of cecotropes or digestibility of growing New Zealand White rabbits...(AU)

Casca de soja em dietas para coelhos em crescimento / Soybean hulls on diets for growing rabbits

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar efeitos da inclusão de casca de soja em substituição ao feno de alfafa sobre o desempenho, características da carcaça e trato gastrointestinal e parâmetros bioquímicos de coelhos em fase de crescimento. Foram utilizados 30 coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia Branca, divididos igualmente em três tratamentos, compostos pela dieta experimental padrão (sem inclusão de casca de soja); e pelas dietas com 50% e 100% de substituição de alfafa por casca de soja nas respectivas rações experimentais. Concluiu-se que a casca de soja pode ser incluída em dietas para coelhos em crescimento, em substituição ao feno de alfafa em até 100% sem causar danos no desempenho nas características de carcaça e do trato gastrointestinal e parâmetros bioquímicos dos animais, durante a fase de crescimento. Porém, a utilização deste co-produto exige a necessidade de estudos mais aprofundados em virtude da escassez de dados.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of inclusion of soybean hulls in the replacement of alfalfa hay on performance, of growing rabbits. A total of 30 rabbits of New Zealand White kind were divided into three treatments, experimental compounds in the pattern diet (without inclusion of soybean hulls), and the diets with 50% and 100% replacement of alfalfa by soybean hulls in their experimental diets. It was concluded that the soybean hulls can be included on replace of alfafa hulls up 100% in rabbits diets. However, the use of co-product in animal nutrition need more detailed studies because of the paucity of data.(AU)

Effect of dietary inclusion of Leucaena leucocephala or Moringa oleifera leaf meal on performance of growing rabbits.

This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of including either Leucaena leucocephala (LLM) or Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as tropical feed resources at two levels (30 or 40 %) on growth performance, carcass traits, and economical efficiency of growing rabbits. A total of 60 California growing rabbits were randomly distributed into five experimental groups, each consisting of 12 rabbits and were allocated individually; the groups were control, 30 % LLM, 40 % LLM, 30 % MOLM, and 40 % MOLM. The experimental period lasted from 6 to 12 weeks of age. The results showed that rabbits fed control and 30 % MOLM diets had significantly the highest final body weight and daily weight gain being 2,040 and 2,000 g and 31.6 and 30.6 g/day, respectively. Similarly, the best feed conversion ratio was associated with 30 % MOLM and control groups (3.2 and 3.4), while the worst value was for 40 % LLM group (5.2). MOLM treatments recorded significantly the highest dressing percentage along with control group. The inclusion of MOLM by 30 and 40 % improved the economical efficiency (2 and 1.5) in comparison with the control group (1.1). The results suggest that MOLM can be included in growing rabbit diets up to 40 % without any adverse effect on growth performance or carcass traits with higher economical efficiency of growing rabbits.

Bee pollen supplementation in diets for rabbit does and growing rabbits / Suplementação com pólen apícola em dietas para coelhas e coelhos em crescimento

It was evaluated the effects of bee pollen (BP) on the doe and kits productivity and on the carcass and organs of the rabbits. Twenty White New Zealand does and their kits were used in a randomized block design, with four treatments and five blocks, in a factorial arrangement 2 x 2 with two supplementation levels for the doe and for the kits after the weaning. BP supplementation for the does did not influence (p > 0.05) the doe and kit productivity during the lactation, except by the kits survival rate (p 0.05) the rabbit performance from the weaning until the slaughter age, the slaughter weight, carcass characteristics, except by the spleen and small intestine weights, higher in supplemented rabbits. It was not recommended that BP supplementation for does and/or rabbits for not improving the rabbit productive performance.

Os efeitos do pólen apícola (PA) sobre a produtividade de coelhas e láparos e sobre a carcaça e órgãos dos coelhos foram avaliados. Foram utilizadas 20 coelhas Nova Zelândia Branco e seus láparos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e cinco blocos, em arranjo fatorial 2 x 2 com dois níveis de suplementação para a coelha e para os láparos após o desmame. A suplementação com PA para as coelhas não influenciou (p > 0,05) a produtividade da coelha e dos láparos durante a lactação, exceto pela taxa de sobrevivência dos láparos (p 0,05) o desempenho dos coelhos do desmame até a idade ao abate, o peso ao abate, características da carcaça, exceto pelos pesos do baço e intestino delgado, maiores em coelhos suplementados. Não foi recomendada a suplementação com PA para coelhas e/ou láparos por não melhorar o desempenho produtivo.

Effect of nutritional density and season on the performance of young rabbit does before the first mating / Efeito da densidade nutricional e da estação sobre o desempenho de coelhas jovens antes do primeiro acasalamento

The objective was to evaluate the effect of nutritional density and season on the performance of young rabbit does before the first mating. Forty-eight females from the Botucatu Genetic Group were used in each season (warm or cool), starting at the age of 70 days, housed in groups of four per cage up to 119 days, and reared individually from 120 to 140 days of age. The high-density diet was formulated to contain, on a 90% DM basis, 18.4% CP, 16.5% ADF and 2,500 kcal DE kg-¹; whereas the low-density diet was formulated to contain 14.7% CP, 24% ADF and 2,000 kcal DE kg-¹. The experiment was conducted according to a 2x2 factorial design (two diets x two seasons) with repeated measures (weeks). The high-density diet promoted lower feed intake, higher final weight, and higher daily weight gain, adjusted for constant intake. But these facts alone do not warrant using a high-density diet for growing rabbit does, because it could have a negative impact during the reproductive phase. In the warm season, there was a reduction in feed intake and an improvement in feed efficiency. Along time, however, the mean body weight of does was similar in the two seasons.

O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da densidade nutricional e da estação sobre o desempenho de coelhas jovens antes do primeiro acasalamento. Foram usadas 48 coelhas do Grupo Genético Botucatu em cada estação (quente ou fresca) que iniciaram aos 70 dias de idade, alojadas em grupos de quatro por gaiola até os 119 dias e individualmente dos 120 aos 140 dias. A dieta de alta densidade foi formulada para conter, com base em 90% de MS, 18,4% PB, 16,5% FDA e 2.500 kcal ED kg-¹; enquanto a dieta de baixa densidade foi formulada para conter 14,7% PB, 24% FDA e 2.000 kcal ED kg-¹. O experimento seguiu um fatorial 2x2 (duas dietas x duas estações), com medidas repetidas (semanas). A dieta de alta densidade promoveu menor consumo, peso mais elevado e também maior ganho de peso ajustado para consumo constante. Mas estes fatos, isoladamente, não avalizam o uso de uma dieta de alta densidade para coelhas jovens, porque ela pode apresentar impacto negativo durante a fase reprodutiva. Na estação quente, houve redução do consumo de alimento e melhora da eficiência alimentar. Ao longo do tempo, no entanto, o peso médio das coelhas foi semelhante nas duas estações.