Effect of nitrogen fertilization and shading on morphogenesis, structure and leaf anatomy of Megathyrsus maximus genotypes.

The use of exotic grasses of African origin for pastures in Brazil has been a major advancement in livestock production, but little is known about the responses of these grasses to nitrogen fertilizers associated with shading. In this study, the morphogenetic, structural, and leaf anatomical characteristics of Megathyrsus maximus cultivars' Tamani and Quênia were investigated as a function of N dose and shade. Morphogenetic and structural characteristics and leaf anatomy were studied under three shading levels (0, 30, and 50 %) and four N doses (0, 100, 200, and 300 kg N ha-1) to simulate growth in a silvopastoral system. When comparing the cultivars, Quênia was more efficient in terms of phyllochron up to fertilization with 100 kg N ha-1. The leaf senescence rate of Tamani was higher than that of Quênia at the 30 and 50 % shade levels. The total area (TA) occupied by leaf tissues decreased in Quênia as a function of the increase in N fertilization, whereas the TA of Tamani did not change. The thickness of the adaxial epidermis was greater in Quênia (0.68 µm) than in Tamani (0.50 µm) when not fertilized. The area occupied by the mesophyll was greater in both cultivars when they received fertilization equivalent to 300 kg N ha-1. Quênia grass has a smaller phyllochron than Tamani grass, due to the rapid reconstruction of its photosynthetic apparatus, especially when it receives higher levels of nitrogen fertilization. However, Tamani grass has a greater distribution of plant tissues. The mesophyll area is larger in Tamani grass due to the greater presence of chloroplasts, which facilitates digestion by animals. The Tamani modified the leaf anatomical tissues more significantly in relation to shading, whereas the Quênia modified them in relation to N fertilization, which reinforces the suggestion of a more appropriate use of Tamani in silvopastoral systems.

The Characterization of Pastures by Grazing Cycle and Evaluation of Supplementation with Agro-Industry Co-Products on the Performance of Buffaloes in the Humid Tropics.

The objective was to characterize the pastures by grazing cycle, as well as to evaluate the performance of buffaloes in intensive rotational grazing in a silvopastoral system in the eastern Amazon supplemented with agro-industry co-products in order to characterize the grazing cycles, the composition of the fractions, and the carcass yield. Fifteen non-castrated, crossbred water buffaloes (Murrah × Mediterranean) were used. All animals used in the study were clinically healthy and weighed approximately 458 kg. The animals were grazed in a single group, and supplementation (1% of live weight-LW/day) was divided into three treatments: control (control-conventional ingredients); Cocos nucifera coconut cake (Cocos nucifera) (coconut cake-70%); and palm kernel cake (Guinean elaeis) (palm kernel cake-70% palm kernel cake). The chemical composition of the forage is different in each part of the plant, with higher protein values in the leaves (11.40%) and higher acid detergent fiber (ADF) values in the stems (50.03%). Among the ingredients of the supplement, corn has the highest percentage of indigestible protein (35.57%), most of the protein in palm kernel cake is B3 (49.11%), and in Coco, B2 (51.52%). Mombasa grass has a higher percentage of B3 and B2 proteins; the indigestible fraction is lower in the leaves (17.16%). The leaf/stem ratio also varied between grazing cycles, being better in the second cycle (2.11%) and with an overall average of 1.71. Supplement consumption varied between cycles and was higher in the control treatment, with an overall mean of 4.74. There was no difference in daily weight gain and carcass yield, with an average of 1 kg/day and 49.23%, respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that including supplements based on by-products from the coconut and palm oil agro-industries promotes performance and carcass yields compatible with conventional supplements. Their use reduces production costs, optimizes the utilization of forage mass, enhances the sustainability of the production chain, and, therefore, is recommended.

Evaluation of the quality of meat and carcasses from sheep fed diets containing three types of oils.

The objective of this research was to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the carcass and meat of lambs fed with different types of oil. Thirty male, uncastrated, mixed breed (Santa Inês × Dorper) sheep were used in this experiment and were distributed in random blocks with three treatments and 10 replicates per treatment, where each animal represents a replicated experimental unit. The three treatments were the following experimental diets: soybean oil in natura; soybean oil after use in frying, and palm oil (Elaeis guineensis). The oils were incorporated into the sheep diets at a level of 4%. Carcasses were evaluated for hot and cold yield, loss due to cooling, finish, conformation, internal fat concentration, morphometric measurements, tissue composition, and commercial cuts. The addition of soybean oil in natura, residual soybean oil from frying, and palm oil to the sheep diets did not alter any of the evaluated characteristics, which therefore can be interpreted as favoring the use of any of these three oils as a supplement to their diet, and the three oils imparted good characteristics to the carcasses and the meat.

How do relocation time and length of storage after relocation affect fermentation and nutritive value of corn silage?

This study aimed to determine the effects of relocation time (RT; Experiment 1) and storage time after relocation (ST; Experiment 2) on microbial population, fermentative characteristics, and chemical composition of corn silage. In experiment 1, corn silage was stored for 30 d, subjected to different RT (0­60 h), and stored again for 30 d. Thirty experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with three replicates per treatment. In experiment 2, after 150 d of ensiling, silage was removed from a bunker silo, exposed to air for 9 h, relocated to experimental silos, and stored for periods ranging from 0 to 128 d. Twenty-eight experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with four replicates per treatment. Relocation time had no effect on fungi counts and concentrations of lactic and propionic acids in corn silage but resulted in a significant increase in dry matter content. In experiment 2, dry matter recovery and concentration of non-fiber carbohydrates decreased in corn silage stored for more than 32 d after relocation. Exposure of corn silage to air during relocation for up to 60 h followed by 30 d of storage did not compromise the fermentation profile or nutritive value of the silage. Increased storage time of relocated corn silage (up to 128 d) consistently decreases its nutritional value. The storage period seems to have an increased impact on nutrient loss in relocated silage than the relocation period.

The addition of different oils in the diet regulates the expression of adipocytokine signaling genes in sheep longissimus dorsi muscle.

Nutrition is an important factor that regulates the expression of several genes. The aim of this work was to analyze the effects of diets containing additions of different oils on the regulation of the adipocytokine signaling gene expressions in sheep longissimus dorsi muscle. Forty males and non-neutered sheep were kept in individual cages and fed under four different treatments: control treatment (concentrate and forage) and the other three treatments containing the concentrate and forage plus 4% oil (yellow grease, soybean and palm oils). After slaughter, samples of the longissimus dorsi muscle were collected. RNA extraction followed by Real Time PCR for five adipocytokine signaling genes. ANOVA was performed followed by the Dunnett's test (0.01). The normalized expressions of the ACLY gene were not significant between treatments to control, but for the ALDOC gene, all oil-supplemented treatments were significantly downregulated relative to the control treatment. The DUSP gene was not significantly expressed between the oil-supplemented treatments to control treatment. The ENPP1 gene was significantly upregulated with the addition of palm oil and yellow grease and the FASN gene was only significantly expressed in soybean oil-supplemented treatment to control treatment. It was concluded that the addition of different oils in the sheep diet regulated the expression of most genes for up or down, which can influence the metabolic pathways responsible for the fatty acid biosynthesis in the sheep longissimus dorsi muscle.

Agrometeorological and Agronomic Characterization of Megathyrsus Grasses Cultivated in Tropical Humid and Semi-Arid Conditions: A Multivariate Approach.

Variability in climatic conditions of low-latitude tropical grass cultivation can affect forage production dynamics. Pasture ecosystems are complex and preferably studied from a multifactorial point of view through multivariate approaches. Therefore, in this study, we characterized different growing conditions for grasses of the Megathyrsus genus through studies conducted in tropical humid and semi-arid conditions. We applied principal component, canonical correlation, and discriminant function analyses to the measurements of agronomic and agrometeorological variables in six studies with Guinea and Massai grasses. The principal component analysis, through the climatic characterization by the first principal component, reflects the contrast between water availability and nitrogen variables and energy supply. Agronomic characterization occurred through the distinction between the density of tillers, forage accumulation, and increase in height, versus the accumulation of stems and dead material. The canonical correlation analysis generated a correlation coefficient of 0.84 between the agronomic and agrometeorological variables. There was a contrast between the dead material accumulation and the other agronomic variables, while the agrometeorological variables showed characteristics similar to the first principal component. Discriminant function 1, with 70.36% separation power, distinguished the cultivation conditions based on the study locations. Grass cultivars were differentiated by discriminant function 2, with a 19.20% separation power. From a multivariate variability analysis, despite the similarities of radiation and temperature in the regions studied, the availability of water and nutrients and measurements of agronomic variables can aid in future modeling studies on forage production.

Effect of exogenous emulsifier and different fat sources on the performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and serum lipid profile of broiler chickens / Efeito de emulsificante exógeno e diferentes fontes de gordura no desempenho, características de carcaça e digestibilidade de nutriente e perfil lipídico sérico em frangos de corte

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of an emulsifier on reduced-energy diets using two fat sources for broilers. The study was designed as a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement of treatments. The first factor was 2 fat sources (poultry fat or beef tallow). The second factor was a basal diet with the recommended energy levels, a diet with a 0.83 MJ/kg of energy reduction, and a diet with an energy reduction and inclusion of 1 g emulsifier/kg of diet. The emulsifier used in this study was composed of soy lecithin and polyethylene glycol ricinoleate. The emulsifier increased apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen balance (AMEn) in beef tallow diets compared to energy-reduced diets (P<0.001). Broilers fed poultry fat had higher weights and weight gains at 35 and 42 d of age (p=0.001), and they had higher daily deposition of fat in the carcass (P = 0.025) when compared to diets with beef tallow. The inclusion of emulsifiers in broiler diets improves AME and AMEn but did not affect the energy reduction diets, which resulted in reduced performance, decreasing daily fat deposition, but without effects on serum lipid profile in broilers.(AU)

Um estudo foi conduzido para avaliar o efeito de um emulsificante em dietas com baixo teor de energia usando duas fontes de gordura para frangos de corte. O estudo foi delineado em arranjo fatorial 2 x 3 de tratamentos, o primeiro fator foi 2 fontes de gordura (gordura de frango ou sebo bovino) e o segundo fator uma dieta basal com os níveis de energia recomendados, uma dieta com 0,83 MJ / kg de redução de energia e uma dieta com redução de energia e inclusão de 1 g de emulsionante / kg de dieta (composto de lecitina de soja e ricinoleato de polietilenoglicol). O emulsificante aumentou a energia metabolizável aparente (EMA) e a energia metabolizável aparente corrigida para o balanço de nitrogênio (EMAn) em dietas com sebo bovino em comparação com dietas com redução de energia (P <0,001). Frangos de corte alimentados com gordura de frango apresentam maiores pesos e ganhos de peso aos 35 e 42 dias de idade (p=0,001), e maior deposição diária de gordura na carcaça (P=0,025) quando comparados às dietas com sebo bovino. O emulsificante incluído nas dietas de frangos de corte melhora a EMA e EMAn, mas não supre a redução energética, causando efeitos negativos no desempenho, diminuindo a deposição diária de gordura, mas sem efeitos no perfil lipídico sérico em frangos de corte.(AU)

Effects of sowing depth and inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens on the initial growth of Urochloa brizantha (syn Brachiaria brizantha) cv. Marandú / Efeitos da profundidade de semeadura e inoculação com Pseudomonas fluorescens no crescimento inicial de Urochloa brizantha (syn Brachiaria brizantha) cv. Marandú

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of sowing depth and inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens on germination, emergence, shoot and root growth of Urochloa brizantha. A completely randomized design was used, in a 6 × 2 factorial arrangement, with 12 repetitions. The following sowing depths (SD) were evaluated: 0, 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 cm; and the seed inoculation with P. fluorescens (I): with and without. Evaluations were carried out 25 days after plant emergence. No effects of the PS × I or I interaction were observed for all variables evaluated (P> 0.05). The germination and emergence percentages decreased linearly (P <0.05) as the SD increased. No plant emergence was observed at and at 12 cm depth. The morphometric characteristics of the plants (height, number of leaves, length of root and leaf blade width) decreased linearly with the increase of SD (P <0.05). Dry matter production of the aerial part and root were not affected by SD (P> 0.05). However, an effect was observed on the shoot:root ratio, where plants sown more superficially had a greater relationship. The inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens in the seed, has no effect on the initial growth of Marandu grass. On the other hand, greater sowing depths affects negatively the initial growth.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de profundidades de semeadura e da inoculação com Pseudomonas fluorescens sobre a germinação, emergência, crescimento aéreo e radicular da Urochloa brizantha. O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 6 × 2, com 12 repetições. Foram avaliadas a profundidade de semeadura (PS): 0, 1, 2, 3, 6 e 12 cm; e a inoculação da semente com P. fluorescens (I): sem e com. As avaliações foram realizadas 25 dias após a emergência das plântulas. Não foram observados efeitos da interação PS × I nem de I para todas as variáveis avaliadas(P> 0.05). Os percentuais de germinação e emergência diminuíram linearmente (P< 0.05) em função do aumento da PS, sendo que na profundidade de 12 cm, não foi observada emergência de plantas. As características morfométricas das plantas (altura, número de folhas, comprimento de raiz e largura de lâmina foliar) diminuíram linearmente em função do aumento da PS (P< 0.05). As produções de massa seca de parte aérea e de raiz não foram afetadas pela PS (P> 0.05), porém, foi observada diminuição da relação parte aérea:raiz com o aumento da OS (P< 0.05). A inoculação com Pseudomonas fluorescens na semente não apresenta efeitos sobe o crescimento inicial do capim Marandú. Por outro lado, profundidades de semeadura maiores afetam negativamente o crescimento inicial.(AU)

Ingestive behavior of lambs fed relocated and inoculated whole-plant corn silage

We aimed to determine the effect of relocation of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) with different fermentation profiles on ingestive behavior of lambs. Twenty-four male Santa Inês lambs, were used in a completely randomized block design based on initial bodyweight (17.5 ± 1.8 kg) for the following treatments: CS: WPCS (not inoculated and not relocated); R-12h: WPCS relocated for 12h; IR-12h: WPCS inoculated with Lactobacillus plantarumand relocated for 12h; and R-24h: WPCS not inoculated and relocated for 24h. Ingestive behavior was observed as continuous (feeding, ruminating, and idling) and specific (urination, defecation, and water and salt access frequency) activities for 48h (3h intervals for a total of eight periods in 24h). The behavioral activities were affected only by periods (p = 0.0001). Feeding peaks was high at 8:00–11:00am(54.2%) and 5:00-8:00pm(54.9%) in compare to ruminating and idling at the same period. Rumination time was intense at night, at 63.7% (2:00–5:00am) and 69.7% (5:00–8:00am). Idling time (49.7%) was long after silage supply. The specific activities were intense during the morning periods. Supply of WPCS relocated up to 24h did not alter the ingestive behavior.(AU)

Efeito do genótipo e da correção de acidez do solo sobre o perfil fermentativo e a composição química da silagem de raiz de mandioca / Fermentation profile and chemical composition of cassava root silage

O uso da silagem de raiz de mandioca na alimentação animal representa uma opção viável tanto para os produtores que cultivam mandioca (visando ter um produto para comercialização alternativa), quanto para os pecuaristas que compram milho a preços elevados. Assim, objetivou-se determinar o efeito de variedades e da correção da acidez do solo sobre as populações microbianas, características fermentativas, composição química, estabilidade aeróbia e perdas de silagens de raízes de mandioca. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 2×3 com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados dois genótipos de mandioca (Caeté e Manteiguinha) e três tipos de correção de acidez do solo (calagem, gessagem e calagem+gessagem). Após 11 meses, as raízes foram colhidas, trituradas e ensiladas em silos do tipo PVC, onde permaneceram por 45 dias. Não observamos efeito de interação entre genótipos e correção do solo para os parâmetros testados. As silagens do genótipo Caeté apresentaram as maiores concentrações de matéria seca (421 g kg-1 matéria fresca) e carboidratos não fibrosos (893 g kg-1 matéria seca), e menores de fibra em detergente neutro (37.1 g kg-1 matéria seca). Não houve diferenças significativas entre tratamentos para bactérias ácido láticas, leveduras e mofos nas silagens. Ambos os genótipos resultaram em silagens com perfil de fermentação adequado e estabilidade aeróbia consideravelmente elevada, mas com elevadas perdas de efluentes. O genótipo Caeté apresentou condições potencialmente melhores para produção de silagem devido a sua maior recuperação de matéria seca. Devido à alta perda de efluente, recomendamos testar o efeito da adição de um aditivo absorvente de umidade durante o processo de ensilagem dessas raízes de mandioca. (AU)

Fermentation profile and chemical composition of cassava root silage / Efeito do genótipo e da correção de acidez do solo sobre o perfil fermentativo e a composição química da silagem de raiz de mandioca

The use of cassava root silage for animal feeding is a suitable option for farmers who grow cassava as an alternative product and for cattle ranchers who have to deal with high prices of corn. Our objective was to determine the effects of cassava genotypes and the correction of soil acidity on the microbial population, fermentation characteristics, chemical composition, aerobic stability and losses of cassava root silage. We used a 2 × 3 factorial design in completely randomized blocks, with four replications. We evaluated two cassava genotypes (Caeté and Manteiguinha) and three methods of soil acidity correction (lime, gypsum, and lime+gypsum). The roots were harvested 11 months after planting, ensiled in PVC silos, and stored for 45 days. No interaction was observed between genotypes and soil acidity correction for any of the evaluated parameters. The silage of Caeté genotype showed the highest concentration of dry matter (421 g kg-1 fresh matter) and non-fibrous carbohydrates (893 g kg-1 dry matter), and the lowest concentrations of neutral detergent fiber (37.1 g kg-1 dry matter) . No significant differences were observed among treatments for lactic acid bacteria, yeast and mold counts in silages. Both genotypes resulted in silages with an adequate fermentation profile and considerably high aerobic stability, but with high effluent loss. The Caeté genotype showed to be potentially better for silage production due to its higher dry matter recovery. Due to the high level of effluent loss, it is recommended to test the effect of a moisture-absorbing additive during the ensiling process of these cassava roots.(AU)

O uso da silagem de raiz de mandioca na alimentação animal representa uma opção viável tanto para os produtores que cultivam mandioca (visando ter um produto para comercialização alternativa), quanto para os pecuaristas que compram milho a preços elevados. Assim, objetivou-se determinar o efeito de variedades e da correção da acidez do solo sobre as populações microbianas, características fermentativas, composição química, estabilidade aeróbia e perdas de silagens de raízes de mandioca. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 2×3 com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados dois genótipos de mandioca (Caeté e Manteiguinha) e três tipos de correção de acidez do solo (calagem, gessagem e calagem+gessagem). Após 11 meses, as raízes foram colhidas, trituradas e ensiladas em silos do tipo PVC, onde permaneceram por 45 dias. Não observamos efeito de interação entre genótipos e correção do solo para os parâmetros testados. As silagens do genótipo Caeté apresentaram as maiores concentrações de matéria seca (421 g kg-1 matéria fresca) e carboidratos não fibrosos (893 g kg-1 matéria seca), e menores de fibra em detergente neutro (37.1 g kg-1 matéria seca). Não houve diferenças significativas entre tratamentos para bactérias ácido láticas, leveduras e mofos nas silagens. Ambos os genótipos resultaram em silagens com perfil de fermentação adequado e estabilidade aeróbia consideravelmente elevada, mas com elevadas perdas de efluentes. O genótipo Caeté apresentou condições potencialmente melhores para produção de silagem devido a sua maior recuperação de matéria seca. Devido à alta perda de efluente, recomendamos testar o efeito da adição de um aditivo absorvente de umidade durante o processo de ensilagem dessas raízes de mandioca.(AU)

Murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) meal as an additive to elephant grass silage / Torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) como aditivo en el ensilado de pasto elefante / Torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) como aditivo em silagens de capim elefante

Abstract Background: Tropical grasses, such as elephant grass, have high moisture content during its ideal phenological state for silage. High moisture content hinders proper preservation and reduces the nutritive value of silage due to secondary fermentation and production of effluents. Adding feed materials with high dry matter content, such as murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) meal, is a potential alternative to improve silage yield. Objective: To determine the effects of including murumuru meal (0, 7, 14, 21, and 28%) on the fermentative characteristics, microbiological activity, aerobic stability, and chemical composition of elephant grass silages. Methods: A completely randomized design with five treatments and five replicates was used. Elephant grass was collected at 60 d of age, minced, and homogenized with murumuru meal. The mass was placed in experimental 15-L silos. The silos were collected and analyzed 45 d later. Results: Effluent production decreased (p<0.05) as the proportions of murumuru meal in silage increased. A quadratic effect (p<0.05) was observed on dry matter recovery. An increase (p<0.05) was observed in dry matter content, a decrease (p<0.05) in the neutral detergent fiber content, and an increase (p<0.05) in the non-fibrous carbohydrate content with the inclusion of murumuru meal. Conclusions: Addition of murumuru meal improves chemical composition and does not affect the fermentative characteristics of elephant grass silage, while it reduces effluent losses. Nevertheless, the inclusion of murumuru meal in the elephant grass silage decreased the time of aerobic stability.

Resumen Antecedentes: los pastos tropicales, tales como el pasto elefante, tienen alto contenido de humedad cuando están en su estado fenológico ideal para ensilar. Esto dificulta su adecuada preservación en el silo, reduciendo el valor nutritivo del ensilaje debido a fermentaciones secundarias y generación de efluentes. Una posible solución sería incluir materiales con alto contenido de materia seca, tales como la torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru). Objetivo: determinar el efecto de la inclusión de torta de murumuru (0; 7; 14; 21 y 28%) sobre las características fermentativas, microbiológicas, estabilidad aeróbica y composición química de los ensilajes de pasto elefante. Métodos: se utilizó un diseño completamente al azar, con cinco tratamientos y cinco repeticiones. El pasto elefante fue colectado a los 60 días de edad, luego picado y homogeneizado con la torta de murumuru. La masa fue colocada en silos experimentales con capacidad de 15 L. Luego de 45 días de ensilado, los silos fueron abiertos y las muestras fueron colectadas para su posterior análisis. Resultados: hubo reducción (p<0,05) en la producción de efluentes a medida que se incrementó la proporción de torta de murumuru en el ensilado. Se observó un efecto cuadrático (p<0,05) en la recuperación de materia seca. Hubo aumento (p<0,05) en los contenidos de materia seca con la adición de torta de murumuru. Se observó disminución (p<0,05) en el contenido de fibra detergente neutra y aumento (p<0,05) de carbohidratos no fibrosos. Conclusión: La adición de torta de murumuru mejora la composición química, reduce las perdidas por efluentes y no afecta las características fermentativas de ensilado de pasto elefante. Sin embargo, la inclusión de la torta de murumuru en el ensilado de pasto elefante disminuye el tiempo en estabilidad aeróbica.

Resumo Antecedentes: capins tropicais, como por exemplo o capim-elefante apresentam alto teor de umidade quando possuem produtividade compatível e estão no estádio fenológico adequado para ensilagem. Isso dificulta a adequada preservação no silo, ocasionando a redução do valor nutritivo da silagem devido a fermentações secundárias e a produção de efluentes. Uma possível solução seria o uso de aditivos com alto teor de matéria seca, como bolo de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru). Objetivo: determinar o efeito da inclusão da torta de murumuru (0; 7; 14; 21 e 28%) na ensilagem de capim-elefante sobre as características fermentativas, microbiológicas, estabilidade aeróbia e a composição química das silagens. Métodos: utilizou- se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. O capim-elefante foi colhido aos 60 dias de idade, o mesmo foi picado e homogeneizado à torta de murumuru. A massa foi ensilada em silos experimentais com capacidade de 15 L. Após 45 dias de ensilagem, os silos foram abertos e amostras foram coletadas para posteriores análises laboratoriais. Resultados: houve redução (p<0,05) na produção de efluentes à medida que se elevaram as proporções da torta de murumuru na ensilagem. Observou-se efeito quadrático (p<0,05) na recuperação de matéria seca. Houve aumento (p<0,05) nos teores de matéria seca com a adição da torta murumuru. Observou-se diminuição (p<0,05) nos teores de fibra em detergente neutro e aumento (p<0,05) nos teores de carboidratos não fibrosos. Conclusão: torta de murumuru como aditivo melhora a composição química, reduz perdas principalmente por efluente e não afeta as características fermentativas de silagens de capim- elefante. Entretanto, a inclusão da torta de murumuru na ensilagem de capim-elefante diminui o tempo em estabilidade aeróbia.

Yield and technological performance of sugarcane cultivars grown under Af climate conditions / Desempenho produtivo e características tecnológicas de cana-de-açúcar plantadas em condições climáticas Af

Sugarcane crops are grown in almost all regions of Brazil, in various types of soil and under the influence of different climate conditions, which results in diverse production environments as climate factors directly influence the yield and technological quality of a sugarcane crop. The present study evaluated the agronomic and technological characteristics of sugarcane cultivars grown in Af climate conditions. The agronomic traits (natural matter production and the number, length, and diameter of stalks) and technological attributes (Brix, purity, Pol, reducing sugars, total reducing sugars, moisture, and fiber content) of three sugarcane cultivars, IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486, and SP79-1011, were determined in a three-year experiment with a randomized block design using four blocks and two repetitions per block. The cultivars IACSP93-6006 and SP79-1011 exhibited superior agronomic traits compared to RB83-5486, showing better adaptation to the soil and climate conditions of the study area. However, the technological attributes, which were below the minimum standard levels required by the sugar and ethanol industry, were not statistically different among the studied cultivars. The abundant rainfall and high temperatures, characteristics of an Af climate, were not favorable for sucrose accumulation in the IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486, and SP79-1011 cultivars. Therefore, despite the high yield, sugarcane intended for industrial purposes should not be grown under Af climate conditions, owing to the insufficient technological parameters.

A cana-de-açúcar é cultivada em quase todas as regiões do Brasil, em vários tipos de solo e sob a influência de diferentes condições climáticas, resultando em diversos ambientes de produção, sendo que fatores climáticos influenciam diretamente na produtividade e na qualidade tecnológica da cana-de-açúcar. Objetivou-se avaliar as características agronômicas e tecnológicas de cultivares de cana-de-açúcar cultivadas em condições climáticas tipo Af. Foram utilizadas três cultivares de cana-de-açúcar: IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486 e SP79-1011. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro blocos e duas repetições por bloco. Na avaliação agronômica foram determinados a produção de matéria natural, número de colmos, comprimento do colmo e o diâmetro do colmo. Quanto aos atributos tecnológicos foram determinados Brix, pureza, Pol, açúcares redutores, açúcares redutores totais, umidade e fibra. Houve diferença para as características agronômicas, produção de matéria natural, número de colmos, comprimento do colmo e diâmetro do colmo, com destaque para as cultivares IACSP93-6006 e SP79-1011, que demonstraram adaptação às condições edafoclimáticas da região. Não houve diferença para os atributos tecnológicos, Pol, Brix, açúcares redutores, pureza, açúcares redutores totais, fibra e umidade, cujos valores ficaram abaixo do padrão mínimo exigido pela indústria de produção de açúcar e álcool, evidenciando que as condições climáticas não foram favoráveis ao acúmulo de sacarose, pois no clima tipo Af a precipitação pluviométrica e temperatura são elevadas. As cultivares apresentaram altas produções por hectare, no entanto, os parâmetros tecnológicos foram insuficientes para serem usados na indústria sucroalcooleira.

Yield and technological performance of sugarcane cultivars grown under Af climate conditions / Desempenho produtivo e características tecnológicas de cana-de-açúcar plantadas em condições climáticas Af

Sugarcane crops are grown in almost all regions of Brazil, in various types of soil and under the influence of different climate conditions, which results in diverse production environments as climate factors directly influence the yield and technological quality of a sugarcane crop. The present study evaluated the agronomic and technological characteristics of sugarcane cultivars grown in Af climate conditions. The agronomic traits (natural matter production and the number, length, and diameter of stalks) and technological attributes (Brix, purity, Pol, reducing sugars, total reducing sugars, moisture, and fiber content) of three sugarcane cultivars, IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486, and SP79-1011, were determined in a three-year experiment with a randomized block design using four blocks and two repetitions per block. The cultivars IACSP93-6006 and SP79-1011 exhibited superior agronomic traits compared to RB83-5486, showing better adaptation to the soil and climate conditions of the study area. However, the technological attributes, which were below the minimum standard levels required by the sugar and ethanol industry, were not statistically different among the studied cultivars. The abundant rainfall and high temperatures, characteristics of an Af climate, were not favorable for sucrose accumulation in the IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486, and SP79-1011 cultivars. Therefore, despite the high yield, sugarcane intended for industrial purposes should not be grown under Af climate conditions, owing to the insufficient technological parameters.(AU)

A cana-de-açúcar é cultivada em quase todas as regiões do Brasil, em vários tipos de solo e sob a influência de diferentes condições climáticas, resultando em diversos ambientes de produção, sendo que fatores climáticos influenciam diretamente na produtividade e na qualidade tecnológica da cana-de-açúcar. Objetivou-se avaliar as características agronômicas e tecnológicas de cultivares de cana-de-açúcar cultivadas em condições climáticas tipo Af. Foram utilizadas três cultivares de cana-de-açúcar: IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486 e SP79-1011. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro blocos e duas repetições por bloco. Na avaliação agronômica foram determinados a produção de matéria natural, número de colmos, comprimento do colmo e o diâmetro do colmo. Quanto aos atributos tecnológicos foram determinados Brix, pureza, Pol, açúcares redutores, açúcares redutores totais, umidade e fibra. Houve diferença para as características agronômicas, produção de matéria natural, número de colmos, comprimento do colmo e diâmetro do colmo, com destaque para as cultivares IACSP93-6006 e SP79-1011, que demonstraram adaptação às condições edafoclimáticas da região. Não houve diferença para os atributos tecnológicos, Pol, Brix, açúcares redutores, pureza, açúcares redutores totais, fibra e umidade, cujos valores ficaram abaixo do padrão mínimo exigido pela indústria de produção de açúcar e álcool, evidenciando que as condições climáticas não foram favoráveis ao acúmulo de sacarose, pois no clima tipo Af a precipitação pluviométrica e temperatura são elevadas. As cultivares apresentaram altas produções por hectare, no entanto, os parâmetros tecnológicos foram insuficientes para serem usados na indústria sucroalcooleira.(AU)

Increased quality of in natura and cryopreserved semen of water buffaloes supplemented with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry.

Ruminant energy supplementation with vegetable oils or fats has been standing out worldwide and oil palm processing has been receiving growing interest. This study assessed the effect of supplementation with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry on the lipid profile of seminal plasma and of the sperm membrane, as well as on the morphological and functional characteristics of raw and cryopreserved buffalo semen. Twelve purebred Murrah bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were assigned to the experimental groups and fed diets for 120 days with no added lipids (CONT, four bulls), or with an extra amount of 3% lipids from crude palm oil (PALM, four bulls), or from palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD, four bulls). Semen was collected and cryopreserved every 15 days. The lipid composition of membranes and semen quality were determined after collections. Lipid supplementation did not impact feed intake (P>0.05). Diet enrichment with PALM increased the linoleic acid (C18:2,ω6) in seminal plasma. Lipid supplementation did not increase the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane composition, but significantly increased the lignoceric acid (C24:0). Cryopreserved semen of the supplemented bulls presented higher progressive motility (60.2 vs. 67.9 vs. 65.2%; P<0.05) and sperm viability detected by eosin-nigrosin staining (61.1 vs. 69.4 vs. 67.8%; P<0.05). Palm oil reduced major sperm defects in both raw (12.2 vs. 9.3 vs. 13.2%; P<0.0001) and cryopreserved semen (12.4 vs. 9.4 vs. 11.2%; P<0.0001). The lipids added to the diet did not impact the population of spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes (PI-/PSA-), but significantly increased the percentage of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial potential (25.6 vs. 31.5 vs. 32.0%; P=0.008). The results suggest that lipid supplementation based on crude palm oil or palm oil deodorizer distillate can be safely used to feed buffalo bulls and may increase sperm attributes related to male fertility.

Effects of cutting height and bacterial inoculant on corn silage aerobic stability and nutrient digestibility by sheep

In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of cutting height (25 or 40 cm above ground) and bacterial inoculation (a combined inoculant of Lactobacillus plantarum and Propionibacterium acidipropionici) on the chemical and microbial compositions, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of whole-plant corn silage and nitrogen balance, intake, and apparent nutrient digestibility by sheep. To evaluate silage characteristics and sheep metabolism, we performed analyses based on a completely randomized block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement (two cutting heights, with or without bacterial inoculant). We evaluated the chemical and microbial compositions, pH, fermentation end-products, and aerobic stability of silage. To examine nutrient digestibility of silage, we used 24 male sheep over a 21-day period. We found that the aerobic stability did not differ among the silages. Sheep fed silages produced from corn harvested at 40 cm had increased intakes of crude protein, non-fiber carbohydrate, and total digestible nutrients, whereas the non-fiber carbohydrate intake of inoculated corn silages was found to be higher than that of uninoculated silage. Furthermore, the amounts of nitrogen retained by sheep fed silage produced from corn harvested at 40 cm were higher than those of sheep fed silage produced from corn harvested at 25 cm. Collectively, our findings indicate that, despite the observed effects, a difference of 15 cm in cutting height results in relatively small changes in the chemical composition of corn silage and a limited effect on the nutrient intake and nitrogen balance of animals fed this silage. Moreover, although bacterial inoculation promotes an efficient fermentation, it has no marked effects on the aerobic stability of silage.(AU)

Increased quality of in natura and cryopreserved semen of water buffaloes supplemented with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry

Ruminant energy supplementation with vegetable oils or fats has been standing out worldwide and oil palm processing has been receiving growing interest. This study assessed the effect of supplementation with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry on the lipid profile of seminal plasma and of the sperm membrane, as well as on the morphological and functional characteristics of raw and cryopreserved buffalo semen. Twelve purebred Murrah bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were assigned to the experimental groups and fed diets for 120 days with no added lipids (CONT, four bulls), or with an extra amount of 3% lipids from crude palm oil (PALM, four bulls), or from palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD, four bulls). Semen was collected and cryopreserved every 15 days. The lipid composition of membranes and semen quality were determined after collections. Lipid supplementation did not impact feed intake (P>0.05). Diet enrichment with PALM increased the linoleic acid (C18:2,6) in seminal plasma. Lipid supplementation did not increase the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane composition, but significantly increased the lignoceric acid (C24:0). Cryopreserved semen of the supplemented bulls presented higher progressive motility (60.2 vs. 67.9 vs. 65.2%; P 0.05) and sperm viability detected by eosin-nigrosin staining (61.1 vs. 69.4 vs. 67.8%; P 0.05). Palm oil reduced major sperm defects in both raw (12.2 vs. 9.3 vs. 13.2%; P 0.0001) and cryopreserved semen (12.4 vs. 9.4 vs. 11.2%; P 0.0001). The lipids added to the diet did not impact the population of spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes (PI-/PSA-), but significantly increased the percentage of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial potential (25.6 vs. 31.5 vs. 32.0%; P=0.008). The results suggest that lipid supplementation based on crude palm oil or palm oil deodorizer distillate can be safely used to feed buffalo bulls and may increase sperm attributes related to male fertility.(AU)

Increased quality of in natura and cryopreserved semen of water buffaloes supplemented with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry

Ruminant energy supplementation with vegetable oils or fats has been standing out worldwide and oil palm processing has been receiving growing interest. This study assessed the effect of supplementation with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry on the lipid profile of seminal plasma and of the sperm membrane, as well as on the morphological and functional characteristics of raw and cryopreserved buffalo semen. Twelve purebred Murrah bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were assigned to the experimental groups and fed diets for 120 days with no added lipids (CONT, four bulls), or with an extra amount of 3% lipids from crude palm oil (PALM, four bulls), or from palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD, four bulls). Semen was collected and cryopreserved every 15 days. The lipid composition of membranes and semen quality were determined after collections. Lipid supplementation did not impact feed intake (P>0.05). Diet enrichment with PALM increased the linoleic acid (C18:2,6) in seminal plasma. Lipid supplementation did not increase the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane composition, but significantly increased the lignoceric acid (C24:0). Cryopreserved semen of the supplemented bulls presented higher progressive motility (60.2 vs. 67.9 vs. 65.2%; P 0.05) and sperm viability detected by eosin-nigrosin staining (61.1 vs. 69.4 vs. 67.8%; P 0.05). Palm oil reduced major sperm defects in both raw (12.2 vs. 9.3 vs. 13.2%; P 0.0001) and cryopreserved semen (12.4 vs. 9.4 vs. 11.2%; P 0.0001). The lipids added to the diet did not impact the population of spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes (PI-/PSA-), but significantly increased the percentage of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial potential (25.6 vs. 31.5 vs. 32.0%; P=0.008). The results suggest that lipid supplementation based on crude palm oil or palm oil deodorizer distillate can be safely used to feed buffalo bulls and may increase sperm attributes related to male fertility.

Ruminal degradability of tropical leguminous plants from eastern Amazonia / Degradabilidade ruminal de leguminosas tropicais da Amazônia Oriental

The aim of this study was to evaluate ruminal degradation of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) of Cratylia argentea, Flemingia macrophylla (Willd.) Merrill, and Stylosanthes guianensis ‘Campo Grande (EMBRAPA), aged 55 and 75 days, in sheep with rumen cannulas, using the in-situ technique. A factorial design of 3 leguminous plants × 2 ages × 6 incubation times was used, totaling 36 experimental units. The experimental period included 14 days for adaptation to diet and 5 days for data collection. Cratylia at both ages and Flemingia aged 55 days showed the highest “a” fraction values for DM degradability. Cratylia aged 55 days and Stylosanthes at both ages showed the highest “a” fraction values for CP. The highest “b” fraction value for DM was 51.27% for Stylosanthes aged 55 days. This rate was lower for the other leguminous plants, especially for Flemingia at both ages. The “b” fraction values for NDF are considered low for Flemingia, what may be the result of lower ruminal degradation. The highest “c” fraction degradation rate for DM was observed in all leguminous plants studied aged 75 days. The highest “c” fraction value for CP was 14.84% for Stylosanthes aged 75 days. The highest Kd fraction values for DM, NDF, and CP were found in Flemingia. Cratylia, and Stylosanthes aged 75 days presented higher effective degradability (ED) values for DM at 2 and 5%/hour compared to Flemingia at both ages. Cratylia and Stylosanthes had the highest ED values for NDF, regardless of their passage rates. Stylosanthes presented higher ED values for CP at both ages, regardless of its passage rate. The highest DM, NDF, and CP potential degradability (PD) was obtained for Cratylia and Stylosanthes, at both ages...(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros relativos a degradação ruminal da matéria seca (MS), da proteína bruta (PB) e da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) contidas nas amostras de leguminosas Cratylia argentea, Flemingia macrophylla (Willd) Merril e Stylosanthes guyanensis cv Campo Grande (EMBRAPA), com idades de 55 e 75 dias, em ovinos com cânulas ruminais, pela técnica “ in situ”. Utilizou-se um arranjo fatorial de 3 leguminosas x 2 idades x 6 tempos de incubação, totalizando 36 unidades experimentais. O período experimental foi de 14 dias de adaptação à dieta e cinco de coleta de dados. Para a degradabilidade da MS, a Cratylia, em ambas as idades e a Flemingia, com 55 dias, destacaram-se com maior fração “a”. Para a fração “a” da PB, as leguminosas Cratylia aos 55 dias e Stylosanthes, de ambas as idades, se destacaram com os maiores valores. O maior valor da fração “b” da MS foi encontrado para a Stylosanthes aos 55 dias, com 51,27%. Nas demais leguminosas, essa taxa foi menor, destacando-se a Flemingia em ambas as idades. Os valores de fração “b” da FDN da Flemíngia são considerados baixos, deduzindo-se ser de menor degradação no rúmen. A maior taxa de degradação da fração “c” da MS foi observada em todas as leguminosas estudadas na idade de 75 dias. Para a fração “c” da PB, o maior valor foi de 14,84%, da leguminosa Stylosanthes, de 75 dias. Os maiores valores da fração “kd” da MS, da FDN e da PB foi da Flemingia. Quanto à degradabilidade efetiva (DE) da MS às 2 e 5%/hora, as leguminosas Cratylia e Stylosanthes, de 75 dias, apresentaram valores superiores em relação à Flemingia, em ambas as idades. Para a DE da FDN, as leguminosas Cratylia e Stylosanthes tiveram os maiores valores, independente da taxa de passagem. A leguminosa Stylosanthes de ambas as idades apresentou maiores valores de DE da PB, em todas as taxas de passagem apresentadas. A maior degradabilidade potencial da MS, FDN e PB obtida foi para a Cratylia e Stylosanthes, em ambas as idades...(AU)