Enhancing Buffalo Production Efficiency through Rumen Manipulation and Nutrition
Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: Swamp buffaloes are important ruminants which have been contributing to the integrated livestock-crop production system and the livelihood of the farmers. The rumen of buffalo is fermentation vat capable of producing volatile fatty acids and synthesizing microbial protein for the hosts’ use. In addition, rumen methane is also produced and eructated out to the environment. Conducted researches have revealed significant information pertaining to the uniqueness of the buffalo rumen hosting a higher population of predominant species of cellulolytic bacteria and fungal zoospores, but with a lower protozoal population. Moreover, they produce a high concentration of rumen ammonia nitrogen and ability for rumen nitrogen recycling. Currently, the use of bio-molecular techniques can reveal additional interesting information concerning rumen microorganisms and their potential role in improving rumen fermentation and the detoxification processes in the rumen, as well as for swamp buffalo productivity. Using nested PCR, the results were found that the strain of Synnergistes jonesii was present in swamp buffaloes consuming high level of Leucaena. Local feed resources availability in various seasons can contribute as essential sources of carbohydrate and protein and can significantly impact to the rumen fermentation and the subsequent productivity of the buffalo. Development of the food-feed-system (FFS) can increase food for human and feed for the buffalo as well as enrich the nitrogen for the soil. Regarding digestibility, they are capable of digesting low-quality roughages and crop-residues with a digestibility of up to about five percent units higher than in cattle. Relating to rumen fermentation, the use of plant secondary compounds such as condensed tannins, saponins, dietary rich in minerals, as well as garlic and vegetable oils, have subsequently resulted in decreasing rumen protozoa, methanogens and methane mitigation. Rumen manipulation in buffaloes using dietary strategies should be recommended.
Source: Buffalo Bulletin
Institution: Khon Kaen University
Language: English
Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W2156846554