Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In this study, we assessed the effects of replacing cracked corn grain with soybean molasses (SM) on the feed intake and ingestive behavior of 30 uncastrated lambs, Santa Inês × Dorper crossbreed, finished in feedlot. The treatments were 0 g kg-1 DM SM (CON), 150 g kg-1 DM SM (SM15), and 300 g kg-1 DM SM (SM30). Dry matter and nutrient intake were evaluated, in addition to ingestive behavior variables such as interactions with the feed bunker, stereotypes, chewing activities, and time spent in feed bunkers in a 24-h period at three different times during the feedlot period (beginning, middle, and end). The replacement of cracked corn grain with SM decreased the dry matter intake % BW (p < 0.05) and ether extract intake (p < 0.05) only at the final feedlot period. Additionally, it linearly decreased the cud chewing time p = 0.01) and increased the number of cuds (p = 0.02). The inclusion of SM allowed for a more stable feed intake during the feeding times (p < 0.05). Replacing cracked corn grain with SM in feedlot lamb diets offers a viable alternative without negatively affecting feed intake, even at levels of up to 300 g kg-1. This substitution improves the stability of feed intake.
Source: Acta Scientiarum Animal Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413039115