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Copper, Zinc and Iron Status of Milk and Hair Samples of Dairy Animals in Haryana

30. S. KAUSHAL, M. WADHWA, J.S. HUNDAL, K. KAUR AND M.P.S. BAKSHI

Nutritional Status of Dairy Animals of Undulating Plain Zone of Punjab

31. BACCHU SINGH, J.L. CHAUDHARY AND C.M. YADAV

Effect of Feeding Different Levels of Cereal Green Fodder on the Performance of Crossbred Cows

Review Paper

32. YAJUVENDRA SINGH, S.S. LATHWAL, S.K. TOMAR, B.K. ROY, A. SHARMA, T.V. RAJA, R.L. DANGI, P.C. SHARMA, MUNENDRA AND GULAB CHANDRA

Role of Biotin in Hoof Health and Milk Production of Dairy Cows

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Research Paper

Effects of Daily Oral Administration of Difructose Anhydride III on Health Status, Blood Parameters and Faecal Shedding of Coliform Bacteria of Japanese Black Calves during the Pre-weaning Period

M. Takagi*, H. Hasunuma, D. Matsumoto, T. Obi, K. Takase, M. Ohtani, T. Sato,

U. Watanabe, K. Okamoto, T. Tanaka, C. Tshering and E. Deguchi

Laboratory of Farm Animal Production Medicine

Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0064, Japan

(Received August 26, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Takagi, M., Hasunuma, H., Matsumoto, D., Obi, T., Takase, K., Ohtani, M., Sato, T., Watanabe, U., Okamoto, K., Tanaka, T., Tshering C. and Deguchi, E. 2011. Effects of daily oral administration of difructose anhydride III on health status, blood parameters and faecal shedding of coliform bacteria of Japanese black calves during the pre-weaning period. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 147-158.

The prebiotic effect of difructose anhydride III (DFA III) as a supplement in milk replacers (MRs) on the health and faecal bacteriological flora of suckling Japanese Black calves was examined. Ten calves were divided into two equal groups (5 calves per group) and fed MR supplemented with or without DFA III. The prebiotic supplement was administered orally twice daily (3 g per administration) from within 5 days after calving to 1 month of age (Day 30). Health, haematology and blood-chemistry, and population of faecal coliforms were assessed at 2-weeks intervals. The number of calves requiring medication for diarrhoea tended to be lower (P=0.08) in the treatment group during the treatment and 1-month follow up periods. The mean total cholesterol concentration differed significantly (P<0.05) at Day 14, and the total cholesterol concentration at Day 30 and iron concentration at Day 14 tend to differ between the groups. Additionally, although the number of coliforms at each sampling point decreased significantly (P<0.05) in the treatment group during the DFA III treatment period, no significant change was observed in the number of coliforms of the control group between Day 14 and Day 30. The differences between the groups might reflect the clinical incidence of diarrhoea after calving. The present study revealed the potential benefit of DFA III as a prebiotic for calves during the pre-weaning period.

Key words: Calf, Difructose anhydride III, Prebiotics, Coliform

*Corresponding Author: mtakagi@agri.kagoshima-u.ac.jp

Research Paper

Comparison of Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Metabolites and Carcass Traits in Korean Native and Crossbred Weaning Piglets

K.H. Kim, J.D. Lohakare*, Sinol Sen, S.L. Ingale, N.K. Singh, C.K. Park, S.J. Lee, N.S. Ipper, L. Huan, M.H. Wang and B.J. Chae

College of Animal Life Sciences, Kangwon National University

Chuncheon 200-701, South Korea

(Received December 29, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Kim, K.H., Lohakare, J.D., Sen, S., Ingale, S.L., Singh, N.K., Park, C.K., Lee, S.J., Ipper, N.S., Huan, L., Wang, M.H. and Chae, B.J. 2011. Comparison of growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites and carcass traits in Korean native and crossbred weaning piglets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 159-167.

The present study elucidated the differences in early-weaned crossbred piglets (CBP) and Korean native black piglets (KNP) with respect to growth performance, nutrient utilization and related parameters when fed on similar diets using 16 each of CBP (Landrace x Yorkshire x Duroc) and KNP after weaning at 21 days of age. Eight piglets in each breed were slaughtered at weaning. Remaining piglets were reared for 21 days and then slaughtered. A common diet with 3500 kcal/kg ME and 22% CP was available for ad libitum consumption for piglets of each breed post-weaning. Blood was collected from these piglets before slaughter to study differences in plasma indices in both breeds. The initial BW was 5.09±0.84 and 3.57±0.34 kg for CBP and KNP, respectively. BW was higher (P<0.001) at the start and at the end of the trial in CBP than KNP. The weekly measurements revealed higher (P<0.05) ADG at 1st, 3rd week and for overall period in CBP than KNP, and with a trend (P=0.086) for higher ADG at the 2nd week. The average daily feed intake was also higher (P<0.05) in CBP than KNP at all measurements. The gain to feed ratio tended (P=0.056) to be lower in CBP in 1st week, but was not different at 2nd week, and it was improved for 3rd week and for the overall period in CBP than KNP. The apparent total tract digestibility, assessed at the end of the trial demonstrated higher (P<0.05) digestibility of DM, GE, CP and P in CBP than KNP. The carcass percentage was higher (P<0.05) at weaning in CBP than KNP, but was not different at 21 days after weaning. The plasma amylase tended to be higher (P=0.075) in CBP at weaning and total cholesterol was higher (P=0.035) in KNP at 21 days. No other plasma constituents were different among the breeds. Overall, this study demonstrated the differences in growth, nutrient digestibility, carcass weight and certain plasma constituents between CBP and KNP around weaning.

Key words: Korean native black piglets, Crossbred piglets, Performance, Nutrient digestibility, Blood metabolites.

*Corresponding author: jayant@kangwon.ac.kr

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Research Paper

Supplementing Probiotics (GalliPro) to Broiler Chicken on Growth Performance, Immunity and Gut Microbial Population

A.V. Elangovan*, A.B. Mandal, A.K. Shrivastav and A.S. Yadhav

Central Avian Research Institute

Izatnagar-243 122, India

(Received June 03, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Elangovan, A.V., Mandal, A.B., Shrivastav, A.K. and Yadhav, A.S. 2011. Supplementing probiotics (GalliPro) to broiler chicken on growth performance, immunity and gut microbial population. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 169-176.

An experiment was conducted with broiler chicks reared simultaneously in cages and in floor with 0, 500 g probiotic GalliPro (Bacillus subtilis) from day old to 6 weeks of age. For floor experiment, 16 floor pens each with 20 chicks (8 pens per treatment) were used whereas for cage experiment, 40 cages with 8 chicks per cage (20 cages per treatment) were used. Body weight gain, feed intake and FCR did not differ (P>0.05) either due to probiotic supplementation or rearing system. Cell-mediated immune response was non-significant whereas humoral response was higher (P<0.05) in caged birds with probiotic supplementation. The intestinal and crop microbial counts (Total plate count, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and yeast and mould) were lower on probiotic supplementation. The carcass traits were non significant either due to rearing system or probiotic supplementation. Study envisaged GalliPro did not influence the growth performance of broilers reared in cages or floor, but was helpful in humoral immuno-responsiveness and reducing entero-pathogens of the crop and intestine.

Key words: Broiler, Probiotics, Growth, Immunity, Microbial count.

*Corresponding author: avelango@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Mineral Profile of Feeds, Fodders and Animals in Mid-Central Table Land Zone of Orissa

R.K. Singh, S.K. Mishra*, R.K. Swain, P.K. Dehuri and G.R. Sahoo

Department of Animal Nutrition

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry

Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology

Bhubaneswar-751 003, India

(Received September 15, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Singh, R.K., Mishra, S.K., Swain, R.K., Dehuri, P.K. and Sahoo, G.R. 2011. Mineral profile of feeds, fodders and animals in mid-central table land zone of Orissa. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology,11: 177-184.

Sample of feeds and fodders and serum samples of cows in eight villages, two from each block and two blocks from each of the two districts namely Dhenkanal and Angul of mid-central table land zone (MCTLZ) of Orissa were collected and analyzed for macro and micro mineral content. Among the fodders, paddy straw was found to be deficient in calcium, phosphorus and manganese. Deficiency of P was observed in most of the fodders. Most of the concentrate found to contained higher level of the analyzed minerals. The average serum Ca, P, zinc, copper, Mn and iron content of cows in MCTLZ were found to be 6.91±0.13 mg/dl, 3.25±0.08 mg/dl, 0.78±0.02 ppm, 0.70±0.01 ppm, 0.29±0.01 ppm and 2.17±0.06 ppm, respectively. The percentage of animals deficient in serum Ca, P, Zn, Cu and Mn were observed to be 69.1, 83.3, 29.1, 44.1 and 8.3 percent, respectively. The serum mineral content of the animals of MCTLZ was found to be deficient in Ca, P, Zn and Cu. The serum glucose, cholesterol, protein, albumin and globulin content of the animals in MCTLZ were 38.06±1.08 mg/dl, 64.26 ±2.13 mg/dl, 4.42±0.10 g/dl, 2.26 ±0.06 g/dl and 2.16±0.07 g/dl, respectively. Based on the study, supplementation of deficient minerals viz. Ca, P, Zn and Cu and protein and energy in the diet of cattle under existing feeding practices in MCTLZ of Orissa is imperative for better health and productivity.

Key words: Feeds and Fodders, Animals, Mineral, Biochemical, Mid-central table land zone.

*Corresponding author: sumantkmishra@gmail.com

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Research Paper

The Investigation of In Vitro Fermentation of Sugarcane Pith Treated with Low Temperature Steam and Sulfuric Acid by Isolated Rumen Microbial Fractions

Morteza Chaji* and Tahereh Mohammadabadi

Department of Animal Science

Ramin Agriculture and Natural Resource University, Molasani, Ahvaz, Iran

(Received June 08, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Chaji, M. and Mohammadabadi, T. 2011. The investigation of in vitro fermentation of sugarcane pith treated with low temperature steam and sulfuric acid by isolated rumen microbial fractions. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 185-193.

The aim of this experiment was to determine the effect of low temperature steam (134ºC, 120 min) with or without H2SO4 (0.0, 6, 12 and 18 g/kg DM) on fermentative activity and nutritive value of sugarcane pith in in vitro gas production by ruminal microbial fractions, total rumen microorganism (TM), bacterial (B), protozoal (P), fungal (F), bacterial plus protozoal (BP), bacterial plus fungal (BF), and protozoal plus fungal (PF). The results showed low temperature steam resulted in significant increase rate (c) and potential gas production (b) by all microbial groups, as the highest (b) (110.92 ml) was for condition 18 g/kg DM acid and lowest (78.4 ml) for 0.0 g/kg DM acid and occurred in TM group. The highest gas produced by total microorganism that followed by BF and BP fractions for both samples. In vitro cell wall degradation, organic matter digestibility and metabolisable energy of sugarcane pith treated with 18 g/kg acid was the highest and microbial biomass production was the lowest for all microbial groups. Therefore, it appears that the nutritive value, gas production and degradability of sugarcane pith by rumen microbial fractions are influenced by low temperature stream and H2SO4.

Key words: Sugarcane pith, Low temperature steam, Processing, Rumen microorganism.

*Corresponding author: chaji@raminuni.ac.ir

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Research Paper

Seasonal Variation in Eating Behaviour and Nutritive Value of Mixed Jungle Grass for Goats

A. Das*, D. De and S. Katole

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre

Tadong, Gangtok-737 102, India

(Received April 21, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Das, A., De, D. and Katole, S. 2011. Seasonal variation in eating behaviour and nutritive value of mixed jungle grass for goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 195-202.

Seasonal variation in biomass yield, herbal and chemical composition, samples of mixed jungle grass were assessed by conducting three digestibility trials during the month of August (monsoon), December (winter) and May (summer). During each period, 4 Sikkim local adult, non-producing does (body weight 19.1±1.8 kg) were stall fed with mixed jungle grass ad libitum. After a preliminary feeding period of 22 days a digestibility trial of 5-day collection period was conducted during each of the season mentioned. Biomass yield of the pasture of mid altitude location of Sikkim was maximum during monsoon, followed by winter and summer. DM and CF contents were significantly (P<0.01) less and CP content was significantly (P<0.01) more in samples collected during monsoon in comparison to those collected during winter and summer. The time spent on rumination during summer month was higher (P<0.01) than monsoon Time spent on eating (min) per 100g DM was 42.40, 37.08 and 42.23 in summer, monsoon and winter, respectively. Time spent (min) on ruminating per 100g DM was higher (P<0.01) in summer months (124.75) as compared with monsoon (86.63) and winter (108.15). Dry matter intake and digestibility was significantly (P<0.01) higher in monsoon than summer and winter. Nutritive value of mixed jungle grass in terms of DCP and TDN content was found to be significantly (P<0.01) higher in monsoon season as compared to winter and summer. It was concluded that quality of pasture was superior during monsoon in comparison to winter and summer.

Key words: Mixed jungle grass, Goat, Eating behaviour, Nutritive value.

*Corresponding author: drasitdas@rediffmail.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Replacing Soybean Meal and Dicalcium Phosphate in the Diets with Alternative Ingredients and Phytase Supplementation on Growth and Nutrient Balance in Broiler Chicken

N.V. Jadhav*, M.D. Suranagi, S.N. Anjaneya, Prakashchandra and S. Mallikarjunappa

Department of Livestock Production Management

Veterinary College, Bidar-585 401, India

(Received October 13, 2008)

ABSTRACT

Jadhav, N.V., Suranagi, M.D., Anjaneya, S.N., Prakashchandra and Mallikarjunappa, S. 2011. Effect of replacing soybean meal and dicalcium phosphate in the diets with alternative ingredients and phytase supplementation on growth and nutrient balance in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 203-210.

The study was conducted for evaluating the effect of phytase supplementation on growth and nutrient balance in broiler chicken fed diets containing sunflower meal (SFM) as a partial replacement for soybean meal and two different levels of dicalcium phosphate (DCP) with or without exogenous phytase. The experiment was carried out using 300 broilers from 1 to 35 day of age. There were 5 dietary treatments in each with 4 replicates of 15 birds in each. Soybean meal in control diet was partially replaced using 20% SFM with either 1 or 2 percent DCP supplementation; each level of DCP was again supplemented with 500 FTU/kg of a commercial phytase. Phytase supplemented chickens recorded significantly (P<0.01) higher body weight, feed conversion ratio and dressing yield when compared with non-supplemented birds. The nutrient retention was significantly (P<0.01) higher in the broilers supplemented with phytase compared to non-supplemented rations. The economic benefit analysis (on feed cost) revealed higher net returns in broilers fed with rations having alternative ingredients and supplemented with phytase when compared with birds on reference diet. It can be concluded that SFM can replace SBM by 20 percent along with 50 percent substitution of DCP by limestone when supplemented with phytase.

Key words: Dicalcium phosphate, Phytase, Sunflower meal, Broiler chicken, Performance.

*Corresponding author: nvjadhav2007@rediffmail.com

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Research Paper

Availability of Feed Resources and Animal Feeding Practices in Pauri District of Uttarakhand

Saraswati Shukla, D.P. Tiwari*, Anil Kumar and B.C. Mondal

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences

G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, India

(Received August 11, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Shukla, S., Tiwari, D.P., Kumar, A. and Mondal, B.C. 2011. Availability of feed resources and animal feeding practices in Pauri district of Uttarakhand. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 211-219.

A survey was conducted through common questionnaire to find out the existing animal feeding practices followed by the farmers (15 in each village) belonging to four villages, two each from Kotdwar and Lansdown tehsils in Pauri district (hill region) of Uttarakhand. Based on the land holding farmers were categorized into landless (3.33%), marginal (36.67%), small (46.66%) and medium (13.33%) with family size ranging from 5.53 to 6.87. It was observed that landless, marginal, small and medium farmers had 3.38, 41.22, 36.15 and 19.26 per cent of total livestock population, respectively. The average milk production ranged from 2.30 to 13.90 lts. /day/ family. Animals were stall fed in the morning and evening and allowed for grazing during day time. The livestock owners of the target area used to feed wide range of common green grasses, tree leaves, cultivated fodders and dry fodder. In both tehsils, concentrate feeding included commercial concentrate pellet, readymade concentrate mixture, wheat bran and homemade concentrate mixture. There was no practice of providing mineral mixture to the animals while 76.67 per cent farmers used to provide common salt to their livestock in both the tehsils. The major reproductive problems observed in the study area were anoestrus (16.67 and 23.33% in Kotdwar and Lansdown tehsils, respectively), repeat breeding (20.00 and 23.33% in Kotdwar and Lansdown tehsil, respectively) and others like prolapse of uterus, dystocia etc. (10.00 and 11.66% in Kotdwar and Lansdown tehsils, respectively). Long calving interval (cattle 17.10 and buffaloes 20.24 months) and higher age at first calving (cattle 3.76 and buffaloes 3.91 yrs) were also observed. Animals of surveyed area exhibited negative balance for DM, DCP and TDN intakes. It was concluded that animals must be provided adequate amount of feeds and fodder along with mineral mixture supplementation to sustain dairy enterprises.

Key words: Animal feeding practices, Farmers, Feed resources, Livestock, Nutrients, Reproductive problems.

*Corresponding author: dptiwari4@rediffmail.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation on Growth and Meat Quality of Male Murrah Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Calves

R.S. Dass*, S.K. Mendiratta, K.P. Bhadane, Vishal Mudgal and V. Lakshmanan

Mineral and Vitamin Nutrition Laboratory

Centre of Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition

Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, India

(Received November 04, 2008)

ABSTRACT

Dass, R.S., Mendiratta, S.K., Bhadane, K.P., Mudgal, V. and Lakshmanan, V. 2011. Effect of vitamin E supplementation on growth and meat quality of male Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 221-231.

An experiment was conducted on 15 male Murrah buffalo calves (194.0±0.64 kg BW and 14-15 months) to assess the effect of vitamin E supplementation on growth performance and meat quality. The buffalo calves were fed on a standard diet supplemented with 0, 300 and 600 IU vitamin E (α-tocopherol acetate) in group I, II and III, respectively. Feeding continued till the animals attained the slaughter weight of 350 kg. Immediately after sacrificing the animals, carcass samples were collected to study the meat quality. Growth performance of the calves was similar among the groups. Chemical composition of three different muscle samples of carcass showed no variations among the groups for CP, OM, pH and sensory attributes. Moisture content was significantly (P<0.05) higher in semitendinosus (ST) muscles of group III. Peroxide value decreased (P<0.05) and shear force values increased (P<0.05) from group I to III. Total heme pigments in all the groups showed non-significant (P>0.05) variation except for ST muscle, where supplementation of vitamin E decreased the THP. However, Lovibond tintometer color units for red showed no distinguish trend in three groups. Concentration of vitamin E (μg/g) in the three muscles was higher (P<0.01) in vitamin E supplemented than control group. It may be concluded that supplementation of 300 IU of vitamin E/animal/day increased the muscle vitamin E concentration and shear force value, and reduced the peroxide value of meat.

Key words: Buffalo calves, Meat quality, Vitamin E, Growth.

*Corresponding author: rsd@ivri.up.res.in

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Research Paper

Effect of Replacing Groundnut Cake with Various Nitrogen Sources of Arid Region on Nutrient Utilization and Rumen Fermentation Pattern in Marwari Goats

Sanjita Sharma*, Vishnu Sharma and G.R. Purohit

Department of Animal Nutrition

College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences

Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences

Bikaner-334 006, India

(Received November 24, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Sharma, S., Sharma, V. and Purohit, G.R. 2011. Effect of replacing groundnut cake with various nitrogen sources of arid region on nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation pattern in Marwari goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 233-240.

An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of replacing groundnut cake with different nitrogen sources of arid zone on feed intake, nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation pattern. Various sources used were tumba (Citrullus colocynthis), taramira (Eruca sativa) and matira (Citrullus lanatus) oilseed cakes and compared with conventional groundnut cake in beri pala (Ziziphus nummularia) leaf based complete diets for Marwari goats. A metabolic trial was conducted on 16 mature bucks. The control diet (T1) contained 50:50 concentrate-roughage ratio with conventional protein source groundnut cake (GNC). In experimental diets 50 per cent nitrogen of GNC was replaced by Tumba (T2), Taramira (T3) and Matira (T4) oilseed cakes. No significant difference was observed for digestibility of various nutrients except fibre. In T2 group i.e. tumba cake, CF digestibility vary significantly (P<0.05) with T3 group i.e. taramira seed cake. Statistically no significant differences was observed for digestible dry matter intake (DDMI), digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN). All the animals of four treatment groups had positive balances regarding nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus and no significant differences was observed for rumen parameters viz., rumen pH, total volatile fatty acids, rumen ammonia nitrogen and total protozoal count. Study suggests that 50 per cent nitrogen of GNC can be easily replaced with tumba, taramira and matira seed cakes for effective goat production in arid regions.

Key words: Nitrogen sources, Arid region, Nutrient utilization, Marwari goat.

*Corresponding author: drsanjitas@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Effect of Induced Oxalate Toxicity by ad libitum Feeding of Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) on Health of Buffalo Calves

G. Bajaj, P.S. Dhaliwal, J.S. Hundal and M. Choubey*

Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine

Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

Ludhiana-141004, India

(Received October 27, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Bajaj, G., Dhaliwal, P.S., Hundal, J.S. and Choubey, M. 2011. Effect of induced oxalate toxicity by ad libitum feeding of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) on health of buffalo calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 241-248.

The present study was taken up to evaluate the effect of oxalate toxicity on health of male buffalo calves. Oxalate toxicity was experimentally induced by ad lib feeding of overgrown Napier grass (above 125 cm) with deprivation of water. The haemato-biochemical, physiological and ruminal parameters were recorded at zero day of experiment were taken as control values. The crude protein, neutral detergent fibre and total oxalate content of overgrown Napier grass were varied from 6.69% to 4.35%, 63.0% to 69.8% and 1.80% to 2.43% respectively. Feeding of overgrown Napier grass declined rumen protozoa concentration from ++++ to + and decreased (P<0.01) rumen motility (2.80/2 min to 0.00/2 min) on 44th day of experiment in addition to the altered body temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate. The leukocyte count of calves increased (P<0.01) from 9.68 to 16.92x10/mm3 with significantly decrease in packed cell volume from 31.80 to 26.67 and slight increase in haemoglobin from 10.47 to 10.92 g/dl. Rise (P<0.01) in plasma creatinine from 0.81 to 1.79 mg/dl and blood urea nitrogen from 8.90 to 12.88 mg/dl were also observed with slight increase in aspartate amino transferase enzyme activity at the peak of experiment. The significant (P<0.01) decrease in plasma calcium level from 9.13 to 6.19 mg/dl along with decrease in inorganic phosphorus level (from 5.72 to 3.94 mg/dl) lead to hypocalcaemia. Hence, it was concluded that oxalate toxicity decreases rumen protozoa concentration, plasma calcium and phosphorus level leading to hypocalcaemia resulted in significant reduction of rumen motility and consequently develops rumen impaction in calves.

Key words: Oxalate toxicity, Napier grass, Buffalo calves, Hypocalcaemia, Impaction.

*Corresponding author: mahipalvet@gmail.com

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Research Paper

Transgene Fragments in the Blood and Tissue of Chicken Fed with Genetically Modified Soy and Maize

L. Hanusova, V. Rehout and J. Citek*

Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding

South Bohemia University, CZ 370 05

Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic

(Received November 16, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Hanusova, L., Rehout, V. and Citek, J. 2011. Transgene fragments in the blood and tissue of chicken fed with genetically modified soy and maize. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 249-256.

The aim was to evaluate the transfer of DNA fragments into the blood, kidney and liver of broilers fed with diet containing the genetically modified (GM) Roundup Ready soybean GTS40-3-2, and the genetically modified Bt maize MON 810. Unsexed broilers ROSS 308 were used, animals were fed by diet with the same nutritional composition and components, except of GM soybean and maize. The diet for the first experimental group contained GM soybean, for the second group GM maize corn, for the third both GM soy and maize, and for the control GM-free soybean and maize. The experiments was done on day old chicks upto the 42nd day of life. Control genes and transgene fragments were amplified by PCR. Fragments of control soy lectin gene were detected in 7 blood samples out of 118, and in 18 liver samples out of 20. Fragments of control maize HMG gene was present in 5 blood samples out of 118, liver and kidney were negative. The control gene positive samples were from all three experimental groups, the control group was negative. Transgene fragments of Roundup Ready soybean were found in 11 blood samples out of 118, and in 3 liver samples out of 20 in the experimental group fed with GM soybean, kidney was negative. For maize transgene, 19 blood samples out of 118 were positive, allways in the experimental group fed with GM maize, liver and kidney were negative. Nutritional safety was not compromised by the analysis, as only the fragments were looked for, not whole genes.

Key words: Chicken, Transgene DNA, Roundup Ready soya, Bt maize.

*Corresponding author: citek@zf.jcu.cz

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Short Communication

Effects of Replacement of Fish Meal with Plant Protein Sources (Soybean Meal and Corn Gluten) on Growth and Carcass Composition of Rutilus frisii kutum Fingerlings

Erfan Shahkar*, Ali Shahkar and Hadisseh Dadrass

Islamic Azad University, Lahijan Branch

Fishery and Aquaculture Department

P.O. Box 1616, Lahijan, Iran

(Received November 16, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Shahkar, K., Shahkar, A. and Dadrass, H. 2011. Effects of replacement of fish meal with plant protein sources (soybean meal and corn gluten) on growth and carcass composition of Rutilus frisii kutum fingerlings. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 257-264.

Rutilus frisii kutum fingerlings (n=480) with initial body weight 2.32±0.09 g and initial body length 6.04±0.12 g were fed diets that contained crude protein 43%; gross energy 4362 kcal/kg DM; Crude fat 11% including graded levels of soybean meal and corn gluten meal. A growth trial was conducted over 8 weeks. At the end of the growth trial, the body composition analysis were measured. Replacement of fish meal with soybean meal and corn gluten (9 to 15% replacement) did not significantly (P>0.05) affect on growth performance. Proximate composition was affected (P<0.05) by dietary treatments. This study showed that soybean meal and corn gluten meal have potential to replace substantial levels of fish meal in diets (15%) for omnivorous fish without compromising performance.

Key words: Corn gluten, Soybean meal, Feeding, Rutilus frissi kutum.

*Corresponding author: e.shahkar@gmail.com

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Short Communication

Effect of Varying Levels of Dietary Lipids on Growth and Body Composition of Labeo bata Fingerlings

B.N. Paul*, A.K. Datta, S.S. Giri, and S.N. Mohanty

Wastewater Aquaculture Division

Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, P.O. Rahara, Kolkata-700 118, India

(Received March 13, 2010)

ABSTRACT

Paul, B.N., Datta, A.K., Giri, S.S. and Mohanty, S.N. 2011. Effect of varying levels of dietary lipids on growth and body composition of Labeo bata fingerlings. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 265-270.

A 60-days feeding experiment was conducted to evaluate the lipid requirement of Labeo bata fingerling (avg. wt. 2.87 g). Graded levels of dietary lipids were incorporated at 2 (L2), 4 (L4), 6 (L6), 8 (L8) and 10 (L10) percent levels in the semi purified diet. The semi purified diets consisted of casein, gelatin, dextrin and carboxymethyl cellulose. The net weight gain were 2.10±0.06, 2.41±0.04, 2.60±0.06, 3.10±0.06 and 2.75±0.03 g respectively in different treatment groups. The net weight gain and specific growth rate was significantly (P<0.01) higher in L8 in comparison to other lipid levels. The feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in L8. The carcass composition was significantly influenced by incorporation of different lipid levels. Carcass protein and lipid content increased with increasing lipid levels upto 8% level.. The study revealed that among the lipid levels tested, 8% lipid in diet was found to be optimum for growth performance of L. bata.

Key words: Growth, Feed conversion ratio, Labeo bata, Lipid requirement, Carcass composition.

*Corresponding author: bnp63@rediffmail.com

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Short Communication

Copper, Zinc and Iron Status of Milk and Hair Samples of Dairy Animals in Haryana

Kaushalendra Kumar* and Neelam Kewalramani

Dairy Cattle Nutrition Division

National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001, India

(Received August 10, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Kumar, K. and Kewalramani, N. 2011. Copper, zinc and iron status of milk and hair samples of dairy animals in Haryana. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 271-276.

In order to assess the status of copper, zinc and iron in milk and hair of animals of all the districts of Haryana state, a survey work was carried out. All the districts were divided into two zones on the basis of different agro-climatic conditions. The deficiency of copper and zinc were observed in milk samples. In Zone I, 41.0% of buffalo milk samples were found to be deficient in copper compared to 18.2% in Zone II. In case of cows the copper deficiency was 57.7% and 28.2% in Zone I and II respectively. The deficiency of zinc in buffalo milk was 64.3 and 44.6 percent in Zone I and II respectively, with the respective value of 76.6% and 56.04% in case of cows. With respect to iron, all the samples of milk contained iron in a normal range. The samples of buffalo and cow hair collected from various districts of Haryana suggested a deficiency of copper and zinc whereas, the iron content was found to be adequate. It was concluded that there is a need to supplement area specific mineral mixture to fulfill the deficiency of copper and zinc in dairy animals in Haryana.

Key words: Copper, Zinc, Iron, Milk, Hair, Haryana.

*Corresponding author: drkaushalivri@gmail.com

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Short Communication

Nutritional Status of Dairy Animals of Undulating Plain Zone of Punjab

S. Kaushal, M. Wadhwa, J.S. Hundal, K. Kaur and M.P.S. Bakshi*

Department of Animal Nutrition

Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004

(Received June 03, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Kaushal, S., Wadhwa, M., Hundal, J.S., Kaur, K. and Bakshi, M.P.S. 2011. Nutritional status of dairy animals of undulating plain zone of Punjab. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 277-284.

The objective of this study was to assess the nutritional status of dairy animals with respect to macro nutrients in the Undulating Plain Zone (UPZ) of Punjab, covering part of Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur districts. Using stratified random sampling technique, feed and fodder samples (n=173) and on the spot milk and urine samples (n=320) were collected. The body weight of the dairy animals between the two districts were comparable, but milk yield/animal/day was higher (P<0.05) in animals of Gurdaspur district than that of Hoshiarpur district (5.63 vs. 4.66 kg). The relative proportion of concentrate was lower (P<0.01) in the diet of animals of Hoshiarpur district as compared to that in Gurdaspur district (8.8 vs. 17.7%), reverse trend was observed in the roughage proportion i.e. 91.2 vs. 82.3%, respectively. The CP and EE content of the diet offered was less than the actual recommended (12-17% CP and 3% EE, respectively), while the NDF content was higher than the actual recommended level (≤28%) for complete feed. The daily DM and CP intake were as per the requirements but the EE intake was much less than required by the animals in Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur district i.e. 34.3 and 39%, respectively. Only 2% farmers in Gurdaspur and 25% farmers in Hoshiarpur district were supplementing the diet with mineral mixture. On an average 37.6% of the farmers complained about reproductive problems faced by their animals. The milk urea nitrogen (MUN) was higher (P<0.05) in Gurdaspur than in Hoshiarpur district (13.0 vs 5.1 mM/l). Urinary excretion of allantoin, uric acid and the total purine derivatives by the animals of Gurdaspur District was higher as compared to Hoshiarpur district, but the differences were statistically non significant. The higher supply of microbial nitrogen, along with better efficiency of nitrogen utilization may be responsible for higher milk yield by animals of Gurdaspur district. It was concluded that the animals in UPZ were underfed.

Key words: Dairy animals, Milk urea nitrogen, Nutritional status, Urinary purine derivatives, Undulating plain zone, Punjab.

*Corresponding author: bakshimps@yahoo.com

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Short Communication

Effect of Feeding Different Levels of Cereal Green Fodder on the Performance of Crossbred Cows

Bacchu Singh, J.L. Chaudhary* and C.M. Yadav

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology

Chittorgarh-312 001, India

(Received March 07, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Singh, B., Chaudhary, J.L. and Yadav, C.M. 2011. Effect of feeding different levels of cereal green fodder on the performance of crossbred cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 285-292.

Sixteen lactating crossbred cows in early stage of lactation were divided in to four groups of four animals each on the basis of body weight and milk yield and randomly allotted to four dietary treatments viz. T1 : no green fodder, T2, T3 and T4 with 10, 20 and 40 kg maize green fodder, respectively. All the animals were offered wheat straw ad libitum with concentrate mixture as per requirement. The daily DMI and TDN intake was significantly (P<0.05) higher in cows under T4 as compared to those under T2 or T1. However, TDN consumption between T4 and T3 groups was similar. No significant differences were observed in water consumption among the groups. The average digestibility of DM, OM, CP and NFE were comparable among the treatments. However, digestibility of CF and EE were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T4 group (60.15 and 72.37 per cent) as compared to T1 (53.55 and 65.79 per cent). The daily milk yield and fat percent were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T4 than in T3, T2 and T1 cows. Similar trends were also observed in case of SNF and total solids in milk. The 4% FCM yield was significantly (P<0.05) higher in T4 than in T3, T2 and T1 groups. Further, 4% FCM yield in T3 group was significantly (P<0.05) higher as compared to T1 group. Similar trend was also followed for SCM yield. The post partum oestrus, service period and number of service per conception were not influenced by the treatments. It may be concluded that feeding of green maize to crossbred cows at 40 kg/day into nutrient utilization and milk production.

Key words: Cercal green fodder, Nutrient digestibility, Milk yield crossbred cows.

*Corresponding author: chaudharyjl@yahoo.com

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Review Paper

Role of Biotin in Hoof Health and Milk Production of Dairy Cows

Yajuvendra Singh*, S.S. Lathwal, S.K. Tomar, B.K. Roy, A. Sharma, T.V. Raja,

R.L. Dangi, P.C. Sharma, Munendra and Gulab Chandra

Livestock Production and Management Section

National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132 001, India

(Received June 26, 2009)

ABSTRACT

Singh, Y., Lathwal, S.S., Tomar, S.K., Roy, B.K., Sharma, A., Raja, T.V., Dangi, R.L., Sharma, P.C., Munendra and Chandra, G. 2011. Role of biotin in hoof health and milk production of dairy cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 11: 293-302.

Biotin, a water soluble vitamin of B complex group, is naturally present in the diet of dairy animals. Though it is synthesized in the rumen of all ruminants but its bioavailability depends upon the type of ration formulated and presented to the dairy animals. Generally, a high proteinacious diet contains more biotin. High forage and low concentrate diet in general favours high biotin synthesis in rumen. Biotin is specially required for production of keratin and the epidermal tissues of hoof-horn as well as it may also have other metabolic effects that could influence milk production. Biotin is a cofactor of three different enzymes needed for synthesis of glucose and one required for synthesis of fatty acids. Thus, biotin supplementation may be helpful in the improvement of hoof health as well as in increasing milk production of dairy animals.

Key words: Biotin, Hoof health, Keratin, Dairy animals

*Corresponding author: yuvi_only@rediffmail.com

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