Journal of the science of food and agriculture | 2021
Influence of dietary phytogenic feed additives on lactation performance, methane emissions and health status of Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).
Abstract
BACKGROUND\nSeveral feed additives have been used in recent past to reduce enteric methane production in ruminants. But most of them also inhibit feed digestibility and rumen fermentation, thereby lowers animal performance. Phytogenic feed additives are gaining importance owing to their safety for human health issues. The present study examined the effect of dietary supplementation of phytogenic feed additive containing a blend of Poplar (Populus deltoids) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) leaves on feed utilization, milk production, methane emissions and health status of Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).\n\n\nRESULTS\nThe daily milk yield, 6% fat corrected milk (FCM) yield, and fat-protein corrected milk yield were increased (p<0.05) in phytogenic composite feed additive (PCFA) supplemented buffaloes. A decrease (37.3%) in methane concentration in exhaled air of supplemented buffaloes was evident. The digestibility coefficient of dry matter, organic matter and neutral detergent fibre was increased (p<0.05) in PCFA fed buffaloes without affecting feed intake. Total digestible nutrient (TDN) content of the ration fed to buffaloes of PCFA group was significantly (p<0.05) increased. The buffaloes fed PCFA exhibited an enhanced cell-mediated and humoral immune response.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nA discernible positive impact was evident on overall performances and health status along with lowered methane production of buffaloes fed (15 g kg-1 DM intake) a blend of phytogenic feed additive composed of leaves of Poplar (Populus deltoids) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora). This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.