Exploring the Efficacy of Direct-Fed Microbials on In-Vitro Digestibility and Methane Emissions in Kankrej Calves: Implications for Ruminant Health and Environmental Sustainability

Author: Asediya V.S., Sorathiya K.K., Shekh M.A. and Pandya P.R.

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Abstract

Livestock methane emissions represent a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating strategies to mitigate their impact in order to meet climate targets. Direct-fed microbials (DFMs), a form of probiotic, have emerged as a promising avenue for modulating the gastrointestinal microbiota, akin to their role in human digestion. This study investigates the efficacy of DFMs in enhancing in-vitro digestibility and reducing methane emissions in Kankrej calves. Our findings demonstrate a significant improvement in in-vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Specifically, for the 2% DFM supplementation, there is a percent difference of approximately 3.85%, indicating a modest yet significant enhancement compared to the average IVDMD. This improvement is accompanied by a noteworthy reduction in methane emissions by 19.24% compared to the control group. The DFMs utilized in this investigation, including Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus bifermentans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus lactis, Bacillus coagulans, and Pediococcus acidilactici, were isolated from vegetable and fruit market waste through solid-state fermentation. These results underscore the potential of DFMs as a valuable tool for enhancing both the health and productivity of ruminant livestock, while concurrently mitigating methane emissions.

Keywords

Direct-fed microbials, in-vitro digestibility, methane emissions, Kankrej calves, solid-state fermentation.

Conclusion

In this study, we examined the impact of direct-fed microbials (DFMs) on crucial parameters of rumen fermentation and methane production in cattle calves. Through experimentation and rigorous data analysis, our findings provide valuable insights into sustainable livestock management practices. Our research unequivocally demonstrates the efficacy of DFMs in enhancing rumen fermentation dynamics, as evidenced by significant improvements in In-vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and total gas production. Particularly noteworthy is the nuanced response to DFM supplementation, with concentrations of 2% and 3% yielding optimal outcomes, emphasizing the importance of precise formulation strategies for maximizing feed efficiency in cattle production systems. Furthermore, our study illuminates a promising avenue for mitigating methane emissions, a pressing environmental concern linked to ruminant livestock production. The observed reduction in methane production, with peak efficacy noted at the 6% DFM concentration, represents a significant stride towards addressing sustainability challenges within the industry. However, while our findings are consistent with prior research, the intricacies of rumen microbial ecology warrant further investigation to delineate optimal concentration thresholds of DFMs and their enduring implications for animal health and performance

References

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How to cite this article

Asediya V.S., Sorathiya K.K., Shekh M.A. and Pandya P.R. (2024). Exploring the Efficacy of Direct-Fed Microbials on In-Vitro Digestibility and Methane Emissions in Kankrej Calves: Implications for Ruminant Health and Environmental Sustainability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(3): 45-49.