Ruminal methanogenesis represents considerable energy loss within the fermentative processes mediated by microbial populations, by means of which up to 12% of gross energy intake is driven away from microbial protein synthesis (MPS). This review explores the relationship between methane (CH
4)
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Ruminal methanogenesis represents considerable energy loss within the fermentative processes mediated by microbial populations, by means of which up to 12% of gross energy intake is driven away from microbial protein synthesis (MPS). This review explores the relationship between methane (CH
4) synthesis and emission with MPS in beef cattle, focusing on the nutritional, biochemical, and microbial factors modulating these processes. The synthesis of CH
4 by ruminal archaea is essential for maintaining redox balance during the fermentation of carbohydrates. This process diverts metabolic H
2 from energy-efficient pathways like propionate synthesis, which could otherwise enhance microbial growth. Dietary factors, including carbohydrate fermentability, N synchronization, and passage rate, modulate MPS. Diets based on roughage might enhance CH
4 synthesis while impairing MPS efficiency by reducing diet digestibility and promoting microbial shifts towards methanogenic populations. Potential mitigation strategies, including plant secondary metabolites, CH
4 inhibitors, and controlled forage-to-concentrate ratios, demonstrate the potential to reduce CH
4 emissions while enhancing nutrient utilization. This review underscores the need for integrated approaches combining dietary strategies, advanced feed additives, and improved prediction models to optimize ruminal fermentation, enhance MPS, and reduce the environmental footprint of beef cattle systems.
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