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Agriculture
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Animal Nutrition and Productions
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Animal Nutrition and Productions

A special issue of Agriculture (ISSN 2077-0472). This special issue belongs to the section "Farm Animal Production".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 November 2022) | Viewed by 47271

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Daniel Simeanu

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Guest Editor
Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, Ion Ionescu de la Brad University of Life Sciences Iasi, 3 Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700490 Iasi, Romania
Interests: fodder quality and animal productions; animal nutrition; nourishment impact on productions quality; animal rearing systems; nutritional evaluation on animal productions
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The externalization of animals’ genetic potential is determined by a number of external factors, of which feeding plays a major role. Animals’ nourishment is one of the most important levers to ensure the efficiency of animal production, due to both the high share of feed costs in the total cost of products and the influence this has on the growth, reproduction and health of animals as well as the quality of products obtained from these. This field is one of the most dynamic in the field of husbandry sciences, due to the takeover and permanent use of numerous results obtained from research on energy metabolism and nutrients, related to the composition of feed and its influence on animal products. This is also due to the great advances in genetics, which create new types of animals, with an increasing productive potential, but also with different food requirements.

This Special Issue is dedicated to interdisciplinary studies on animal nutrition, physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, reproduction and breeding technologies. The articles will cover a wide range of topics related to feed quality, the influence of food on production level, the quality of production and also on animals’ health.

All types of articles will be accepted—original research, opinions and reviews.

Prof. Dr. Daniel Simeanu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Agriculture is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • feed quality and animal production
  • modern feeding technologies
  • the impact of food on productions’ quality
  • animal rearing and genetics
  • animal rearing systems
  • animal nutrition
  • animal nutrition and health
  • feed additives
  • digestion physiology
  • impact of animal nourishment on environment
  • fish production

Published Papers (21 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

10 pages, 250 KiB  
Editorial
Animal Nutrition and Productions
by Daniel Simeanu and Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu
Agriculture 2023, 13(5), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13050943 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1861
Abstract
Animal nutrition and feeding, along with other sciences (reproduction, genetics, hygiene, management, etc [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

15 pages, 298 KiB  
Article
Determination of the Optimal Dietary Amino Acid Ratio Based on Egg Quality for Japanese Quail Breeder
by Lizia C. Carvalho, Dimitri Malheiros, Michele B. Lima, Tatyany S. A. Mani, Jaqueline A. Pavanini, Ramon D. Malheiros and Edney P. Silva
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010173 - 10 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1630
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the ideal amino acid ratio for Japanese quail based on egg quality. In total, 120 Japanese quail were used. A completely randomized design was used with 12 treatments and 10 replicates per treatment. The treatments [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to determine the ideal amino acid ratio for Japanese quail based on egg quality. In total, 120 Japanese quail were used. A completely randomized design was used with 12 treatments and 10 replicates per treatment. The treatments consisted of a balanced protein (BP) and the subsequent 11 diets were obtained by the 40% deletion of the BP a specific test for Lys, Met + Cys, Thr, Trp, Arg, Gly + Ser, Val, Ile, Leu, His, and Phr + Tyr. The trial lasted for 25 days. At the end of the trial, egg weight (EW), albumen height, albumen diameter, albumen index, yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk index, Haugh unit, eggshell weight (ESW), and eggshell percentage were measured. The ideal ratio was calculated when a statistical difference was detected using Dunnett’s test. Only the EW and ESW variables differed from those of BP. The ideal amino acid ratios considering Lys as 100 for EW and ESW were Met + Cys 82 and 83, Thr 60 and 68, Trp 18 and 21, Arg 109 and 112, Gly + Ser 99 and 102, Val 77 and 87, Ile 61 and 67, Leu 155 and 141, His 34 and 37, Phe + Try 134 and 133, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
17 pages, 387 KiB  
Article
Meat Quality in Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Hare (Lepus europaeus Pallas)—A Nutritional and Technological Perspective
by Gabriela Frunză, Otilia Cristina Murariu, Marius-Mihai Ciobanu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Daniel Simeanu and Paul-Corneliu Boișteanu
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010126 - 03 Jan 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5060
Abstract
This study aimed to nutritionally and technologically characterize the meat produced by rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Flemish Giant breed, 50 farmed individuals) and hare (Lepus europaeus Pallas, 50 hunted individuals). Muscles were sampled from several carcass regions: dorsal torso—Longissimus [...] Read more.
This study aimed to nutritionally and technologically characterize the meat produced by rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Flemish Giant breed, 50 farmed individuals) and hare (Lepus europaeus Pallas, 50 hunted individuals). Muscles were sampled from several carcass regions: dorsal torso—Longissimus dorsi (LD), thigh—Semimembranosus (SM), and upper arm—Triceps brachii (TB). To better depict the meat’s nutritional quality, the proximate composition and fatty acid profile were assessed, and then gross energy content and lipid sanogenic indices (Polyunsaturation—PI, atherogenic—AI, thrombogenic—TI, hypocholersyerolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio—h/H, Nutritional Value Index—NVI) were calculated. pH values at 24 and 48 h post-slaughter, cooking loss (CL), and water-holding capacity (WHC) were the investigated technological quality traits. Gross energy was higher in rabbit TB samples, compared with hare, due to more accumulated lipids (p < 0.001). pH value was higher for TB muscles in both species; the WHC was higher for hare (p < 0.001), and CL was higher for rabbit (p < 0.001). The PI values were 6.72 in hare and 4.59 in rabbit, AI reached 0.78 in hare and 0.73 in rabbit, TI was calculated at 0.66 in hare and 0.39 in rabbit, and the h/H ratio reached 3.57 in hare and 1.97 in rabbit, while the NVI was 1.48 in hare and 1.34 in rabbit samples. Meat from both species is nutritionally valuable for human consumers, meeting nutritional values better than the meat of farmed or other wild species of fowl and mammals. Hare meat was found to be healthier than rabbit in terms of lower fat content, lighter energy, and better lipid health indices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
14 pages, 1602 KiB  
Article
Microbiological Assessment of Broiler Compound Feed Production as Part of the Food Chain—A Case Study in a Romanian Feed Mill
by Dragoș Mihai Lăpușneanu, Daniel Simeanu, Cristina-Gabriela Radu-Rusu, Roxana Zaharia and Ioan Mircea Pop
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010107 - 30 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1720
Abstract
Compound feed and the raw materials used in their production are potential vectors of microbiological contamination in the food chain. The purpose of this study was to microbiologically asses raw materials (maize, wheat, soybean meal, and sunflower meal), and broiler compound feed (starter, [...] Read more.
Compound feed and the raw materials used in their production are potential vectors of microbiological contamination in the food chain. The purpose of this study was to microbiologically asses raw materials (maize, wheat, soybean meal, and sunflower meal), and broiler compound feed (starter, grower, and finisher) from a representative feed mill in Romania; the microbiological contaminants that were analyzed were yeasts and molds, Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, and Clostridium perfringens. Our study occured during the years 2019 and 2020; in 2019, 191 samples of raw materials and 360 samples of compound feed were analyzed and in 2020, 143 samples of raw materials and 241 samples of compound feed were analzyed. Among the tested samples of raw materials, the mean values of the yeasts and molds for maize, wheat, soybean, and sunflower meal were 1.3 × 103, 9.5 × 102, 6.4 × 102, and 7.4 × 102 cfu/g in 2019 and 1.5 × 103, 1.0 × 103, 5.2 × 102, and 7.1 × 102 cfu/g in 2020. In the analyzed compound feed samples, the mean amounts for the starter, grower, and finisher were 5.9 × 102, 4.2 × 102, and 4.2 × 102 cfu/g in 2019 and 5.3 × 102, 6.5 × 102, and 5.8 × 102 cfu/g in 2020. Potentially toxigenic fungi from Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium genera have been identified as the most common in all of the samples. In the raw materials, in both years the highest numbers of Aspergillus-positive samples were recorded: 66.6% in 2019 and 100% in 2020 for the maize samples, 50% in 2019 and 75% in 2020 for the wheat samples, 76% in 2019 and 87.5% in 2020 for the soybean meal samples and 71.4% in 2019 and 100% in 2020 for the sunflower meal. In the starter compound feed, the Aspergillus genera was prevailing in 2019 (46.6%), while in 2020, the species of the Penicillium and Cladosporium genera were identified in the majority of the samples (50%); for the grower and finisher compound feed, the Aspergillus genera was predominantly identified in 2019 (60% and 72.2% of the samples, respectively) and 2020 (61.5% and 46.6%, respectively). All of the results of the bacteriological analysis for determining the contamination with Salmonella spp., E. coli, and Clostridium perfringens were negative. Based on the results obtained in this study, monitoring and analysis of microbiological hazards in a feed mill will help to control and prevent contamination and have a direct impact on food safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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14 pages, 305 KiB  
Article
Research Regarding Correlation between the Assured Health State for Laying Hens and Their Productivity
by Alexandru Usturoi, Marius-Giorgi Usturoi, Bogdan-Vlad Avarvarei, Claudia Pânzaru, Cristina Simeanu, Mădălina-Iuliana Usturoi, Mihaela Spătaru, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Marius-Gheorghe Doliş and Daniel Simeanu
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010086 - 28 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1573
Abstract
Predictions show the possibility of banning birds’ rearing in batteries. From this reason, we aimed to study the welfare conditions assured to birds accommodated in lofts in comparison with those reared in improved batteries. The research targeted ISA Brown hybrids monitored over a [...] Read more.
Predictions show the possibility of banning birds’ rearing in batteries. From this reason, we aimed to study the welfare conditions assured to birds accommodated in lofts in comparison with those reared in improved batteries. The research targeted ISA Brown hybrids monitored over a period of 25–55 weeks. The batches were represented by birds that were differently reared in halls provided with lofts compared to with improved batteries. The research was carried out in real production conditions. Biochemical indicators were determined, using a BA 400 analyzer produced by BioSystems, as well as quantitative ones using specific formulas based on productions, consumptions, and batch outputs. A cumulated production of 199.24 eggs/week/head was realized in the loft, versus 199.98 in the battery, at a mean laying intensity of 91.82% and 92.17%. Batch output was 4.14% (loft) and 2.98% (battery). Mean consumption registered a level of 122.20 g m.f./head/day for birds in the loft and 115.87 g for the ones from the battery, and feed conversion index was 133.09 g m.f./egg, compared to 125.69. The aviary system ensures optimal conditions to express the birds’ natural behaviors, with a positive impact on the metabolic functions, resulting in a good state of health and high productive levels, comparable to those of birds exploited in batteries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
26 pages, 2816 KiB  
Article
Quality Profile of Several Monofloral Romanian Honeys
by Ioan Mircea Pop, Daniel Simeanu, Simona-Maria Cucu-Man, Aurel Pui and Aida Albu
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010075 - 27 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2403
Abstract
The objective of this research was to evaluate some quality-defining physicochemical parameters (moisture, specific gravity, pH, free acidity, ash, electrical conductivity, total phenols, and total flavonoids content, K, Ca, Mg, Na, and P) of seven Romanian monofloral honeys (linden, acacia, rapeseed, sunflower, mint, [...] Read more.
The objective of this research was to evaluate some quality-defining physicochemical parameters (moisture, specific gravity, pH, free acidity, ash, electrical conductivity, total phenols, and total flavonoids content, K, Ca, Mg, Na, and P) of seven Romanian monofloral honeys (linden, acacia, rapeseed, sunflower, mint, raspberry, and chestnut) collected in 2017. The investigated quality parameters are mainly within the recommended limits set by standards for honey. Sample analyses indicate the presence of antioxidants, such as TPC (17.9–73.2 mg GAE/100 g) and TFC (0.84–4.81 mg QE/100 g), and high amounts of K (101–1462 mg kg−1), Ca (58.3–167.5 mg kg−1), Mg (24.8–330.6 mg kg−1), Na (94.5–233.3 mg kg−1), and P (34.1–137.2 mg kg−1). The Pearson’s correlations between some parameters (such as color/TFC, color/Mg, color/P, EC/Ash, mm Pfund/TFC, TPC/TFC, K/Ash, P/Mg), together with PCA, HCA, and ANOVA statistics, highlight three main factors that explain the variability in the dataset and could be attributed to stability, mineral, and color/antioxidant contributions. FTIR spectra confirm the authenticity of all the monofloral honeys. The results and data processing confirm the influence of environmental elements (soil, water, air) on the honey composition and highlight the quality of honey, as a complete food and a therapeutic product. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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13 pages, 314 KiB  
Article
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) Occurrence in Traditionally Smoked Chicken, Turkey and Duck Meat
by Cristian Ovidiu Coroian, Aurelia Coroian, Anca Becze, Adina Longodor, Oana Mastan and Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010057 - 24 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1756
Abstract
An increasingly high interest is given to the sensory, nutritional, and sanogenic qualities of meat. Considering that poultry meat is nowadays the main quantitatively demanded meat for human consumption, its quality is largely verified and monitored. Toxic compounds are trace markers to be [...] Read more.
An increasingly high interest is given to the sensory, nutritional, and sanogenic qualities of meat. Considering that poultry meat is nowadays the main quantitatively demanded meat for human consumption, its quality is largely verified and monitored. Toxic compounds are trace markers to be monitored, as their health impacts often cause a high health risk for humans. We have evaluated how a traditional method of meat preservation—hot smoking with natural wood smoke—adds certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to chicken, duck, and turkey meat. One- vs two-day smoking period and three wood types for smoking (plum, cherry, and beech) have shown that the highest concentrations of PAHs were present in duck meat, irrespective of smoking time or wood type. A higher concentration overall of PAHs was quantified when beech wood was used, followed by cherry and plum woods. Fluorene associated with beech wood gave the highest values for day 1 and day 2, followed by duck and turkey meat, respectively. Very significant differences (p < 0.001) were usually observed for duck meat when compared with chicken and turkey meat, but it was also easy to notice absolute values for Anthracene, Phenanthrene, or Fluoranthene. As expected, two-day smoking contributed to higher concentrations of PAHs in meat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
21 pages, 6026 KiB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of the Dynamics of Animal Husbandry Air Pollutant Emissions Using an IoT Platform for Farms
by Razvan Alexandru Popa, Dana Catalina Popa, Elena Narcisa Pogurschi, Livia Vidu, Monica Paula Marin, Minodora Tudorache, George Suciu, Mihaela Bălănescu, Sabina Burlacu, Radu Budulacu and Alexandru Vulpe
Agriculture 2023, 13(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13010025 - 22 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1525
Abstract
One of the major challenges of animal husbandry, in addition to those related to the economic situation and the current energy crisis, is the major contribution of this sector to atmospheric pollution. Awareness of pollution sources and their permanent monitoring in order to [...] Read more.
One of the major challenges of animal husbandry, in addition to those related to the economic situation and the current energy crisis, is the major contribution of this sector to atmospheric pollution. Awareness of pollution sources and their permanent monitoring in order to ensure efficient management of the farm, with the aim of reducing emissions, is a mandatory issue, both at the macro level of the economic sector and at the micro level, specifically at the level of each individual farm. In this context, the acquisition of consistent environmental data from the level of each farm will constitute a beneficial action both for the decision-making system of the farm and for the elaboration or adjustment of strategies at the national level. The current paper proposes a case study of air pollutants in a cattle farm for different seasons (winter and summer) and the correlation between their variation and microclimate parameters. A further comparison is made between values estimated using the EMEP (European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme, 2019) methodology for air pollutant emission and values measured by sensors in a hybrid decision support platform for farms. Results show that interactions between microclimate and pollutant emissions exist and they can provide a model for the farm’s activities that the farmer can manage according to the results of the measurements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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16 pages, 317 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Increasing Dietary Manganese from an Organic Source on the Reproductive Performance of Sows
by Clint E. Edmunds, Alyssa S. Cornelison, Chantale Farmer, Christof Rapp, Valerie E. Ryman, Wes P. Schweer, Mark E. Wilson and C. Robert Dove
Agriculture 2022, 12(12), 2168; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12122168 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1767
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dietary manganese on the reproductive performance of sows. Sows (n = 39; 231 ± 8 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three dietary levels of supplemented Mn (CON: 0 ppm [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dietary manganese on the reproductive performance of sows. Sows (n = 39; 231 ± 8 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three dietary levels of supplemented Mn (CON: 0 ppm Mn; PRO20: 20 ppm Mn; PRO40: 40 ppm Mn). The experimental treatments were initiated at breeding and continued through two parities. The sows were blocked by parity within each farrowing group. The data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design using the MIXED procedure of SAS with diet as a fixed effect and block as a random effect. The lactation feed intake increased in the PRO20 sows compared to the CON and PRO40 sows (p < 0.05). The PRO20 and PRO40 sows farrowed piglets with improved average daily gain from birth to weaning (CON 214 g/day; PRO20 237 g/day; 220 g/day; p < 0.05) compared to the CON sows. The milk fat content was lower in the PRO20 (5.5%) and PRO40 sows (6.1%; p < 0.05) compared to the CON sows (7.8%), possibly due to increased milk demand. Supplementary dietary Mn throughout two gestation and lactation cycles led to improved birth weights and pre-weaning growth of piglets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
17 pages, 523 KiB  
Article
Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of European Catfish (Silurus glanis) Flesh
by Cristina Simeanu, Emanuel Măgdici, Benone Păsărin, Bogdan-Vlad Avarvarei and Daniel Simeanu
Agriculture 2022, 12(12), 2144; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12122144 - 13 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2016
Abstract
Quantitative and qualitative flesh production in the Silurus glanis species was comparatively studied between two fish groups: one from aquaculture (AG) and the other from a natural environment, the Prut River (RG). Morphometry was carried out on the fish, and then biometric and [...] Read more.
Quantitative and qualitative flesh production in the Silurus glanis species was comparatively studied between two fish groups: one from aquaculture (AG) and the other from a natural environment, the Prut River (RG). Morphometry was carried out on the fish, and then biometric and conformational indices were calculated. Better values were found in the aquaculture catfish. The Fulton coefficient was 0.82 in the Prut River fish and 0.91% in the farmed ones. The fleshy index reached 19.58% in the AG fish and 20.79% in the RG fish, suggesting better productive capabilities in the AG fish. Postslaughter, the flesh yield and its quality were assessed at different moments throughout the refrigeration period (0–15 days), and chemical compound loss occurred. In the AG samples, the water content decreased by 8.87%, proteins by 27.66%, and lipids by 29.58%. For the RG samples, the loss reached 8.59% in water, 25.16% in proteins, and 29%in lipids. By studying the fatty acids profile and sanogenic indices, good levels of PUFA (31–35%) were found, and the atherogenic index reached 0.35–0.41 while the thrombogenic index ranged between 0.22 and 0.27. Consequently, it can be stated that fish origin and especially the refrigeration period influence the flesh proximate composition and nutritional value of European catfish. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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16 pages, 4549 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Phylogeny and Genetic Diversity of Endangered Romanian Grey Steppe Cattle Breed, a Reservoir of Valuable Genes to Preserve Biodiversity
by Madalina-Alexandra Davidescu, Daniel Simeanu, Dragos-Lucian Gorgan, Mitica Ciorpac and Steofil Creanga
Agriculture 2022, 12(12), 2059; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12122059 - 30 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1455
Abstract
Since 2000, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been drawing attention to the increasing numerical decline of Podolian cattle, which include the Romanian Grey Steppe. Currently, this breed is endangered, numbering under 100 heads across the territory of [...] Read more.
Since 2000, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been drawing attention to the increasing numerical decline of Podolian cattle, which include the Romanian Grey Steppe. Currently, this breed is endangered, numbering under 100 heads across the territory of the entire country. Due to its qualities of rusticity, adaptability, and increased resistance to diseases and severe climate conditions, the Grey Steppe is considered a valuable genetic reserve for improving livestock production. This study aimed to quantify the genetic diversity of a population of 32 cattle from the area of N-E Moldova through the analysis of two mitochondrial markers, cytochrome b and the d-loop, which have been proven to be relevant to studies of genetic diversity and phylogeny. The results obtained based on the statistical analysis of the data using nucleotide sequence analysis software (DnaSP, SeaView, MegaX, PopArt, etc.) demonstrated that the breed belonged to the ancestral P′QT haplogroup, with direct descent from Bos taurus primigenius. Within this haplogroup, five cattle were identified, which could be used in the selection of crosses, with the aim of preserving valuable genetic resources for the improvement of other cattle breeds and the protection of biodiversity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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16 pages, 1321 KiB  
Article
Influence of Supplemental Feeding on Body Condition Score and Reproductive Performance Dynamics in Botosani Karakul Sheep
by Ionică Nechifor, Marian Alexandru Florea, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu and Constantin Pascal
Agriculture 2022, 12(12), 2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12122006 - 25 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1711
Abstract
The aim of this research was to study the impact of supplementary feeding on reproductive traits in sheep. Two groups, L1 (control) and L2 (experimental treatment), of adult females aged between two and six years belonging to the Botosani Karakul sheep breed were [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to study the impact of supplementary feeding on reproductive traits in sheep. Two groups, L1 (control) and L2 (experimental treatment), of adult females aged between two and six years belonging to the Botosani Karakul sheep breed were formed. The experimental treatment group (L2) received supplementary feeding 25 days prior to mating. Improvements in body condition and significant increases in live weight occurred by the time of mating in those ewes that had been flushed (L2) (p < 0.01 vs. L1). The number of lambs per individual parturition was influenced by the body condition score (BCS), especially in females with a BCS of 2.0. The total number of weaned lambs in females with a BCS of 2.0 differed in comparison to that of females with a BCS of 2.5 or 3.0. All results highlighted that supplementary feeding applied to ewes prior to mating affected their reproductive and economic performance, translating to an increased live weight of the litter at weaning in the L2 group (p < 0.01 in lambs from BCS 2.0 ewes and p < 0.001 in lambs from BCS 2.5 to 3.5 ewes). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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18 pages, 640 KiB  
Article
Qualitative and Nutritional Evaluation of Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) Meat Production
by Daniel Simeanu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Olimpia Smaranda Mintas and Cristina Simeanu
Agriculture 2022, 12(11), 1965; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12111965 - 21 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3487
Abstract
Polyodon spathula is a valuable species of sturgeon native to North America that has acclimatized very well in Europe. Detailed knowledge of the quantitative and qualitative productive performance of paddlefish meat is of interest. Through this article, we aimed to highlight the chemical [...] Read more.
Polyodon spathula is a valuable species of sturgeon native to North America that has acclimatized very well in Europe. Detailed knowledge of the quantitative and qualitative productive performance of paddlefish meat is of interest. Through this article, we aimed to highlight the chemical composition, cholesterol, and collagen content of fillets issued from paddlefish aged two and three summers and to highlight, as well as the nutritional value, the profile of fatty acids and amino acids, the sanogenic indices and the biological value of proteins for the epaxial and hypaxial muscle groups. The chemical analysis of the fillets by age indicated slightly higher values in summer three, compared to summer two: +5.32% dry matter, +0.89% protein, +41.21% fat, therefore +10.94% gross energy and for collagen by 2.94%; instead, for water, minerals and the W/P ratio the values were lower by 1.52%, 10.08%, and 2.29%. The nutritional assessment revealed that paddlefish has a meat with high PUFA content (approx. 22% of total fatty acids) and good values of sanogenic indices (Polyunsaturation Index = 7.01–8.77; Atherogenic Index = 0.57; Thrombogenic Index = 0.38–0.39; Hypocholesterolemic Fatty Acids = 33.01–41.34; Hypocholesteromic/Hypercolesteromic Fatty Acids ratio = 1.9). Also, the proteins of these fish are of good quality for young and adult consumers (EAA index = 156.11; Biological Value = 158.46; Nutritional Index (%) = 28.30) and good enough for children (Essential Amino Acids Index = 96.41; Biological Value = 93.39; Nutritional Index (%) = 17.45). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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12 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
Effect of Total Mixed Ratio (TMR) Supplementation on Milk Nutritive Value and Mineral Status of Female Camels and Their Calves (Camelus dromedarius) Raised under Semi Intensive System during Winter
by Mutassim M. Abdelrahman, Ibrahim A. Alhidary, Abdulkareem M. Matar, Mohsen M. Alobre, Abdulrahman S. Alharthi, Bernard Faye and Riyadh S. Aljumaah
Agriculture 2022, 12(11), 1855; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12111855 - 04 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1572
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the nutritional values of female camels’ milk and the minerals status, for them and their calves, when fed a total mixed ration (TMR) beside alfalfa hay during winter. Thirty-seven lactating multiparous female camels and their calves were [...] Read more.
This study was conducted to investigate the nutritional values of female camels’ milk and the minerals status, for them and their calves, when fed a total mixed ration (TMR) beside alfalfa hay during winter. Thirty-seven lactating multiparous female camels and their calves were selected at mid-lactation in the Al-Kharj region. Group one was fed only alfalfa hay ad libitum (C) and group two was supplemented with a total mixed ratio (TMR; 4 kg/head/day), primarily containing a mix of barley grain, wheat feed, palm kernel cake, soya hulls, vitamins and minerals. Milk and blood samples were collected in the middle of the winter season and analyzed for minerals using ICP-OES. A significant (p < 0.05) higher concentration was observed for protein and inorganic matter in milk from female camels supplemented with TMR in the T group. In addition, Mg, Co, Fe and Zn levels in milk significantly (p < 0.05) increased compared with the control group (C). Blood serum concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Cu, I, Se, Zn and Cd minerals in female camels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the T group compared to the C group. Blood serum of the calves in the T group was significantly (p < 0.05) at higher levels for all minerals than in the control group (C); except iodine. Furthermore, significant correlations were reported between Co and Mn elements with most other minerals under investigation. In conclusion, TMR supplementation in the T group of female camels during lactation in the winter season is highly recommended since it improves the milk composition and mineral profile. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
15 pages, 2836 KiB  
Article
Phenolic and Total Flavonoid Contents and Physicochemical Traits of Romanian Monofloral Honeys
by Aida Albu, Răzvan-Mihail Radu-Rusu, Daniel Simeanu, Cristina-Gabriela Radu-Rusu and Ioan Mircea Pop
Agriculture 2022, 12(9), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12091378 - 02 Sep 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2473
Abstract
Since ancient times, honey has been appreciated not only for its sensorial traits, but also for the observed effects in rejuvenation and treatment against several bad health conditions, when used externally or internally, along with other beehive products, such as pollen, propolis and [...] Read more.
Since ancient times, honey has been appreciated not only for its sensorial traits, but also for the observed effects in rejuvenation and treatment against several bad health conditions, when used externally or internally, along with other beehive products, such as pollen, propolis and royal jelly. Today, it is known that such effects are generated by compounds bearing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative features (enzymes, polyphenolic molecules). The purpose of this study was to assess the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of 28 samples of Romanian raw monofloral honey (acacia; linden; rapeseed, sunflower and mint), and to establish their correlations with several qualitative parameters. Pearson’s test revealed a strong positive correlation between total phenolic content and total flavonoids (r = 0.76) and color intensity (r = 0.72). For total flavonoid content, correlations were strongly positive with color intensity (r = 0.81), ash content (r = 0.76) and electrical conductivity (r = 0.73). The relevant levels of polyphenols and flavonoids identified in the analyzed honey types demonstrate its antioxidant potential, with essential nutritional and sanogenic features in human nutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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10 pages, 457 KiB  
Article
Effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Supplementation on Reproductive Performance and Ruminal Digestibility of Queue Fine de l’Ouest Adult Rams Fed a Wheat Straw-Based Diet
by Samia Ben Saïd, Jihene Jabri, Sihem Amiri, Mohamed Aroua, Amel Najjar, Sana Khaldi, Zied Maalaoui, Mohamed Kammoun and Mokhtar Mahouachi
Agriculture 2022, 12(8), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12081268 - 20 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1610
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementing a wheat straw-based diet with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S.C.) on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, body weight and reproduction performance. The experiment was conducted on 14 Queue Fine de l’Ouest rams between 3 and [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementing a wheat straw-based diet with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S.C.) on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, body weight and reproduction performance. The experiment was conducted on 14 Queue Fine de l’Ouest rams between 3 and 4 years of age (body weight (B.W.): 54.7 ± 2.03 kg; body condition score (B.C.S.): 3.5 ± 0.5), for 80 days during the breeding season. The rams were divided into two homogenous groups (n = 7), housed individually in floor pens, and allocated to two dietary treatments. The control group was offered a basal diet of 1 kg/d of wheat straw and 700 g of concentrate. The experimental group (yeast) received the same basal diet supplemented with 10 g of S.C./head/day. The results indicated that the S.C. supplementation had no significant effect on the animal’s body weight, volume and concentration of semen, dry matter intake, crude protein digestibility and nitrogen balance. Compared to the control group, the S.C. addition improved (p < 0.05) the digestibility of dry matter by 7.3%, organic matter by 11.9% and crude fiber by 24%. In addition, the mass motility score increased for the yeast group compared to the control (3.7 ± 0.24 vs. 1.9 ± 0.27, p < 0.05). The total number of dead and abnormal spermatozoa decreased for the yeast group in contrast to the control group (9.28 ± 0.95 vs. 26.8 ± 3.85% and 25.5 ± 3.33 vs. 59.2 ± 2.78%, respectively; p < 0.05). These results showed that adding S.C. to Queue Fine de l’Ouest ram’s diet during breeding season could improve nutrient digestibility and reproductive performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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12 pages, 329 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Cotton Lint from Agribusiness in Diets on Intake, Digestibility, Nitrogen Balance, Blood Metabolites and Ingestive Behaviour of Rams
by Anderson Zanine, Wanderson Castro, Daniele Ferreira, Alexandre Sousa, Henrique Parente, Michelle Parente, Edson Santos, Luiz Geron, Anny Graycy Lima, Marinaldo Ribeiro, Arlan Rodrigues, Cledson Sá, Renata Costa, Thiago Vinicius Nascimento, Francisco Naysson Santos and Fagton Negrão
Agriculture 2022, 12(8), 1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12081262 - 19 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1544
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance, ingestive behavior, and blood parameters of sheep fed with cotton lint levels. Twenty rams weighing 30.2 ± 3.7 kg and aged 12 ± 1.3 months were distributed in a completely randomized design, with four [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance, ingestive behavior, and blood parameters of sheep fed with cotton lint levels. Twenty rams weighing 30.2 ± 3.7 kg and aged 12 ± 1.3 months were distributed in a completely randomized design, with four treatments and five repetitions. Diets consisted of 50% roughage and 50% concentrate. The treatments consisted of replacing corn with cotton lint at levels of 0, 70, 140, and 210 g/kg of dry matter (DM) of the diets. The animals’ feeding behavior was determined in the last three days of the experimental period. Data were subjected to regression analysis. Decreased linear effect (p < 0.05) was observed for the nutritional fraction’s intake. However, neutral detergent fibre (NDF) intake and plasma urea-N were not affected (p > 0.05) by lint levels. Apparent digestibility of DM, crude protein (CP), ethereal extract (EE), and non-fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) were affected (p < 0.05), except for total carbohydrate. There was a decreased linear effect (p < 0.05) for the intake efficiency of DM and NDF in g/h. The nitrogen balance (g/day) and glucose levels (mg/dL) were reduced with the addition of lint in the diet. The addition of cotton lint up to 70 g/kg in DM can be used over a short-term period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
12 pages, 295 KiB  
Article
Moving Buffalo Farming beyond Traditional Areas: Performances of Animals, and Quality of Mozzarella and Forages
by Francesco Serrapica, Felicia Masucci, Giuseppe De Rosa, Ada Braghieri, Fiorella Sarubbi, Francesca Garofalo, Fernando Grasso and Antonio Di Francia
Agriculture 2022, 12(8), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12081219 - 13 Aug 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1874
Abstract
An observational case study was designed to highlight issues associated with a possible expansion of dairy buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) farming outside the traditional coastal plains of southern Italy. Twenty pregnant buffaloes were transferred to a hilly inland farm. After calving, production and reproduction [...] Read more.
An observational case study was designed to highlight issues associated with a possible expansion of dairy buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) farming outside the traditional coastal plains of southern Italy. Twenty pregnant buffaloes were transferred to a hilly inland farm. After calving, production and reproduction data were collected monthly throughout lactation. From 4 to 6 months of lactation, buffaloes were enrolled in a feeding trial to evaluate the effects of locally grown forages (maize silage vs. hay) on milk production and in vivo digestibility. Sensory properties of mozzarella cheese produced at a local dairy were also evaluated. No obvious effects of diet were found. Compared to the data recorded in the previous lactation completed in the farm of origin, milk yield was reduced by 37.2%, and milk protein by 6.1%, whereas milk fat improved (+4.5%). A lower pregnancy rate (−13.3%), increased days open (+122%), and a prolonged intercalving period (+26.9%) were also observed. Lactation length was shorter than the standard value of 270 d. The results showed that peculiar reproductive characteristics, lower environmental temperatures, and the specificity of the mozzarella production process are the main problems to be addressed in an expansion of buffalo farming outside traditional areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
13 pages, 304 KiB  
Article
Nutritive Value of Ajuga iva as a Pastoral Plant for Ruminants: Plant Phytochemicals and In Vitro Gas Production and Digestibility
by Hajer Ammar, Ahmed Eid Kholif, Yosra Ahmed Soltan, Mohammad Isam Almadani, Walid Soufan, Amr Salah Morsy, Saloua Ouerghemmi, Mireille Chahine, Mario E. de Haro Marti, Sawsan Hassan, Houcine Selmi, Egon Henrique Horst and Secundino Lopez
Agriculture 2022, 12(8), 1199; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12081199 - 11 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1638
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the nutritive value of Ajuga iva (A. iva) harvested from three distinct altitude regions in Tunisia (Dougga, Mograne, and Nabeul). The chemical composition, phenolic concentration, gas production, and in vitro dry matter (DM) digestibility were determined. [...] Read more.
This study aims to evaluate the nutritive value of Ajuga iva (A. iva) harvested from three distinct altitude regions in Tunisia (Dougga, Mograne, and Nabeul). The chemical composition, phenolic concentration, gas production, and in vitro dry matter (DM) digestibility were determined. The highest concentrations of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were for A. iva cultivated in Nabeul. In contrast, the highest crude protein (CP) concentration was observed in that cultivated in Mograne, and the lowest (p < 0.01) CP concentration was noted in that cultivated in Dougga. Additionally, the cultivation regions affected the concentrations of free-radical scavenging activity, total flavonoids, and total polyphenols (p < 0.01). The highest free-radical scavenging activity was observed with A. iva cultivated in Dougga and Mograne. The highest (p < 0.05) gas production rate and lag time were observed in A. iva cultivated in Mograne and Nabeul regions. DM digestibility differed between regions and methods of determination. The highest (p < 0.01) DM degradability, determined by the method of Tilley and Terry and the method of Van Soest et al., was for A. iva cultivated in Mograne and Dougga, while the lowest (p < 0.01) value was recorded for that cultivated in the Nabeul region. Likewise, metabolizable energy (ME) and protein digestibility values were higher for A. iva collected from Mograne region than that collected from the other sampling areas. In conclusion, the nutritive value of A. iva differed between regions. Therefore, care should be taken when developing recommendations for using A. iva in an entire region. Season- and region-specific feeding strategies for feeding A. iva are recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
13 pages, 325 KiB  
Article
Diets Composed of Tifton 85 Grass Hay (Cynodon sp.) and Concentrate on the Quantitative and Qualitative Traits of Carcass and Meat from Lambs
by Yohana Corrêa, Edson Santos, Juliana Oliveira, Gleidson Carvalho, Luís Pinto, Danillo Pereira, Dallyson Assis, Gabriel Cruz, Natalia Panosso, Alexandre Perazzo, Guilherme Leite, Paulo Azevedo, Anny Lima, Daniele Ferreira, Fagton Negrão and Anderson Zanine
Agriculture 2022, 12(6), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12060752 - 25 May 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1562
Abstract
The high intake of fermentable carbohydrates may cause nutritional disorders and negatively affect animal performance. Thus, the research study aimed to determine the better roughage:concentrate ratio to improve the carcass traits and physicochemical quality of meat from feedlot-finished Santa Ines lambs. Diets were [...] Read more.
The high intake of fermentable carbohydrates may cause nutritional disorders and negatively affect animal performance. Thus, the research study aimed to determine the better roughage:concentrate ratio to improve the carcass traits and physicochemical quality of meat from feedlot-finished Santa Ines lambs. Diets were composed of Tifton 85 grass hay (Cynodon sp.) and concentrate (soybean meal, corn meal, urea, and mineral mixture) and consisted of five roughage:concentrate ratios of 88:12 (C12), 69:31 (C31), 50:50 (C50), 31:69 (C69), and 12:88 (C88). After 63 days the animals were slaughtered and carcass traits, the yield of commercial cuts, and physicochemical properties of meat were evaluated. The higher percentage of concentrate on roughage provided higher DM intake, better feed conversion, higher conformation, finishing, and carcass yield that resulted in heavier commercial cuts with higher fat content in the meat. The addition of 50% concentrate to the roughage improved the carcass traits, commercial cuts, and physicochemical parameters of the meat in a similar way to the diet with 88% concentrate, but with leaner meats, meeting the demands of the current consumer market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)

Review

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12 pages, 662 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobial and Digestive Effects of Yucca schidigera Extracts Related to Production and Environment Implications of Ruminant and Non-Ruminant Animals: A Review
by Aracely Zúñiga-Serrano, Hugo B. Barrios-García, Robin C. Anderson, Michael E. Hume, Miguel Ruiz-Albarrán, Yuridia Bautista-Martínez, Nadia A. Sánchez-Guerra, José Vázquez-Villanueva, Fidel Infante-Rodríguez and Jaime Salinas-Chavira
Agriculture 2022, 12(8), 1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12081198 - 11 Aug 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3400
Abstract
Plant extracts have been used over time in traditional medicine, mainly for their antimicrobial activity as well as for their medicinal effects. Plant-derived products contain secondary metabolites that prevent pathogenic microbial growth similar to conventional medicines. These secondary metabolites can enhance animal health [...] Read more.
Plant extracts have been used over time in traditional medicine, mainly for their antimicrobial activity as well as for their medicinal effects. Plant-derived products contain secondary metabolites that prevent pathogenic microbial growth similar to conventional medicines. These secondary metabolites can enhance animal health and production in a more natural or organic manner and may contribute to the reduction in the use of pharmacological drugs in animal feed, which is of great concern for emerging microbial resistance. Plant secondary metabolites can be cost effective, while improving the production efficiency of ruminants, non-ruminants, and aquatic food animals. Among the plant-derived products is the Yucca schidigera extract (YSE), containing steroidal saponins as their main active component. YSE has multiple biological effects, including inhibition of some pathogenic bacteria, protozoa, and nematodes. YSE is used to control odor and ammonia and consistently enhance poultry production by enhancing intestinal health and function. In pigs, results are as yet inconclusive. In ruminants, YSE works against protozoa, has selective action against bacteria, and reduces the archaea populations; all these effects are reflected in the reduction in emissions of polluting gases, mainly methane, although the effects are not observed in all feeding conditions. These effects of YSE are discussed in this review. YSE has potential as a natural feed additive for sustainable animal production while contributing to the mitigation of contaminant gas emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutrition and Productions)
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