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Effect of sugars and malate on ruminal microorganisms
S A Martin1, H M Sullivan, J D Evans
1Department of Animal and Dairy Science, The University of Georgia, Athens 30602-2771, USA. scottm@arches.uga.edu
Journal of Dairy Science
|December 5, 2000
Summary
This study shows that a sugars plus malate feed supplement stimulates ruminal fermentation in cattle. The supplement increased volatile fatty acids and altered fermentation end products, suggesting enhanced digestion.
Area of Science:
- Rumen microbiology
- Animal nutrition
- Fermentation science
Background:
- The rumen microbiome plays a critical role in feed digestion and volatile fatty acid (VFA) production in ruminants.
- Understanding how feed supplements influence microbial fermentation is key to optimizing animal health and productivity.
- Selenomonas ruminantium is a key species involved in lactate metabolism within the rumen.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a commercial feed supplement containing sugars and malate on lactate fermentation by Selenomonas ruminantium.
- To evaluate the effects of this supplement on the fermentation of ground corn and soluble starch by mixed ruminal microorganisms.
- To assess the influence of monensin, an ionophore antibiotic, on the supplement's effects during fermentation.
Main Methods:
- Batch culture experiments were performed using Selenomonas ruminantium strains HD4 and H18.
- Mixed ruminal microorganisms were used to ferment ground corn and soluble starch.
- Different concentrations of the sugars plus malate supplement were tested, with and without monensin (5 mg/kg).
- Lactate utilization, carbohydrate fermentation, VFA production (acetate, propionate, butyrate), and final pH were measured.
Main Results:
- Selenomonas ruminantium utilized carbohydrates from the supplement, producing lactate as the main end product.
- In mixed cultures, the supplement increased acetate, propionate, and total VFAs in ground corn fermentation.
- Higher supplement levels (3.25 g/L) increased lactate and decreased pH and butyrate in ground corn fermentation.
- The supplement increased acetate, propionate, and total VFAs, while decreasing the acetate:propionate ratio in soluble starch fermentation.
- Monensin enhanced the positive effects of the supplement on propionate and total VFAs in both ground corn and soluble starch fermentations.
Conclusions:
- The sugars plus malate commercial feed supplement demonstrably stimulates ruminal fermentation processes.
- The supplement alters fermentation pathways, influencing VFA profiles and lactate production.
- These findings suggest potential benefits for ruminant digestion and nutrient utilization when using this feed supplement, particularly in conjunction with monensin.