Performance and ruminal function development of young calves fed diets with Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Ruminant Nutrition
• Microbiology

Background:

• Neonatal calf performance and rumen development are critical for long-term health and productivity.
• Understanding the impact of feed additives on early-life rumen function is essential for optimizing livestock management.
• Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract (Amaferm) is a feed additive used to enhance animal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying levels of Amaferm on the performance of neonatal Holstein calves.
• To evaluate the impact of Amaferm supplementation on rumen development and microbial fermentation in calves.
• To determine optimal Amaferm dosage for improved calf growth and rumen function.

Main Methods:

• Holstein heifer and bull calves (n=112) were fed starter diets with 0, 0.5, 1, or 3 g/day of Amaferm.
• Calves were monitored for weight gain, feed consumption, and weaning time.
• Rumen fluid analysis included pH, fermentation products (VFA), and bacterial counts (total anaerobic, hemicellulolytic, pectinolytic, cellulolytic).

Main Results:

• Amaferm-supplemented calves were weaned one week earlier than controls.
• Higher concentrations of total volatile fatty acids (VFA), propionate, and acetate were observed in the rumen of supplemented calves.
• Increased counts of total anaerobic, hemicellulolytic, and pectinolytic bacteria, with a trend for higher cellulolytic bacteria, were found in Amaferm-fed calves.

Conclusions:

• Amaferm supplementation positively influences rumen development and microbial activity in neonatal calves.
• Amaferm enhances ruminal fermentation, leading to improved performance and earlier weaning.
• The study suggests that Amaferm can be a beneficial additive for optimizing calf nutrition and rumen health.