Methane emission by Nellore cattle subjected to different nutritional plans

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Physiology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Enteric methane (CH4) emissions from cattle represent a significant source of greenhouse gases.
• Nutritional strategies can influence methane production and nutrient utilization in livestock.
• Understanding the impact of different feeding systems on Nellore cattle is crucial for sustainable agriculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate enteric methane emissions in Nellore cattle under distinct nutritional plans.
• To assess nutrient intake and digestibility in cattle subjected to feedlot and grazing systems.
• To compare energy losses associated with methane production between feeding systems.

Main Methods:

• Forty-seven Nellore cattle were evaluated in a feedlot (corn silage-based diet) followed by a grazing period (Urochloa brizantha).
• Chromic oxide was used as an external marker for fecal production estimation.
• The SF6 tracer gas technique quantified methane emissions; nutrient intake and digestibility were analyzed chemically.

Main Results:

• Feedlot-fed cattle exhibited higher total dry matter and organic matter intake and greater dry matter digestibility.
• Organic matter digestibility was lower in the feedlot treatment.
• Daily methane emission (g/day) was higher in feedlot cattle, but energy loss as methane (CH4/CEB) and methane per dry matter consumed were lower compared to grazing.

Conclusions:

• The higher quality diet in the feedlot system led to increased nutrient intake and dry matter digestibility.
• Despite higher daily methane output, feedlot diets were more energetically efficient, resulting in lower relative energy losses via methane.
• Nutritional management, specifically feedlot diets, can mitigate energy loss associated with enteric methane production in Nellore cattle.