Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026

The Use of an Automated System GreenFeed to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals
Published on: September 7, 2015
Effect of monensin withdrawal on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis and microbial populations in cattle
Arfan Abrar1, Takamitsu Tsukahara2, Makoto Kondo1
1Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, Tsu.
Abstract:
This study was designed to obtain information on the residual influence of dietary monensin on ruminant fermentation, methanogenesis and bacterial population. Three ruminally cannulated crossbreed heifers (14 months old, 363 ± 11 kg) were fed Italian ryegrass straw and concentrate supplemented with monensin for 21 days before sampling. Rumen fluid samples were collected for analysis of short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles, monensin concentration, methanogens and rumen bacterial density. Post-feeding rumen fluid was also collected to determine in vitro gas production. Monensin was eliminated from the rumen fluid within 3 days. The composition of SCFA varied after elimination of monensin, while total production of SCFA was 1.78 times higher than on the first day. Methane production increased 7 days after monensin administration ceased, whereas hydrogen production decreased. The methanogens and rumen bacterial copy numbers were unaffected by the withdrawal of monensin.
Related Concept Videos
Microbes and Methanogenesis
Microbial Interactions: Mutualism
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Microbes in Food Production
Microbiota of the Large Intestine
Microbes in the Production of Fermented Foods

