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The Use of an Automated System GreenFeed to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals
Published on: September 7, 2015
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Review: Strategies for enteric methane mitigation in cattle fed tropical forages
J C Ku-Vera1, O A Castelán-Ortega2, F A Galindo-Maldonado3
1Laboratory of Climate Change and Livestock Production, Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Yucatan (UADY), Carretera Merida-Xmatkuil Km 15.5, C.P. 97100Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.
Animal : an International Journal of Animal Bioscience
|August 19, 2020
Summary
Tropical forages and additives can reduce methane emissions from cattle. Incorporating plant compounds like tannins and oils in cattle diets lowers enteric methane production, benefiting animal agriculture and climate change mitigation.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Animal Science
Background:
- Enteric methane (CH4) from ruminants is a significant greenhouse gas (GHG) contributor in animal agriculture.
- Tropical grasses may produce higher enteric CH4 emissions compared to temperate grasses in ruminant diets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the enteric CH4 mitigation potential of tropical plants and additives in cattle rations.
- To evaluate strategies for reducing GHG emissions from cattle under smallholder conditions.
Main Methods:
- Experiments were conducted in respiration chambers and head-boxes to measure enteric CH4 yield.
- Cattle rations were supplemented with foliage and pods of tropical trees/shrubs, nitrates, and vegetable oils.
Main Results:
- Cattle fed low-quality tropical grasses had an average CH4 yield of 17.0 g CH4/kg DM intake.
- Incorporating tropical plant foliage/pods reduced CH4 yield by 10-25%.
- Nitrates and vegetable oils decreased enteric CH4 yield by approximately 6% and 20%, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Condensed tannins, saponins, starch, nitrates, and vegetable oils can mitigate enteric CH4 emissions in cattle.
- Feeding strategies using tropical forages can enhance productivity while reducing GHG emissions per unit of product.
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