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Effects of Hitoegusa (Monostroma nitidum) Extracts on In Vitro Rumen Fermentation Profiles
Naoya Okada1, Tomomi Ban-Tokuda1, Hiroki Matsui1
1Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, Tsu, Mie, Japan.
Animal Science Journal = Nihon Chikusan Gakkaiho
|October 6, 2025
Summary
Seaweed extracts like Hitoegusa (Monostroma nitidum) show potential for ruminant nutrition by increasing rumen fermentation and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. However, they did not significantly reduce methane production in this study.
Area of Science:
- Rumen microbiology
- Marine biotechnology
- Animal nutrition
Background:
- Rumen fermentation is crucial for ruminant digestion.
- Marine macroalgae are underutilized feed resources.
- Rhamnan sulfate is a component of Hitoegusa seaweed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the metabolic utilization of Hitoegusa extract by rumen microbiota.
- To assess the impact of Hitoegusa extract on rumen fermentation parameters.
- To evaluate the potential of Hitoegusa as a feed supplement for ruminants.
Main Methods:
- In vitro rumen fermentation assays using Hitoegusa extract.
- Measurement of gas production and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations.
- Dose-dependent incubation experiments up to 96 hours.
Main Results:
- Hitoegusa extract increased gas production and total SCFA concentrations.
- SCFA profiles were altered, suggesting microbial community modulation.
- Gas production increased in a dose-dependent manner.
- No significant reduction in methanogenesis was observed.
Conclusions:
- Hitoegusa extract enhances rumen fermentation but does not significantly inhibit methanogenesis.
- Further research is needed on rhamnan sulfate degradability and microbial mechanisms.
- Marine macroalgae like Hitoegusa offer potential as alternative ruminant feed resources.
