Chicory modulates the rumen environment in lambs with endoparasites

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Ruminant Nutrition
• Parasitology

Background:

• Natural pastures support diverse plant species crucial for grazing ruminants.
• Endoparasites like Haemonchus contortus negatively impact ruminant health and productivity.
• Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a forage with potential nutritional benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of grazing chicory-supplemented pasture on growth, histology, and ruminal microbial characteristics of lambs infected with Haemonchus contortus.
• To compare lambs grazing on meadow pasture (CON) versus chicory-enriched pasture (CHIC).

Main Methods:

• Lambs infected with Haemonchus contortus were divided into CON (meadow) and CHIC (chicory-enriched) groups.
• Growth parameters, ruminal histology, and microbial composition were assessed.
• Ruminal ammonia nitrogen, Streptococcus bovis abundance, and enzyme activities (amylase, xylanase) were measured.

Main Results:

• Lambs in the CHIC group showed improved weight gain from D89 to D144 post-infection compared to the CON group.
• Higher ruminal ammonia nitrogen, Streptococcus bovis abundance, amylase, and xylanase activities were observed in the CHIC group.
• Histological examination revealed ruminal tissue changes in all lambs, including edema and Balantidium coli morphology.

Conclusions:

• Grazing chicory improved nutrition and well-being in parasitized lambs.
• The beneficial feeding value of chicory enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency.
• Chicory supplementation positively impacted production indicators in lambs infected with Haemonchus contortus.