Moderation of ruminal fermentation by protozoa in cattle fed high-grain diets

Date

2010-11-02

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service

Abstract

Ruminal protozoa in cattle fed high-grain diets appear to contribute to the maintenance of a stable ruminal fermentation. This was evidenced by higher ruminal pH's and lower volatile fatty acid concentrations in faunated (with protozoa) than defaunated (without protozoa) cattle. The moderation of fermentation was likely due to reduced bacterial numbers associated with the presence of protozoa.

Description

Keywords

Beef, Acidosis, Fermentation, Protozoa, Rumen

Citation