The history of evaluation of the nutritive value of feedstuffs is reviewed, leading into a description of the development of the artificial fibre bag technique. me type of material and construction of the bag are described in detail and preparation of the samples and incubation times are also discussed. Applications of the technique to a study of the rumen processess; degradation of protein sup...

Tannin-rich legume forages have nutraceutical value for ruminants through slowing down the infections with parasitic nematodes of the gastro intestinal tract. This review aims to describe the effects of tannin-containing legumes on the various nematode stages We will also discuss the sources of variability in results and present the current hypotheses in regard to the possible modes of action o...

Forage management and environmental conditions affect water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) storage, and, in turn, influence ruminant forage utilization silvopastoral systems. The objective was to determine effects of four dependent variables: species [(non-native, C3 (orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.)) native C4 mix (8:1:1 big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman), little (Schizachyrium scopariu...

Improved forages of genus Brachiaria and Panicum grasses were introduced to men women farmers in western Kenya southern Ethiopia. To provide an understanding the social demographic characteristics farming systems, a household survey was implemented 2018/2019. In 2020, complementary qualitative study conducted understand: (a) gender dynamics accessing forage planting materials: (b) role trait pr...

The first rule of supplementation is to use supplements only if needed and when they will enhance the nutritional value of the base forage. Protein supplementation can increase the intake and nutritional value of low quality forages. Grain-based energy supplements that are high in starch and low in protein have a negative effect on forage intake and digestibility. To determine the most cost-eff...

Hindgut acidosis (HGA) is a common problem in horses consuming either large quantities of grain or fructan-rich forages. Horses suffering from HGA may develop anorexia, colic, or laminitis or display stereotypical behaviors such as wood chewing and stall weaving. Feeding a protected sodium bicarbonate (PSB) is a safe and effective method of attenuating HGA without producing a metabolic alkalosi...

Introduction Current NRC recommendations for dairy cattle provide only minimum recommendations for chemically measured fiber. However, physical characteristics of fiber can influence animal health, ruminal fermentation, animal metabolism, and milk fat production independently of the amount of chemically measured fiber. Using ground fibrous by-product feeds or finely chopped forages in rations t...