Historia y perspectivas del mejoramiento genético del maíz forrajero en la Argentina / History and prospects of fodder corn breeding in Argentina

RESUMEN El maíz se utiliza masivamente para producir alimentos para el hombre y los animales domésticos con granos de varias entidades taxonómicas o razas. Para los rumiantes domésticos también se utiliza la planta entera como forraje. En Argentina se utiliza el grano forrajero y el silaje de planta entera para el ganado vacuno de carne y leche. El objetivo de este trabajo fue desarrollar la historia y las perspectivas del maíz para grano y ensilaje, centrados en la selección y el mejoramiento genético. El maíz forrajero en sus dos variantes (grano forrajero y planta entera como silaje) tuvo distinta importancia a través del tiempo. Remarcamos la importancia del mejoramiento genético específico del maíz para silaje de planta entera para alcanzar un potencial de rendimiento y valor nutritivo superior a la de los híbridos graníferos. Se analizaron las cuatro estructuras genéticas poblacionales utilizadas en el tiempo como cultivares, que determinaron la evolución del proceso tecnológico de selección y mejoramiento genético. Con las investigaciones efectuadas, las empresas semilleras incorporaron nuestros protocolos a sus programas de desarrollo y de mejoramiento genético. La contribución de la selección y del mejoramiento genético en Argentina fue efectiva para transformar la planta de maíz en alimento para rumiantes y esto se incrementará con la obtención de híbridos específicos para silaje.

ABSTRACT Corn is used to massively produce food for humans and domestic animals with grains of various taxonomic entities or races. For domestic ruminants, the whole plant is also used as forage. In Argentina, both corn grain and whole-plant silage are used for beef and dairy cattle production. This paper aimed to develop the history and perspectives of corn grown for grain and silage, focusing on plant breeding. The importance of corn fodder in its two variants (grain and whole-plant silage) has varied over time. We emphasize herein the importance of the specific genetic breeding of corn used for whole-plant silage to achieve higher yield potential and nutritional value than grain hybrids. The four population genetic structures used over time as cultivars, which determined the evolution of the technological process of selection and breeding, were analyzed. Based on the research carried out, seed companies have incorporated our protocols into their development and breeding programs. The contribution of selection and breeding in Argentina was effective in transforming the corn plant into ruminant feed, and this will increase with the development of specific silage hybrids.

Phenotypic diversity and stability of early maturing Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa sp.) germplasm for grain yield and its contributing traits- Supplementary Data

Barnyard millet is one of the oldest domesticated millets in the semi-arid tropics of Asia and Africa. Developing early maturing cultivars is one of the important breeding goals in barnyard millet, which can fit well when main crops fail, or during the late onset of monsoon. Thus, this study was carried out to test the phenotypic diversity, character association and path coefficients, and stability of early maturing barnyard millet accessions. The MDU 1, a slightly late-maturing (95 days) cultivar, was used to identify early maturing accessions than the control with a considerably higher yield. Diversity as revealed by D2 analysis indicated that the trait grain yield had contributed the most towards the diversity followed by the traits such as thousand-grain weight and fodder yield per plant. The accessions IEc 350 and IEc 356 showed the highest fodder yield and grain yield per plant, and higher per day productivity than the control, MDU 1. Genotypic correlations revealed a significantly positive correlation of the grain yield with most traits investigated including days to maturity and fodder yield, and the trait fodder yield per plant showed a highly positive indirect effect on grain yield. Hence, these traits could be considered during the selection process for improving grain yield. Stability analysis identified two accessions, IEc 350 and IEc 356, and the MDU 1, as the stable high-yielding accessions. Hence, these high-yielding stable accessions can efficiently be used in barnyard millet improvement for developing early maturing varieties.

Phenotypic diversity and stability of early maturing Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa sp.) germplasm for grain yield and its contributing traits

Barnyard millet is one of the oldest domesticated millets in the semi-arid tropics of Asia and Africa. Developing early maturing cultivars is one of the important breeding goals in barnyard millet, which can fit well when main crops fail, or during the late onset of monsoon. Thus, this study was carried out to test the phenotypic diversity, character association and path coefficients, and stability of early maturing barnyard millet accessions. The MDU 1, a slightly late-maturing (95 days) cultivar, was used to identify early maturing accessions than the control with a considerably higher yield. Diversity as revealed by D2 analysis indicated that the trait grain yield had contributed the most towards the diversity followed by the traits such as thousand-grain weight and fodder yield per plant. The accessions IEc 350 and IEc 356 showed the highest fodder yield and grain yield per plant, and higher per day productivity than the control, MDU 1. Genotypic correlations revealed a significantly positive correlation of the grain yield with most traits investigated including days to maturity and fodder yield, and the trait fodder yield per plant showed a highly positive indirect effect on grain yield. Hence, these traits could be considered during the selection process for improving grain yield. Stability analysis identified two accessions, IEc 350 and IEc 356, and the MDU 1, as the stable high-yielding accessions. Hence, these high-yielding stable accessions can efficiently be used in barnyard millet improvement for developing early maturing varieties.

Optimization of Biostimulants Application for Phenology and Quality of Oats

Abstract In modern agriculture the use of biostimulants not only reduces the cost of production but also increase yield and quality of crops without harming environment. The response of fodder oat to biostimulants was evaluated in a pot experiment using four biostimulants at different concentrations i.e Moringa leaf extract at ratio of 1:10, 1:20, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, Sea weed extract at 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, Thiourea at 100 ppm, 200 ppm, 300 ppm, 400 ppm, 500 ppm and Chitosan at 25 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 125 ppm, 150 ppm. Oat crop was treated with biostimulants using foliar application, at two growth stages i.e tillering and booting. Data on various agronomic and quality parameters were recorded and analyzed. Results showed that biostimulants significantly affected phenology and quality of oat. The highest green fodder yield (872.32 g) was observed in the pots treated with 2%Solution of seaweed extract similarly highest dry matter yield was also highest at 170.85 g Interestingly crude protein was highest for thiourea at 400 ppm. In each biostimulant following doses stood out both in terms of yield and quality. In case of moringa leaf extract the ratio of 1:40with 900 g per pot yield and 9.43 % protein, for sea weed extract 2% was better than other doses with 981 g yield and 9.17% protein, for thiourea the 400 ppm was better than other concentrations as it shows highest yield (872.32 g) and crude protein (9.52%) and for chitosan 100 ppm was comparatively better in performance with 964.98 g yield per pot and 9.35% CP. It is concluded from our study that biostimulants improve fodder oat yield and quality.

Murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) meal as an additive to elephant grass silage / Torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) como aditivo en el ensilado de pasto elefante / Torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) como aditivo em silagens de capim elefante

Abstract Background: Tropical grasses, such as elephant grass, have high moisture content during its ideal phenological state for silage. High moisture content hinders proper preservation and reduces the nutritive value of silage due to secondary fermentation and production of effluents. Adding feed materials with high dry matter content, such as murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru) meal, is a potential alternative to improve silage yield. Objective: To determine the effects of including murumuru meal (0, 7, 14, 21, and 28%) on the fermentative characteristics, microbiological activity, aerobic stability, and chemical composition of elephant grass silages. Methods: A completely randomized design with five treatments and five replicates was used. Elephant grass was collected at 60 d of age, minced, and homogenized with murumuru meal. The mass was placed in experimental 15-L silos. The silos were collected and analyzed 45 d later. Results: Effluent production decreased (p<0.05) as the proportions of murumuru meal in silage increased. A quadratic effect (p<0.05) was observed on dry matter recovery. An increase (p<0.05) was observed in dry matter content, a decrease (p<0.05) in the neutral detergent fiber content, and an increase (p<0.05) in the non-fibrous carbohydrate content with the inclusion of murumuru meal. Conclusions: Addition of murumuru meal improves chemical composition and does not affect the fermentative characteristics of elephant grass silage, while it reduces effluent losses. Nevertheless, the inclusion of murumuru meal in the elephant grass silage decreased the time of aerobic stability.

Resumen Antecedentes: los pastos tropicales, tales como el pasto elefante, tienen alto contenido de humedad cuando están en su estado fenológico ideal para ensilar. Esto dificulta su adecuada preservación en el silo, reduciendo el valor nutritivo del ensilaje debido a fermentaciones secundarias y generación de efluentes. Una posible solución sería incluir materiales con alto contenido de materia seca, tales como la torta de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru). Objetivo: determinar el efecto de la inclusión de torta de murumuru (0; 7; 14; 21 y 28%) sobre las características fermentativas, microbiológicas, estabilidad aeróbica y composición química de los ensilajes de pasto elefante. Métodos: se utilizó un diseño completamente al azar, con cinco tratamientos y cinco repeticiones. El pasto elefante fue colectado a los 60 días de edad, luego picado y homogeneizado con la torta de murumuru. La masa fue colocada en silos experimentales con capacidad de 15 L. Luego de 45 días de ensilado, los silos fueron abiertos y las muestras fueron colectadas para su posterior análisis. Resultados: hubo reducción (p<0,05) en la producción de efluentes a medida que se incrementó la proporción de torta de murumuru en el ensilado. Se observó un efecto cuadrático (p<0,05) en la recuperación de materia seca. Hubo aumento (p<0,05) en los contenidos de materia seca con la adición de torta de murumuru. Se observó disminución (p<0,05) en el contenido de fibra detergente neutra y aumento (p<0,05) de carbohidratos no fibrosos. Conclusión: La adición de torta de murumuru mejora la composición química, reduce las perdidas por efluentes y no afecta las características fermentativas de ensilado de pasto elefante. Sin embargo, la inclusión de la torta de murumuru en el ensilado de pasto elefante disminuye el tiempo en estabilidad aeróbica.

Resumo Antecedentes: capins tropicais, como por exemplo o capim-elefante apresentam alto teor de umidade quando possuem produtividade compatível e estão no estádio fenológico adequado para ensilagem. Isso dificulta a adequada preservação no silo, ocasionando a redução do valor nutritivo da silagem devido a fermentações secundárias e a produção de efluentes. Uma possível solução seria o uso de aditivos com alto teor de matéria seca, como bolo de murumuru (Astrocaryum murumuru). Objetivo: determinar o efeito da inclusão da torta de murumuru (0; 7; 14; 21 e 28%) na ensilagem de capim-elefante sobre as características fermentativas, microbiológicas, estabilidade aeróbia e a composição química das silagens. Métodos: utilizou- se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e cinco repetições. O capim-elefante foi colhido aos 60 dias de idade, o mesmo foi picado e homogeneizado à torta de murumuru. A massa foi ensilada em silos experimentais com capacidade de 15 L. Após 45 dias de ensilagem, os silos foram abertos e amostras foram coletadas para posteriores análises laboratoriais. Resultados: houve redução (p<0,05) na produção de efluentes à medida que se elevaram as proporções da torta de murumuru na ensilagem. Observou-se efeito quadrático (p<0,05) na recuperação de matéria seca. Houve aumento (p<0,05) nos teores de matéria seca com a adição da torta murumuru. Observou-se diminuição (p<0,05) nos teores de fibra em detergente neutro e aumento (p<0,05) nos teores de carboidratos não fibrosos. Conclusão: torta de murumuru como aditivo melhora a composição química, reduz perdas principalmente por efluente e não afeta as características fermentativas de silagens de capim- elefante. Entretanto, a inclusão da torta de murumuru na ensilagem de capim-elefante diminui o tempo em estabilidade aeróbia.

Fiber composition and digestibility of fodder in different ryegrass fields submitted to different harvesting management systems / [Composição da fibra e digestibilidade da forragem de diferentes cultivares de azevém submetidos a diferentes sistemas de manejo de colheita]

This essay aims to evaluate the composition of fiber in neutral detergent, digestibility of plant components, as well as ruminal disappearance rate of fodder dry matter from five ryegrass fields submitted to different cut systems for the production of haylage. The experimental design was the randomized blocks one, at a 5 x 3 factorial scheme, with five cultivars (cv.) of ryegrass Lolium multiflorum (cv. Barjumbo, cv. BarHQ, cv. Ribeye, cv. Potro and cv. Willians) associated with three harvesting management systems: 1- single harvesting system at a pre-floral stage; 2 - double harvesting system, with a cut at vegetative stage and another at pre-floral stage; and 3 - triple harvesting system, with a cut at vegetative stage, a cut at full vegetative stage and a cut at pre-floral stage, with three repetitions each. Similarities were noticed on the results of fodder digestibility of different fields, however, cv. Potro presented a higher ruminal disappearance rate after 48 hours, with 69.27%. Generally, the harvesting management system with the increase of ryegrass cut frequency determined increments on the percentage of lignin and the reduction in the concentration of total nutrients and dry matter digestibility of the resulting hylage.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a composição da fibra em detergente neutro, digestibilidade dos componentes da planta, bem como a taxa de desaparecimento ruminal da matéria seca da forragem de cinco cultivares de azevém submetidos a diferentes sistemas de cortes para produção de silagem pré-secada. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso,, em um fatorial 5 x 3, sendo cinco cultivares de azevém Lolium multiflorum (cv. Barjumbo, cv. BarHQ, cv. Ribeye, cv. Potro e cv. Willians) associados a três sistemas de manejo de colheita: 1 - sistema com única colheita no estádio de pré-florescimento; 2 - sistema com uma colheita no estádio vegetativo e outra no estádio de pré-florescimento; e 3 - sistema com uma colheita no estádio vegetativo, uma no estádio pleno vegetativo e outra no estádio de pré-florescimento, com três repetições cada. Notou-se similaridade entre os resultados de digestibilidade da forragem entre os cultivares, porém o cv. Potro apresentou a maior taxa de desaparecimento ruminal após 48 horas, com 69,27%. De maneira geral, o sistema de manejo de colheita mostrou que o aumento do número de cortes do azevém determinou incrementos nos teores de lignina e redução na concentração de nutrientes digestíveis totais e da digestibilidade da matéria seca nas silagens pré-secadas resultantes.(AU)

Study and evaluation of antimicrobial activity and antioxidant capacity of dry extract and fractions of leaves of Raphanus sativus var. oleiferus Metzg / Estudo e avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana e capacidade antioxidante do extrato seco e frações de folhas de Raphanus sativus var. oleiferus Metzg

The radish (Raphanus sativus L.) is a vegetable of the Brassicaceae family cultivated worldwide and has several medicinal properties. Its biological activities are related to various secondary metabolites present in the species, especially phenolics. Thus, the objectives of this study were the chemical analysis and evaluation of the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the dry extract and fractions of the fodder turnip leaves (R. sativus var. oleiferus Metzg.). Samples were analyzed by mass spectrometry and the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical method and the reducing power method. Antimicrobial activity was determined by the agar diffusion and microdilution methods. The total phenols were concentrated in the butanol fraction (121.27 mg GAE/g) and the flavonoids were concentrated in the ethyl acetate fraction (98.02 mg EQ/g). The ethyl acetate fraction showed the best antioxidants results, with 83.45% of free radical scavenging and 11.34% of ferric ions reduction. The analysis of antimicrobial activity showed that the dry extract had the highest average zone of inhibition against Bacillus subtilis (18.67 mm). Smaller values of the minimum inhibitory concentration for Micrococcus luteus were, and the ethyl acetate fraction showed a lower minimum inhibitory concentration (0.1 mg/ml) for that microorganism. There was a strong correlation between the antioxidant activity and the content of phenols and flavonoids. The results showed the potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of this extract with the ethyl acetate fraction being most promising for further studies.

O rabanete(Raphanus sativus L.) é um vegetal da família Brassicaceae cultivado em todo o mundo e possui diversas propriedades medicinais. Suas atividades biológicas estão relacionadas aos vários metabólitos secundários presentes na espécie, especialmente os compostos fenólicos. Desta forma, os objetivos deste estudo foram realizar análises químicas e avaliar as atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana do extrato seco e das frações das folhas de R. sativus var. oleiferus Metzg. As amostras foram analisadas em espectrômetro de massas e o potencial antioxidante foi avaliado pelos métodos do radical DPPH (2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazila) e do poder redutor. A atividade antimicrobiana foi determinada pelos métodos de difusão em ágar e da microdiluição. Observou-se que os fenóis totais se concentraram na fração butanólica (121,27 mg EAG/g), enquanto que e os teores de flavonoides concentraram-se na fração acetato de etila (98,02 mg EQ/g). A fração acetato de etila apresentou os melhores resultados antioxidantes, com porcentagem de sequestro dos radicais DPPH de 83,45% e com porcentagem de redução dos íons férrico de 11,34%. A análise da atividade antimicrobiana revelou que o extrato seco teve maior média de halos de inibição frente ao Bacillus subtilis(18,67 mm). Os menores valores da concentração inibitória mínima foram para Micrococcus luteus, sendo que a fração acetato de etila demonstrou menor concentração inibitória mínima (0,1 mg/mL) para esse micro-organismo. Houve uma forte correlação entre a atividade antioxidante e o teor de fenóis e de flavonoides. Os resultados demonstraram potenciais ações antioxidante e antimicrobiana do extrato e das frações avaliados, sendo a fração acetato de etila promissora para estudos posteriores.

Organoleptic and physiochemical properties and safety indicators of phytobiotic fodder additives based on herbal extracts

The organoleptic and physicochemical properties and safety indicators of phytobiotic fodder additives based on extracts of herbs growing on the territory of the Siberian Federal District have been studied in the article. It has been established that the organoleptic characteristics of the phytobiotic fodder additives are determined by the specifics of the raw materials and their processing. The following physicochemical parameters of the finished phytobiotic fodder additives have been determined: moisture content, insoluble substances content in water, content of metal-magnetic admixture (particles up to 2 mm inclusive, particles over 2 mm in size and with sharp edges), and mineral impurities. The following safety indicators of the finished phytobiotic fodder additives have also been determined: the content of toxic elements (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic), the content of dioxins, the content of polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls, toxicity in bioassay test, and microbiological indicators (Salmonella, in 25 g, enterococci, in 50 g, enteropathogenic E. coli, in 1 g, anaerobes, in 50 g, pathogenic Escherichia, in 50 g, yeast and mold (total), and total bacterial contamination). The amount of biologically active substances in phytobiotic fodder additives was determined in accordance with the pharmaceutical norms and regulations.

Química sanguínea en pollos de engorde alimentados con harina de Botón de Oro (Thitonia diversifolia) en fase de finalización / Blood chemistry in broilers fed with golden button meal (Thitonia diversifolia) in the final phase / Química do sangue de frangos de corte alimentados com farinha de Botão de Ouro (Thitonia diversifolia) em fase de conclusão

Resumen La incorporación de fuentes de proteína de origen vegetal en la formu- lación de dietas para pollos de engorde, en los últimos años ha surgido como una alternativa nutricional que se establece como una necesidad para el desarrollo sostenible de la industria avícola a mediana y pequeña escala. El costo elevado del alimento procesado, especialmente la fuente de proteí- na, es una de las principales dificultades. Por ello poderla sustituir, en parte, por una fuente más económica, como el Botón de Oro, es una alternativa importante para el pequeño o mediano productor, que de esta manera podría mejorar su rentabilidad. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar los efectos de diferentes niveles de in- clusión crecientes (5, 10 y 15%) de harina de Botón de Oro en raciones alimenticias sobre los parámetros sanguíneos de bioquímica sanguínea en pollos de engorde del piedemonte llanero. Un total de 300 pollos de engorde de 21 días de edad se distri- buyeron en jaulas metabólicas de acuerdo a un diseño experimental completamente al azar en 4 tratamientos: control (T0), con harina de Botón de Oro (5%, T1); (10%, T2), (15%, T3) y 5 repeticiones de 15 aves cada uno. Se evaluaron los parámetros san- guíneos a través de las concentraciones plasmáticas de glucosa, colesterol, triglicé- ridos, proteínas totales, albúmina plasmática, globulina plasmática, alanina amino transferasa, ácido úrico y nitrógeno ureico. La utilización de harina de Botón de Oro en la alimentación de pollos de engorde a niveles de 15%, no ocasionó detrimento o aumento en los valores normales, ni produjo efectos negativos en las características al sacrificio de los valores sanguíneos. Este estudio indica la factibilidad de incluir este recurso vegetal como una fuente adecuada de proteína vegetal en raciones balanceadas para pollo de engorde.

Abstract The incorporation of protein sources of vegetable origin in the formula-tion of diets for broilers has emerged as a nutritional alternative in the last years, as a need to establish a sustainable development of the poultry industry, especially on small and medium producers. The high cost of pro- cessed food, especially the source of protein, is one of the main difficulties. Therefore, it can be replaced, in part, by a more economical source, such as the gold button, is an important alternative for the small or medium producer, which in this way could improve its profitability. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of different increasing levels (5, 10 and 15%) of gold button flour in food portions and its effect on blood biochemistry of broiler chickens found in the rural zones of the city of Villavicencio. These included: serum glucose, cholesterol, tri- glycerides, total proteins, serum albumin, serum globulin, alanine amino- transferase, uric acid and urea nitrogen. A total of 300 broilers 21 days old were distributed in metabolic cages according to a completely randomized experimental design in four treatments: control (T0), with gold button flour (5%, T1); (10%, T2), (15%, T3) and five repetitions of 15 chickens each. The use of gold button flour in broiler feed at levels of 15% did not cause detri- ment to or an increase in normal values, nor did it produce negative effects on the characteristics of the blood values. This study indicates the feasibi- lity of including this vegetable resource as an adequate type of protein in balanced portions for broiler chickens.

Resumo Incorporação de fontes vegetais de proteínas na formulação de dietas para frangos de corte, nos últimos anos, surgiu como uma alternativa nutricional que se estabelece como uma necessidade para o desenvolvimento sustentável da indústria avícola em pequena e média escala. O alto custo dos alimentos processados, principalmente a fonte de proteínas, é uma das principais dificuldades. Portanto, poder substituí-lo, em parte, por uma fonte mais econômica, como o botão de ouro, é uma alternativa im- portante para o pequeno ou médio produtor, o que, dessa forma, poderia melhorar sua lucratividade. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de dife- rentes níveis crescentes (5, 10 e 15%) de farinha de botão de ouro em rações alimen- tares sobre os parâmetros sanguíneos da bioquímica sanguínea em frangos de corte no sopé das planícies. Um total de 300 frangos de corte com 21 dias de idade foram distribuídos em gaiolas metabólicas segundo delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado em 4 tratamentos: controle (T0), com farinha de botão de ouro (5%, T1); (10%, T2), (15%, T3) e 5 repetições de 15 aves cada. Os parâmetros sangüíneos foram avaliados através das concentrações plasmáticas de glicose, colesterol, triglicerídeos, proteínas totais, albumina plasmática, globulina plasmática, alanina aminotransferase, ácido úrico e azoto ureico. O uso de farinha de botão de ouro na alimentação de fran- gos de corte em níveis de 15%, não causou prejuízo ou aumento nos valores normais, nem produziu efeitos negativos sobre as características do sacrifício dos valores san- guíneos. Este estudo indica a viabilidade de incluir este recurso vegetal como fonte adequada de proteína vegetal em rações balanceadas para frangos de corte

Milk Production Function and Resource use Efficiency in Rajasthan

The study was undertaken in Rajasthan with the objective to examine the input-output relationships and assess the resource use efficiency in milk production. The study covered 60 dairy households. The results of Cobb-Douglas production function revealed that concentrate had positive and significant influence on returns from buffalo, crossbred cow and local cow milk. Green fodder and labour were also significantly influenced the returns from buffalo, crossbred and local cow. The results of resource use efficiency and marginal value productivity of inputs indicated that inputs were not optimally utilized by dairy households. The green fodder, dry fodder, concentrate and labour in buffalo, concentrate and labour crossbred cow milk production and green fodder in local cow milk production were found to be over utilized in study area resulting higher per litre cost of milk production on these species.

Nutrient absorption in Tithonia Diversifolia / Absorción de Nutrientes en Tithonia diversifolia / Absorção de nutrientes em Tithonia diversifolia

Abstract Tithonia diversifolia is a robust shrub that has high ecological plasticity and adaptability, high capacity of nutrient absorption and high nutrient contents. These characteristics make Tithonia diversifolia be considered as a multi-purpose plant, such as for animal feed, soil decontamination and soil restorer. Likewise, it is a plant with high ecological plasticity and adaptability. The study of the nutrient absorption and the fertilization represent an important advance in the development of productive systems focused on maximizing forage productivity, which guarantees the soil sustainability. Based on this, a split plot design was conducted to study the effects of different levels of fertilization. The results showed an impact of the elements and levels of fertilization on the nutrient absorption capacity, finding that the elements that were incorporated in the fertilization increase the foliar contents and the nutrient absorption in the plant.

Resumen Tithonia diversifolia es un arbusto robusto que tiene alta plasticidad ecológica y adaptabilidad, alta capacidad de absorción de nutrientes y alto contenido de nutrientes. Estas características hacen que Tithonia diversifolia sea considerada una planta multipropósito, tanto para alimento animal como para descontaminación y restauración del suelo. El estudio de la absorción de nutrientes y la fertilización representa un avance importante en el desarrollo de sistemas productivos enfocados en la maximización de la productividad de forraje, lo cual garantiza la sostenibilidad del suelo. Con base en esto, se llevó a cabo un diseño experimental de parcelas divididas con el fin de estudiar los efectos de diferentes niveles de fertilización. Los resultados mostraron un impacto de los elementos y los niveles de fertilización en la capacidad de absorción de nutrientes; se encontró que los elementos que fueron incorporados en la fertilización incrementan los contenidos foliares y la absorción de nutrientes en la planta.

Resumo Tithonia diversifolia é um arbusto robusto que tem alta plasticidade ecológica e adaptabilidade, alta capacidade de absorção de nutrientes e alto conteúdo de nutrientes. Estas características fazem com que Tithonia diversifolia seja considerada uma planta multipropósito, tanto para alimento animal como para descontaminação e restauração do solo. O estudo da absorção de nutrientes e da fertilização representa um avance importante no desenvolvimento de sistemas produtivos enfocados na otimizacao da produtividade de forragem, o que garante a sustentabilidade do solo. Baseado em esto, se realizou um desenho experimental de parcelas divididas com a finalidade de estudar os efeitos de diferentes níveis de fertilização. Os resultados mostraram um impacto dos elementos e dos níveis de fertilização na capacidade de absorção de nutrientes. Se encontrou que os elementos que foram incorporados na fertilização incrementam os conteúdos foliares e a absorção de nutrientes na planta.

In vitro and in situ digestibility of annual ryegrass silage from distinct phenological growth stages and pre-dehydration times / Digestibilidade in vitro e in situ de silagem de azevém anual oriunda de diferentes estádios fenológicos e tempos de pré-secagem

The aim was to evaluate how the fodder pre- dehydration time and its phenological stages influence on ruminal degradability and digestibility of ryegrass silage. The evaluated samples consisted of treatments: Vegetative: Cut and ensiled; cut + 4 hours pre-drying and ensiled and; cut + 7 hours pre-drying and ensiled; Pre-flowering: Silage cutting and ensiled and 4 hours pre-drying and ensiled; Flowering: cut and ensiled, no pre-drying, with four replications each treatment. Silage was storage for four months. It was carried out three in situ digestibility assays to determine the curve of ruminal degradability at different times (3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours), like in situ digestibility and other three assays of 24 hours and 48 hours to determinate in vitro digestibility of silage. The digestibility of ryegrass silage was influenced by both the pre-dehydration times and phenological stage, and the dehydration time of cut and silage had a high proportion of degradable components, with higher degradation rate by 24 hours of incubation. The in vitro digestibility of the ryegrass silage was greater than that in situ for up to 48 hours. The digestibility of the ensiled ryegrass biomass was influenced by the dehydration times, as well as the plant growth stage, regardless of the methodology used, being higher values for the treatment without previous drying of the vegetative stage.

O objetivo foi determinar como o tempo de emurchecimento e o ciclo da planta influenciam na digestibilidade in vitro e degradabilidade in situ da silagem de azevém. As amostras foram provenientes de experimento a campo, com delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com seis tratamentos (Vegetativo: cortar e ensilar; cortar + pré-secagem de 4 horas e ensilar e; cortar + pré-secagem de 7 horas e ensilar. Pré-florescimento: cortar e ensilar e présecagem de 4 horas. Florescimento: cortar e ensilar) e quatro repetições. A armazenagem foi de quatro meses. Foram realizados três ensaios de digestibilidade in situ para determinar a degradabilidade ruminal em diferentes tempos (3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48 e 72 horas) e três ensaios de in vitro. A digestibilidade da silagem de azevém foi influenciada, tanto pelos tempos de desidratação, quanto pela idade da planta, sendo que, o tempo 0 do vegetativo apresentou alta proporção de componentes degradáveis, apresentando maior taxa de degradação até as 24 horas de incubação. A digestibilidade in vitro da silagem foi maior que degradabilidade in situ até às 48 horas. Maior digestibilidade da biomassa foi apresentada pelo tempo 0 do estádio vegetativo, para ambas as técnicas empregadas.

APLICACIÓN DE MODELOS MATEMÁTICOS NO LINEALES PARA LA ESTIMACIÓN DE BIOMASA FORRAJERA DE Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray / APPLICATION OF NON-LINEAR MATHEMATICAL MODELS FOR THE ESTIMATION OF FORAGE BIOMASS OF Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray

RESUMEN La determinación de la biomasa forrajera de los arbustos, generalmente, se realiza con métodos destructivos, por ello, la predicción de la biomasa con métodos no destructivos representa una herramienta para los finqueros e investigadores agropecuarios, lo cual, justifica este estudio, dado el ahorro de tiempo y de recursos en los procesos de planificación del recurso forrajero. La construcción de ecuaciones alométricas es una metodología para la estimación de la biomasa de especies leñosas; estos procedimientos son útiles para los investigadores de los recursos agroforestales. El objetivo de este estudio fue formular una ecuación para estimar la biomasa de arbustos de Tithonia diversifolia, usando mediciones lineales; se analizaron estadísticamente, a través de coeficientes de correlación de Pearson, mediante los cuales, se seleccionaron las variables más correlacionadas con la biomasa. El trabajo de campo fue realizado desde noviembre hasta diciembre de 2013, en el Centro Experimental de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia - CEUNP, Palmira, en un área experimental de 880m, con diseño de surcos cada 2m y distancia entre plantas de 1m, para un total de 440 plantas. El volumen de dosel fue estimado mediante la medición de la altura y dos diámetros, para ser incluidos en una fórmula modificada del volumen básico de un elipsoide. La ecuación de Mitcherlich tuvo el mejor ajuste, siendo el modelo Ӯ =15,06 (1-1,06) -0,12X, el que mejor predice la biomasa forrajera.

SUMMARY Determination of the forage biomass of the bushes is usually done with destructive methods, therefore the prediction of biomass with non-destructive methods represents a tool for farmers and agricultural researchers, which justifies this study, given the saving of time and resources in the planning processes of forage resources. The construction of allometrics equations is a methodology for estimating the biomass of woody species; these procedures are useful for researchers of agroforestry resources. The objective of this study was to generate an equation to estimate the biomass of a shrub, Tithonia diversifolia, using linear measurements; which were statistically analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficients, through which the variables most correlated with the biomass were selected. The work field was conducted from November to December 2013 at the Experimental Center of the National University of Colombia - CEUNP, Palmira, in an experimental area of 880 m, with row design every 2 m and distance between plants of 1 m, for a total of 440 plants. The canopy volume was estimated by measuring the height and two diameters to be included in a modified formula of the basic volume of an ellipsoid. A Mitcherlich equation had the best fit, under the model Ӯ = 15,06 (1-1,06) -0,12X. This equation was the best predictor of biomass for this species.

Valuable Effect of Using Probiotics in Poultry Farming

In this paper the effects of different probiotic, such as "Vitafort", "Lactobyfadol" and "Batsispecin" on turkey, ducklings and goslings growth were evaluated. The studies were carried out at different poultry farms of the Republic of Bashkortostan. Using of "Vitafort", "Lactobyfadol" probiotics in poultry nutrition showed a positive dynamic of live weight gain by 9.2 and 12.5% in turkeys, 5,0 and 5,2% in ducklings and 3.7 to 10.5% in goslings live weight. The optimal dose of "Lactobifadol" probiotics in turkey nutrition was 0.5 ml (107CFU/g) per 1 kg of live weight and at a dose of 0.2 g per 1 kg of live weight in the diets of ducklings. In addition, for goslings the probiotic "Bacispecin" was used with 108 CFU/ml at a dose of 1 ml per 1 kg of live weight. These doses proved to increase the full value of rations as well as the growth and development of birds. There was a positive economic effect of using the probiotics in rations of birds.

Composição química da forragem e do ensilado de azevém anual em função de diferentes tempos de secagem e estádios fenológicos / Chemical composition of annual ryegrass forage and silage for different drying times and phenological phases

O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar como o tempo de secagem e o estádio fenológico da planta influenciam na composição química e qualidade da silagem de azevém (Lolium multiflorum, Lam.). O delineamento experimental foi de blocos ao acaso, com seis tratamentos (vegetativo: cortar e ensilar; cortar + pré-secagem de 4 horas e ensilar; cortar + pré-secagem de 7 horas e ensilar; pré-florescimento: ensilagem, cortar e ensilar e pré-secagem de 4 horas; florescimento: cortar e ensilar) e quatro repetições, com quatro meses de conservação da silagem. Foram determinados: desaparecimento de massa após o corte, rendimento de massa seca, proteína bruta e frações fibrosas. Além disso, foram determinados na silagem: pH, lipídios totais, nitrogênio insolúvel em detergente neutro e ácido. O manejo empregado auxilia na desidratação da forragem, com perda na quantidade de nitrogênio no vegetativo. No pré-florescimento, essa perda não ocorre. O avanço do ciclo da forrageira ocasiona diminuição na quantidade de nutrientes na biomassa, entretanto a produção de forragem é aumentada. A silagem apresentou composição bromatológica semelhante à observada na massa verde de azevém, o que demonstra a eficiência do método de conservação. A ensilagem em estádios mais avançados é aconselhada quando se busca maior quantidade de biomassa ensilada, porém com qualidade inferior.(AU)

The aim was how to define the effect of pre-drying time and the plant phase's influence on chemical composition and quality of ryegrass silage. The experimental design was randomized blocks with six treatments (Vegetative: Cut and ensiled; cut + pre-drying 4 hours and ensiled and; cut + pre-drying of 7 hours and ensiled; Pre-flowering: Silage cutting and ensiled and pre-drying 4 hours Flowering:. cut and ensiled) and four repetitions. The silage was stowed for four months. It were determined the mass disappearance after cutting, dry matter yield, crude protein and fiber fractions. Moreover, it was determined on silage pH, total lipids and insoluble protein content. The management used aids in dehydration of fodder, resulting in losses on the amount of nitrogen on vegetative phase. For pre-flowering, this loss has not occur. The advance of fodder cycle causes a decrease in the amount of nutrients in biomass, but fodder yield increased. Ryegrass silage presented chemical composition similar to that observed on green mass of ryegrass, evinced the efficiency of fodder conservation method. The silage in more advanced phases is advised when seeking greater amount of ensiled biomass, but lower quality.(AU)

Clinical Epidemiological Investigation of Moldy Grain and Fodder Poisoning in Goat in Kathmandu Valley.

An outbreak of a syndrome of unknown etiology associated with the feeding of moldy maize grain and green fodder to goat in a herd of male 3853 goats for sale for the Dashahara festival during the month of October-2010 in Kathmandu valley. In a period of 10 days 500 goats suddenly became ill with symptoms of anorexia, apathy, diarrhea and ruminal stasis .On clinical examination these goats were provisionally diagnosed with sudden illness and moldy corn/fodder poisoning was suspected., about 250 goats died. Necrosis of the fore stomach mucosa was the most characteristic gross pathological change. Clinical pathological findings included mild focal erosions to severe, diffuse, coagulative necrosis of the mucosa in the rumen, reticulum and omasum and congestion and hemorrhages in the abomasums. Liver with shrunken appearance and pale to yellowish discoloration with bile filled distended bladder, pin point hemorrhage in kidney, intestine with excessive mucus. On mycological and microbiological examination of tissue samples from post-mortem of dead goat on respective medium revealed the growth of fungal pathogens like Penicillium spp with Staphylococcus.. These results provide circumstantial evidence that feeding on moldy maize grain and green fodder leaves infested with Penicillium may cause outbreaks of systemic Mycosis in goats.

La irrigación con levaduras incrementa el contenido nutricional del forraje verde hidropónico de maíz / Yeast irrigation enhances the nutritional content in hydroponic green maize fodder

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la irrigación con las levaduras Debaryomyces hansenii var. Fabry, Yarowia lipolytica YIBCS002, Yarowia lipolytica var. BCS y Candida pseudointermedia sobre el contenido nutricional final del forraje verde hidropónico de maíz (Zea mays L. ), al ser efectuada en diferentes etapas de crecimiento de aquel (fase semilla-plántula o fase plántula-planta 20 cm), o bien durante todo el cultivo. Todas las levaduras incrementaron el contenido de proteína cruda, lípidos, cenizas, humedad y energía bruta, independientemente de la etapa de crecimiento del forraje en las que fueron aplicadas. El porcentaje de electrólitos (Na, K, Cl, sulfatos, Ca y Mg) varió en función de la levadura aplicada; D. hansenii incrementó todos los electrólitos, excepto el P. Se concluye que la adición de levaduras del género Debaryomyces, Candida y Yarowia en la solución de riego de sistemas hidropónicos mejora el contenido de nutrientes del forraje verde. Esta práctica puede contribuir a la generación de cultivos de valor comercial en espacios limitados

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of irrigation with yeasts (Debaryomyces hansenii var. Fabry, Yarowia lipolytica YIBCS002, Yarowia lipolytica var. BCS and Candida pseudointermedia) on the final nutritional content of hydroponic green maize fodder (Zea Zea mays L.), applied at different fodder growth stages (1. seed-seedling stage, 2. seedling-plant 20 cm, 3. during all the culture). Irrespective of the fodder growth stages at which they were applied, all yeasts tested enhanced the content of raw protein, lipids, ash, moisture and energy. The percentage of electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, sulphates, Ca and Mg) showed different responses depending on the kind of yeast applied; D. hansenii exhibited the highest increment in all electrolytes, except for phosphorous. We conclude that the addition of yeasts belonging to the genera Debaryomyces, Candida and Yarowia to the irrigation solution of hydroponic systems enhances the nutrient content of green fodder. This kind of irrigation can be applied to generate high commercial value cultures in limited spaces.

INCLUSIÓN DE HARINAS DE FOLLAJES ARBÓREOS Y ARBUSTIVOS TROPICALES (Morus alba, Erythrina poeppigiana, Tithonia diversifolia E Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) EN LA ALIMENTACIÓN DE CUYES (Cavia porcellus Linnaeus) / LEAF MEALS AND TROPICAL SHRUBBY FOLIAGE (Morus alba, Erythrina poeppigiana, Tithonia diversifolia AND Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) IN FEEDING GUINEA PIGS (Cavia porcellus Linnaeus)

La investigación se ejecutó en la Finca Experimental "La María" propiedad de la Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo (UTEQ) localizada en el km 7¹/2 de la vía Quevedo-Mocache; Provincia de Los Ríos cuya ubicación geográfica de 1º 6' 23" de latitud sur y 79º 29' 12" de longitud oeste y a una altura de 73 m.s.n.m. El objetivo principal fue evaluar el comportamiento productivo de cuyes con la inclusión del 20% de harinas derivadas de follajes arbustivos y arbóreos tropicales. Se utilizaron 40 cuyes macho de 30 días de edad. Se empleó un diseño completamente al azar con cinco tratamientos, cuatro réplicas y la unidad experimental estuvo conformado por dos cuyes. Para determinar las diferencias entre medias de tratamientos se aplicó la prueba de Tukey (P≤0.05). Se evaluaron cinco dietas-tratamientos: (T0) dieta 100% balanceado, (T1) 80% dieta y 20% harina de Morus alba, (T2) 80% dieta y 20% harina de Erythrina poeppigiana, (T3) 80% dieta y 20% harina de Tithonia diversifolia, (T4) 80% dieta y 20% harina de Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Las variables bajo estudio fueron: consumo de alimento de balanceado en materia seca (CABMS, g), ganancia de peso (GP, g), índice de conversión alimenticia (ICA) y rendimiento en canal (RC, %). La rentabilidad de los tratamientos se determinó a través de la relación beneficio-costo (R b/c). Los mayores (P<0.01) CABMS, GP-ICA y RC-Rentabilidad, la registraron los tratamientos: T0 (48.34 g MS animal-1 d-1), T1 (8.80 g animal-1 d-1 y 5.04) y el T3 (77.67% y 26.20%), respectivamente.

The research was carried out at the Experimental farm "La María" property of the State Technical University of Quevedo located at km 7¹/2 in road Quevedo-Mocache; Los Ríos province, with a geographical location of 1° 6' 23" south latitude and 79º 29' 12" west longitude, at 73 meters altitude. The aim was to evaluate the productive effect of leaf meal and tropical shrubs with inclusion 20%. Were used 40 male guinea pigs of 30 days age and a completely randomized design with five treatments and four repetitions, two male guinea pigs was used to study. A 56-days experiment was conducted, and was applied the Tukey test (P≤0.05) to determine differences. Five treatments in diets were evaluated: (T0) 100% balanced diet; (T1) 80% and 20% leaf meal Morus alba flour (T2); 80% diet and 20% Erythrina poeppigiana flour; (T3) 80% diet and 20% Tithonia diversifolia flour; (T4) 80% diet and 20% Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flour. The following variables were used: Balanced feed consumption in dry matter (CABMS, g), weight obtained (GP, g), alimentary conversion index (ICA), performance distribution channel (RC, %). The profitability of the treatments was determined using the benefit-cost ratio (R b/c) ratio. The higher (P<0.01) CABMS, GP-ICA, RC- yield, assigned treatments: T0 (48.34 g DM animal-1 d-1), T1 (8.80 g animal-1 d-1 and 5.04) and T3 (77.67 % and 26.20%), respectively.

Morphological traits association with fodder and seed yield in Vigna unguiculata (L.).

In cowpea, dual purpose plant types are more preferable for cultivation. Therefore, exotic and indigenous cowpea germplasm lines were evaluated in augmented design to study estimates of the correlation coefficients and path analysis of morphological as well as fodder and grain yield attributes. The present study showed a high impact of direct effects of correlation (0.9714**) and suggested that going for plant types with higher biomass per plant (0.8856**), dry weight per plant (0.4598), stem girth (0.2336) number of secondary branches (0.2788), leaves per plant (0.3251), pods per plant (0.9059) and pod clusters per plant (0.7718) would be effective for improving both fodder and seed yield in cowpea.

Forage intake of the collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) / Consumo de forraje del pecarí de collar (Pecari tajacu) / O consumo de forragem pelo cateto (Pecari tajacu)

Objective: to evaluate voluntary intake of four forage species by collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) under confinement. Methods: four peccaries underwent a consumption test to assess their preference among four forages (Leucaena leucocephala, Guazuma ulmifolia, Brosimum alicastrum and Pennisetum purpureum). The experiment was divided into two phases. The first consisted of an adaptation period of 4 days during which they were offered 1 kg of each forage in different feeders for 4 hours, then removing and weighing the remaining forage to determine consumption. The voluntary intake test was assessed in the second phase using a Latin square design (4x4). Forage intake was analyzed using the Statgraphics 5.1 software. Results: highly significant differences (p <0.01) between consumption of each forage were observed, being G. ulmifolia the most consumed (170.18 g dry matter), followed by L. leucocephala, and B. alicastrum (132.19 and 98.37 g dry matter, respectively). The least consumed was P. purpureum (21.65 g dry matter). Conclusions: considering its high consumption and moisture content, G. ulmifolia could be successfully used as cut fodder for peccaries under confinement.

Objetivo: evaluar el consumo voluntario de cuatro especies de plantas forrajeras por el pecarí de collar bajo confinamiento (Pecari tajacu). Métodos: cuatro pecaríes fueron sometidos a una prueba de consumo en cautiverio para evaluar su preferencia entre cuatro sustratos forrajeros (Leucaena leucocephala, Guazuma ulmifolia, Brosimum alicastrum y Pennisetum purpureum). El experimento se dividió en dos fases. La primera consistió en un periodo de adaptación de 4 días, durante los cuales se les ofreció 1 kg de cada forraje en diferentes comederos durante 4 horas, retirando luego el forraje y pesando el remanente para determinar su consumo. La prueba de consumo voluntario se ejecutó en la segunda fase mediante un diseño de cuadrado latino (4x4). El consumo de forraje se analizó mediante el software Statgraphics 5.1. Resultados: se encontraron diferencias altamente significativas (p<0.01) entre los consumos de cada forraje, siendo G. ulmifolia el más consumido (170.179 g materia seca), seguido de L. leucocephala, y B. alicastrum (132.19 y 98.37 g de materia seca, respectivamente), siendo P. purpureum el menos consumido (21.65g materia seca). Conclusiones: por su alto consumo y gran contenido de humedad, G. ulmifolia podría utilizarse exitosamente como forraje cortado para pecaríes bajo confinamiento.

Objetivo: avaliar o consumo voluntário de quatro espécies de plantas forrageiras pelos catetos sob confinamento (Pecari tajacu). Métodos: quatro catetos foram submetidos a uma prova de consumo em cativeiro para avaliar sua preferência entre quatro substratos forrageiros (Leucaena leucocephala, Guazuma ulmifolia, Brosimum alicastrum e Pennisetum purpureum). O experimento dividiu-se em duas fases. A primeira consistiu num período de adaptação de 4 dias, durante os quais foi oferecido 1 kg de cada forragem em diferentes comedouros durante 4 horas, retirando depois a forragem e pesando o remanente para determinar o consumo. A prova de consumo voluntário executou-se na segunda fase mediante um desenho de quadrado latino (4x4). O consumo de forragem analisou-se mediante o software Statgraphics 5.1. Resultados: Foram encontradas diferenças altamente significativas (P <0.01) entre o consumo de cada forragem, sendo G. ulmifolia o mais consumido (170.179 g de matéria seca), seguido por L. leucocephala e B. alicastrum (132.19 e 98.37 g de matéria seca, respectivamente), e P. purpureum o menos consumido (matéria seca 21.65g). Conclusões: Devido ao consumo elevado e ao alto teor de umidade, G. ulmifolia poderia ser utilizado com sucesso como forragem cortado para catetos em confinamento.