Nutritional value and kinetics of in vitro fermentation of spineless cactus of the genus Nopalea in different phenological phases.

The objective was to evaluate the chemical composition and in vitro fermentation of spineless cactus of the genus Nopalea, F-21 (Nopalea cochenillifera Dyck), IPA-Sertânia (Nopalea cochenillifera Dyck) and Miúda (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm Dyck), in different phenophases. There was no effect (P < 0.05) of the phenological phases of spineless cactus on DM, ash, OM, EE, and CP. Varieties F-21 and Miúda presented higher values of DM and OM, whereas the CP was higher for IPA-Sertânia. The contents of NDF, ADF, and ADL, as well as the fractions of carbohydrates B2 and C were higher in the mature stage, irrespective of the variety. The Miúda variety showed higher levels of NFC and fractions A + B1 and the lower levels of pectin compared to the F-21 and IPA-Sertânia varieties, but not differ of TC to F-21. The volume of gas produced via the degradation of NFC was higher for young phenological phases. The young and intermediate stages showed a higher in vitro digestibility of DM. Based on the results, varieties IPA-Sertânia and Miúda have a high potential for use in animal feed because of their high nutritional quality. Mature cladodes showed a higher fibrous fraction and lower digestibility in all varieties.

Impact of feeding native Caatinga pasture on the rumen histomorphometry of sheep raised in semi-extensive management.

In the northeastern region of Brazil, sheep and goat farming, encompassing around 20 million animals, is predominantly a subsistence activity. Forage quality plays a crucial role in animal productivity, posing a complex interplay between plant and animal aspects. The Caatinga biome, vital for livestock in the region, serves as a significant source for animal diet through pastures. This study aimed to conduct a histomorphometric evaluation of sheep rumens in a semi-extensive system, comparing those feeding on native Caatinga pastures to those on cultivated pastures. Histological processing followed standard protocols, with morphometry focusing on six viable rumen papillae and the submucosa and muscular layer thickness. Statistical correlation analysis revealed morphological differences in papillae across various rumen regions. Morphometric data indicated no significant difference in papillae area between the groups, with average values in Group A surpassing those in Group B, except for width. This study establishes a morphological and morphometric pattern for rumen regions linked to diet types-native or cultivated. The findings not only enhance understanding of the dietary foundation in the Caatinga's extensive system, but also contribute valuable insights for formulating nutritional strategies to enhance sheep production in the region. This research sheds light on the intricacies of forage-based animal nutrition, particularly in semi-extensive systems, offering a foundation for future studies and practices to optimise livestock management in the northeastern Brazilian context.