Do forage production and ingestive behavior of locally adapted sheep differ from an irrigated silvopastoral system to an irrigated monoculture in the semi-arid region?

This study aimed to evaluate forage production and ingestive behavior of Morada Nova sheep in an intensive system with capim-tamani grass in both monoculture and silvopastoral irrigated systems in the Semi-arid region. Eighteen adult sheep, approximately 3 years old, with an average body weight of 26.8 ± 4.3 kg, were allocated to treatments with capim-tamani grass cultivated in monoculture and in silvopastoral systems with Caatinga trees. The experiment followed a completely randomized complete block design with two plots and three replications. Forage production, consumption, and behavioral activities were the assessed variables. The animals remained in the pasture daily between 6 am and 6 pm. No effects of the monoculture and silvopastoral systems were observed on the structural and productive characteristics of the capim-tamani grass pasture. There were also no observed effects on body condition score, consumption, and disappearance rate of dry matter (DM) and other nutrients in both systems. However, there was an interaction between the time animals spent under shade in monoculture and silvopastoral systems. In general, the animals spent more time under shade where there were trees, except during the period between 2 pm and 4 pm, when the times were similar. On average, the animals spent approximately 15.6% (equivalent to 1.87 h) of their total time in the artificial shade available in the monoculture system, whereas in the silvopastoral system, they remained under natural shade for approximately 40% (five and a half hours) of their time spent in the pasture during the day. The grazing frequency in both systems was approximately 70% (8.4 h) in relation to the total time spent in the pasture. The capim-tamani grass pasture managed intensively with sheep in the silvopastoral system showed similar forage production and consumption compared to the monoculture system. There was a positive influence of trees on the duration of solar radiation exposure to the animals throughout the day. The results support the need to provide shade for sheep, as well as to promote these sustainable systems in semi-arid regions.

Economic and financial viability of the production of Brazilian somalis sheep fed with different nutritional plans.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the economic and financial viability of finishing of two sexes of Brazilian Somalis sheep in feedlot receiving diets with 0 and 15% reduction in the total digestible nutrients and crude protein contents. A completely randomized design was adopted, in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, with treatments consisting of two sexes (non-castrated males (21.13 ± 5.00 kg) and females (17.99 ± 3.79 kg) and two diets (0 and 15% reduction in the levels of total digestible nutrients and crude protein). Four simulations of productive scenarios were carried out: non-castrated males receiving the diet with 0% reduction; non-castrated males receiving the diet with 15% reduction; females receiving the diet with 0% reduction and females receiving the diet with 0% reduction, for a period of 70 days in feedlot. The highest costs of the system were with feeding and other costs, mainly the acquisition of animals. For both sexes, the 0% reduction diet showed the highest total cost, total revenue, break-even point. Non-castrated males fed a non-reduced diet and females fed a 15% reduction diet had higher net income, rate of return, total productivity, net present value, internal rate of return, profitability index and profitability rate. Less favorable situations were not profitable for any scenario. However, the increase in sales price favorability makes the activity viable. The reduction of total digestible nutrients and crude protein affects the economic and financial viability of Brazilian Somalis sheep. For non-castrated males it is recommended the diet without reduction and for females the diet with 15% reduction of nutrients.

Nutritional parameters and productive performance of grazing sheep using castor bean cake as supplement or fertilizer.

The objective was to evaluate the effect of detoxified castor bean replacing soybean meal in the concentrate diet or as nitrogen organic fertilizer replacing urea on intake and nutrient digestibility, blood parameters and productive performance of sheep finished on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking and variable stocking rate. The treatments were two concentrate diets: standard (ground corn and soybean meal) and alternative diet (ground corn and detoxified castor bean cake), and two nitrogen fertilizers: chemical (urea) and organic (fresh castor bean cake). The randomized complete block design was used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with four replications (500 m² paddocks). Four sheep (2 castrated males and 2 females) were distributed in each experimental unit, totaling 64 animals with an average initial weight of 19.42 ± 3.6 kg. No effects (P > 0.05) were observed on the variables inherent to the evaluation of the pasture. The average stocking rate (SR) among treatments was 85.50 sheep/ha, equivalent to 9.87 Animal Units (AU)/ha. The alternative diet presented lower dry matter digestibility (62.71%), with no negative effects on nutrient intake and kidney parameters. Animals fed the standard and alternative diet showed average daily gain of 103.75 and 86.76 g/day, respectively. A finishing period of up to 100 days is recommended for sheep selected for production systems in semi-arid regions managed intensively on pasture. Detoxified castor bean cake did not alter nutrient intake, liver and kidney parameters of the sheep and can be used in pasture-based sheep farming.

Productive, thermoregulatory, and hormonal responses of dairy goats supplemented with selenium-enriched yeast in the Brazilian semi-arid region.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding selenium-enriched yeast (SE) in the diet of dairy goats during 60 days of lactation and its effect on productive, thermoregulatory, and hormonal responses of animals managed in a semi-arid region. Sixteen Saanen × Toggenburg crossbred goats were used in a completely randomized design. Goats were weighed, and their milk yield was monitored weekly. Before the animals entered the treatments and at every 20-day milk producing, blood samples were collected to determine the SE levels. At 20, 40, and days of the lactation cycle, individual milk samples were collected to determine composition, casein, urea nitrogen, and selenium content. Measurements of respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), coat surface temperature (CST), and epidermal temperature (ET) were performed weekly during the experimental period in two shifts, one in the morning (9 am) and the other in the afternoon (3 pm). No difference (P > 0.05) was detected for body weight, milk yield, composition, selenium concentration, and urea nitrogen. Lower RR and ET (P < 0.05) were observed for animals that received SE supplementation. Thyroid hormone concentrations were similar between treatments (P > 0.05). The positive results of the SE supplementation were concentrated in thermoregulatory responses, and there was no effect on productive, hormonal responses, and plasmatic concentration of selenium in the milk. The SE supplementation for dairy goats managed in a Brazilian semi-arid region was able to promote reduction of RR and coat temperatures.

Effect of a 60-day organic selenium-supplemented diet on the decrease of somatic cell counts in goat milk.

Selenium is an important element in nutrition, showing great potential in the udder health of dairy goats and in the control of subclinical mastitis. However, there are few studies that evaluated the influence of selenium supplementation on subclinical mastitis in goats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of subclinical mastitis in dairy goats supplemented with organic selenium (Se yeast) in a semi-arid region. Sixteen Saanen × Toggenburg crossbred lactating goats were allocated randomly into two treatments: with and without addition of organic selenium (Se) to the concentrate. Milk samples were collected every 20 days from each udder half to determine the somatic cell count (SSC), chloride content, pH, electrical conductivity, microbiological isolation, composition, and selenium contents. The highest serum selenium concentrations in the blood of these goats occurred at 42 days of supplementation (P < 0.001). Goats which received organic selenium supplementation had higher serum selenium concentrations (P < 0.05). The milk composition variables did not differ (P > 0.05) between the tested treatments, teats, and collections. After 60 days of supplementation, a difference was observed (P < 0.05) between treatments for SSC, chloride content, and pH. Addition of organic selenium to the diet of dairy goats after 60 days of supplementation was promising in reducing the somatic cell count, consequently improving milk quality.

Impact of organic fertilization on establishing an agroforestry system in a semi-arid Brazilian region / Impacto da adubação orgânica no estabelecimento de um sistema agroflorestal em região semiárida brasileira

Improving soil fertility with organic sources is crucial, particularly in degraded regions. Organic fertilizers, when integrated into systems, provide cost-effective solutions. This study aimed to assess the impact of various organic fertilizers on the establishment of an agroforestry system in Planosol in a semi-arid region of Ceará State, Brazil. We used a randomized block design arranged in split plots. Four organic fertilizer sources (sheep manure, cattle manure, carnauba palm straw, and control) were assigned to the main plots. Evaluation years for annual crops (2015, 2017, and 2019) and for trees (2015 through 2017, and 2019) were allocated to subplots, with three replicates. All organic fertilization sources received an annual rate of 10 t ha-1, broadcasted uniformly. Experimental plots, spanning 18 x 7 m, were intercropped with maize and cowpea between rows of trees (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia and Spondias mombin). We examined soil fertility, tree growth, and crop grain yield. Soil chemistry, notably P and K, showed marked improvement with sheep manure. Organic fertilization did not enhance tree growth in the newly established agroforestry system. However, organic fertilization elevated maize and cowpea grain yields by over 60% and 90%, respectively, compared to the control. In conclusion, the use of sheep manure, cattle manure, and carnauba palm straw can significantly boost maize and cowpea grain yields in an agroforestry system found in the semi-arid region of Ceará, Brazil.(AU)

Melhorar a fertilidade do solo com fontes orgânicas é crucial, especialmente em regiões degradadas. Os fertilizantes orgânicos, quando integrados em sistemas, proporcionam soluções económicas. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o impacto de diversos fertilizantes orgânicos no estabelecimento de um sistema agroflorestal em Planossolo, no semiárido do Estado do Ceará, Brasil. Utilizou-se delineamento em blocos casualizados dispostos em parcelas subdivididas. Quatro fontes de fertilizantes orgânicos (esterco ovino, esterco bovino, palha de carnaúba e controle) foram atribuídas às parcelas principais. Os anos de avaliação para culturas anuais (2015, 2017 e 2019) e para árvores (2015 a 2017 e 2019) foram alocados em subparcelas, com três repetições. Todas as fontes de adubação orgânica receberam uma taxa anual de 10 t ha-1, distribuída uniformemente. Parcelas experimentais, medindo 18 x 7 m, foram consorciadas com milho e feijão-caupi entre fileiras de árvores (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia e Spondias mombin). Examinamos a fertilidade do solo, o crescimento das árvores e o rendimento dos grãos. A química do solo, especialmente P e K, mostrou melhoria acentuada com esterco de ovelha. A fertilização orgânica não melhorou o crescimento das árvores no sistema agroflorestal recentemente estabelecido. No entanto, a fertilização orgânica elevou a produtividade de grãos de milho e feijão-caupi em mais de 60% e 90%, respectivamente, em comparação com o controle. Concluindo, o uso de esterco ovino, esterco bovino e palha de carnaúba pode aumentar significativamente a produtividade de grãos de milho e feijão-caupi em um sistema agroflorestal encontrado na região semiárida do Ceará, Brasil.(AU)

Bioeconomic evaluation of pasture sheep finishing using castor bean cake / Avaliação bioeconômica da terminação de ovinos sob pastejo utilizando torta de mamona

This study evaluates the economic viability of sheep finishing systems on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking, using castor bean cake. Four production systems were simulated: sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with urea (SMUR), sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with urea (CCdUR), sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (SMCC) and sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (CCdCC). A minimum unit of 3 hectares and an average slaughter weight of 28 kg were considered. A minimum selling price, at which the least profitable system would become profitable, was stablished: US$ 2.38 and US$ 4.45/kg per kilogram of body weight and carcass weight equivalent, adopting a minimum rate of return of 3.5% per year, based on the Selic rate. The costs for organic fertilization were 46.01% higher than in systems using chemical fertilization. The selling of live animals was not attractive in any of the systems evaluated, and the opposite was observed for the selling of carcasses and non-carcass components. System SMUR proved to be more profitable, with a gain of US$ 0.53 per kg carcass.

Objetivou-se avaliar a economicidade de sistemas de terminação de ovinos em pastagem irrigada de capim-tamani sob lotação contínua, utilizando torta de mamona. Foram simulados quatro sistemas de produção: ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com ureia (FSUR), ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com ureia (TMdUR), ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (FSTM) e ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (TMdTM). Foi considerada a unidade mínima de 3 hectares e determinado um peso médio ao abate de 28 kg de peso corporal. Estabeleceu-se um preço de venda mínimo, no qual o sistema de criação menos lucrativo se tornasse rentável de 2,38 e 4,45 dólares por quilograma de peso corporal e por equivalente de peso da carcaça, dotando uma taxa mínima de atratividade de 3,5% ao ano, com base na taxa Selic. Os custos com adubação orgânica, em média, são 46,01% superiores aos sistemas que utilizam adubação química. A venda de animais vivos não é atrativa em nenhum dos sistemas avaliados, sendo o contrário observado para a comercialização de carcaças e dos não componentes da carcaça de ovinos. O sistema de produção FSUR se mostrou mais lucrativo, com ganho de US$ 0.53 centavos por kg de carcaça.

Productivity and nutrient export in a maize and forage grasses intercropping under semiarid conditions / Produtividade e exportação de nutrientes em um consórcio de milho e gramíneas forrageiras nas condições do semiárido

The aim was to evaluate the productive performance and nutrient export of maize intercropped with drought-tolerant forage grasses. The experimental design was a randomized blocks in a 2x2x2+1 factorial scheme (two forage grasses species ­ Massai and Buffel; two forage sowing methods - in the furrow and broadcast; and two forage sowing times - anticipated and simultaneous; and monoculture maize as an additional control), with three replicates. The maize+forage intercropping promoted greater competition for resources, especially water, limiting N uptake, chlorophyll synthesis, and biomass production by maize under semiarid conditions. Early sowing gave forage plants a competitive advantage, favoring forage establishment before or immediately after the sowing of maize. Thus, the simultaneous sowing of forage grasses in a semiarid environment is a more appropriate option considering the importance of high levels of chlorophyll to ensure high photosynthetic activity in maize plants and greater capacity of biomass synthesis. Massai intercropped with maize exhibits a greaterpotential for biomass production than Buffel under semiarid conditions. Maize+Buffel result in highest macronutrient export by maize, while maize+Massai result in highest macronutrient exports by total forage biomass under a semiarid environment. The choice of the forage species and its sowing time in relation to maize are the main determinants of successful intercropping systems under semiarid conditions.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar o desempenho produtivo e a exportação de nutrientes do consórcio de milho com gramíneas forrageiras tolerantes ao estresse hídrico. O experimento foi delineado em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 2x2x2+1 (duas espécies de gramíneas forrageiras ­ Massai e Buffel; dois métodos de semeadura ­ no sulco e a lanço; e duas épocas de semeadura ­ antecipada e simultânea; e monocultivo de milho como um controle adicional), com três repetições. O consórcio milho+forragem promoveu maior competição por recursos, principalmente água, limitando a absorção de N, síntese de clorofila e produção de biomassa pelo milho para condições semiáridas. A semeadura precoce deu vantagem competitiva às plantas forrageiras, favorecendo seu estabelecimento antes ou imediatamente após a semeadura do milho. Assim, a semeadura simultânea de gramíneas forrageiras em ambiente semiárido é uma opção mais adequada, considerando a importância de garantir altos teores de clorofila e, consequentemente, alta atividade fotossintética nas plantas de milho para garantir a capacidade de síntese de biomassa.Massai consorciado com milho apresenta maior potencial para produção de biomassa do que Buffel em condições semiáridas.Milho+Buffel resulta em maior exportação de macronutrientes pelo milho, enquanto milho+Massai resulta em maior exportação de macronutrientes pela biomassa forrageira total em ambiente semiárido.A escolha da espécie forrageira e sua época de semeadura em relação ao milho são os principais determinantes do sucesso do consórcio no semiárido.(AU)

Castor bean cake for the control of parasites in pasture-finished sheep.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate castor bean cake as alternative input in the control of gastrointestinal parasites in sheep raised on irrigated pasture under continuous stocking. The treatments consisted of sheep supplemented with standard diet and pasture fertilized with urea; sheep supplemented with alternative diet and pasture fertilized with urea; sheep supplemented with standard diet and pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake; and sheep supplemented with alternative diet and pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake. A randomized complete block design (CBD) was used, with 16 replications (sheep), with repeated measures over time, the plots being the treatments, and the subplots the collection times. Infective nematode larvae in the pasture (L3.g DM-1), number of eggs per gram of feces (EPG), globular volume (GV), and total plasma protein (TPP) were evaluated. For adult gastrointestinal parasite counts, CBD was also used with six replications. Except for FAMACHA© grade, all variables had effect (P < 0.01) of the time factor. The average number of L3.g DM-1 and EPG were 126 and 841, respectively, with no effect (P > 0.05) of the treatment factor. The values observed for GV and TPP were higher than 25.9% and 6.4 g·dL-1, respectively, which were considered normal. As organic fertilizer, the fractionated application of in natura castor bean cake does not reduce the contamination of pastures by nematode larvae. The evaluated feeds improve the resilience of the sheep to infection by gastrointestinal parasites. The treatments using castor bean cake reduced the adult parasites present in the abomasum of sheep.

Gas exchanges, chemical composition and productive characteristics of tropical grasses deferred I: cultivars BRS Massai and BRS Tamani

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the physiological parameters, the productive characteristics, structural and chemical composition of Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) cultivars BRS Massai and BRS Tamani submitted to different periods of deferment and moments of use. The experimental design was randomized complete block design in a factorial scheme 2 x 2 x 3, being two grass cultivars (Massai grass and Tamani grass), two deferment periods (rainy season and dry-rainy transition) and three sealing times (40, 80 and 120 days). Both cultivars had higher leaf transpiration rate when used for 40 days of deferment (0.63 mol/m2/s). It was observed that the cultivar BRS Massai presented higher photosynthetic rate (P 0.05) to 40 days of deferment (1.10 mol/m2/s), higher rate of production and forage accumulation when used for 40 days. On another side, there was a greater efficiency in the use of water during the period of transition in the pastures sealed for 80 and 120 days (64.60 and 62.30 kg DM/ha/mm, respectively). A reduction (P 0.05) of total digestible nutrients (TDN) and crude protein (CP) was observed with the increase in pasture sealing time. In general, the deferment in the transition period allows the use of forage without greater productive and nutrient losses up to 80 days of sealing for the cultivar BRS Tamani and up to 40 days for BRS Massai.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros fisiológicos, as características produtivas, estruturais e composição química de Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) cultivares BRS Massai e BRS Tamani submetidas à diferentes períodos de diferimento e momentos de utilização. Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos completos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2 x 3, sendo duas cultivares de gramíneas (capim-massai e capim-tamani), dois períodos de diferimento (período chuvoso e transição chuvoso-seco) e três tempos de vedação (40, 80 e 120 dias). Ambas as cultivares tiveram maior taxa de transpiração foliar quando utilizadas aos 40 dias de diferimento (0,63 mol/m2/s). Observou-se que a cultivar BRS Massai apresentou a maior taxa fotossintética (1,10 mol/m²/s), taxa de produção e acúmulo de forragem quando utilizada aos 40 dias de diferimento (P 0,05). Por outo lado, houve maior eficiência no uso da água durante o período de transição nos pastos vedados por 80 e 120 dias (64,60 e 62,30 kg de MS/ha/mm, respectivamente). Observou-se redução (P 0,05) dos nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e proteína bruta (PB) com o aumento no tempo de vedação das pastagens. De modo geral o diferimento no período de transição possibilita a utilização da forragem sem maiores perdas produtivas e nutritivas até os 80 dias de vedação para a cultivar BRS Tamani e até os 40 dias para a BRS Massai.

Gas exchanges, chemical composition and productive characteristics of tropical grasses deferred I: cultivars BRS Massai and BRS Tamani / Trocas gasosas, características produtivas e composição química de gramíneas tropicais diferidas I: cultivares BRS Massai e BRS Tamanii

This study aimed to evaluate the physiological parameters, the productive characteristics, structural and chemical composition of Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) cultivars BRS Massai and BRS Tamani submitted to different periods of deferment and moments of use. The experimental design was randomized complete block design in a factorial scheme 2 x 2 x 3, being two grass cultivars (Massai grass and Tamani grass), two deferment periods (rainy season and dry-rainy transition) and three sealing times (40, 80 and 120 days). Both cultivars had higher leaf transpiration rate when used for 40 days of deferment (0.63 µmol/m2/s). It was observed that the cultivar BRS Massai presented higher photosynthetic rate (P<0.05) to 40 days of deferment (1.10 µmol/m2/s), higher rate of production and forage accumulation when used for 40 days. On another side, there was a greater efficiency in the use of water during the period of transition in the pastures sealed for 80 and 120 days (64.60 and 62.30 kg DM/ha/mm, respectively). A reduction (P<0.05) of total digestible nutrients (TDN) and crude protein (CP) was observed with the increase in pasture sealing time. In general, the deferment in the transition period allows the use of forage without greater productive and nutrient losses up to 80 days of sealing for the cultivar BRS Tamani and up to 40 days for BRS Massai.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros fisiológicos, as características produtivas, estruturais e composição química de Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) cultivares BRS Massai e BRS Tamani submetidas à diferentes períodos de diferimento e momentos de utilização. Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos completos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2 x 3, sendo duas cultivares de gramíneas (capim-massai e capim-tamani), dois períodos de diferimento (período chuvoso e transição chuvoso-seco) e três tempos de vedação (40, 80 e 120 dias). Ambas as cultivares tiveram maior taxa de transpiração foliar quando utilizadas aos 40 dias de diferimento (0,63 µmol/m2/s). Observou-se que a cultivar BRS Massai apresentou a maior taxa fotossintética (1,10 µmol/m²/s), taxa de produção e acúmulo de forragem quando utilizada aos 40 dias de diferimento (P<0,05). Por outo lado, houve maior eficiência no uso da água durante o período de transição nos pastos vedados por 80 e 120 dias (64,60 e 62,30 kg de MS/ha/mm, respectivamente). Observou-se redução (P<0,05) dos nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e proteína bruta (PB) com o aumento no tempo de vedação das pastagens. De modo geral o diferimento no período de transição possibilita a utilização da forragem sem maiores perdas produtivas e nutritivas até os 80 dias de vedação para a cultivar BRS Tamani e até os 40 dias para a BRS Massai.(AU)

Goatkids fed diets containing castor cake detoxified: II. Nitrogen balance, hepatic and renalfunction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of completely replacing soybean meal (SM) with castor cake detoxified (DCC) with two alkaline products on the nitrogen balance and hepatic and renal function in goat kids. Goatkids of two breeds, Saanen and Anglo Nubian, with an initial body weight of 16.2 ± 0.67 kg, and confined during the growth phase, were used. The treatments consisted of three diets: one based on SM and the other two based on castor cake detoxified with Ca(OH)2or NaOH. Twenty-four goats kids were distributed in a completelyrandomized design using a 3 x 2 factorial scheme (diet x breed) with four replicates per combination. The experimental period lasted for 270 days. Consumed nitrogen, fecal nitrogen, urinary nitrogen, retained nitrogen, and nitrogen balance were influenced(p < 0.05) by diets. There was significant effect of diets (p < 0.05) on creatinine, direct bilirubin, urea, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase blood levels, however without any negative changes involving renal or hepatic dysfunction. Inclusion of castor cake in the diet of goats kids in confinement is an attractive option, considering that goats kids use does not cause hepatic and renal alterations, suggesting that SM can be completely replaced. NaOH DCC stands in the substitution of soybean meal, because in spite of decreasing the consumption of nitrogen provides the same retention of soybean meal.(AU)

Feeding behavior of sheep in feedlot and fed with diets containing detoxified castor cake in substitution to the soybean meal

To evaluate the ingestive behavior of sheep confined and fed with substitution levels of soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor cake (DCC). We adopted a completely randomized design, with four levels of substitution (0; 33; 67 and 100%) with five replicates (sheep). We estimated the percentages of total times of intake of feed, time of rumination, in 'other activities', in idle agreed and in idle sleeping, dividing the day into eight periods (5h00 to 8h00; 8h01 to 11h00; 11h01 to 14h00; 14h01 to 17h00; 17h01 to 20h00; 20h01 to 23h00; 23h01 to 2h00 and 2h01 to 5h00). No interaction was observed between levels of substitution of the SM by DCC and period of the day to go. However, the isolated effect period of the day, there is more time to go from 8h00 to 11h00. The time rumination was not influenced by the levels of substitution of the SM by DCC. As for the variable other activities, the level of 67% DCC was superior to that of 100%. Regarding the variables idle agreed and idle sleeping, were not observed effects of substitution levels of SM by DCC. The DCC provides no changes in the behavior of the sheep, but the period of the day exerts influence on the behavioral pattern of such animals.(AU)

Effect of concentrate supplement to ewes on nutritive value of ingested Caatinga native forage nutritive value as affected by season.

The objective of this study was to identify by microhistological technique the reference chemical components for use as indicators of the nutritive value of Caatinga plants forage grazed by sheep throughout the year. A flock of twenty mixed-race meat ewes, multiparous, in production, with an average 34.84 ± 1.75 kg live weight and 36 months of age was assigned to supplement treatment of 0, 200, 350, and 500 g concentrate/head/day for 3 years. The experiment was designed as a randomized complete design with repeated measures over time. Supplementation with concentrate did not influence chemical composition of selected forage. In contrast, season heavily influenced diet chemical composition. Canopy stratum, season, and plant botanical family of selected species affected forage chemical composition selected by ewes. The ewes selected forage with greater nutritive value during the rainy season. Based on principal component analysis of the nutritive value of the primary forage species selected, ewes preferentially grazed plants contained greater neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, crude protein (CP), C fraction of nitrogenous compounds, and carbohydrate fractions A + B1 and C compared to the average native Caatinga herbage. Rangeland botanical composition and ewe diet varied during the year, affecting forage nutrients on offer, with the best diet selected during the rainy season because of the presence of dicotyledonous herbaceous species rich in CP as well as soluble carbohydrates and nitrogenous compounds. Concentrate supplement strategies for ewes on rangelands, such as Caatinga, should be determined by herbaceous species nutritive value during the rainy season and deep-rooted perennial dicotyledons during the dry season. These include the need to monitor ewe selection of forage species and their nutritive value, which is effectively accomplished with fecal microhistological techniques.

Chemical characteristics of the compost of waste from the production and slaughter of small ruminants / Características químicas na compostagem de resíduos da criação e abate de pequenos ruminantes

The aim of this study was to assess the chemical characteristics of a continuous aerobic composting process with passive aeration of feed material from the production and slaughter of small ruminants at different moisture levels. The composting process was performed in a brick barn with solid residues (manure and carcass parts) from the slaughter of goats and sheep along with chopped dry elephant grass and tree trimmings. The treatments employed three moisture contents (30, 50, and 70% water) and four sample collections at timed intervals (0, 30, 60, and 120 days), with three repetitions. The variables evaluated were the chemical attributes of the generated compost. The compositing process increased the concentrations of the elements Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn and reduced the pH, lignin, and lignin/nitrogen ratio. The levels of N, P, and B increased up to 111, 61, and 94 days, respectively, whereas no change in the K content occurred. At the end of the process at 120 days, the contents of N, P, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, and electrical conductivity were increased by 33.7, 6.3, 17.5, 16.3, 666, 22, 31.3, 49.7, 30.4, 29.4 and 16.1%, respectively. The pH and lignin values decreased by 8.4 and 27.2%, respectively.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as características químicas de um processo contínuo de compostagem aeróbia com aeração passiva com material de alimentação proveniente da produção e abate de pequenos ruminantes, realizado com diferentes níveis de umidade. O processo de compostagem foi realizado em celas de tijolos, com resíduos sólidos (esterco e partes de carcaça) do abate de cabras e ovelhas, juntamente com capim-elefante seco picado e aparas de árvores. Os tratamentos empregaram três teores de umidade nas pilhas (30, 50 e 70%) e intervalos de tempo (0, 30, 60 e 120 dias) de avaliação do material compostado, com três repetições. As variáveis avaliadas foram os atributos químicos do composto gerado. O processo de compostagem aumentou as concentrações dos elementos Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn e Zn e reduziu o pH, o teor de lignina e a razão lignina/nitrogênio. O N, P e B apresentaram maior teor com 111, 61 e 94 dias, respectivamente. O K não teve sua concentração alterada. O teor de água de 70% produziu os maiores teores de N e menor razão lignina/N. Ao final do processo de compostagem, em 120 dias, houve aumento dos teores de N, P, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn e condutividade elétrica em 33,7; 6,3; 17,5; 16,3; 666; 22; 31,3; 49,7; 30,4: 29,4 e 16,1%, respectivamente. E houve decréscimo nos valores de pH e lignina em 8,4 e 27,2%, respectivamente.(AU)

Dietary nutrient restrictions in the post-weaning period change Santa Inês ewe lamb nutritional metabolic profile.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the metabolic profile of Santa Inês ewe lambs fed diets for early or late-maturing diets with or without nutrient restrictions. The experiment consisted of a 2 × 2 completely randomized factorial experiment with either early- or late-maturity feed formulation according to "Nutrient Requirements of Small Ruminants" with or without 15% crude protein (CP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) restrictions in diets formulated, five replications, and 20 ewe lambs averaging 15.1±2.6 kg. Lambs on early-maturity diets consumed greater (P<0.05) dietary ether extract (EE), non-fibrous carbohydrates, and TDN than those on late-maturity diets. Lambs on early-maturity diets had 7.11% greater dry matter digestibility (DMD) compared to lambs fed late-maturity diets. Lambs fed late-maturity diets, in general, had greater intake (IN), excreted (EN), and retained (RN) N as well as greater RN/IN and EN/IN ratios. There were no differences in blood total protein or albumin among lambs fed for different finishing maturity targets. Diets designed for late-maturing lambs resulted in greater microbial N and CP as well as rumen and metabolizable, degradable, and undegradable rumen and metabolizable CP. The selection of diets for early or late maturity carcasses depends on the production system goals. Diets without restrictions are recommended for early-maturity carcass finishing while diets with 15% CP and TDN restriction are recommend for late-maturity finishing.

Gas exchange, chemical composition and productive characteristics of tropical grasses deferred II: cultivars BRS Paiaguás and BRS Piatã

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the physiological parameters, the productive characteristics, structural and chemical composition of Urochloa Brizantha cultivars BRS and BRS Piatã submitted to two deferment periods and three using times. The experimental design was randomized complete block design in a factorial scheme 2 x 2 x 3, being two grass cultivars (Paiaguás grass and Piatã grass), two deferment periods (rainy season and dry-rainy transition) and three sealing times (40, 80 and 120 days). It was observed that, in the rainy season, the grasses had higher leaf transpiration rate when used for 40 days of deferment (1.66 µmol m2/s). During the rainy season, the Stomatal conductance was detected only in the grasses used with shorter seal, with an average of 0.07 µmol m2/s. In contrast, in the period of transition, the concentration decreased to 0.02 µmol m2/s. In a general way, the BRS Paiaguás presented lower content of NDF. The shorter cycle provided greater biomass production of total forage during the period of rain, approximately 2.78 times more than the same pasture grass deferred during the transition period. Generally, the periods of deferment and moments of use cause effects on structural characteristics of pasture, being that the period of deferment of the transition period and used for 40 and 80 days may be a strategy for keeping animals in critical periods.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros fisiológicos, as características produtivas, estruturais e composição química da Urochloa Brizantha cultivares BRS Paiaguás e BRS Piatã submetidos a dois períodos de diferimento e três momentos de utilização. Utilizou-se o delineamento de blocos completos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2 x 3, sendo duas cultivares de gramíneas (capim-paiaguás e capim- piatã), dois períodos de diferimento (período chuvoso e transição chuvoso-seco) e três tempos de vedação (40, 80 e 120 dias). Observou-se que, dentro do período chuvoso, as gramíneas tiveram maior taxa de transpiração foliar quando utilizadas aos 40 dias de diferimento (1,66 µmol m2/s). Neste mesmo período, a condutância estomática foi detectada somente nas gramíneas utilizadas com menor tempo de vedação, apresentando média de 0,07 µmol m2/s. Em contrapartida, no período de transição, a concentração diminuiu para 0,02 µmol m2/s. De forma geral, a cultivar BRS Paiaguás apresentou menor teor de FDN. O menor tempo de vedação proporcionou maior produção de biomassa de forragem total durante o período da chuva, cerca de 2,78 vezes mais forragem que o mesmo pasto diferido durante o período de transição. De modo geral, ambos os períodos de diferimento e tempos de vedação causam efeitos nas características estruturais da pastagem, sendo que o diferimento no período de transição por um tempo de 40 e 80 dias pode ser uma estratégia para manutenção dos animais em períodos críticos.

Chemical characteristics of the compost of waste from the production and slaughter of small ruminants

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to assess the chemical characteristics of a continuous aerobic composting process with passive aeration of feed material from the production and slaughter of small ruminants at different moisture levels. The composting process was performed in a brick barn with solid residues (manure and carcass parts) from the slaughter of goats and sheep along with chopped dry elephant grass and tree trimmings. The treatments employed three moisture contents (30, 50, and 70% water) and four sample collections at timed intervals (0, 30, 60, and 120 days), with three repetitions. The variables evaluated were the chemical attributes of the generated compost. The compositing process increased the concentrations of the elements Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn and reduced the pH, lignin, and lignin/nitrogen ratio. The levels of N, P, and B increased up to 111, 61, and 94 days, respectively, whereas no change in the K content occurred. At the end of the process at 120 days, the contents of N, P, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, and electrical conductivity were increased by 33.7, 6.3, 17.5, 16.3, 666, 22, 31.3, 49.7, 30.4, 29.4 and 16.1%, respectively. The pH and lignin values decreased by 8.4 and 27.2%, respectively.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as características químicas de um processo contínuo de compostagem aeróbia com aeração passiva com material de alimentação proveniente da produção e abate de pequenos ruminantes, realizado com diferentes níveis de umidade. O processo de compostagem foi realizado em celas de tijolos, com resíduos sólidos (esterco e partes de carcaça) do abate de cabras e ovelhas, juntamente com capim-elefante seco picado e aparas de árvores. Os tratamentos empregaram três teores de umidade nas pilhas (30, 50 e 70%) e intervalos de tempo (0, 30, 60 e 120 dias) de avaliação do material compostado, com três repetições. As variáveis avaliadas foram os atributos químicos do composto gerado. O processo de compostagem aumentou as concentrações dos elementos Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn e Zn e reduziu o pH, o teor de lignina e a razão lignina/nitrogênio. O N, P e B apresentaram maior teor com 111, 61 e 94 dias, respectivamente. O K não teve sua concentração alterada. O teor de água de 70% produziu os maiores teores de N e menor razão lignina/N. Ao final do processo de compostagem, em 120 dias, houve aumento dos teores de N, P, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn e condutividade elétrica em 33,7; 6,3; 17,5; 16,3; 666; 22; 31,3; 49,7; 30,4: 29,4 e 16,1%, respectivamente. E houve decréscimo nos valores de pH e lignina em 8,4 e 27,2%, respectivamente.

Forage biomass and water storage of cactus pear under different managements in semi-arid conditions

Forage biomass production and water storage (WS) was evaluated in cactus pear cv. Gigante fertilized with combinations of nitrogen (10, 70, 100, 130, and 190 kg ha−1 yr−1 N) and phosphorus (10, 70, 100, 130, and 190 kg ha−1 yr−1 P2 O5 ) in annual (AH) and biennial (BH) harvest frequencies, in Quixadá and Tejuçuoca, Brazil. A randomized complete block design was used in a split-plot arrangement with four replications. In Quixadá, the maximum total forage biomass (TFB) recorded in the AH was 3,522.9 kg ha−1 yr−1 for the N/P2 O5 combination of 134.6/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1, and in the BH, the maximum TFB of 1,583.2 kg ha−1 yr−1 was recorded for the N/P2 O5 combination of 114.6/136.8 kg ha−1 yr−1. In Tejuçuoca, the maximum TFB recorded in the AH was 9,783.0 kg ha−1 yr−1 for the N/P2 O5 combination of 137.7/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1, and in the BH, the maximum TFB of 12,124.0 kg ha−1 yr−1 was recorded for the N/P2 O5 combination of 190.0/56.8 kg ha−1 yr−1. In Quixadá, the maximum WS recorded in the AH was 39.1 kg ha−1 mm−1 for the N/P2 O5 combination of 161.0/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1, and in the BH, the maximum WS of 11.3 kg ha−1 mm−1 was recorded for the N/P2 O5 combination of 113.5/158.7 kg ha−1 yr−1. In Tejuçuoca, the maximum WS recorded in the AH was 196.1 kg ha−1 mm−1 for the N/P2 O5 combination of 190.0/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1, and in the BH, the maximum WS of 265.5 kg ha−1 mm−1 was recorded for the N/P2 O5 combination of 190.0/10.0 kg ha−1 yr−1. To achieve the persistence and longevity of the cactus pear cv. Gigante, the management with BH and fertilization with the N/P2 O5 combination of 114.6/136.8 kg ha−1 yr−1 (in regions similar to Quixadá) and N/P2 O5 combination of 190.0/56.8 kg ha−1 yr−1 (in regions similar to Tejuçuoca) is recommended.

Photochemical activity modulated by water, nitrogen, and phosphorus status in cactus pear

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) associated with dry and rainy seasons on the photochemical activity of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. cv. Gigante. Combinations of N (10.0, 70.0, 100.0, 130.0, and 190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1) and P2 O5 (10.0, 70.0, 100.0, 130.0, and 190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1) were evaluated in the dry and rainy seasons in semi-arid regions. A completely randomized block design with split-plot arrangement was adopted with four replications. In Quixadá, the maximum potential quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) was 0.82, observed in third-order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 75.6/10.0 kg ha−1 yr−1), while in Tejuçuoca, the maximum Fv/Fm was 0.81, found in 2nd/3rd order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 10.0/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1). In Quixadá, the maximum electron transport rate (ETR) was 31.6 µmol m−2 s−1 in 2nd/3rd order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 10.0/190.0 kg ha−1 yr−1), and in Tejuçuoca, the maximum ETR was 24.1 µmol m−2 s−1, in second-order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 110.1/10.0 kg ha−1 yr−1). In Quixadá and Tejuçuoca, higher values of Fv/Fm and ETR were observed in the rainy season. In Quixadá, the maximum fluorescence decrease ratio (FDR) was 4.04 in third-order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 10.0/114.8 kg ha−1 yr−1), while in Tejuçuoca, the maximum FDR was 6.93, found in 2nd/3rd order cladodes (rainy season and N/P 190.0/10.0 kg ha−1 yr−1). In Quixadá and Tejuçuoca, there was predominance of higher FDR values in the rainy season. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and water status modulate the photochemical efficiency of cladodes of cactus pear cv. Gigante in semi-arid regions.