ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the effects of relocation time (RT; Experiment 1) and storage time after relocation (ST; Experiment 2) on microbial population, fermentative characteristics, and chemical composition of corn silage. In experiment 1, corn silage was stored for 30 d, subjected to different RT (0–60 h), and stored again for 30 d. Thirty experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with three replicates per treatment. In experiment 2, after 150 d of ensiling, silage was removed from a bunker silo, exposed to air for 9 h, relocated to experimental silos, and stored for periods ranging from 0 to 128 d. Twenty-eight experimental silos were used in a completely randomized design, with four replicates per treatment. Relocation time had no effect on fungi counts and concentrations of lactic and propionic acids in corn silage but resulted in a significant increase in dry matter content. In experiment 2, dry matter recovery and concentration of non-fiber carbohydrates decreased in corn silage stored for more than 32 d after relocation. Exposure of corn silage to air during relocation for up to 60 h followed by 30 d of storage did not compromise the fermentation profile or nutritive value of the silage. Increased storage time of relocated corn silage (up to 128 d) consistently decreases its nutritional value. The storage period seems to have an increased impact on nutrient loss in relocated silage than the relocation period.

ABSTRACT. We aimed to determine the effect of relocation of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) with different fermentation profiles on ingestive behavior of lambs. Twenty-four male Santa Inês lambs, were used in a completely randomized block design based on initial body weight (17.5 ± 1.8 kg) for the following treatments: CS: WPCS (not inoculated and not relocated); R-12h: WPCS relocated for 12h; IR-12h: WPCS inoculated with Lactobacillus plantarum and relocated for 12h; and R-24h: WPCS not inoculated and relocated for 24h. Ingestive behavior was observed as continuous (feeding, ruminating, and idling) and specific (urination, defecation, and water and salt access frequency) activities for 48h (3h intervals for a total of eight periods in 24h). The behavioral activities were affected only by periods (p = 0.0001). Feeding peaks was high at 8:00-11:00am (54.2%) and 5:00-8:00pm (54.9%) in compare to ruminating and idling at the same period. Rumination time was intense at night, at 63.7% (2:00-5:00am) and 69.7% (5:00-8:00am). Idling time (49.7%) was long after silage supply. The specific activities were intense during the morning periods. Supply of WPCS relocated up to 24h did not alter the ingestive behavior.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de profundidades de semeadura e da inoculação com Pseudomonas fluorescens sobre a germinação, emergência, crescimento aéreo e radicular da Urochloa brizantha . O delineamento foi inteiramente casualizado, em arranjo fatorial 6 × 2, com 12 repetições. Foram avaliadas a profundidade de semeadura (PS): 0, 1, 2, 3, 6 e 12 cm; e a inoculação da semente com P . fluorescens (I): sem e com. As avaliações foram realizadas 25 dias após a emergência das plântulas. Não foram observados efeitos da interação PS × I nem de I para todas as variáveis avaliadas(P> 0.05). Os percentuais de germinação e emergência diminuíram linearmente (P< 0.05) em função do aumento da PS, sendo que na profundidade de 12 cm, não foi observada emergência de plantas. As características morfométricas das plantas (altura, número de folhas, comprimento de raiz e largura de lâmina foliar) diminuíram linearmente em função do aumento da PS (P< 0.05). As produções de massa seca de parte aérea e de raiz não foram afetadas pela PS (P> 0.05), porém, foi observada diminuição da relação parte aérea:raiz com o aumento da OS (P< 0.05). A inoculação com Pseudomonas fluorescens na semente não apresenta efeitos sobe o crescimento inicial do capim Marandú. Por outro lado, profundidades de semeadura maiores afetam negativamente o crescimento inicial.

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of sowing depth and inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens on germination, emergence, shoot and root growth of Urochloa brizantha . A completely randomized design was used, in a 6 × 2 factorial arrangement, with 12 repetitions. The following sowing depths (SD) were evaluated: 0, 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 cm; and the seed inoculation with P . fluorescens (I): with and without. Evaluations were carried out 25 days after plant emergence. No effects of the PS × I or I interaction were observed for all variables evaluated (P> 0.05). The germination and emergence percentages decreased linearly (P <0.05) as the SD increased. No plant emergence was observed at and at 12 cm depth. The morphometric characteristics of the plants (height, number of leaves, length of root and leaf blade width) decreased linearly with the increase of SD (P <0.05). Dry matter production of the aerial part and root were not affected by SD (P> 0.05). However, an effect was observed on the shoot:root ratio, where plants sown more superficially had a greater relationship. The inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens in the seed, has no effect on the initial growth of Marandu grass. On the other hand, greater sowing depths affects negatively the initial growth.

RESUMO O uso da silagem de raiz de mandioca na alimentação animal representa uma opção viável tanto para os produtores que cultivam mandioca (visando ter um produto para comercialização alternativa), quanto para os pecuaristas que compram milho a preços elevados. Assim, objetivou-se determinar o efeito de variedades e da correção da acidez do solo sobre as populações microbianas, características fermentativas, composição química, estabilidade aeróbia e perdas de silagens de raízes de mandioca. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 2×3 com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados dois genótipos de mandioca (Caeté e Manteiguinha) e três tipos de correção de acidez do solo (calagem, gessagem e calagem+gessagem). Após 11 meses, as raízes foram colhidas, trituradas e ensiladas em silos do tipo PVC, onde permaneceram por 45 dias. Não observamos efeito de interação entre genótipos e correção do solo para os parâmetros testados. As silagens do genótipo Caeté apresentaram as maiores concentrações de matéria seca (421 g kg-1 matéria fresca) e carboidratos não fibrosos (893 g kg-1 matéria seca), e menores de fibra em detergente neutro (37.1 g kg-1 matéria seca). Não houve diferenças significativas entre tratamentos para bactérias ácido láticas, leveduras e mofos nas silagens. Ambos os genótipos resultaram em silagens com perfil de fermentação adequado e estabilidade aeróbia consideravelmente elevada, mas com elevadas perdas de efluentes. O genótipo Caeté apresentou condições potencialmente melhores para produção de silagem devido a sua maior recuperação de matéria seca. Devido à alta perda de efluente, recomendamos testar o efeito da adição de um aditivo absorvente de umidade durante o processo de ensilagem dessas raízes de mandioca.

ABSTRACT The use of cassava root silage for animal feeding is a suitable option for farmers who grow cassava as an alternative product and for cattle ranchers who have to deal with high prices of corn. Our objective was to determine the effects of cassava genotypes and the correction of soil acidity on the microbial population, fermentation characteristics, chemical composition, aerobic stability and losses of cassava root silage. We used a 2 × 3 factorial design in completely randomized blocks, with four replications. We evaluated two cassava genotypes (Caeté and Manteiguinha) and three methods of soil acidity correction (lime, gypsum, and lime+gypsum). The roots were harvested 11 months after planting, ensiled in PVC silos, and stored for 45 days. No interaction was observed between genotypes and soil acidity correction for any of the evaluated parameters. The silage of Caeté genotype showed the highest concentration of dry matter (421 g kg-1 fresh matter) and non-fibrous carbohydrates (893 g kg-1 dry matter), and the lowest concentrations of neutral detergent fiber (37.1 g kg-1 dry matter) . No significant differences were observed among treatments for lactic acid bacteria, yeast and mold counts in silages. Both genotypes resulted in silages with an adequate fermentation profile and considerably high aerobic stability, but with high effluent loss. The Caeté genotype showed to be potentially better for silage production due to its higher dry matter recovery. Due to the high level of effluent loss, it is recommended to test the effect of a moisture-absorbing additive during the ensiling process of these cassava roots.

ABSTRACT Coconut meal can be an affordable low-cost alternative to noble ingredients such as corn and soybean meal in sheep diets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of coconut meal inclusions, when used as a corn and soybean meal replacement, on the intake, digestibility, and nitrogen balance of sheep diets. Twenty-four male Santa Inês lambs with body weights (BW) of 26.6 ± 3.2 kg were used in the study. The animals were housed in metabolic cages and distributed in a completely randomized block design, with three treatments and eight replications. The animals received a total mixed ratio of 30% roughage (elephant grass) and 70% concentrate. The animals were fed on two experimental diets with 11% and 22% coconut meal inclusion and a control diet (without coconut meal). Dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and non-fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) intake as a percentage of BW were negatively influenced by the inclusion of coconut meal. The ether extract (EE) intake increased but did not differ between the 11% and 22% coconut meal diets. Furthermore, the digestibility of DM, CP, EE, and ADF did not differ between the two evaluated diets. The inclusion of coconut meal reduced NDF digestibility and increased that of NFC. The level of inclusion of coconut meal in the diet must be based on the EE content in the meal; keeping the EE intake below 0.16% of the BW helped to avoid limited intake of feed.

RESUMO A torta de coco pode ser uma alternativa disponível e de baixo custo para substituir ingredientes nobres como o milho e o farelo de soja em dietas para ovinos. Objetivou-se com esse estudo, avaliar a inclusão de torta de coco em substituição ao milho e o farelo de soja em dietas para ovinos sobre o consumo, a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes e balanço de nitrogênio. Foram utilizados 24 cordeiros machos da raça Santa Inês, com peso corporal (PC) de 26,6 ± 3,2 kg, mantidos em gaiolas metabólicas, distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados, com três tratamentos e oito repetições. Os animais receberam ração total com 30% de volumoso (capim elefante) e 70% de concentrado. Foram testadas uma dieta controle (sem torta) e outras duas, com 11 e 22% de inclusão da torta de coco. Os consumos de matéria seca (MS), proteína bruta (PB), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) e carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF) em % do PC foram influenciados negativamente pela adição da torta de coco. O consumo de extrato etéreo (EE) aumentou, sem diferença entre dietas com 11 e 22%. A digestibilidade da MS, PB, EE e FDA não diferiram entre as dietas avaliadas. A inclusão da torta reduziu a digestibilidade da FDN e aumentou a dos CNF. O nível de inclusão da torta de coco na dieta deve estar relacionado ao teor de extrato etéreo da torta, mantendo o consumo de EE abaixo de 0,16% do peso corporal para não limitar a ingestão.

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.

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.

Abstract Ruminant energy supplementation with vegetable oils or fats has been standing out worldwide and oil palm processing has been receiving growing interest. This study assessed the effect of supplementation with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry on the lipid profile of seminal plasma and of the sperm membrane, as well as on the morphological and functional characteristics of raw and cryopreserved buffalo semen. Twelve purebred Murrah bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were assigned to the experimental groups and fed diets for 120 days with no added lipids (CONT, four bulls), or with an extra amount of 3% lipids from crude palm oil (PALM, four bulls), or from palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD, four bulls). Semen was collected and cryopreserved every 15 days. The lipid composition of membranes and semen quality were determined after collections. Lipid supplementation did not impact feed intake (P>0.05). Diet enrichment with PALM increased the linoleic acid (C18:2,ω6) in seminal plasma. Lipid supplementation did not increase the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane composition, but significantly increased the lignoceric acid (C24:0). Cryopreserved semen of the supplemented bulls presented higher progressive motility (60.2 vs. 67.9 vs. 65.2%; P<0.05) and sperm viability detected by eosin-nigrosin staining (61.1 vs. 69.4 vs. 67.8%; P<0.05). Palm oil reduced major sperm defects in both raw (12.2 vs. 9.3 vs. 13.2%; P<0.0001) and cryopreserved semen (12.4 vs. 9.4 vs. 11.2%; P<0.0001). The lipids added to the diet did not impact the population of spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes (PI-/PSA-), but significantly increased the percentage of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial potential (25.6 vs. 31.5 vs. 32.0%; P=0.008). The results suggest that lipid supplementation based on crude palm oil or palm oil deodorizer distillate can be safely used to feed buffalo bulls and may increase sperm attributes related to male fertility.

ABSTRACT In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of cutting height (25 or 40 cm above ground) and bacterial inoculation (a combined inoculant of Lactobacillus plantarum and Propionibacterium acidipropionici) on the chemical and microbial compositions, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of whole-plant corn silage and nitrogen balance, intake, and apparent nutrient digestibility by sheep. To evaluate silage characteristics and sheep metabolism, we performed analyses based on a completely randomized block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement (two cutting heights, with or without bacterial inoculant). We evaluated the chemical and microbial compositions, pH, fermentation end-products, and aerobic stability of silage. To examine nutrient digestibility of silage, we used 24 male sheep over a 21-day period. We found that the aerobic stability did not differ among the silages. Sheep fed silages produced from corn harvested at 40 cm had increased intakes of crude protein, non-fiber carbohydrate, and total digestible nutrients, whereas the non-fiber carbohydrate intake of inoculated corn silages was found to be higher than that of uninoculated silage. Furthermore, the amounts of nitrogen retained by sheep fed silage produced from corn harvested at 40 cm were higher than those of sheep fed silage produced from corn harvested at 25 cm. Collectively, our findings indicate that, despite the observed effects, a difference of 15 cm in cutting height results in relatively small changes in the chemical composition of corn silage and a limited effect on the nutrient intake and nitrogen balance of animals fed this silage. Moreover, although bacterial inoculation promotes an efficient fermentation, it has no marked effects on the aerobic stability of silage.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se com este trabalho o uso da espectroscopia de ultrassom para a determinação das características físico-químicas do leite de búfalas frente ao métodoinfravermelho. As características de gordura, proteína, lactose e estrato seco desengordurado (ESD) foram determinadas em amostras de leite de 22 búfalas (n=383) com produção inicial de leite 6,97±1,55 litros. A média dos resultados para gordura, proteína, lactose e ESD das amostras individuais foram, respectivamente, 6,31%, 3,81%, 4,99% e 9,75% para o método infravermelho-PO ANA 009 e 7,16%, 2,5%, 6,28% e 9,41%, usando-se espectroscopia de ultrassom. Houve diferença significativa (P<0,0001) entre os teores de todos os componentes analisados entre os dois métodos estudados. Os resultados obtidos nas análises com o método utilizando analisador ultrassônico de leite (Ekomilk Total®) foram diferentes daqueles feitos por infravermelho-PO ANA 009 (ESALQ), porém, apresentaram correlação positiva alta para gordura (r = 0,84108; P<0,0001), moderada para ESD (r = 0,71284; P= 0,0022), baixa para lactose (r = 0,32197; P<0,0001) e ausente para proteína (r = -0,00284; P <0,0001), podendo, portanto, ser utilizado para determinação de gordura. Para os demais constituintes do leite de búfalas sugere-se, que para a utilização do analisador ultrassônico, mais estudos para ajustes técnicos e metodológicos sejam feitos.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to use ultrasound spectroscopy for the determination of the physical-chemical characteristics of buffalo milk and compare it to theinfrared method. Levels of fat, protein, lactose and non-fat solids (NFS) were determined in milk samples of 22 buffaloes (n = 383) with initial milk production of 6.97 ± 1.55 litres. The respective average results for the fat, protein, lactose and NFS of the individual samples were 6.31%, 3.81%, 4.99% and 9.75% for the infrared method-PO ANA 009 and 7.16%, 2.5%, 6.28% and 9.41% using ultrasound spectroscopy. There were significant differences (P<0.0001) in the levels of all of the components analysed between the two methods studied. Results obtained in the analyses using the ultrasonic milk analyser (Ekomilk Total®) were different from those obtained by the infrared method-PO ANA 009 (ESALQ), but they showed a high positive correlation for fat (r =0.84108, P<0.0001), moderate correlation for NFS(r= 0.71284 P = 0.0022), low correlation for lactose (r= 0.32197; P<0.0001) and the absence of correlation for protein(r= -0.00284, P<0.0001). Therefore, ultrasound spectroscopy can be used forthe determination of fat. For the other constituents of buffalo milk, in order to use the ultrasonic analyser, it is suggested that further studies should be conducted for technical and methodological adjustments.

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o valor nutritivo de quatro genótipos de capim-elefante (Pennisetum purpureum). Foram avaliados a composição química, o consumo por ovinos e a digestibilidade de diferentes genótipos (G1, G2, G3 e G4). A digestibilidade da matéria seca (MS) foi avaliada por meio da coleta total de sobras e fezes de 20 ovinos mantidos em gaiolas para ensaio de metabolismo. O G3 apresentou menor consumo de MS em gramas por animal por dia comparado ao G1 e ao G2, e maiores valores de digestibilidade, proteína bruta, fibra em detergente neutro e fibra em detergente ácido. Entre os genótipos avaliados, G1, G2 e G4 apresentam os melhores valores nutritivos.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to assess the nutritive value of four elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) genotypes. The chemical composition, intake by sheep, and digestibility of different genotypes (G1, G2, G3, and G4) were evaluated. A dry matter (DM) digestibility assay was performed with total leftovers and feces collected from 20 sheep kept in metabolic cages. G3 had lower DM intake in grams per animal per day compared with G1 and G2, and it had greater digestibility, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber values. G1, G2, and G4 have the best nutritive values among the evaluated genotypes.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and yield of three sugarcane cultivars grown under Af climate conditions. Three sugarcane cultivars were examined, namely, IACSP93-6006, RB83-5486, and SP79-1011, in a randomized block design with three treatments, four blocks, and two replicates per block; means were compared using Tukey's test at 5% probability level. Significant differences were observed for dry matter, ether extract, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, lignin (LIG), cellulose, neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap), total carbohydrates, carbohydrate fractions B2 and C, and dry matter yield. The fiber components (NDFap, LIG, and fraction C) displayed low values. The cultivars produced high dry matter yields, especially IACSP93-6006 and SP79-1011. There were no differences among sucrose (Pol) values and the NDF/Pol ratios. The low Pol values indicate that sugarcane grown under Af climate conditions does not produce high levels of sucrose. The three sugarcane cultivars grown under the Af climate conditions produce high yields of DM/ha but low concentrations of the fiber components, as well as low Pol concentrations.

Trinta amostras de queijo tipo Requeijão Marajoara e trinta de Minas Frescal, elaborados com leite bubalino foram analisadas, visando a caracterizar os teores dos principais componentes e características físico-químicas. Os queijos foram obtidos de estabelecimentos industriais localizados nos municípios de Salvaterra, Ilha de Marajó e Moju, nordeste do Estado do Pará. Os dados obtidos foram analisados por meio de Análise Descritiva, utilizando o pacote estatístico SAS®. Para o Requeijão Marajoara, os resultados médios foram: pH de 5,15 (±0,13); acidez 0,62% (±0,08); umidade 43% (±1,64); gordura 31,57% (±3,13); gordura no extrato seco (GES) 55,84% (±4,38); proteína 34,59% (±1,68); e cinzas 2,45% (±0,47). Para o Minas Frescal, o pH foi de 6,26 (±0,69), acidez 0,15% (±0,14), umidade 60,99% (±2,58), gordura 25,09% (±1,68), GES 62,95% (±4,38), proteína 11,06% (±1,65) e as cinzas 2,09% (±0,32). A variação entre os macronutrientes e as características físico-químicas nas amostras estudadas revelou falta de padronização na tecnologia empregada no processamento, o que pode estar relacionada à inexistência de legislações específicas para a elaboração desses derivados com leite bubalino. Conclui-se que é fundamental o estabelecimento de critérios de processamento e requisitos legais, objetivando a obtenção de produtos padronizados, com consequente agregação de valor.

Thirty samples of Requeijão Marajoara cheese and thirty samples of Minas Frescal cheese, made both with buffalo milk, were analyzed to determine main components levels and physicochemical characteristics. The cheeses were obtained from industrial establishments located in the municipalities of Salvaterra, Marajó Island, and Moju, northeastern of Pará State. The data were statistically analyzed by Descritive Analyses, using the SAS® system. For the Requeijão Marajoara, the average results obtained were: pH 5.15 (± 0.13); acidity 0.62% (±0,08); moisture 43% (±1.64); fat 31.57% (±3.13); fat on dry extract (FDE) 55.84% (±4.38); protein 34.59 % (±1.68); and ash 2.45% (±0.47). For the Minas Frescal pH 6.26 (±0.69); acidity 0.15% (±0.14); moisture 60.99% (±2.58); fat 25.09% (±1.68); fat on dry extract (FDE) 62.95% (±4.38); protein 11.06% (±1.65);and ash 2.09% (±0.32). The variation between macronutrients and physicochemical characteristics revealed standardization lack in the technology used in the processing, what can be related to the inexistence of specific legislations for the elaboration of these flowed from buffalo milk. It's crucial the establishment of criteria for processing and legal requirements, aiming to obtain standardized products, with consequent aggregation of values.

Objetivou-se avaliar quatro teores de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu (Orbygnya spp.) no concentrado sobre o desempenho de bovinos confinados. Foram utilizados 24 bovinos machos (12 castrados e 12 não castrados) com idade e peso corporal médio de 33 meses e 332,1±24kg, respectivamente. As dietas foram isonitrogenadas, compostas por 44% de silagem de capim Mombaça e 56% de concentrado na matéria seca. O grão de milho do concentrado foi substituído pelo farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu em 0, 20, 40 e 60% da matéria seca. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi blocos inteiramente casualisados, com os tratamentos dispostos num fatorial 4x2 (quatro níveis de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu e duas condições sexuais). O consumo de matéria seca, em kg dia-1 e percentagem do peso corporal, não foi alterado pelos níveis de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu, com valores médios de 9,37kg e 2,54%, respectivamente. Os teores de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu não influenciaram no ganho de peso diário e na conversão alimentar, sendo os valores médios de 1,157kg dia-1 e 8,39kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso. Os novilhos não castrados apresentaram maior ganho de peso médio diário (1,259kg dia-1) que os castrados (1.066kg dia-1), refletindo a melhor conversão alimentar (7,702 e 9,094kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso, respectivamente). O farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu como fonte energética alternativa, pode ser utilizado para bovinos confinados em até 60% de inclusão no concentrado, em substituição ao grão de milho.

The objective was to evaluate four levels of inclusion of babassu mesocarp meal (Orbygnya spp.) in the concentrate on cattle feedlot performance. Twenty four animals (12 steers and 12 bulls) were used with age and body weight of 33 months and 332.1±24kg, respectively. Diets were isonitrogenous, composed of 44% of Mombasa grass silage and 56% of concentrate in dry matter. Corn grain of the concentrate fraction was replaced by babassu mesocarp meal at 0, 20, 40 and 60% in dry matter. The experimental design was randomized complete block, with factorial arrangement of treatments 4x2 (four levels of babassu mesocarp meal inclusion and two sexual conditions). Dry matter intake in kg day1 and percentage of body weight was not altered by the inclusion level of bran babassu mesocarp, with average values of 9.37kg day-1 and 2.54% respectively. Inclusion levels of babassu mesocarp meal did not affect daily weight gain and feed conversion the animals, with average values of 1.157kg day-1 and 8.39kg of dry matter kg-1 weight gain. Bulls had higher daily weight gain (1.259kg day-1) than steers (1.066kg day-1), reflecting a better feed conversion (7.702 and 9.094kg dry matter kg-1 weight gain, respectively). Babassu mesocarp meal, such as alternative energy source, can be fed to feedlot to the 60% level of inclusion in the concentrate, replacing corn grain.

O trabalho foi realizado na Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia com o objetivo de avaliar o consumo e digestibilidade aparente de ovinos alimentados com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de inclusão de torta de coco (25, 50 e 75%). Foram utilizados 12 ovinos, machos, da raça Santa Inês, com idade média de cinco meses e com peso médio de 19,5 kg, mantidos em gaiolas metabólicas individuais distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Observou-se que o consumo de matéria seca decresceu com a inclusão de torta de coco, apresentando valores de 699; 405 e 373 g e 3,67; 2,15 e 2,00% do peso vivo para os níveis de 25, 50 e 75%, respectivamente. O mesmo comportamento foi observado para o consumo de proteína, entretanto não foram observadas diferenças (p > 0,05) nos valores de consumo de FDN, FDA e extrato etéreo. Quanto à digestibilidade, verificou-se redução (p < 0,05) nos coeficientes para o tratamento com 75% de inclusão de torta de coco para matéria seca, proteína, FDN e FDA em relação aos tratamentos 25 e 50%. Concluiu-se que a inclusão de torta de coco, afeta negativamente o consumo e a digestibilidade da fração fibrosa, resultado do elevado teor de extrato etéreo presente na torta de coco.

The study was conducted at the Universidade Federal da Amazônia to evaluate apparent digestibility and intake for sheep fed diets containing different inclusion levels of fresh coconut meal (25, 50 and 75%). A total of 12 male Santa Inês sheep were used, with a mean age of 5 months and average weight of 19.5 kg, kept in individual metabolic cages distributed in a completely randomized design. Dry matter intake decreased with the inclusion of coconut meal, with values of 699, 405 and 373 g, and 3.67, 2.15 and 2.00% body weight at levels of 25, 50 and 75%, respectively. The same behavior was observed for protein intake; however, no significant differences in intake were observed for values of NDF, ADF and ether extract. Apparent digestibility was reduced (p < 0.05) in the coefficients for treatment with 75% inclusion of coconut meal for dry matter, protein, NDF and ADF, compared to the 25% and 50% treatments. It was concluded that the inclusion of coconut meal in the diet negatively affects the intake and digestibility of fibrous constituents, resulting from high levels of lipids present in the coconut meal.

Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo e a digestibilidade total e parcial de dietas utilizando milho, casca de soja e polpa cítrica associados ao farelo de girassol ou ureia em novilhos confinados. Foram utilizados quatro novilhos ½ Aberdeen Angus vs. ½ Nelore, providos de cânulas no rúmen e duodeno, com 18 meses de idade e 360 kg de peso médio inicial. As dietas foram constituídas por duas fontes energéticas (milho grão e polpa cítrica) associadas a duas fontes nitrogenadas (ureia e farelo de girassol), totalizando quatro tratamentos, numa proporção volumoso:concentrado de 40:60. O delineamento utilizado foi o quadrado latino com quatro tratamentos e quatro períodos de 21 dias cada. O consumo médio diário de matéria seca foi influenciado (p < 0,05) entre as dietas, e o maior valor foi atribuído à dieta milho e farelo de girassol. A digestibilidade aparente de todos os componentes, exceto da proteína bruta, foi maior (p < 0,05) para as dietas com polpa cítrica. Não houve efeito (p > 0,05) entre as dietas para as digestibilidades ruminal e intestinal. A utilização de coprodutos na alimentação animal não prejudicou a digestibilidade das dietas, sendo indicados como ingredientes de elevado potencial de utilização em dietas para bovinos de corte.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intake and total and partial digestibility of diets using corn, soybean hulls and citrus pulp associated with sunflower meal or urea in feedlot steers. Four steers ½ Aberdeen Angus vs. ½ Nellore, fitted with rumen and duodenum cannulas, with 18 months old and 360 kg of initial weight. The diets were composed of two energy sources (corn and citrus pulp) associated with two nitrogen sources (urea and sunflower meal), in a total of four treatments, with forage:concentrate ratio of 40:60. The statistical design was a Latin square with four treatments and four periods of 21 days each. The average daily dry matter intake was influenced (p < 0.05) by the diets, with the highest value was observed in corn and sunflower meal diet. The apparent digestibility of all components, except the crude protein, was higher (p < 0.05) for diets with citrus pulp. There was no effect (p > 0.05) among diets for ruminal and intestinal digestibility. The use of co-products in animal feed did not impair the digestibility of diets and are shown as high potential ingredients for use in beef cattle diets.