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Animals
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Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance
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Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Nutrition".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2024 | Viewed by 9548

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ana Isabel Roca-Fernández

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Guest Editor
Departamento de Producción Vegetal y Proyectos de Ingeniería, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain
Interests: ruminant nutrition; feed additives; plant secondary metabolites; dairy production; enteric methane emissions; rumen fermentation; nutrient digestibilities; volatile fatty acids; microbial protein synthesis; ruminal microbiota
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Magdalena Arévalo-Turrubiarte

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7AL, Surrey, UK
Interests: veterinary sciences; animal nutrition; metabolism; physiology; lactation performance; adipogenesis; stem cells; cell metabolism
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to a Special Issue of Animals entitled ‘Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance’.

The Special Issue aims to provide knowledge about the influence of ruminal microbiota on the fermentation process, enteric methane emissions, and animal performance from ruminants. This will help us to understand how the use of feed additives and/or plant secondary metabolites in ruminant diets may be an interesting feeding strategy to modify the rumen function of animals by altering nutrient digestion pathways, changing the ruminal fermentation process, inhibiting methanogenesis, modulating microbial populations, adjusting the biohydrogenation of fatty acids, and reducing the risk of metabolic diseases, thus improving ruminant productivity and health.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviewers are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following topics: in vivo studies on different species of ruminants (such as cows, sheep, goats, buffalos, etc.) and in vitro studies using continuous culture fermentor systems (such as RUSITEC and non-RUSITEC systems) in which different feed additives are being tested (such as ionophores, prebiotics, probiotics, enzymes, essential oils, vitamin, and mineral packs) and/or different plant secondary metabolites are researched (such as phenolics/polyphenolics, terpenes/terpenoids, sulphur-containing compounds, and nitrogen-containing compounds) on animal performance, ruminal microbiota, rumen fermentation, enteric methane emissions, nutrient digestibilities, volatile fatty acids, and microbial protein synthesis. It will allow us to enhance the feed efficiency and sustainability of animal production systems worldwide.

We look forward to receiving your valuable contributions to this Special Issue.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Ruminants.

Dr. Ana Isabel Roca-Fernández
Dr. Magdalena Arévalo-Turrubiarte
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • ruminant nutrition
  • feed additives
  • plant secondary metabolites
  • ruminal microbiota
  • enteric methane emissions
  • rumen fermentation
  • nutrient digestibility
  • volatile fatty acids production
  • microbial protein synthesis
  • animal performance

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 2810 KiB  
Article
Buccal Swab Samples from Japanese Brown Cattle Fed with Limonite Reveal Altered Rumen Microbiome
by Kentaro Harakawa, Shinpei Kawarai, Kirill Kryukov, So Nakagawa, Shigeharu Moriya and Kazuhiko Imakawa
Animals 2024, 14(13), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131968 - 3 Jul 2024
Viewed by 571
Abstract
The areas of the Mount Aso grasslands in Kumamoto, Japan, are the primary location for the breeding of the Kumamoto strain of Japanese Brown cattle (JBRK). Although Aso limonite, deposited by volcanic ash and magma, has been commonly fed to pregnant JBRK in [...] Read more.
The areas of the Mount Aso grasslands in Kumamoto, Japan, are the primary location for the breeding of the Kumamoto strain of Japanese Brown cattle (JBRK). Although Aso limonite, deposited by volcanic ash and magma, has been commonly fed to pregnant JBRK in this area, the mechanisms of its salutary effects on pregnant JBRK have not yet been elucidated. Approximately 100 days before the expected day of calf delivery, seven JBRK (four supplemented with limonite and three controls without limonite) were assigned to this study, from which a buccal swab was collected at the highest rumination every 30 days for 90 days. DNA extracted from these swabs was then analyzed using a 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence analysis. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were discovered through beta-diversity analysis, though results from alpha-diversity analysis were inconclusive. The microbiota identified were classified into six clusters, and three of the main clusters were core-rumen bacteria, primarily cellulose digestion in cluster 1, oral bacteria in cluster 2, and non-core-rumen bacteria in cluster 3. In the limonite group, core-rumen bacteria decreased while non-core-rumen bacteria increased, suggesting that limonite feeding alters rumen microbiota, particularly activation of non-core-rumen microbiota. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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10 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
Essential Oils in Nellore Beef Cattle: In Vivo Impact on Rumen Emissions
by Gabriela Benetel, Gisele Maria Fagundes, Paulo de Méo-Filho, Thaysa dos Santos Silva, Katiéli Caroline Welter, Flávia Alves Melo, Annelise Aila Gomes Lobo, Rosa Toyoko Shiraishi Frighetto, Alexandre Berndt, James Pierre Muir and Ives Cláudio da Silva Bueno
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111664 - 2 Jun 2024
Viewed by 626
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs), as rumen additives, decreased CH4 emissions in in vitro trials but results from in vivo studies are still limited. We investigated the effects of Origanum vulgare (OEO) and Thymus vulgaris (TEO) EOs on in vivo methane emissions from Nellore [...] Read more.
Essential oils (EOs), as rumen additives, decreased CH4 emissions in in vitro trials but results from in vivo studies are still limited. We investigated the effects of Origanum vulgare (OEO) and Thymus vulgaris (TEO) EOs on in vivo methane emissions from Nellore beef cattle. Six adult rumen-cannulated Nellore cattle were used in a double 3 × 3 Latin square design. Treatments consisted of three diets containing either 3 mL OEO per kg of concentrate, 3 mL TEO/kg of concentrate, or no EO addition. The experimental period consisted of three 21 d feeding periods and methane production was measured using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) technique from Day 16 to Day 21 of each feeding period. Intake, total apparent digestibility (dry matter as well as neutral and acid detergent fiber), and rumen parameters (pH, ammoniacal nitrogen concentration, and short-chain fatty acids) were also evaluated. The EOs did not decrease CH4 emissions and had no effect on rumen parameters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
16 pages, 2323 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Rumen Microbiota and Serum Metabolite Profile of Hainan Black Goats with Different Body Weights before Weaning
by Gang Zheng, Dongxing Wang, Kai Mao, Musen Wang, Jian Wang, Wenjuan Xun and Shuai Huang
Animals 2024, 14(3), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14030425 - 28 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1196
Abstract
The critical role of the rumen microbiota in the growth performance of livestock is recognized, yet its significance in determining the body weight of goat kids before weaning remains less understood. To bridge this gap, our study delved into the rumen microbiota, serum [...] Read more.
The critical role of the rumen microbiota in the growth performance of livestock is recognized, yet its significance in determining the body weight of goat kids before weaning remains less understood. To bridge this gap, our study delved into the rumen microbiota, serum metabolome, rumen fermentation, and rumen development in goat kids with contrasting body weights before weaning. We selected 10 goat kids from a cohort of 100, categorized into low body weight (LBW, 5.56 ± 0.98 kg) and high body weight (HBW, 9.51 ± 1.01 kg) groups. The study involved sampling rumen contents, tissues, and serum from these animals. Our findings showed that the HBW goat kids showed significant enrichment of VFA-producing bacteria, particularly microbiota taxa within the Prevotellaceae genera (UCG-001, UCG-003, and UCG-004) and the Prevotella genus. This enrichment correlated with elevated acetate and butyrate levels, positively influencing rumen papillae development. Additionally, it was associated with elevated serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. The serum metabonomic analysis revealed marked differences in fatty acid metabolism between the LBW and HBW groups, particularly in encompassing oleic acid and both long-chain saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Further correlational analysis underscored a significant positive association between Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 and specific lipids, such as phosphatidylcholine (PC) (22:5/18:3) and PC (20:3/20:1) (r > 0.60, p < 0.05). In summary, this study underscores the pivotal role of the rumen microbiota in goat kids’ weight and its correlation with specific serum metabolites. These insights could pave the way for innovative strategies aimed at improving animal body weight through targeted modulation of the rumen microbiota. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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16 pages, 1170 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition and In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation Characteristics of Native Grasses from the Floodplain Lowlands Ecosystem in the Colombian Orinoquia
by Mauricio Vélez-Terranova, Arcesio Salamanca-Carreño, Oscar M. Vargas-Corzo, Pere M. Parés-Casanova and José N. Arias-Landazábal
Animals 2023, 13(17), 2760; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13172760 - 30 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1423
Abstract
Grasses from lowland ecosystems in flooded savannahs are useful to feed extensive grazing animals; however, scarce information about its agronomic and fermentation characteristics exists. This study aims to determine the chemical composition and fermentation parameters of native grasses from the floodplain lowlands ecosystem [...] Read more.
Grasses from lowland ecosystems in flooded savannahs are useful to feed extensive grazing animals; however, scarce information about its agronomic and fermentation characteristics exists. This study aims to determine the chemical composition and fermentation parameters of native grasses from the floodplain lowlands ecosystem in the Colombian Orinoquia. Three native grasses (Leersia hexandra, Acroceras zizanioides and Hymenachne amplexicaulis) and a “control” grass (introduced Urochloa arrecta—Tanner grass) were sown and sampled at 30, 40 and 50 days of age. On each sampling date, biomass production in a 1 m2 frame was estimated, and the chemical composition and fermentation parameters were analyzed using near-infrared spectroscopy and the in vitro gas production technique, respectively. Data were analyzed using a mixed model for repeated measures and the least significant difference (LSD) was used for mean differentiation (p < 0.05). The grasses’ nutritional characteristics varied as follows: dry matter (DM, 0.7–2.0 ton/ha), crude protein (CP, 6.1–12.2%), neutral detergent fiber (NDF, 56.6–69.6%), ash (5.8–15.8%) and dry matter digestibility (DMD) between 20.8 and 60.6% from 12 to 48 h of fermentation. Native plants such as L. hexandra and A. zizanioides presented higher biomass production, CP, ash, cellulose, and Ca levels than the control plant. During the experimental period (30 to 50 days), the grasses did not present significant nutrient availability changes. In terms of fermentation characteristics, L. hexandra increased ammonia concentrations and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and butyric acid. This latter effect was also observed in A. zizanioides grass. L. hexandra and A. zizanioides grasses constitute a valuable alternative forage resource during the flooding times of the studied ecosystem. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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20 pages, 7751 KiB  
Article
Pigeon Pea Intercropped with Tropical Pasture as a Mitigation Strategy for Enteric Methane Emissions of Nellore Steers
by Althieres José Furtado, Adibe Luiz Abdalla Filho, Jaqueline Fernandes Bruno, Rolando Pasquini Neto, Annelise Aila Gomes Lobo, Gabriele Voltareli da Silva, Flavio Perna Junior, Teresa Cristina Alves, Alexandre Berndt, André de Faria Pedroso, Sérgio Raposo de Medeiros, Patrícia Perondi Anchão Oliveira and Paulo Henrique Mazza Rodrigues
Animals 2023, 13(8), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081323 - 12 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2401
Abstract
In this study, we evaluate the effects of intercropping pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) with tropical pastures for feeding Nellore cattle and compared animal performance and enteric CH4 emissions with other pasture-based systems during the dry and rainy seasons of [...] Read more.
In this study, we evaluate the effects of intercropping pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) with tropical pastures for feeding Nellore cattle and compared animal performance and enteric CH4 emissions with other pasture-based systems during the dry and rainy seasons of 2021. Thirty-six Nellore steers (with a body weight of 221 ± 7 kg and an age of 15–16 months) were randomly distributed in three treatments with three replicates (in paddocks of 1.5 hectares each): (1) a degraded pasture of Urochloa spp. (DEG); (2) a recovered and fertilized pasture of Urochloa spp. (REC); and (3) pigeon pea intercropped with Urochloa spp. (MIX). Enteric CH4 emissions were estimated using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer gas technique, and dry matter intake (DMI) was determined using internal (iNDF) and external (TiO2) markers. Forages were collected by hand plucking after observations of ingestive behavior, and feces was collected after voluntary defecation. The proportion of grass and legume intake was estimated by C stable isotopes, and the forage nutritional quality was determined, while animal performance was monitored monthly, and the stocking rate was adjusted by the “put and take” technique. The results indicated that intercropping pigeon pea with tropical grasses is an interesting strategy for sustainable livestock production based on pastures. The MIX treatment was able to meet the nutritional requirements of the animals, which presented higher performance. In addition, there was a reduction in CH4 emissions up to 70% when expressed per average daily weight gain in comparison to the DEG treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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Review

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16 pages, 1364 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Effect of Gastrointestinal Prevotella on Growth Performance Traits in Livestock Animals
by Xiyan Kou, Qingshan Ma, Yihong Liu, Muhammad Zahoor Khan, Boxian Wu, Wenting Chen, Xiaotong Liu, Changfa Wang and Yan Li
Animals 2024, 14(13), 1965; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131965 - 2 Jul 2024
Viewed by 817
Abstract
Microorganisms in the rumen play a crucial role in determining the most efficient utilization rate of nutrients. Among these microorganisms, Prevotella stands out as one of the most representative bacteria within the rumen biological system. Prevotella is a common strict anaerobic bacterium that [...] Read more.
Microorganisms in the rumen play a crucial role in determining the most efficient utilization rate of nutrients. Among these microorganisms, Prevotella stands out as one of the most representative bacteria within the rumen biological system. Prevotella is a common strict anaerobic bacterium that is found in the gastrointestinal tract of livestock. Prevotella plays a crucial role in breaking down and metabolizing complex nutrients like cellulose and protein during food digestion. Moreover, it is capable of working together with other bacteria in the body’s digestive system. Several studies have shown a strong correlation between the abundance of Prevotella and livestock growth performance. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current research on the function, mechanisms, and applications of Prevotella in the gastrointestinal tract. The insights provided in this review could serve as a theoretical basis for accurately classifying Prevotella, further investigating its effects and potential mechanisms on livestock growth performance, and exploring its practical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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20 pages, 3360 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Rumen Microbiota and the Different Molecular Techniques Used to Identify Microorganisms Found in the Rumen Fluid of Ruminants
by Éder Bruno Rebelo da Silva, Jamile Andréa Rodrigues da Silva, Welligton Conceição da Silva, Tatiane Silva Belo, Carlos Eduardo Lima Sousa, Maria Roseane Pereira dos Santos, Kedson Alessandri Lobo Neves, Thomaz Cyro Guimarães de Carvalho Rodrigues, Raimundo Nonato Colares Camargo-Júnior and José de Brito Lourenço-Júnior
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1448; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101448 - 13 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1441
Abstract
Variations in environments, including climate, diet, and agricultural practices, significantly impact the composition and microbial activity. A profound understanding of these adaptations allows for the improvement of nutrition and ruminant production. Therefore, this review aims to compile data from the literature on the [...] Read more.
Variations in environments, including climate, diet, and agricultural practices, significantly impact the composition and microbial activity. A profound understanding of these adaptations allows for the improvement of nutrition and ruminant production. Therefore, this review aims to compile data from the literature on the rumen microbiota and molecular techniques for identifying the different types of microorganisms from the rumen fluid of ruminants. Analyzing the literature on rumen microbiology in different ruminants is complex due to microbial interactions, influenced by the environment and nutrition of these animals. In addition, it is worth noting that the genera of protozoa and fungi most evident in the studies used in this review on the microbiology of rumen fluid were Entodinium spp. and Aspergillus spp., respectively, and Fibrobacter spp. for bacteria. About the techniques used, it can be seen that DNA extraction, amplification, and sequencing were the most cited in the studies evaluated. Therefore, this review describes what is present in the literature and provides an overview of the main microbial agents in the rumen and the molecular techniques used. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Microbiota, Fermentation Process, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Animal Performance)
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