Effect of corn grain substitution by millet grain (Pennisetum americanum) on diet of dairy lactation cows

Author(s)

Cláudio Vaz Di Mambro Ribeiro

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Piracicaba.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALA/BC)
• Defense date: 2000-02-04
• Advisor: Alexandre Vaz Pires

Abstract

This study conducted to evaluate corn substitution by pearl, based on starch content, on cow performance, nutrient digestibilities, and ruminal and blood parameters. Four lactating cannulated Holstein cows were used in a 5X4 Latin Square Design. The cows were fed a 50% corn silage diet on a dry matter basis. Treatments were substitution of corn starch by pearl millet starch: 1) 100:0; 2) 75:25; 3) 50:50; 4) 25:75; 5) 0:100, respectively. All grain substitutions were on a starch content basis. There was no effect (P>0.05) of grain source on dry matter intake, milk yield and milk fat content. The milk protein content was decreased by pearl millet grain. There was no treatment effect (P>0.05) on ruminal pH and concentration of acetate, propionate, butyrate and VFAs. The ruminal N-NH3 concentration tended to be higher for the corn grain based diets. Plasma glucose and N-Urea concentration were not affected by pearl millet content. (AU)