The Effect of Replacement With Different Levels of Sulfur and Sulfur-Free Broad Bean in Soybean Meal and Barley Based Rations on Some Rumen Fermentation Parameters

Abstract

In this study, a total of 7 different isocaloric and isonitrogenic rations with and without sulfur (0.5% CaSO4) were constituted so as to meet 25, 50 and 75% of the protein and energy obtained from soybean meal (SBM) and barley from the control ration (C) with broad bean (BB). Wheat straw (WS) and hay grass (HG) were used as roughage sources in the rations. The effects on rumen parameters of the rations prepared were analyzed in 3 yearling sheep fitted with rumen fistula and duodenal cannula. No difference was observed between groups in terms of pH, NH3-N, propionic (PA) and butyric acid (BA) concentration of the rumen fluid (P<0.05). While rumen fluid pH was high before feeding, it decreased after feeding. Rumen NH3-N, acetic acid, PA and BA concentrations also increased (P<0.05). As a result, it was concluded that 75% of protein and energy obtained from soybean and barley used in sheep rations can be met with broad bean, but addition of sulfur to rations with broad bean additive has no effect on rumen fermentation parameters. © 2016, Centenary University. All rights reserved.