Effect of feeding E. officinalis on rumen fermentation and biochemical parameters in growing buffalo calves

Abstract

This study sought to evaluate the potential of amla dried fruit powder as a feed supplement for rumen fermentation, growth and hematobiochemical parameters in male murrah buffalo calves. E. officinalis powder was supplemented at 30 grams per day per animal in the diet of three fistulated buffalo calves for a period of three months. Rumen fermentation parameters were analyzed in the rumen samples collected at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of the trial. In the second phase, six growing male buffalo calves aged 12-14 months were fed E. officinalis fruit powder along with standard ration for three months, and another group of six buffalo calves were fed standard ration (control group). Growth parameters and blood samples were taken at 0, 45 and 90 days of the trial period. The results indicated an improvement in microbial fermentation, as indicated by an increase in the total volatile fatty acid, propionate and butyrate concentrations in the ruminal fluid at 60 and 90 days post feeding, increasing the amount of glucogenic energy available for productive purposes. Feeding of E. officinalis did not significantly affect growth parameters. The hematological parameters indicated an increase in hemoglobin and total erythrocyte count without any significant changes in other parameters. The plasma glucose, cholesterol, total protein and albumin concentrations indicated a normal physiological status of the treatment group animals. This study provides a comprehensive conclusion that the inclusion of E. officinalis in the diet of buffalo calves improved rumen fermentation and metabolism, maintaining the physiological health status of the animals.