Journal of Animal Production, Print ISSN: 2008-6776., Online ISSN: 2382-994X

Abstract Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of palm oil, camelina oil, and whole camelina seeds on performance, nutrient digestibility, feeding behavior, and fecal score in fattening lambs.
Method: Thirty-two male lambs (mean age 3.5 months and initial weight 23.89 ± 0.48 kg) were fattened in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 8 replicates for 84 days. The treatments included: 1- basal diet without oil supplement (control), 2- basal diet containing 1.5% palm oil, 3- basal diet containing 1.5% camelina oil, and 4- basal diet containing 5% camelina seed. Lambs were housed individually with ad libitum fresh water. Body weight was recorded every 28 days and daily feed intake was measured. Nutrient digestibility was assessed using acid‑insoluble ash (AIA) as an internal marker during the final two weeks. Feeding behavior was observed over 24 h by instantaneous sampling every 5 min, and time spent eating, ruminating, and resting was calculated. Fecal consistency was scored weekly on a 1–5 visual scale. Data were analyzed with the General Linear Model (GLM) in SAS 9.4 and means compared by Duncan’s test (α = 0.05). All procedures followed the university’s animal‑care guidelines.
Results: Results showed that although feed intake decreased in oil-supplemented treatments (P < 0.001), yet daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were not affected by treatments (P > 0.05). Average daily feed intake was ~12 % lower in the oil groups compared with control, while average daily gain (ADG) remained around 185 g day⁻¹ across all treatments. The digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in treatments containing palm oil and camelina oil was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that of the camelina seed treatment, while crude fat digestibility increased in these treatments. Lambs fed camelina seed had the longest time spent eating, ruminating, and chewing during the day (P < 0.001). Fecal score at the end of the period in treatments containing camelina (oil and seed) was significantly higher (softer) than in the palm oil and control treatments, indicating looser stools. No clinical signs of digestive disturbance were observed.
Conclusions: In general, the use of camelina seed, due to the protective effect of the seed coat on the rumen environment, led to the preservation of nutrient digestibility and improved rumination behavior, and also affected fecal consistency. The physical form of fat supply (seed vs. free oil) is a key factor in its effect on digestive processes in fattening lambs Incorporating camelina seed can increase diet energy density while maintaining fiber utilization—a practical strategy for lamb producers. Future work should test higher seed inclusion levels and assess long‑term effects on carcass composition, especially omega‑3 fatty‑acid enrichment.

Abstract Objective: The suckling calf is particularly susceptible to digestive and respiratory disease because of its immature immune system and increased mortality, making it one of the major challenges of the livestock industry. The nutritional strategy to enhance the performance of suckling calves by supplementing their diet with feed additives, such as probiotic and biochar, was evaluated in this study. Method: Twenty-eight female newborn Holstein calves (41.2 ± 3.8 kg) were used in a 2×2 factorial arrangement within a completely randomized design over a 70‑day experimental period. Experimental treatments were as follows:1- basal diet without additive (control), 2- basal diet with 2 g/day of probiotic, 3- basal diet with 1% biochar and 4- basal diet with 2 g/day of probiotic plus 1% biochar. The basal diet was formulated with a 10:90 forage-to-concentrate ratio to meet nutrient requirements. Water and starter feed were provided ad libitum throughout the experiment. Feed intake was recorded daily, body weight and skeletal growth changes were assessed every two weeks. Blood samples were collected on days 0 (birth time), 35 and 70, and fecal samples were collected to evaluate diet digestibility in the last week of the experiment from all calves. All calves were observed for three days at the end of the experiment to record their feeding behaviors (standing, lying, eating, and ruminating) and non-feeding behaviors (licking, sucking, and chewing on environmental objects). Results: Results indicated that calves that were supplemented with dietary biochar had significantly higher starter feed intake and weaning body weight compared with the non‑biochar groups (P<0.05). Wither height, hip height and abdominal circumference of the calves also increased with biochar supplementation (P<0.05). Concurrent supplementation with probiotic and biochar (treatment 4) further enhanced wither height and hip height (P<0.05). probiotic and biochar supplementation improved apparent digestibility of organic matter and crude protein (P<0.05), respectively, whereas the digestibility of other nutrients was unaffected by experimental treatments. Biochar supplementation also increased blood glucose concentration (P<0.05). Dietary treatments did not significantly affec any of the feeding behaviors. Interaction effects of probiotic and biochar were not significant on any of the parameters measured in this study. Conclusions: Overall, dietary supplementation with biochar, either alone or in combination with probiotic, showed significant positiv effects on performance, skeletal growth indices, and digestibility of nutrients in suckling calves, suggesting that biochar may be used as a functional feed additive to support early-life health and productivity.

Abstract Objective: With dwindling resources for animal feed production in the country and the ever-growing human population and their demand for food, the production of common fodder crops such as alfalfa and corn cannot fulfill the nutritional requirements of the livestock, which has led experts and livestock authorities to seek alternatives, such as using agricultural and livestock residues and growing alternative forage crops. Among these alternative forage crops, fodder beet has gained considerable attention in recent years due to its high biomass yield, ease of cultivation, relative drought tolerance, low cost under water-limited conditions, and high palatability. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of total mixed ration silage (TMRS) formulated with fodder beet and triticale forage on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood parameters in male lambs. Method: Two isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated based on nutrient requirements of small ruminants (NRC, 2007): 1- Fodder beet TMRS, with leaves and roots; 2- Triticale TMRS, with whole crop triticale forage. Both ingredients, (forage and concentrate portions) were well mixed and ensiled in 100-ton plastic-wrapped bunker silos using specialized machinery. Twenty-four male Zel lambs (3–4 months old; average body weight 18.7±2.7 kg) were randomly allocated into two equal groups (n=12), with  each group was subdivided into four replicates (3 lambs per replicate) and fed one of the experimental diets. The feeding trial lasted 90 days, and lambs were fed ad libitum twice a day (08:00 and 16:00). Feed intake was recorded daily, and body weight was measured monthly. Digestibility was estimated via fecal collection, and blood parameters were analyzed using commercial biochemical kits. Results: There was no effect of the experimental treatments on the average daily gain of the lambs. There was a significantly higher DDMI in lambs fed the fodder beet diet (949 g) compared with lambs fed the triticale diet (917 g). There was no difference in the feed conversion ratio between the two groups. Digestibility of dry matter and organic matter of the fodder beet diet was significantly higher than that of the triticale diet (P<0.05), whereas no significant differences were detected in the digestibility of crude protein, NDF, and ADF. Lambs fed the fodder beet diet had higher serum triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations than lambs fed the triticale diet (P<0.05), but no significant differences were observed between other serum parameters. Conclusion: In general, the relative advantage of fodder beet suggests that complete feed silage with fodder beet (a new physical form of diet) could be used as an alternative feeding method for fattening male lambs. 

Abstract Objective: Limited access to high-quality forages such as alfalfa is a major challenge in improving production effeciency in Iran's livestock industry. Despite efforts in recent years to identify and replace cost-effective plant species, no suitable and reliable alternative plant has been introduced so far. This study was designed and conducted to evaluate the potential of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) as an alternative forage source. For this purpose, the chemical composition of MOL was determined, and the effect of including different levels of this plant in the diet on in vitro digestibility and fermentation parameters was investigated. Methods: The chemical composition of MOL and alfalfa hay (Medicago sativa) was determined using standard methods. Subsequently, the experimental diets were formulated with four levels of MOL inclusion (0, 15, 30, and 45% of dietary DM) to meet the requirements of growing sheep, balanced with a 55:45 forage to concentrate ratio. Dry matter and organic matter digestibility were measured using the two-stage procedure of Tilley and Terry method, and other parameters such as gas production, microbial biomass production, ammonia-N and volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentrations, antioxidant capacity, and protozoa population were evaluated using the gas production technique. Results: The results indicated that MOL had higher crude protein (CP), ash, ether extract (EE), calcium, and phosphorus, and lower cell NDF, ADF, and lignin compared to alfalfa hay (P<0.05), so that the CP, ash, and EE of MOL were 48.3%, 25.8%, and 33.3% higher than those of alfalfa, respectively. The amounts of non-fibrous carbohydrates and metabolizable energy (ME) of the two plants did not differ. In diets containing MOL, digestibility, ME, gas production volume, truly degraded substrate, and microbial biomass production increased linearly (P<0.05), while partitioning factor and microbial biomass production efficiency did not change. Also, the use of MOL in the diet significantly increased the concentration of ruminal VFA and antioxidant capacity and reduced the concentration of rumen ammonia-N (P<0.05), while the mentioned plant had no effect on pH and the ratio of VFA. On the other hand, the inclusion of MOL in the diet caused a significant reduction in the total population and subfamilies of protozoa (P<0.05). Conclusions: Based on the obtained results, Moringa oleifera leaves can be considered as a potential alternative for the forage part of the diet and can be recommended up to 45% of the diet, with the aim of meeting livestock nutritional requirements, improve ruminal fermentation and antioxidant status. However, in vivo studies are needed to further explore the performance effects of Moringa oleifera leaves.

Abstract Objective: The poultry industry plays a vital role in providing high-quality dietary protein and addressing global food shortages. Ensuring the safety of poultry products for human consumption while minimizing environmental impact has become a key priority in modern production systems. In the past, antibiotics were widely used to enhance growth performance and prevent diseases in poultry. However, concerns over the development of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and the associated risks to public health have led to increasing restrictions on their use. The reduction or withdrawal of antibiotic use has, in some cases, contributed to the resurgence of infectious diseases and economic losses within the poultry sector. Consequently, there has been growing interest in natural alternatives that can support health and productivity. Among these alternatives, dietary immunomodulators have emerged as promising candidates. Substances such as nano-copper and propolis are recognized for their potential to act as natural growth promoters and immune enhancers in poultry production systems- Methods: In this research, 240 chickens of Ross 308 strain were used with five treatments and four replicates in a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments included the control diet, 0.05% Oxytetracycline antibiotic, 100 mg/kg Nano-copper, 125 mg/kg Propolis, and the simultaneous use of 100 mg/kg Nano-copper and 125 mg/kg Propolis. The experimental data were statistically analyzed using SAS software (version 9.4) and one-way analysis of variance, and the least squares mean of the treatments was examined at a significance level of five percent. Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that the use of propolis had significant effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and certain physiological parameters of broiler chickens. During the finisher phase and over the entire rearing period, birds receiving diets supplemented with nano-copper or a combination of nano-copper and propolis consumed significantly less feed than the control group. In terms of body weight gain over the entire period, the antibiotic-supplemented group showed superior performance relative to the control group, while the propolis-treated group exhibited similar results to the antibiotic group. However, no significant differences were observed among the treatments in terms of feed conversion ratio. In terms of digestibility, the control and propolis treatments had the highest apparent digestibility of crude protein and ash. However, nano-copper supplementation, especially in combination with propolis, resulted in reduced nutrient digestibility, which may be attributed to the potential negative effects of nano-copper on intestinal function. Although some previous studies have reported positive impacts of nano-copper on protein synthesis, these effects appear to be highly dose-dependent and influenced by environmental and management conditions. Additionally, the presence of enzymes and antioxidant compounds in propolis may contribute to improved digestibility. Regarding carcass traits, no significant difference was observed among treatments in the relative weight of internal organs, indicating the relative safety of these additives at the inclusion levels used in this study. Conclusions: Considering the improvement of protein and ash digestibility by ethanolic extract of Propolis and the lack of significant difference in performance with Oxytetracycline, this supplement can be used as an alternative to antibiotics.

Abstract Introduction: With the increase of the population in the last century, the need for protein sources, especially protein with animal origin, has increased. One of the important and inexpensive sources of animal proteins is poultry products. However, many food-borne diseases that are among the most obvious problems related to human health are transmitted to humans through poultry products. Generally, poultry are sensitive to pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridium, Salmonella, and Campylobacter. Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli are the main causes of bacterial enteritis in humans and account for about 90% and less than 10% of deaths in people with campylobacteriosis, respectively. Poultry farmers use antibiotic growth promoters to prevent the colonization of pathogenic bacteria, but their use has been banned in European Union since 2006 due to antibiotic resistance. However, in order to prevent the reduction of growth performance and mortality caused by the colonization of pathogenic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, it is necessary to introduce suitable alternatives. The antimicrobial potential of several medicinal plants, some plant-derived bioactive compoundsas well as some organic acids against a suspension of two Campylobacter serotypes (including 8 strains of C. jejuni and 3 strains of C. coli) has been investigated, under in vitro study. It has been revealed that oregano, rosemary, and cinnamon have a higher potential in reducing campylobacter colonization, among other phytobiotic compounds. Considering that under in vivo conditions, no research has been conducted on these medicinal plants with broiler chickens exposed to Campylobacter colonization. Therefore, this research was conducted with the aim of investigating the growth performance, excreta microbiota, intestinal morphology, and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens challenged with C. jejuni and evaluating the potential of oregano, rosemary, and cinnamon in reducing the negative effects of this pathogen. Material and Methods: A total of 192 one-day-old chicks were randomly allocated to 6 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with 4 replicates of 8 birds. The dietary treatments were as follows: 1-negative control (NC; basal diet without additive and without of C. jejuni); 2-positive control (PC; basal diet without additives but challenged with C. jejuni); 3-basal diet + Erythromycin (55 mg/kg); 4-basal diet + oregano powder (3 g/kg); 5- basal diet + rosemary powder (3 g/kg) and 6-basal diet+cinnamon powder (3 g/kg). All chickens were orally gavaged once a day with a suspension of C. jejuni live culture (2×10⁸ cfu/mL, 1 mL/bird) on days 21 to 25, with the exception of those fed the NC. Throughout the experimental period, the birds were fed ad libitum and had free access to water. Results and Discussion: The results showed that the C. jejuni, while weakening performance during the growth period, caused an increase in campylobacter colonization and a decrease in lactobacilli counts of the excreta (P<0.05). The reason for the improvement of the microflora can be due to the presence of antibacterial compounds such as thymol, carvacrol, verbenone, and cinnamaldehyde in the composition of the mentioned medicinal plants. Campylobacter jejuni also decreased the digestibility of organic matter and led to a decrease in villous height, villous height to crypt depth ratio, and villi surface area in the jejunum (P<0.05). The reason for the improvement of the intestinal morphology by herbal additives can be due to the improvement of the microflora of the digestive tract. All the negative effects arising from C. jejuni were alleviated by dietary treatments containing feed additives (P<0.05). Conclusion: In general, it can be concluded that oregano and rosemary have the potential to reduce the pathogenic effects of Campylobacter jejuni and can be used as suitable alternatives to antibiotics in feeding broilers. 

Abstract In order to investigate the chemical and nutritional characteristics of pea pod silage (PPS) and its effect on the performance of fattening lambs, 24 Zandi male lambs (initial BW, 33.5 ±1.5 kg) were used in a completely randomized design over 75 days. Experimental treatments were: 1) control; (basal diet) 2- pea pod silage (PPS replaced wheat straw and alfalfa in the basal diet). The amount of dry matter (DM), crude protein, ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber of PPS were determined 20, 11.8, 1.8, 8, 62 and 20.2 percent, respectively, and pH was 6.02. The rumen degradability potential of DM and in vitro gas production potential of PPS after 96 h of incubation were estimated 83 and 58.6 percent, respectively. The use of PPS in fattening lambs rations improved the final body weight and increased the daily weight gain (P<0.05). The amount of DM digestibility was affected by the treatment (P<0.05), but digestibility of other nutrients was not affected by the experimental treatment. Blood parameters (cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL and LDL) were not affected by the experimental treatments, except for the glucose, which significantly decreased by feeding PPS (P<0.05). The experimental treatments had no significant effect on carcass traits. Based on the results of this study, the use of pea pod silage as a cost-effective alternative forage in replacement with common forages such as wheat straw and alfalfa can improve the performance of fattening lambs.

Abstract Sixteen male Markhoz kids (13.2±1.6 kg live body weight, 3 months old) were used to evaluate the effects of a commercial bacterial probiotic supplement on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, meat quality attributes and fatty acid profile of triceps brachii muscle and omental fat based on a completely randomized design with two treatments and eight replicates. The Primalak probiotic was fed daily in the amount of two grams to each kid in the respective treatment. Growth performance parameters, including average daily feed intake, average daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were not affected by bacterial probiotic feeding. Digestibility of diet’s chemical components showed no significant difference between treatments. Similarly, the quality attributes of triceps brachii muscle, including pH24, drip loss, water holding capacity, and chemical composition had similar values in both experimental treatments. Kids with access to bacterial probiotic had significantly lower saturated fatty acids, higher mono-unsaturated fatty acids and greater unsaturated to saturated fatty acids ratio in examined muscle (P<0.05). However, with the exception of lower C15:0 concentration in kids receiving bacterial probiotic (P<0.05), fatty acids profile in omental fat tissue did not change in response to probiotic consumption. It can be concluded that Primalak multi-strain probiotic with the mentioned dosage (2g/d/h) is not an effective additive to make significant changes in nutrients digestibility, Markhoz kid’s performance, meat quality attributes and fatty acids profile of different fat tissues.

Abstract The present study was conducted in order to determine yield and the nutritive value of Napier grass at different growth stages as a new forage source in Iran. For this purpose, Napier grass was harvested at three stages of vegetative growth (65, 85 and 115 days after planting, respectively). Chemical composition, rumen fermentation parameters, yield and some morphological traits were investigated. At the final growth stage, dry matter (DM) yield and height of Napier grass was 26.8 tons per hectare and 257 cm, respectively. With increasing age of the plant, a decrease in crude protein and an increase in lignin of cell wall was observed (P < 0.05). Crude protein and neutral detergent fiber content of the grass at this stage were 88 and 63 g/kg DM, respectively. Changes in chemical compositions during growth stages were more pronounced in the stem than in the leaf. During the growth period, the decrease in digestibility of leave and stem led to a decrease in dry matter and organic matter digestibility of Napier grass from 782 to 649 and from 814 to 747 g/kg DM, respectively (P < 0.05). The amount of gas production potential decreased with increasing plant age (P < 0.05). Fermentation rate and lag time were similar in plant harvested at the three stages of growth. The results of the present study showed that Napier grass with high yield of digestible organic matter and high nutritive value can be considered as a valuable source of forage in the country.

Abstract effect of these bacteriaon the performance of fattening lambs, digestibility, fermentation and blood parameters. Thirty Afshari male lambs with an average weight of 32 ± 3 kg and age of four months were used in a completely randomized design. The experimental treatments included diets containing wheat straw processed with four bacterial strains isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of horse (Paenibacillus polymyxa L11, Paenibacillus polymyxa L12Enterobacter cloacae L2 and Escherichia coli Z2) for 6 weeks; and the control treatment. The results showed that bacterial processing increased crude protein and decreased NDF, iNDF and ADF content, as well as increased organic matter digestibility (OMD) and metabolizable energy (ME) of wheat straw compared to the control. The highest amount of OMD and ME was assigned toL11. Apparent digestibility of DM, NDF and ADF, concentrations and ratios of ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA), ruminal pH and ammonia nitrogen were affected by bacterial processing. The highest nutrient digestibility was assigned to the L11 and and the lowest amount was assigned to the control treatment. The lowest amount of ruminal ammonia nitrogen was observed in L11 treatment. Bacterial treatments increased total VFA, propionate concentration and decreased rumen acetate concentration. According to the results, processing of wheat straw with cellulolytic bacteria isolated from the horse's gastrointestinal tract (especially L11) improved nutritional value of wheat straw. Therefore, it seems that bacterial processing can be a suitable strategyfor better use of crop by-product with low nutritional value.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to determine the nutritive value of Alhaji camelorum plant using nylon bag and gas production techniques which compared with alfalfa hay. Fodder samples were hand harvested and its chemical and phenolic composition was determined according to standard laboratory methods. The methods of gas production, nylon bags and three-step enzymatic digestion were used to determine the nutritive value of the samples. The amount of organic matter, crude protein and Ca of Alhaji camelorum was lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Wheras, the neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, lignin, ash and phosphorus content of Alhaji camelorum were significantly higher than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). The amount of total phenolic compounds, total tannin, condensed and hydrolyzable tannin of Alhaji camelorum was also higher than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the fast degradable, slow degradable and degradablity rates of Alhaji camelorum and alfalfa hay. However, the effective degradability of Alhaji camelorum was lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Gas production rate (c) of Alhaji camelorum and alfalfa was similar, however, its gas production potential (b) was lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Organic matter digestibility, metabolizable energy, and net energy for lactation were also estimated to be lower in Alhaji camelorum than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). According to the results of the present research, Alhaji camelorum plant with appropriate nutritional caractristics and digestibility parameters along with its lower production cost compare to alfalfa hay, can be replaced with a part of the forage of camel diet.

Abstract This study was performed to investigate the relationship between apparent digestibility of magnesium (Mg) with body weight, feed intake and phytase enzyme with 120 individual B-line Arian male broilers. Birds were assigned two standard diets and a diet supplemented with one gram of phytase (FTU / 500 kg). Daily feed intake, weekly weight gain, feed conversion ratio during rearing and Mg digestibility were measured at 28 to 30 days. Using Gompertz model, growth rate (c), initial weight (b) and maximum growth potential (m) were analyzed. Growth rate and maximum growth potential were higher in the group consuming phytase enzyme (P <0.05). Weight gain and feed conversion ratio improved under the effect of phytase supplemented diets (P <0.05). Magnesium digestibility was higher in phytase enzyme diets than standard basal diets (P <0.05). The results showed that the modeled growth rate affected the Mg digestibility so that birds with higher growth rate (faster growth potential) had more potential for Mg digestion (P <0.05). The relationship between Mg digestibility and body weight gain was positive and the higher the Mg digestibility, the greater the weight gain (P <0.05). Birds with higher growth potential have the ability to digest more of the mineral Mg, and this digestibility is increased by the use of the phytase enzyme. Therefore, in the breeding programs of Arian chickens, more attention can be paid to the relationship between the use of magnesium and the growth rate parameter.

Abstract This study was conducted to compare the effect of a cellulosic (wheat straw; WS) and non-cellulosic (beet pulp; BP) forage source on high producing dairy cows during the transition period (three weeks before to six weeks after calving). Multiparous Holstein cows (n=36) with mean body weight of 697±59.6 kg and body condition score of 3.3±0.22 were used in the experiment. Before calving, the cows received diets containing 7.17% WS (n=18) or BP (n=18). After calving, the cows in each group were divided into two subgroups (n=9), and received the diets containing 5% BP or WS. Prepartum dry matter intake (DMI) was similar between dietary treatments but prepartum digestibility of DM (P=0.05) and neutral detergent fiber (P= 0.06) was lower in cows feeding on the WS diet. The yield of energy-corrected milk, 4% fat-corrected milk and milk fat percentage tended to be higher in the cows fed with the BP diet during the prepartum period (P = 0.09). In conclusion, the results showed that feeding non-cellulosic forages during the transition period may improve the performance in dairy cows.

Abstract The effect of using whole safflower seed and flaxseed in the during transition period on performance, digestibility, production and composition of colostrum and blood parameters of Afshari ewes using three treatments and 27 pregnant ewes with average age of  three years, weight of 85 ± 1.28 kg and range 6 weeks before expected lambing in a completely randomized design was investigated. Experimental treatments included; 1- control diet (base), 2- diet containing 8% safflower seed, 3- diet containing 8% flaxseed. The effect of treatments was not significant on functional traits of ewes pre-lambing but their dry matter intake and weight change post lambing were affected by safflower seed and flaxseed treatment (P< 0.05). The experimental treatments were not significant on pre-lambing digestibility coefficients, composition and amount of colostrum and milk as well as lamb performance. The triglyceride, cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein levels in blood plasma of flaxseed-fed ewes were higher than safflower and control treatments in pre-lambing. The results demonstrated that using safflower seed and flaxseed in the period close to  lambing did not have negative effects on the performance of gestation ewes but increased their dry matter and improved the health of lactating ewes and lambs by preventing severe weight loss in post lambing.

Abstract To study the effects of replacing canola meal with black seed meal on performance, blood parameters and carcass characteristics, eighteen male lambs (with initial BW, 29.5 ±1.5 kg and 110 ± 7 days of age) were used in a completely randomized design with 3 different treatments over 90 days. Experimental treatments were: 1) control; diet containing 9% canola meal, 2) diet containing 4.5 % canola meal plus 4.5 % black seed meal and 3) diet containing 9 % black seed meal. The amount of dry matter, ash, crude protein, fat, NDF, ADF, and ADIN of black seed meal was 92.60 ±0.58, 7.24±0.27, 35.8±1.0, 12.31±0.51, 24.56±1.24, 13.0±0.79 and 2.15±0.17, respectively. There were no significant differences between treatments for digestibility of organic matter, NDF, fat and protein. Daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, daily weight gain, final body weight, carcass efficiency, weight of liver, heart, kidney and testis were not differed between experimental groups. However, lambs fed with black seed meal had lower level of subcutaneous fat, tail-fat and total body fat deposition compared to control group (P<0.05). Feeding 9% black seed meal increased blood total protein and albumin concentration compared to the other experimental groups (P<0.05). The results of this study showed that it could be feasible to use black seed meal up to 9% in finishing lamb diet.

Abstract In the present study, the chemical composition and nutritional value of quinoa crop residues were determined using insitu and invitro gas production techniques in comparison with alfalfa hay. After harvesting, whole quinoa plants were dried at environmental temperature, the seeds were separated, and the crop residues were used for the experiment. The results showed that the content of gross energy, dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent fiber and lignin of quinoa was higher than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Crude protein concentration of quinoa (12.29%) was lower than alfalfa hay (14.32%). The main part of the tannin in quinoa was hydrolysable. Although the degradation rate and post-ruminal digestibility of quinoa and alfalfa hay were similar, ruminal, and total tract digestibility of quinoa were lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). No significant differences were found in gas production rate (c) between quinoa and alfalfa hay, however, it’s gas production potential (b) was lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Organic matter digestibility, metabolizable energy and net energy of lactation in quinoa crop residues were also lower than alfalfa hay (P<0.05). Based on the results of this study, quinoa crop residues have suitable nutritional potential for replacing part of the forage to meet part of the nutritional requirements of ruminant feeds. However, invivo studies are recommended to determine it’s appropriate level in the diet.

Abstract The effects of chicory root powder on performance, digestibility, immune system and carcass characteristics of broilers were investigated using 360 pieces of Ross 308 strain day-old broiler chicks (male and female), in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replicates and in a growth period of 1-42 days of age. The experimental treatments were consisted of a basal diet and diets containing the levels of 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 percentages ofchicory root powder. Feed intake and weight of birds were measured periodically and body weight gain and feed conversion ratio were calculated. Nutrient digestibilities were measured at 33-36 days of age. The use of chicory root powder in the feed of broilers caused an improvement in feed conversion ratio at 1-14 and 28-42 days of age (P<0.05), but had no significant effect on perfomance traits in the whole of experimental period. The digestibility of protein and fat in broilers fed with 0.75% chicory root powder were higher than the other diets (P<0.05). The relative weight of liver decreased in broilers fed with chicory root powder (P<0.05). Feeding of broiler chickens with 0.25 percent dietary chicory root powder increased the number of lymphocytes and decreased the number of heterophils (P<0.05). According to the results of this experiment, the use of 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75% chicory root powder in broiler ration does not have significant effect on production performance of broiler chickens but improves the immune system activity of broilers.

Abstract The objective of present study was to investigate the effect of different levels of sesame meal in early lactation cow's ration on dry matter intake, milk
yield and composition, apparent digestibility of nutrients and blood metabolites. Six dairy lactating Holstein cows with average DIM 26± 3 (n=3
primiparous and n=3 multiparous cows) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 experimental treatments (different levels of sesame meal) in repeated 3×3
Latin square design. Experimental treatments were control (without sesame meal), 4.33% sesame meal and 8.66% sesame meal (DM basis). The
experimental periods consisted of 21 d with the first 14 days as adaptation and the last 7 days as sampling days. Increasing level of sesame meal in
early lactation rations did not affect dry matter intake, milk yield and composition (fat, protein and lactose), feed utilization efficiency, apparent
digestibility of nutrients and blood metabolites (P  0.05), while milk urea nitrogen decreased with increasing the level of sesame meal (p < 0.05).
Blood urea nitrogen concentrations also tended (P = 0.1) to decrease with increasing levels of sesame oil. In general, the lack of response in feed
intake and milk yield with increasing the levels of sesame meal in early lactation cow's ration showed that sesame meal could be a proper protein
source in early lactation cow's ration.

Abstract The aim of this research was to study the effect of adding enzyme preparations and ration formulation on performance, nutrient digestibility and intestinal microflora of broilers. Two hundred and fifty six day-old male and female broiler chicks of Ross 308 strain were used in a 2×2×2 factorial experiment consisting of two methods of diet formulation (total and digestible amino acid), two levels of Natuzyme Plus (0 and 0.035%) and two levels of Multi-behzyme (0 and 0.02%) as additives. The factors were arranged as a completely randomized design with eight treatments and four replications. Diet formulation based on total amino acids improved the average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the grower and finisher and total periods, but decreased daily feed intake during the finisher and total periods (P ≤ 0.05). It also increased dry matter digestibility, dressing percentage and intestinal length, but it decreased fat digestibility (P ≤ 0.05). Natuzyme Plus increased dry matter, crude protein and fat digestibility and decreased the number of E .coli in the cecum. (P ≤ 0.05). Multibehzyme improved ADG during the grower period, FCR during the finisher period and total period and it increased dry matter, crude protein and crude fat digestibility (P ≤ 0.05). It was concluded that Multi- behzyme could be replaced with Natuzyme Plus, and its inclusion in the diets formulated by digestible amino acid and low protein content can improve the negative outcome of low level protein diets.

Abstract The present study was conducted to determine the chemical composition of Echinophora sibthorpiana and Pulicaria dysenterica and the effect of dietary inclusions of these plants on in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters and digestibility. Chemical composition of the experimental plants was determined using standard methods and different levels of each plant were included in the diet. In vitro gas production technique was performed with seven treatments (control diet, diets containing 15, 30 or 45 percentage of Echinophora and diets containing 15, 30 or 45 percentage of Pulicaria) and three replicates. Results indicated that crude protein and organic matter digestibility (OMD) of Echinophora (10.4 and 61.8 percentage, respectively) were higher than Pulicaria (7.85 and 52.5 percentage, respectively) (P<0.05). Inclusion of Echinophora in the diet increased OMD and metabolizable energy, while using Pulicaria reduced these parameters (P<0.05). Ruminal ammonia decreased with inclusion of Echinophora in the diet (P<0.05), but it was not affected by Pulicaria. Dietary inclusions of Echinophora and Pulicaria decreased protozoa population and methane production (P<0.05). The ruminal antioxidant capacity was improved by inclusions of Echinophora and Pulicaria in the diet (P<0.05). Based on the results, the
use of Echinophora up to 45 percentage and Pulicaria up to 30 percentage of diet dry matter is recommended in ruminants. However, the forage to concentrate ratio should be reduced when feeding Pulicaria in high-performance animals. On the other hand, using Echinophora and Pulicaria improves ruminal antioxidant capacity and reduces methane release to the environment.

Abstract The aim of the present experiment was to determine the effect of using the vitex agnus-castus (vitex) leaves as an alternative for alfalfa hay in the diet of fattening male goat kids on the performance, ruminal fermentation, digestibility of the nutrients and some blood parameters. The experimental treatments were 1) control (without vitex) and 2) replacement of vitex leaves with 60% alfalfa hay in the control diet
(equal to 18% of diet). Sixteen fattening male goat kids with the average weights of 18 ± 2 kg and ages of 4.5 months were randomly assigned to the two treatments and eight replications for 60 days. Feed consumption, weight changes and feed conversion ratio were measured every 15 days. Dry matter intake, digestibility of nutrients, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were not affected by the
experimental treatments in the entire experiment period. Compared to the control diet, concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (P =0.08) and cholesterol (P =0.07) tend to decrease whereas blood glucose concentration (P=0.08) tend to increase in the kids fed with the diet containing vitex leaves. Ammonia nitrogen concentration and pH of the rumen liquor in treatment containing vitex leaves were significantly lower compared to the control group (P <0.05). Consequently, the vitex leaves can be used up to 18% of diet in the feeding of fattening male goat kids as an appropriate replacement for 60% of alfalfa hay without having the negative effects on their digestion and performance.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the buffering capacity of some buffer mixtures and the effect of their inclusion in the diet on in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters. For this purpose, five buffer mixtures were prepared as: 1) containing 15% sodium bicarbonate + 15% magnesium oxide + 35% magnesium carbonate + 35% sodium bentonite; 2) containing 35% sodium bicarbonate + 35% magnesium oxide + 15% magnesium carbonate + 15% sodium bentonite; 3) containing 20% sodium bicarbonate + 40% magnesium oxide + 20% magnesium carbonate + 20% sodium bentonite; 4) containing 40% sodium bicarbonate + 20% magnesium oxide + 20% magnesium carbonate + 20% sodium bentonite; and 5) containing 16% sodium carbonate + 35% magnesium oxide +22% magnesium carbonate + 5% sodium bentonite and 22% monobasic potassium phosphate. Buffering capacity and buffer value index were measured. Then the effect of buffer mixtures on gas production potential, pH, ammonia nitrogen concentration and in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) was investigated. Buffering
capacity and buffer value index of buffer mixture 2 was higher than other buffer compounds (P<0.05). Buffer mixture 4 increased gas production (P<0.05). IVDMD was the same between the buffer mixtures and only buffer mixture 4 and 1 were different (P<0.05). The use of buffer mixture 2 increased the pH of the batch culture (P<0.05). Overall, the results of this experiment showed that the use of buffer mixture
2 could have an effective role in preventing pH drop and consequently reducing acidosis.

Abstract This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different levels of dietary crude protein and protease enzyme on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and protein digestibility in Japanese quails. Four hundred fifty day-old quails were randomly distributed into nine experimental groups in a completely randomized design with 3 × 3 factorial arrangement including 3 levels of protein (18, 20 and 22%) and 3 levels of protease enzyme supplementation (0, 200 and 400 mg/kg) with five replicates and 10 birds per replicates. In 1 to 21 days of age, the highest weight gain and feed intake were achieved in birds fed diet with 22% crude protein (P<0.05). Also, birds fed with the diet supplemented with 200 ppm protease enzyme showed higher feed intake and weight gain, in comparison to the birds fed no enzyme supplemented diet (P>0.05). But, the best feed conversion ratio was seen in birds fed a diet contained 400 ppm enzyme. In 22 to 35 days of age, different dietary treatments have no significant effect on growth performance. Carcass percentage of quails fed with diets contained 20 and 22% CP was significantly higher than those fed 18% CP diet (P<0.05). Also, enzyme supplementation had beneficial effects on the carcass, breast, and thigh relative weights (P<0.05). In the 13-15 days period, CP digestibility coefficient was significantly decreased by increasing the CP level from 18 or 20 to 22%. Also, protease enzyme supplementation at 200 ppm level had significantly a positive effect on CP digestibility (P<0.05). It could be concluded that the optimal dietary CP level for growing Japanese quails for 1- 21 and 22-35 days of the growing period is 22 and 18%, respectively. Also, dietary supplementation with protease enzyme at 200 ppm level could be beneficial at 1 to 21 days of age.

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to determine the nutrient ileal digestibility of raw date pit (RDP) and fermented date pit (FDP) as well as their effects on performance and some bloody traits in broiler chickens,. The first experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with 72 male broiler chicks, three treatments and six replicates (four chicks each) . The treatments consisted of a corn – soybean diet and two experimental diets which prepared by replacing RDP and FDP to basal diet at 25 %. The second experiment was performed in a 2× 4 factorial arrangement along with a control treatment in completely randomized design in a population of 540 day old broiler chickens in nine treatments with five replicates (12 chicks each). Dietary treatments included a diet without date pit (control), and diets containing two, four, six and eight percent of RDP or FDP. The digestibility of crude protein, fiber and ash in the FDP were higher than RDP (p<0.05). Feeding broiler chickens with FDP compared to RDP, improved weight gain (2110.5 g vs 1991.3 g ) and increased feed intake (p<0.05). The blood cholesterol and LDL-c decreased in chickens fed by FDP compared to RDP (p<0.05). According to the results of this experiment fermentation of date pit increases digestibility of its nutrients and improves weight gain of broiler chickens.

Abstract In order to investigate the effect of feeding zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) supplementation on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, ruminal fermentation parameters and some blood metabolites, an experiment was conducted on fifteen Kermani male lambs with average initial body weight of 32.1 ± 0.88 kg as a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 5 replicates for 8 weeks. The experimental treatments were basal diet without supplemental Zn (Control), basal diet plus 50 mg Zn/kg diet of Zn-Met, and basal diet supplemented with 100 mg Zn/kg diet of Zn-Met. The results showed that lambs fed with 100 mg/kg diet of Zn supplementation had lower feed intake than the other treatments (P<0.01). Lambs received 50 mg Zn /kg of diet had higher average daily gain than those on control diet (P<0.05). Lambs fed with Zn supplementation (50 or 100 mg/kg) had better feed conversion ratio than the control group (P<0.05). The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) was higher in lambs fed 50 mg/kg of Zn supplementation than those of the control (P<0.05). However, no difference in fat and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility was observed between treatments. Additionally, feeding Zn-Met supplementation diet had no significant effect on pH and ammonia nitrogen of ruminal fluidas well as serum glucose, total protein, triglyceride and urea concentrations of lambs. According to these results, feeding 50 mg/kg diet of Zn supplemented increases feed nutrients digestibility and compared with 100 mg of the supplement, has better effects on growth performance of fattening lambs.