Concentrate levels associated with a new genotype of cactus (Opuntia stricta [Haw]. Haw.) cladodes in the diet of lactating dairy cows in a semi-arid region

• DOI: 10.1017/s002185961900011x
• Publication Date: 2019-03-28T02:26:56Z
• Authors: T. A. Paula; A. S. C. Véras; S. I. Guido; J. C. C. Chagas; M. G. Conceição; R. N. Gomes; H. F. A. Nascimento; M. A. Ferreira
• Keywords: Cladodes; Latin square

Abstract The use of cactus cladodes in animal feed is well-established semi-arid areas. Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck ( ) have high acceptability amongst dairy cows and are resistant to carmine cochineal insects Dactylopius opuntiae Cockerell), a problem regions, but regions prolonged drought, it has lower productivity compared with the Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw ), which also insect. objective current study was evaluate intake content digestible material dry matter (DM) its components, feeding behaviour, microbial protein synthesis, nitrogen balance, blood parameters, performance milk composition Holstein fed control diet, containing either or associated different concentrate levels (225, 275, 325 375 g/kg). Ten an initial average production 20 ± 2.1 kg/day were distributed into double 5 × Latin square design. Diets 775 g roughage/kg 225 concentrate/kg promoted similar responses analysed variables regardless cladode used, except for digestibility neutral detergent fibre. higher proportions (325 g/kg) greater DM 3.5% fat-corrected yield. diet at 775:225 g/kg roughage:concentrate proportion as effective producing kg milk/day. To promote production, should be added diets using .