In vitro Gas Production, Methane Emission and Rumen Fermentation Characteristics with Increasing Roughage to Concentrate Ratios

Abstract

Effects of roughage to concentrate ratio on gas production (GP) and nutrient degradability were evaluated in vitro. Rations I: 0R:100C, II: 20R:80C, III: 40R:60C, IV: 60R:40C, V: 80R:20C and VI: 100R:0C were incubated for 24h. Concentrate (0R:100C) produced greater GP/gDM, TDOM and MCP. TDDM was higher for rations I to IV than V and VI. Roughage (100R:0C) had lower PF and higher pH and protozoal count with no VFA effect. Ration III and IV containing 60 and 40% concentrate, respectively exhibited balanced distribution of soluble substrate between microbial biomass production and fermentation waste products and are optimal for sheep nutrition.