Comparison of ruminal ecology and blood profiles in Bali, Madura, and Ongole crossbred cattle of Indonesia.

Abstract

Background and aim: Indonesian cattle breeds, primarily Bali, Madura, and Ongole crossbred (OC), are vital to local farming systems, yet little is known about their ruminal ecology and blood profiles. This study aimed to compare the rumen fluid characteristics and hematological parameters among these three indigenous cattle breeds.

Materials and methods: Thirty heifers (10 per breed) were sourced from the Indonesian Beef Cattle Research Station. The animals, weighing 175-197 kg, were randomly allocated to individual pens. A diet of commercial concentrate and elephant grass (70:30 ratio) was provided at 3.5% of their body weight (dry matter basis). Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and hematological indices (White blood cell, red blood cells [RBC], hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin [MCH], and mean corpuscular volume [MCV]). Rumen fluid was assessed for pH, NH₃, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), and microbial diversity. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: No significant differences were observed in blood glucose and BUN levels across breeds. Bali cattle exhibited the highest concentrations of total VFAs (139.66 mMol) and propionic acid (33.31 mMol), with a lower acetic-to-propionic acid ratio, reflecting efficient glucogenic traits. Quinella, a propionate-producing bacterium, dominated Bali cattle rumen microbiota. Conversely, OC cattle demonstrated the highest RBC count (9.27 x 10³/µL), while Bali cattle showed superior RBC size (MCV: 48.84 fl) and hemoglobin content (MCH: 16.60 pg).

Conclusion: Bali cattle exhibited superior rumen fermentation efficiency and favorable hematological profiles, potentially supporting enhanced productive performance and reduced enteric methane emissions. These findings provide a foundation for breed-specific dietary management strategies to optimize local cattle productivity in tropical environments.