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Effects of fiber sources with different solubilities on the growth performance, nutrient metabolism, antioxidant, immune capacity and intestinal health of meat geese

Summary

This study examined how different types of dietary fiber affect the health and growth of meat geese. Researchers compared three fiber sources with different levels of solubility: wheat bran (highly soluble), alfalfa meal (moderately soluble), and bamboo meal (low solubility). They found that the highly soluble fiber source improved growth, enhanced immune and antioxidant functions in the intestines, and promoted beneficial bacteria, making it the best choice for geese farming.

Background

Dietary fiber (DF) cannot be digested by animal endogenous enzymes but can be fermented by gut microbiota, with effects varying based on solubility. Indigenous forages and agricultural by-products are rich in fiber content and show potential as DF sources in animal feed, though most studies focus on nutritional values rather than solubility effects.

Objective

To investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of indigenous dietary fiber sources with different solubilities (wheat bran as high soluble, alfalfa meal as medium soluble, and bamboo meal as low soluble) on growth performance, intestinal health, and gut microbiota composition in meat geese.

Results

High soluble DF (HS) treatment improved final body weight and average daily weight gain while decreasing feed to gain ratio compared to basal diet. HS treatment decreased serum uric acid and triglyceride levels, improved intestinal immune function, enhanced antioxidant capacity, increased ileum length and villus height, and enriched beneficial bacteria (Butyricicoccus and Gemmiger) in the gut microbiota.

Conclusion

Dietary supplementation of high soluble DF sources modulated gut microbiota composition and showed stronger enhancement effects on growth performance, nutrient metabolism, and intestinal health in meat geese compared to medium or low soluble sources. High soluble DF sources are preferable for use in geese production.
  • Published in:Animal Microbiome,
  • Study Type:Experimental Trial,
  • Source: PMID: 41220023, DOI: 10.1186/s42523-025-00478-w
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