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Effects of fermented rice husk powder on growth performance, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial communities in fattening Hu sheep

Summary

Researchers tested whether fermented rice husk powder could improve the health and growth of sheep when used as feed. They found that sheep fed fermented rice husk grew faster and gained more weight than sheep fed unfermented rice husk. The fermented version also improved digestion and changed the beneficial bacteria in the sheep’s stomach in positive ways. This discovery could help farmers use agricultural waste more effectively as animal feed.

Background

Rice husk is an abundant agricultural by-product with high cellulose content that could partially replace traditional roughage for ruminants. However, its coarse texture results in poor palatability and low digestibility when fed directly. Microbial fermentation has shown promise in improving feed value and nutrient content for animal production.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of fermented rice husk powder feed on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, and rumen microbial communities in fattening Hu sheep compared to control and unfermented rice husk treatments.

Results

The FHR group showed significantly higher average daily gain and final body weight compared to other groups. Digestibility of crude protein and ether extract was higher in FHR and CON groups than RH. Rumen concentrations of total volatile fatty acids, butyrate, and valerate were significantly elevated in FHR group. Rumen microbiota analysis revealed distinct microbial community shifts with reduced Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group and increased beneficial fermentation patterns in FHR group.

Conclusion

Replacing 15% of soybean straw with fermented rice husk powder improved growth performance and modified rumen microbiota composition in fattening Hu sheep, making it a promising alternative to traditional roughage sources.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Veterinary Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39664900, DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1503172
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