Effects of High-Concentrate Diets on Yaks
Author Information
Author(s): Zhang Ben, Wang Xingdong, Ding Ziqiang, Kang Yandong, Guo Shaoke, Cao Mengli, Hu Liyan, Xiong Lin, Pei Jie, Guo Xian, Giannenas Ilias
Primary Institution: Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences
Hypothesis
A diet with 60% concentrate would promote growth performance, improve blood biochemical parameters, and alter the microflora composition in yaks.
Conclusion
High-concentrate diets can enhance growth performance and alter the compositions and functions of ruminal bacterial communities in yaks.
Supporting Evidence
- High-concentrate diets raised the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG).
- The relative abundance of Firmicutes was greater in the high-concentrate group.
- Serum albumin concentration was significantly higher in the high-concentrate group.
- Rumen bacterial compositions differed significantly between the low and high-concentrate groups.
Takeaway
Feeding yaks a diet with more concentrate helps them grow better and changes the bacteria in their stomachs.
Methodology
Sixteen male yaks were divided into two groups and fed different concentrate-to-forage ratios for 90 days, with measurements taken for growth performance and serum biochemical indices.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific location and time frame, and the results may not be generalizable to all yak populations.
Participant Demographics
Sixteen male yaks, 18 months old, with an average body weight of 151.73 ± 14.11 kg.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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