Cellulose Digestion by Rumen Microorganisms as Influenced by Cereal Grains and Protein-Rich Feeds Commonly Fed to Cattle using an Artificial Rumen

Abstract

Nine feeds, including cereal grains and protein-rich feeds, were tested with respect to their ability to stimulate rumen microorganisms in the digestion of cellulose. Three control flasks or artificial rumens were used containing filter paper and one, two, or three of the following supplements: ammonium sulfate, complex minerals, and autoclaved water extract of manure. Cellulose digestion in the control flasks was compared with that in three flasks which were similar except for the addition of the feed being studied. The results indicated that many feeds influence rumen microorganisms favorably in cellulose digestion. Dried distillers solubles, soybean oil meal, and linseed oil meal appeared most helpful under the experimental conditions imposed. These were followed by cane molasses, corn, wheat bran, and cottonseed meal. Feeds showing little or no favorable influence upon rumen micro-biological digestion were meat scraps, fish meal, liver meal, and oats. Copyright © . .