Evaluation of Pre-ingestive Citronella Residues using Ruminal In Vitro Techniques

Abstract

Citronella residues (CR) have the potential to be used as an alternative to the fiber diet of ruminants. This study reports on the effects of pre-ingestive CR using ammonia (4 % dry matter (DM)) and fermentation (6 % DM) on in vitro rumen fermentation, metabolism, and methane (CH4) production. Four CR levels of 0, 25, 75, and 100 % DM were used. Each level was repeated 3 times and a complete randomized design method was used. The results showed that pre-ingestive CR significantly increased the pH rumen fluid but decreased ammonia-nitrogen concentration, total iso-volatile fatty acid (iso-VFA) production, and protozoa population (p < 0.01). The pre-ingestive CR significantly decreased the acetic acid composition and rumen microbial protein synthesis (p < 0.05), and significantly increased the proportion of propionic acid, n-butyric acid, and iso-valeric acid (p < 0.05). The total VFA production and rumen CH4 production did not significantly change (p > 0.05). In conclusion, pre-ingestive CR was compatible as a basal diet for ruminants.