Improving Sakura Block Quality as Feed Supplement to Optimize Rumen Fermentation Products and Nutrients Digestibility In Vitro

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to formulize the best sakura block enriched with earthworm flour by utilizing palm kernel cake as a substitute for corn in optimizing rumen fermentation products and nutrient digestibility in vitro. This research used a completely randomized design with 6 treatments and 3 replications namely the commercial sakura block as control (P0), and sakura block with palm kernel cake and earthworm flour of 0% (P1), 2% (P2), 4% (P3), 6% (P4) and 8% (P5). Result: The findings of the study showed that the higher the earthworm flour in the sakura block, the higher the crude protein content and the total digestible nutrient of the sakura block. However, optimal NH3, VFA, acetate, propionate, and butyrate were obtained in the treatment of sakura block with palm kernel cake and 6% earthworm flour. Although the average digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, and protein in vitro in the research was quite high, there was no difference between treatments. It was concluded that sakura block with palm kernel cake and 6% earthworm flour resulted in the best to optimize rumen fermentation products.