Abstract

BELO, Ana T.; MARQUES, Maria R.; RIBEIRO, José M.B.F.  and  BELO, Carlos C.. Supplementation with lower ruminal degradability protein in Serra da Estrela sheep's milk production in early lactation. Rev. de Ciências Agrárias [online]. 2023, vol.46, n.1, pp.71-80.  Epub May 02, 2023. ISSN 0871-018X.  https://doi.org/10.19084/rca.29383.

Protein from grass and legume pastures has high ruminal degradability. Supplementation with protein sources of lower rumen degradability increases the flow of amino acids to the small intestine, complementing those produced in the rumen. This study evaluated the effect of corn gluten meal (CGM) supplementation in milk production and composition of sheep in early lactation and on metabolic parameters used to characterize their metabolism. Ewes were individually housed, fed with grass cut daily and subjected to three isoenergetic treatments with three crude protein (CP) levels (17, 21 and 25%), supplied by cassava and CGM. Milking was started after 21 days of lactation. Intake was measured and the weight and body condition of the ewes were recorded. Blood samples were collected at the 10th, 25th and 39th days of lactation to determine hormonal and metabolic parameters. The use of CGM increased the intake of grass and the level of 21% CP increased milk production and its components. The mobilization of body reserves was significant in the first three weeks of lactation. Insulin and urea-N proved to be important indicators of the metabolic process in early lactation.

Keywords : Sheep's milk; early lactation; pastures; corn gluten meal; metabolism.

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