Abstract:
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cellulase and xylanase plus enzymes on in vitro ruminal fermentation of
Eragrostis curvura hay, maize stover and a total mixed ration (TMR) at six levels of application. The feed samples were
incubated for 2, 12, 24, 32, 48, 72, h in an in vitro batch culture with buffer and ruminal fluid, and the fibrolytic enzymes
associated with the six levels of application. Gas production was measured using a pressure transducer connected to a
data tracker. Degradability of fiber was measured after 48 hrs of incubation. Increased level of enzyme inclusion
increased the volume of gas, the total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production and fibre disappearance, but the rate of
increment associated with each mg of additional enzyme application was reduced beyond 1-2mg/g DM. Considering the
enzymes cost and their efficiency at different rates on gas production and NDF degradability the medium levels of
applications (1-2mg/g DM) were found to be the most efficient.
