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Obregón-Cruz AB, Gómez CA, Osorio CM, Van Saun RJ. Intake and digestibility of four rations with different fiber levels in alpacas (Vicugna pacos). Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:311. [PMID: 39352597 PMCID: PMC11445335 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-04177-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluated the impact of different fibre levels in alpaca diet on voluntary feed intake and apparent digestibility, and to estimate the digestibility of organic matter (OMD) from the content of crude protein (CP) in feces. The study was carried out with twelve alpacas (36.7 ± 6.4 kg body weight- BW), which were offered 4 treatments with different neutral detergent fiber content (NDF. T1: 40.3%; T2: 62%; T3: 68%; T4: 72%) under a switch back design. Absolute daily dry matter intake (DMI) was higher for T1 (678 g/d) than T4 (312 g/d) (p ≥ 005). NDF intake was similar between treatments when related to BW or MW (on average 1% BW and 22 g/kg MW. p ≥ 0.05). Water intake (L/kg DMI) was higher in T1 compared to the other treatments, with values ranging from 2.9 L/kg DMI(T1) to 2.8 L/kg DMI(T4), respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and CP was higher in T1 than in the other treatments, with average values ranging from 72% for T1 to 32% for T4 (p ≤ 0.05). NDF digestibility was similar among treatments (p ≥ 0.05). The regression equation generated to predict OMD (y) was as follows: y = 0.360 + 0.08294*fecal CP (g/kg OM). Further studies will indicate whether faecal nitrogen can be used to estimate digestibility and hence diet quality in South American camelids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana B Obregón-Cruz
- Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Av. La Molina S/N, La Molina, Lima, Perú.
| | - Carlos A Gómez
- Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina, Av. La Molina S/N, La Molina, Lima, Perú
| | - Cesar M Osorio
- Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria, Av. La Molina N°1981, La Molina, Lima, Perú
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2
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Askar AR, Masoud A, El-Bordeny NE, Kewan KZ, El-Galil ERIA, El Ezz SSA, Shoukry MM. Grazing camels under semi-extensive production system: selectivity, feed intake capacity, digestion and energy expenditure. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:364. [PMID: 39138422 PMCID: PMC11321051 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04199-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It was proposed that camels are more effective than other livestock species in selecting plants for their nutritional value. They may self-regulate their voluntary feed intake to satisfy their nutritional needs. This study was designed to investigate camels' feeding selectivity and ability to cover nutritional requirements when grazing alfalfa (high in protein) and/ or barley (high in energy) in a desert climate. METHODS Eighteen lactating camels were equally divided into three feeding treatments. They grazed daily on alfalfa, barley, or a mixed pasture of both, for two periods of one month each. The concentrate supplement was individually administered at 40 g/kg BW0.75, divided into two equal parts, in the morning and in afternoon. Total energy expenditure (EE) was estimated by heart rate (HR) monitors for 48 h after being calibrated by oxygen consumption using an upgraded face mask open-circuit respiratory system. RESULTS During the first period, camels had a greater forage intake and digestibility when they grazed barley rather than alfalfa, while those grazing mixed pasture performed intermediately. In the second period, camels had a similar forage intake and digestibility among treatments due to a decline in barley intake and digestibility compared to the first period, which was expected since the preferred plant part gradually shifted from barley grains to predominantly straw as a function of time. Similar HR and EE were found across periods and treatments. As a result of greater gross and digestible energy intake in period 1, a better energy balance in period 1 was observed compared to period 2. Camels better utilize barley than alfalfa. Grazing on barley had a higher energy balance than grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley. However, camels grazing barley produced lower milk yield and energy than those grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley, with no interaction detected between period and treatment. CONCLUSIONS Lactating camels are able to self-regulate their voluntary intake to cover their energy requirements when they are grazing barley and/or alfalfa supplemented with a concentrate supplement at 40 g/kg BW0.75. Grazing barley is better utilized by camels than alfalfa. The chemical and physical properties of plant species play an important role in the selectivity of foraging camels. It also impacts their intake and digestibility, which is negatively associated with the proportion of cell wall content consumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed R Askar
- Animal and Poultry Nutrition Department, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Abdallah Masoud
- Animal and Poultry Nutrition Department, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nasr E El-Bordeny
- Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Khalid Z Kewan
- Animal and Poultry Nutrition Department, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Etab R I Abd El-Galil
- Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samir S Abou El Ezz
- Animal and Poultry Physiology Department, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohsen M Shoukry
- Animal Production Department, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
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3
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Wagener MG, Marahrens H, Ganter M. Anaemia in South American camelids - an overview of clinical and laboratory diagnostics. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:633-647. [PMID: 38049672 PMCID: PMC10998796 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10274-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
South American camelids (SACs) play an increasing role in veterinary care in Europe. Many alpacas or llamas presented to veterinarians suffer from anaemia, regularly with a packed cell volume (PCV) below 0.10 l/l, which is a life-threatening condition for the animals. This review article presents clinical and laboratory diagnostic tools for the diagnosis of anaemia in SACs. Clinical identification of anaemic animals can be performed by assessing the FAMACHA© score and the Body Condition Score (BCS), since anaemia in alpacas and llamas correlates with pale mucous membranes and a lowered BCS. Haematological examination of a blood sample can provide a more differentiated diagnosis of anaemia in SACs. A common finding is regenerative anaemia with an increased number of reticulocytes that is often caused by blood loss due to Haemonchus contortus. Changes in a blood smear from an alpaca or llama with regenerative anaemia may include normoblasts (nucleated red blood cells), anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, polychromasia, Howell-Jolly bodies or basophilic stippling. Furthermore, non-regenerative anaemia, often caused by trace element deficiency or cachexia, can also occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gerhard Wagener
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Hannah Marahrens
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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4
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Wagener MG, Ganter M, Leonhard-Marek S. Body condition scoring in alpacas (Vicugna pacos) and llamas (Lama glama) - a scoping review. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:665-684. [PMID: 38133845 PMCID: PMC10998785 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10275-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Assessment of the body condition score (BCS) is an important tool to check the nutritional status of an animal, and thus can provide important information in herd management, but also in the veterinary examination of individual animals. In dairy farming, BCS has been recognized as an important parameter for a long time already, but over the years body condition scoring has also become more important for other species. Especially in South American camelids (SACs: alpacas and llamas), whose dense coat can hide a poor nutritional status for a long time, regular assessment of the BCS is recommended by different authors and organizations. To date, there are several instructions for the assessment of the BCS in SACs, which, however, differ significantly in some points. For a consistent approach, a total of 35 instructions for the BCS in SACs were compared in a scoping review. The spine, especially the lumbar vertebrae as well as the ribs were identified as the two main body sites recommended for assessing the BCS. Furthermore, the area between the front and rear leg and the pelvis were mentioned frequently; however, these body sites were discussed controversially. The paralumbar fossa, shoulder, and udder were only mentioned sporadically. Among the various scales, the 1-5 scale was mentioned most frequently, with the optimal BCS being 3. Nonetheless, physiological fluctuation due to breed, age, sex, pregnancy, and lactation have to be considered. The BCS should be assessed each time the animals are handled, but at least monthly. In contrast to body weight, the BCS reflects the nutritional status of an animal even after a single examination. The review showed that much of the available information on the assessment of BCS in SACs is based on practical experience rather than scientific evidence. Indeed, some of the assumptions made there might still have to be verified or modified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gerhard Wagener
- Clinic for Swine, Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine, Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sabine Leonhard-Marek
- Library, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- Department of Physiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Marahrens H, von Dörnberg K, Molnár V, Gregor KM, Leitzen E, von Altrock A, Polifka A, Ganter M, Wagener MG. Copper Intoxication in South American Camelids-Review of the Literature and First Report of a Case in a Vicuña (Vicugna vicugna). Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04102-x. [PMID: 38421580 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04102-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Copper (Cu), an essential trace element in the metabolism of mammals, plays a central role in various metabolic processes. However, overdosing can lead to severe symptoms and even fatalities. Chronic Cu intoxication continues to be a problem in grazing and domestic animals, with sheep being particularly sensitive. There are few comparative studies on its impact on South American camelids (SACs). Therefore, this work presents the results of literature research combined with a case report on a 3-year-old female vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) presented to the clinic from a zoological garden in northern Germany. The animal showed reduced food intake, recumbency, bruxism, icteric mucous membranes and sclera. Auscultation revealed atony of the third compartment and the digestive tract. Similar to cases described in the literature, the animal showed rapid deterioration of its condition with unspecific symptoms of liver failure and rapid death. However, in contrast to descriptions in sheep, clinical icterus has not been previously reported in cases of other SACs. Laboratory findings from EDTA and serum samples revealed neutrophilia with a left shift, hypoproteinaemia, lymphopaenia, azotaemia, elevated levels of creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) in the serum. Hyperbilirubinaemia and significantly elevated serum and liver Cu levels were observed. Subsequent blood samples from the remaining vicuñas and alpacas in the same enclosure showed no remarkable abnormalities. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this case report represents the first documented case of Cu intoxication specifically in vicuñas.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Marahrens
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | | | - V Molnár
- Hannover Adventure Zoo, Hannover, Germany
| | - K M Gregor
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - E Leitzen
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - A von Altrock
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - A Polifka
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - M G Wagener
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Rios Rado WM, Chipa Guillen PK, Huamán Borda D, Vélez Marroquín V, Gere JI, Antezana Julián WO, Fernández C. Development of a Mobile Open-Circuit Respiration Head Hood System for Measuring Gas Exchange in Camelids in the Andean Plateau. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1011. [PMID: 36978552 PMCID: PMC10044653 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Peru has the largest inventory of alpacas worldwide. Despite their importance as a source of net income for rural communities living at the Andean Plateau, data on energy requirements and methane (CH4) emissions for alpacas are particularly lacking. In 2019, the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC; 2006, and Refinement 2019) outlined methods for estimating CH4 emissions from enteric fermentation and no methane (CH4) conversion factors were reported for camelids. IPCC has since updated its guidelines for estimating CH4 emissions from the enteric fermentation of livestock at a national scale. For greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory purposes, conversion factors were developed for ruminants but not for domestic South American camelids (SAC), with this category including alpacas. A mobile open-circuit respirometry system (head hood) for the rapid determination of CH4 and CO2 production, O2 consumption, and thereafter, heat production (HP) for camelids was built and validated. In addition, an experimental test with eight alpacas was conducted for validation purposes. The average HP measured by indirect calorimetry (respiratory quotient (RQ) method) was close to the average HP determined from the carbon-nitrogen balance (CN method); 402 kJ/kg BW0.75 and 398 kJ/kg BW0.75, respectively. Fasting HP was determined by the RQ method and 250 kJ/kg BW0.75 was obtained. The metabolizable energy requirement for maintenance (MEm) was calculated to be 323 kJ/kg BW0.75 with an efficiency of energy utilization of 77%. When intake was adjusted to zero energy retention by linear regression, the MEm requirement increased to 369 kJ/kg BW0.75 and the efficiency decreased up to 68%. The CH4 conversion factor (Ym) was 5.5% on average. Further research is required to gain a better understanding of the energy requirements and CH4 emissions of alpacas in conditions of the Andean Plateau and to quantify them with greater accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfredo Manuel Rios Rado
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Av. de La Cultura 733, Cusco 921, Peru
| | - Paola Katherine Chipa Guillen
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Av. de La Cultura 733, Cusco 921, Peru
| | - Dione Huamán Borda
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Av. de La Cultura 733, Cusco 921, Peru
| | - Víctor Vélez Marroquín
- Estación IVITA—Maranganí, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM), Cusco 08258, Peru
- Institute for Animal Science and Technology, Universitat Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - José Ignacio Gere
- Estación IVITA—Maranganí, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM), Cusco 08258, Peru
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo de las Ingenierías, Facultad Regional Buenos Aires, Universidad Tecnológica Nacional, Ciudad Autónoma Buenos Aires C1179AAQ, Argentina
| | - Walter Orestes Antezana Julián
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Av. de La Cultura 733, Cusco 921, Peru
| | - Carlos Fernández
- Institute for Animal Science and Technology, Universitat Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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7
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Drinking behaviour of llamas (Lama glama) in choice tests for fresh or saline water. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Vélez-Marroquín V, Cabezas-Garcia E, Antezana-Julian W, Estellés-Barber F, Franco F, Pinares-Patiño C. Design, operation, and validation of metabolism crates for nutrition studies in alpacas (Vicugna pacos). Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Enke N, Runa R, Brinkmann L, Südekum KH, Tholen E, Gerken M. Preference and discrimination behaviour of llamas to saline drinking water. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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10
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Wagener MG, Helmer C, Kammeyer P, Kleinschmidt S, Punsmann TM, Meilwes JM, Schwennen C, von Altrock A, Wilkens M, Schwert B, von Keyserlingk-Eberius N, Ganter M. Calcinosis in Alpaca Crias (Vicugna pacos) Due to Vitamin D Intoxication-Clinical, Laboratory and Pathological Findings with a Focus on Kidney Function. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2332. [PMID: 34438789 PMCID: PMC8388638 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpacas kept in Central Europe are often deficient in vitamin D3, which is supplemented orally or by injection by the owners or veterinarians. Vitamin D3 can be specified in two different units (IU and µg), which differ by a factor of 40. By mixing up these units, an overdosage can be induced. In this study, three alpaca crias were examined after vitamin D3 intoxication, with particular reference to kidney function. All three animals developed non-specific clinical alterations 1-2 weeks after a vitamin D3 overdose of approximately 40 times. Plasma of the animals revealed several alterations. The main findings were severe azotemia, hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia, 15 days after treatment. Kidney function analysis (endogenous creatinine clearance) in two of the crias revealed severe glomerular damage. All crias died despite intensive treatment within 23 days after vitamin D3 treatment. Necropsy revealed calcification in different organs, mainly the kidneys, lungs and liver. Since nine other crias in the same group were treated with comparable doses of vitamin D3 and no clinical signs were observed in these animals, it is concluded that individual animals show different levels of sensitivity to vitamin D3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gerhard Wagener
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Carina Helmer
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Patricia Kammeyer
- Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety, Food and Veterinary Institute Braunschweig/Hannover, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (P.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Sven Kleinschmidt
- Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety, Food and Veterinary Institute Braunschweig/Hannover, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (P.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Teresa Maria Punsmann
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Johanna Maria Meilwes
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Cornelia Schwennen
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Alexandra von Altrock
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Mirja Wilkens
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Nutrition Diseases and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 9, 04103 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Barbara Schwert
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Nicole von Keyserlingk-Eberius
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; (C.H.); (T.M.P.); (J.M.M.); (C.S.); (A.v.A.); (B.S.); (N.v.K.-E.); (M.G.)
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Digestion, faecal grain loss and energy requirements of Huacaya alpacas fed lucerne chaff, oat chaff and whole grain barley diets. Small Rumin Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2021.106444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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12
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Zhang H, Zhang Y, Peng A, Nie H, Wang F, Elsabagh M, Loor JJ, Amini NC. Determination of the trace minerals requirements for maintenance and growth of 35–50 kg Dorper × Hu crossbred ram lambs. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2020.1719910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Along Peng
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Nie
- Jiangsu Engineering Technology Research Center of Mutton Sheep and Goat Industry, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Engineering Technology Research Center of Mutton Sheep and Goat Industry, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mabrouk Elsabagh
- Department of Animal Production and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Nigde, Turkey
- Department of Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Juan J. Loor
- Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Nthanda C. Amini
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe, Malawi
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Chao R, Xia C, Pei C, Huo W, Liu Q, Zhang C, Ren Y. Comparison of the microbial communities of alpacas and sheep fed diets with three different ratios of corn stalk to concentrate. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2020; 105:26-34. [PMID: 33029865 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the characteristics of ruminal microbial communities of alpacas (Lama pacos) and sheep (Ovis aries) fed three diets with varying ratios of roughage (corn stalk) to concentrate, 3:7 (LS), 5:5 (MS) and 7:3 (HS). Six alpacas (one-year-old and weighing 29.5 ± 7.1 kg) and six sheep (one-year-old and weighing 27.9 ± 2.7 kg) were used in this study, in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square experiment. Total protozoa concentration was determined under the microscope; total fungi and methanogens were assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and expressed as a percentage of total bacterial 16S rRNA gene copies; bacterial communities were investigated by targeted 16S rRNA gene (V3-V4 region) sequencing. The percentage of fungi was significantly higher in alpacas than in sheep under the LS diet, while the concentration of protozoa was significantly lower in alpacas under HS, MS and LS diets. The alpha diversity including Shannon, Chao l and ACE indices of bacterial communities was higher in alpacas than in sheep, under the LS diet. A total of 299 genera belonging to 22 phyla were observed in the forestomach of alpaca and sheep, with Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes dominating both animal species. Phyla Armatimonadetes and Fusobacteria, as well as 64 genera, were detected only in alpacas, whereas phyla Acidobacteria and Nitrospira, as well as 44 genera, were found only in sheep. The abundance of cellulolytic bacteria, including Butyrivibrio and Pseudobutyrivibrio, was higher in alpacas than in sheep under all three diets. These differences in the forestomach microbial communities partly explained why alpacas displayed a higher poor-quality roughage digestibility, and a lower methane production. Results also revealed that the adverse effects of high-concentrate diets (70%) were lesser in alpacas than in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruimin Chao
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Chengqiang Xia
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Caixia Pei
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Wenjie Huo
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Chunxiang Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Youshe Ren
- College of Animal Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
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Carvallo FR, Uzal FA, Flores C, Diab SS, Giannitti F, Crossley B, Wünschmann A. Alimentary necrobacillosis in alpacas. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:339-343. [PMID: 32070228 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720906409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulcers of the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastric compartments of South American camelids are uncommon. Multifocal-to-coalescing ulcers were identified in the oral cavity, esophagus, and/or gastric compartments of 5 alpacas submitted for postmortem examination. Fusobacterium necrophorum was isolated from the lesions in all alpacas, in combination with other aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. In 4 of these cases, F. necrophorum-associated lesions were considered secondary to neoplasia or other chronic debilitating conditions; in 1 case, the alimentary ulcers were considered the most significant autopsy finding. It is not known if this agent acted as a primary or opportunistic agent in mucosal membranes previously damaged by a traumatic event, chemical insult, immunodeficiency, or any other debilitating condition of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco R Carvallo
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Francisco A Uzal
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Carlos Flores
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Santiago S Diab
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Federico Giannitti
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Beate Crossley
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
| | - Arno Wünschmann
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, San Bernardino (Carvallo, Uzal) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Davis (Diab, Crossley) branches, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA.,Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile (Flores).,Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay (Giannitti).,University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, St. Paul, MN (Wünschmann)
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15
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Grund S, Vogel M, Mülling CKW. Morphometric evaluation of the growth of Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) from birth to 36 months of age. Small Rumin Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2018.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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16
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Zhang H, Nie H, Wang Z, Wang F. The net iron, manganese, copper, and zinc requirements for maintenance and growth of Dorper × Hu ewe lambs. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2018.1431964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Nie
- Jiangsu Engineering Technology Research Center of Mutton Sheep & Goat Industry, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Jiangsu Engineering Technology Research Center of Mutton Sheep & Goat Industry, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Engineering Technology Research Center of Mutton Sheep & Goat Industry, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Pechová A, Husáková T, Pavlata L, Holasová M, Hauptmanová K. Assessment of the Zinc and Copper Status in Alpaca. Biol Trace Elem Res 2018; 181:242-250. [PMID: 28508190 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-017-1043-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed with the aim of investigating the concentration of zinc and copper in the blood of healthy alpacas (Vicugna pacos) kept in central Europe and to compare the concentration of Zn and Cu in plasma and in whole blood. A further objective was to evaluate blood Zn and Cu in relation to different micromineral supplementation, age and sex groups of alpacas. A total of 299 alpacas (224 adults and 75 crias) from 18 farms were included in this study. The concentrations of copper and zinc in plasma/whole blood were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The results of this study show high individual variability in plasma Zn (median 3.54, range 1.56-8.01 μmol/l), whole blood Zn (median 10.01, range 6.23-75.0 μmol/l), plasma Cu (median 7.53, range 2.93-16.41 μmol/l) and whole blood Cu (median 6.33, range 3.02-13.95 μmol/l). Plasma Zn was not significantly influenced by sex, age or feeding group. Whole blood Zn was only significantly higher in females than in males. The intake of Zn in all groups was equal to or higher than the nutritional recommendation. During excessive supplementation, Zn absorption decreased and thus blood Zn did not reflect the higher intake. Only a weak correlation was found (Spearman correlation coefficient r = 0.384; p > 0.01; n = 204) between plasma and whole blood Zn concentrations. Plasma copper concentration was significantly influenced by age, sex and feeding; whole blood Cu by age and feeding. However, neither plasma Cu nor whole blood Cu reflected the intake of the element. We found a close correlation between plasma and blood copper concentrations (Spearman correlation coefficient r = 0.9043; p ≤ 0.01; n = 99). According to our results, copper in plasma or blood is not a good indicator of copper intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pechová
- Department of Animal Protection, Welfare and Behaviour, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackeho tr. 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - T Husáková
- Private Veterinary Surgeon, Lhoty u Potštejna, Czech Republic
| | - L Pavlata
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Forage Production, Faculty of Agronomy, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - M Holasová
- Department of Animal Protection, Welfare and Behaviour, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackeho tr. 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - K Hauptmanová
- Ruminant and Swine Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackeho tr. 1946/1, 612 42, Brno, Czech Republic
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18
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Seasonal changes in energy expenditure, body temperature and activity patterns in llamas (Lama glama). Sci Rep 2017; 7:7600. [PMID: 28790450 PMCID: PMC5548813 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07946-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammals typically keep their body temperature (Tb) within a narrow limit with changing environmental conditions. There are indications that some wild ungulates can exhibit certain forms of energy saving mechanisms when ambient temperatures are low and/or food is scarce. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine if the llama, one of the most extensively kept domestic livestock species, exhibits seasonal adjustment mechanisms in terms of energy expenditure, Tb and locomotion. For that purpose llamas (N = 7) were kept in a temperate habitat on pasture. Locomotor activity, Tb (measured in the rumen) and the location of each animal were recorded continuously for one year using a telemetry system. Daily energy expenditure was measured as field metabolic rate (FMR). FMR fluctuated considerably between seasons with the lowest values found in winter (17.48 ± 3.98 MJ d−1, 402 kJ kg−0.75 d−1) and the highest in summer (25.87 ± 3.88 MJ d−1, 586 kJ kg−0.75 d−1). Llamas adjusted their energy expenditure, Tb and locomotor activity according to season and also time of day. Thus, llamas seem to have maintained the ability to reduce their energy expenditure and adjust their Tb under adverse environmental conditions as has been reported for some wild ungulates.
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19
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Kiani A, Alstrup L, Nielsen MO. Differential metabolic and endocrine adaptations in llamas, sheep, and goats fed high- and low-protein grass-based diets. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2015; 53:9-16. [PMID: 26073222 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate whether distinct endocrine and metabolic adaptations provide llamas superior ability to adapt to low protein content grass-based diets as compared with the true ruminants. Eighteen adult, nonpregnant females (6 llamas, 6 goats, and 6 sheep) were fed either green grass hay with (HP) or grass seed straw (LP) in a cross-over design experiment over 2 periods of 21 d. Blood samples were taken on day 21 in each period at -30, 60, 150, and 240 min after feeding the morning meal and analyzed for plasma contents of glucose, triglyceride, nonesterified fatty acids, β-hydroxy butyrate (BOHB), urea, creatinine, insulin, and leptin. Results showed that llamas vs sheep and goats had higher plasma concentrations of glucose (7.1 vs 3.5 and 3.6 ± 0.18 mmol/L), creatinine (209 vs 110 and 103 ± 10 μmol/L), and urea (6.7 vs 5.6 and 4.9 ± 0.5 mmol/L) but lower leptin (0.33 vs 1.49 and 1.05 ± 0.1 ng/mL) and BOHB (0.05 vs 0.26 and 0.12 ± 0.02 mmol/L), respectively. BOHB in llamas was extremely low for a ruminating animal. Llamas showed that hyperglycemia coexisted with hyperinsulinemia (in general on the HP diet; postprandially on the LP diet). Llamas were clearly hypercreatinemic compared with the true ruminants, which became further exacerbated on the LP diet, where they also sustained plasma urea at markedly higher concentrations. However, llamas had markedly lower leptin concentrations than the true ruminants. In conclusion, llamas appear to have an intrinsic insulin resistant phenotype. Augmentation of creatinine and sustenance of elevated plasma urea concentrations in llamas when fed the LP diet must reflect distinct metabolic adaptations of intermediary protein and/or nitrogen metabolism, not observed in the true ruminants. These features can contribute to explain lower metabolic rates in llamas compared with the true ruminants, which must improve the chances of survival on low protein content diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kiani
- Animal Science Group, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran
| | - L Alstrup
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M O Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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20
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Mosca Torres ME, Puig S, Novillo A, Ovejero R. Vigilance behaviour of the year-round territorial vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) outside the breeding season: Influence of group size, social factors and distance to a water source. Behav Processes 2015; 113:163-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Ji S, Xu G, Diao Q, Jiang C, Deng K, Tu Y, Zhang N. Net zinc requirements of Dorper×thin-tailed Han crossbred lambs. Livest Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2014.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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22
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Chad E, DePeters E, Puschner B, Taylor S, Robison J. Preliminary investigation of the composition of alpaca (Vicugna pacos) milk in California. Small Rumin Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2013.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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23
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Lund KE, Milton JTB, Maloney SK, Blache D. Alpacas fed calcium propionate seem to moderate their energy intake. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2014; 98:1088-94. [PMID: 24621322 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alpacas have evolved digestive and metabolic adaptations that enable them to survive in environments where the available feed varies in nutritional quality. Alpacas are thought to derive glucose from the deamination of amino acids in the liver, rather than via the conversion of propionate like true ruminants. Because fibre growth is dependent on the availability of absorbed amino acids, alpacas using amino acids as a source of energy should leave less amino acids available for fibre growth. If alpacas were to obtain glucose from a source of propionate, such as calcium propionate, the dependence on amino acids would be reduced leaving more available for fibre growth. Calcium propionate was added to the ration fed to 32 alpaca wethers, and fibre production was measured to monitor important fibre attributes in response to calcium propionate. Although the diets supplemented with calcium propionate should have provided more energy than the diets without calcium propionate, the metabolisable energy intake of all animals was similar (p = 0.278). It seems that rather than sparing amino acids, the alpacas regulated their energy intake and refused to consume the additional energy offered as calcium propionate. Consequently, they produced less fibre, and the diameter of their fibre was smaller than those alpacas that were not fed calcium propionate. It seems that alpacas rely on their digestive and metabolic adaptations to efficiently obtain and conserve energy for their survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Lund
- UWA Institute of Agriculture (Animal Production) (M085), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia; School of Animal Biology (M085), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
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Oldham CL, Robinson TF, Hunter ZR, Taylor L, White J, Johnston NP. Volatile fatty acid profile for grass hay or alfalfa hay fed to alpacas (Vicugna pacos). J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2014; 98:908-13. [PMID: 24372960 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the diurnal composition and concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFA) and to determine VFA composition and concentration differences between stomach compartment 1 (C1) and caecum of alpacas fed grass and alfalfa hay. The study was divided into two experiments. In Experiment 1 (EXP 1), 10 male alpacas (3+ years old, 65 kg BW) were divided into two groups, housed in drylot pens, provided ad libitum water and fed alfalfa (AH) or grass hay (GH) for 30 days. The alpacas were slaughtered and the digestive tract collected, divided into sub-tract sections, weighed and digesta sampled for pH, dry matter (DM) and NDF. Volatile fatty acid composition and concentration were determined on C1 and caecal material. Four adult male (3+ years old, 60 kg BW), C1 fistulated alpacas were housed in metabolism crates and divided into two forage groups for Experiment 2 (EXP 2). Alpacas were fed the forages as in EXP 1. Diurnal C1 VFA samples were drawn at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 h post-feeding. There were no differences between forages for tract weight, C1 and caecum digesta DM or NDF. Differences were noted (p < 0.05) for pH between forages and sub-tract site. Volatile fatty acids concentrations were different (p < 0.05) for forage and site, and total VFA was higher for AH than GH (110.6 and 79.1 mm) and C1 than caecum (40.7 and 27.6 mm). Proportion of VFA was significant (p < 0.05) for forage and site, C1 acetate highest for GH (84.8 vs. 74.0 mm) and caecum acetate 83.7 and 76.2 mm for GH and AH respectively. These data demonstrate the level of VFA produced in C1 and the caecum of alpacas and the diurnal VFA patterns. Composition of VFA is similar to other ruminant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Oldham
- Department of Plant and Wildlife Sciences, Brigham, Young University, Provo, UT, USA
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Stieger-Vanegas SM, Garret R, McKenzie EC, Löhr CV. Vertebral fractures in two alpaca crias with rickets syndrome. Aust Vet J 2013; 91:437-440. [PMID: 30049057 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CASE REPORT Two dark-coloured alpaca crias aged 5 and 5.5 months, respectively, born in September in the Pacific Northwest, USA, were presented for evaluation of acute recumbency. Both crias had cervical spine fractures and one had additional fractures in other locations within the spine. Both crias had valgus deformities of the forelimbs and one had similar deformities of the hindlimbs. Both crias showed characteristic radiological signs of rickets syndrome, including wide, irregular physes, cupping of the metaphyses, bowing of long bones, pathological fractures and enlarged costochondral junctions. One cria responded clinically to treatment with parenteral administration of vitamin D. The other cria was euthanased because of the multiple spinal fractures and postmortem examination supported the diagnosis of rickets syndrome. CONCLUSIONS Hypovitaminosis D is associated with abnormal bone formation in young growing animals. The clinical and laboratory findings of rickets syndrome in camelids in the Pacific Northwest, and other regions with low annual sunlight exposure, have been described, although there are only few reports of the radiological signs associated with this condition in camelids and other animals. Additionally, vertebral fractures have not been previously reported in animals with rickets syndrome. Because vertebral fractures were identified in both crias in this report, it suggests that this is a common and clinically important manifestation of the disease in alpaca crias. Hence, in geographic regions with low sunlight exposure, rickets syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis in crias presenting with clinical signs consistent with vertebral fracture.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Stieger-Vanegas
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - R Garret
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - E C McKenzie
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - C V Löhr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR, USA
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26
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Firshman AM, Cebra CK, Schanbacher BJ, Seaquist ER. Evaluation of insulin secretion and action in New World camelids. Am J Vet Res 2013; 74:96-101. [PMID: 23270352 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.74.1.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure and compare insulin secretion and sensitivity in healthy alpacas and llamas via glucose clamping techniques. ANIMALS 8 llamas and 8 alpacas. PROCEDURES Hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamping (HEC) and hyperglycemic clamping (HGC) were performed on each camelid in a crossover design with a minimum 48-hour washout period between clamping procedures. The HEC technique was performed to measure insulin sensitivity. Insulin was infused IV at 6 mU/min/kg for 4 hours, and an IV infusion of glucose was adjusted to maintain blood glucose concentration at 150 mg/dL. Concentrations of blood glucose and plasma insulin were determined throughout. The HGC technique was performed to assess insulin secretion in response to exogenous glucose infusion. An IV infusion of glucose was administered to maintain blood glucose concentration at 320 mg/dL for 3 hours, and concentrations of blood glucose and plasma insulin were determined throughout. RESULTS Alpacas and llamas were not significantly different with respect to whole-body insulin sensitivity during HEC or in pancreatic β-cell response during HGC. Alpacas and llamas had markedly lower insulin sensitivity during HEC and markedly lower pancreatic β-cell response during HGC, in comparison with many other species. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE New World camelids had lower glucose-induced insulin secretion and marked insulin resistance in comparison with other species. This likely contributes to the disorders of fat and glucose metabolism that are common to camelids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Firshman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
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27
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Moore KE, Maloney SK, Vaughan JL, Milton JTB, Blache D. Rumen-protected methionine supplementation and fibre production in alpacas (Vicugna pacos). J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2012; 97:1084-90. [PMID: 23173603 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Sulphur-containing amino acids are a crucial requirement for fibre production and may be supplemented in the diet of fibre-producing animals to stimulate fibre growth. The alpaca fibre industry is a developing industry in Australia with high variability in fibre production. To date, there is no evidence whether supplementing the diet of alpacas with sulphur amino acids improves fibre production. We hypothesised that supplementation with the rumen-protected sulphur amino acid, methionine would increase fibre growth in alpacas. Three groups of eight huacaya alpaca wethers were fed daily a maintenance diet supplemented with 0, 2 or 4 g of rumen-protected methionine for 7 weeks. Fibre samples were taken at the beginning and end of the study with a blood sample taken by jugular venipuncture prior to feeding on the first day of each week. Methionine supplementation had no effect on fibre diameter (p = 0.92), fibre length (p = 0.91) or fibre yield (p = 0.33). The change of season over the study affected plasma glucose (p < 0.001), plasma urea nitrogen (p < 0.001) and fibre diameter (p < 0.001). The indifference between groups may be due to the maintenance diet supplying sufficient levels of methionine, the lack of genetic potential of the experimental animals to respond to additional methionine or that the supplemental methionine was not protected in alpacas and deaminated for glucose production.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Moore
- UWA Institute of Agriculture (Animal Production), University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences, School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology (M311), University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia Cria Genesis, Ocean Grove, Vic., Australia Independent Lab Services, Serpentine, WA, Australia
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Orellana-Boero P, Seradj A, Fondevila M, Nolan J, Balcells J. Modelling urinary purine derivatives excretion as a tool to estimate microbial rumen outflow in alpacas (Vicugna pacos). Small Rumin Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2012.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Habitat use and selection by the vicuña (Vicugna vicugna, Camelidae) during summer and winter in the High Andean Puna of Argentina. Small Rumin Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Lund KE, Milton JTB, Maloney SK, Glover KMM, Vaughan JL, Blache D. Undegradable dietary protein in alpaca diets affects fibre diameter and time spent urinating. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2012. [DOI: 10.1071/an11367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There is evidence that alpacas derive most of their glucose for energy from the deamination of amino acids. Consequently, they may have an insufficient supply of amino acids to meet their requirements for fibre growth. To optimise fibre production, it may be necessary to supply alpacas with supplemental protein to meet their requirement for extra amino acids. In this study, we examined if the proportion of rumen-degradable dietary protein (RDP) to undegradable dietary protein (UDP) from canola meal influenced the fibre growth of alpacas. We hypothesised that alpacas fed at maintenance a diet containing canola meal protein high in UDP would produce more fibre and spend less time urinating than peers fed a similar amount of canola meal protein with a low proportion of UDP. Four groups of eight alpacas were fed diets with the following ratios of UDP : RDP: 0 : 100, 30 : 70, 60 : 40 or 100 : 0 from canola meal protein. The fibre growth of the animals was measured over 2 months and the behaviour of the animals in the two extreme groups (0 and 100% UDP) was measured over 5 days. The alpacas fed the 0% UDP diet produced fibre of finer diameter than the alpacas fed diets containing higher levels of UDP (P = 0.039) and the 0% UDP group also spent more time urinating (P = 0.027). This result suggests that alpacas may have a limited ability to recycle nitrogen to the fermentative chambers of their stomach when fed a diet low in UDP. Consequently, microbial protein synthesis in the fermentative chambers may have limited the supply of amino acids available to the alpacas.
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Müller DW, Caton J, Codron D, Schwarm A, Lentle R, Streich WJ, Hummel J, Clauss M. Phylogenetic constraints on digesta separation: Variation in fluid throughput in the digestive tract in mammalian herbivores. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2011; 160:207-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2011.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2011] [Revised: 06/03/2011] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Judson GJ, McGregor BA, Howse AM. Blood mineral, trace-element and vitamin concentrations in Huacaya alpacas and Merino sheep grazing the same pasture. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2011. [DOI: 10.1071/an11011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to determine whether the concentration of minerals and trace constituents in blood of Merino sheep and Huacaya alpacas grazing the same pasture differed with species and time of sampling. Blood samples and pasture samples were collected at frequent intervals over a period of 2 years for mineral and trace-nutrient assay. The concentration of the minerals and trace nutrients in the grazed pasture usually met the dietary needs of sheep at maintenance, apart from potassium, sulfur, cobalt and Vitamin E in occasional samples. Restricted maximum likelihood mixed model analysis indicated a significant (P < 0.001) species by month by year interaction for all blood constituents assayed, a significant (P < 0.05) species by coat shade interaction for plasma Vitamin D, E and B12 and a significant (P < 0.001) species by month by Vitamin D interaction for plasma phosphorus concentrations. In general, plasma calcium concentrations were greater in sheep than in alpacas but plasma magnesium concentrations were greater in alpacas than in sheep. There was no consistent difference between the two species in plasma phosphorus concentrations although low values were recorded in individual sheep and alpacas. Plasma Vitamin D concentrations were more responsive to increasing hours of sunlight in alpacas than they were in sheep. Sheep had consistently higher concentrations of plasma copper, zinc and Vitamin B12 and higher concentrations of blood selenium but lower concentrations of plasma selenium and Vitamin A, than did alpacas. No consistent difference was observed between the two species in plasma Vitamin E concentrations.
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Fugal RA, Anderson VJ, Roundy B. Exotic grass and shrub production evaluation and llama preference on the Bolivian Altiplano. Small Rumin Res 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2010.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Evolutionary adaptations of ruminants and their potential relevance for modern production systems. Animal 2010; 4:979-92. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110000388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Nutritional requirements and assessing nutritional status in camelids. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2009; 25:265-79. [PMID: 19460639 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2009.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been nearly 30 years since the first imported llamas and alpacas have been commercially raised in the United States. Nutritional requirements for these animals have not been well understood and most feeding practices were based on extrapolated and experiential information. Only recently has a National Research Council committee reviewed the available published information relative to nutrient requirements of llamas and alpacas. This article summarizes current nutrient requirement recommendations and provides some practical feeding recommendations and methods to assess nutritional status.
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Riek A. Relationship between milk energy intake and growth rate in suckling mammalian young at peak lactation: an updated meta-analysis. J Zool (1987) 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2007.00369.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Riek A, Gerken M, Moors E. Measurement of Milk Intake in Suckling Llamas (Lama glama) Using Deuterium Oxide Dilution. J Dairy Sci 2007; 90:867-75. [PMID: 17235163 DOI: 10.3168/jds.s0022-0302(07)71570-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to estimate daily milk intake in llama crias and relate nutrient intakes at peak lactation to growth data. Milk intake in 11 suckling llamas was estimated from water kinetics using deuterium oxide (D2O) at d 17, 66, and 128 postpartum. Daily milk intakes averaged 2.6, 2.3, and 2.0 kg at 17, 66, and 128 d postpartum, respectively. Milk intake decreased with age when expressed as daily amount, percentage of body weight (BW), or per kilogram of metabolic size, but the influence of age was eliminated when expressed per gram of daily gain. Because llamas only have one young per parturition, milk intake was equivalent to the daily milk output of the dam, which ranged from 27.6 to 96.9 g/kg of maternal BW(0.75). Compared with different ruminant species, milk production in llamas appears to lie between wild and domestic ruminants used for meat production. Nutrients (dry matter, fat, protein, and lactose) and energy intakes from the milk calculated by combining milk intake and milk composition data decreased with age when expressed as daily amount or per 100 g of BW, but when expressed per gram of daily gain, no clear trend was observed. Maintenance requirement for suckling llamas at peak lactation (17 d postpartum) was 312 kJ of ME/kg of BW(0.83). Combined with milk composition data, the present milk intake estimations at different stages of the lactation can be used to establish recommendations for nutrient and energy requirements of suckling llamas.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Riek
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Goettingen, Albrecht-Thaer-Weg 3, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
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