Grazing Behavior and Rumen Characteristics of Japanese Black cattle in Native Pasture

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  • 野草地放牧における黒毛和種牛の採食行動とルーメン内性状

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Abstract

Grazing behavior and rumen characteristics of Japanese Black Cattle were examined on two paddocks (B : 1st trial and C : 2nd trial) in a native pasture with different botanical composition. The grazing pattern and rumination time of three animals showed variations between paddocks B and C on 24 hour behavioral observations. An increase in grazing time on the paddock C was observed as compared to the paddock B. Diet selection was evaluated by bite count method. In paddock B, the cattle grazed initially Imperata cylindrica more highly but later Miscanthus sinensis and Eremochloa ophiuroides by bite count method. The cattle selected M. sinensis as the first choice for a few days after transfer to the paddock C, and I. cylindrica and E. ophiuroides more during the later stage of grazing period. Total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentrations in the rumen fluid were higher in the samples collected on the 7th or 9th day than on the 1st day of the grazing before transfer, irrespective of paddocks (paddock B : 5.27 to 6.76 mmol dl^<-1>, paddock C : 6.87 to 7.53 mmol dl^<-1>). NH_<3->N concentration in the rumen fluid remained stable around 4.33 mg dl^<-1>. Total protozoa counted 3.0×10^5 ml^<-1> on the 4th day after moving and similar during the 1st trial, while in the 2nd trial 4.1×10^5 ml^<-1> on the 4th day after moving and then increased to 5.9×10^5 ml^<-1> on the 9th day. Total protozoa counted higher in the 2nd trial than in the 1st one. Number of bacteria ranged from 1.1×10^9 ml^<-1> to 7.1×10^9 ml^<-1> and cocci (-) and cocci (+) were detected in large percentages throughout the experimental period.

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