Abstract. Forage palm is extremely suitable as animal fodder due to its high
tolerance to the climatic rigors of the semiarid region and its ability
to withstand the harsh physical–chemical limitations of poor soils. Thus,
in this study, the effects of the partial replacement (0 %, 5 %, 10 % and 15 % replacement) of a molasses- or oat-based commercial
concentrate with forage palm bran (FPB)
on the acceptability, apparent digestibility and glycemic response of horses
at maintenance were evaluated. The ratio of concentrate to roughage
(Tifton 85 hay) was 30:70, and the dry matter (DM) intake was 2 % of body weight
(BW). For the preference test, 10 barren Mangalarga Marchador mares
were used. The experimental diets were offered simultaneously to determine
the consumption preference and the intake ratio. For the digestibility test,
four mixed-breed geldings were used and were distributed in a Latin square
experimental design (4×4). For the glycemic response, blood samples were
collected 30 min before and 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 240 min after
supplying the feed. The preference test indicated that feed containing 0 %
and 5 % FPB was preferred by the animals. Nutrient digestibility
coefficients did not differ among the experimental diets. Blood glucose was
lower at 180 min in the 7.42 % FPB inclusion diet (R2=0.97); this was estimated using the following
equation: Y=115.05-2.75x+0.19x2. It is concluded
that the incorporation of up to 15 % of forage palm bran as a substitute for
concentrate in the maintenance diet tested did not negatively influence feed
intake, nutrient digestibility or glycemic index; however, inclusion values
above 5 % reduced diet acceptability.