Optimization Indigofera zollingeriana and Gambier (Uncaria gambir) Supplementation on Feed Consumption, Digestibility, Methane Production and Lactation Performance of Etawa Crossbreed Goats

Abstract

The utilisation of Indigofera zollingeriana in rations as a replacement for high-protein concentrates can affect the nutritional quality of the feed. Gambier supplementation (Uncaria 17gambir) can shield the content protein from the breakdown process in the rumen so that post-rumen available amino acids are higher. This study explores the optimization of I. zollingeriana and U. gambir supplementation on feed consumption, digestibility, methane gas production, and lactation performance of Etawa Crossbreed goats. This experiment used a randomized block design with three groups and five replications. Fifteen Etawa Crossbreed goats were in their second lactation period with a body weight of 52±2 kg (n = 5 goats/group). The treatment in this study was as follows: A: field grass 60% + concentrate 40%; B: field grass 60% + concentrate 10% + Indigofera zollingeriana 30%; C: field grass 60% + concentrate 10% + I. zollingeriana 30% + U. gambir 1%. The experiment lasted for 4 weeks including an adaptation period of 7 days. Treatment of 30% I. zollingeriana and 1% U. gambir in ration significantly affected nutrient digestibility, milk yield, and the content of PUFA, MUFA, CLA, omega-3, and omega-6. Besides, this treatment significantly reduced methane gas production. Meawhile the combination of I. zollingeriana and U. gambir decreased feed composition. The content of milk protein, milk fat, milk lactose, and omega-9 were not different among treatments. In conclusion, I. zollingeriana and U. gambir supplementation are able to optimize nutrient digestibility, methane reduction, and lactation performance including milk yield, PUFA, MUFA, CLA, omega-3, and omega-6. Meanwhile, this supplementation has no impact on feed consumption, fat, protein, lactose and omega-9 of milk.