Degradation characteristics of shrubs and the effect of supplementation with urea or protein on microbial production using a continuous-culture system

Degradation characteristics and availability of shrubs (Anthyllis cytisoides, Rosmarinus officinalis and Ulex parviflorus) and sunflower-meal nutrients in the rumen and in the intestine were evaluated using in vitro and in sacco procedures. The fermentation of Ulex parviflorus alone and supplemented with urea or sunflower meal were evaluated using a continuous-culture system. Total and individual volatile fatty-acid concentration and production were determined. Microbial protein production was estimated using diaminopimelic acid as a marker. The amino-acid and fatty-acid composition of bacteria leaving the fermenter flasks and of both liquid- and solid-associated bacteria isolated from the fermenter flasks was also determined. From the results, it is concluded that shrubs are a potential source of nutrients for ruminants and that supplementation with sunflower meal increases the synthesis of microbial protein.