Evaluation of the Fecal Bacterial Communities of Angus Steers With Divergent Feed Efficiencies Across the Lifespan From Weaning to Slaughter.

ABSTRACT: Numerous studies have examined the link between the presence of specific gastrointestinal bacteria and the feed efficiency of cattle. However, cattle undergo dietary changes during their productive life which can cause fluctuations in their microbial consortium. The objective of the present study was to assess changes in the fecal microbiome of beef steers genetically selected to be divergent in feedlot feed efficiency, to determine whether differences in their fecal microbiomes could be detected as early as weaning, and continued throughout the rearing process regardless of dietary changes. Fecal samples were collected at weaning, yearling age, and slaughter for a group of 63 steers. Based on their feedlot-finishing performance, the steers were selected and divided into two groups accordi

SUBMITTER: Welch CB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8275654 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature