Fecal Microbiome Differences in Angus Steers with Differing Feed Efficiencies during the Feedlot-Finishing Phase.

ABSTRACT: The gastrointestinal microbiota of cattle is important for feedstuff degradation and feed efficiency determination. This study evaluated the fecal microbiome of Angus steers with distinct feed efficiencies during the feedlot-finishing phase. Angus steers (n = 65), fed a feedlot-finishing diet for 82 days, had growth performance metrics evaluated. Steers were ranked based upon residual feed intake (RFI), and the 5 lowest RFI (most efficient) and 5 highest RFI (least efficient) steers were selected for evaluation. Fecal samples were collected on 0-d and 82-d of the finishing period and microbial DNA was extracted and evaluated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. During the feedlot trial, inefficient steers had decreased (p = 0.02) Ruminococcaceae populations and increased (p

SUBMITTER: Lourenco JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9227454 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature