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Carl
Hunt
In general, the focus of our research program
has been to investigate methods which will improve the energy status of
ruminants. In particular, the project has focused on factors associated
with fermentation of fibrous and starch carbohydrates which yield metabolizable
energy for the host animal. Studies have involved examination of inherent
differences in the nature of the cell wall from genetically diverse feedstuffs
which result in differences in ruminal fermentation and degradability.
In addition to inherent genetic differences in plant cell wall, studies
have examined various strategies for altering the cell wall by chemical
and enzymatic treatments. Both areas of research are intended to increase
the bioavailability of energy present in the structural carbohydrates
in feedstuffs. Specifically, the research program is structured around
the following program activities: 1) evaluation of chemical and enzymatic
enhancement of the digestibility of forage, 2) evaluation of fiber quality
in forage crops, 3) evaluation of the feed value of barley. Below are
descriptions of these research activities.
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Patrick
Momont
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