Effects of Supplementing a Low Quality Diet with Desert Shrub (Kochia prostrata) on Alpaca (Vicugna pacos) Nutritional Status

摘要: This study determined the effects of supplementing a low quality (straw) diet with forage kochia (Kochia prostrata) on nutritional status alpacas (Lama pacos). Two experiments were conducted this objective. The first experiment (Exp A), 20 adult male randomly assigned to 1 5 treatment diets, including 100% straw, straw plus 20%, 40% and 60% kochia, or 15% alfalfa. Each alpaca received 2-week all-straw before we placed each in metabolism crate for 2 weeks (1 week acclimation period). Feed, orts, feces, urine measured daily samples taken analysis. Blood was collected every 30 min 6 h at end period analyzed. In second B), 25 adult, groups. All animals an 15 days same treatments previously described. Data weights, feed given refused blood drawn twice per day 1-7, 9, 11, 13, 15. serum analyzed electrolytes (Na, K, Cl) metabolites (glucose, urea-N, creatinine). Exp A, dry matter digestibility significantly increased across indicating that more digestible than straw. data showed significant increase N intake increasing amount as well digestibility, but not enough compensate intake. high output BUN values indicate still being mobilized from muscle catabolism order lack nutrition. B, there no differences due alone. Day significance respect creatinine. Creatinine decrease over time particularly diets greater supplementation suggesting longer period, among may have been significant.