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Research and Reviews : A Journal of Life Sciences Review Article

Long-Term Effects of Feeding High-Lignin Forage to Ruminants: Implications for Productivity, Health, and Sustainability

  1. Md. Emran Hossain Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram

Abstract

The long-term feeding of high-lignin forage to ruminants can significantly impact various aspects of animal performance, health, and environmental sustainability. Lignin, a complex phenolic compound present in plant cell walls, is indigestible by rumen microbes, leading to reduced fiber digestibility and decreased nutrient utilization. Over time, feeding ruminants with forages high in lignin results in a decline in voluntary dry matter intake (DMI), inefficient energy and protein absorption, and suboptimal microbial fermentation. This inefficiency in nutrient utilization negatively affects growth rates, reproductive performance, and milk yield, as well as increasing the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and overall production costs. Moreover, prolonged consumption of high-lignin forages has been linked to reduced immune function, increased susceptibility to metabolic disorders, and poor hoof and joint health. The energy deficit created by poor digestibility can also lead to weakened body condition and higher culling rates, affecting herd longevity and productivity. Additionally, the environmental implications of feeding high-lignin forage are significant. The inefficiency in nutrient absorption results in greater manure output, higher methane emissions, and increased demand for supplemental feed and water resources, all of which contribute to the environmental footprint of livestock farming. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the long-term effects of high-lignin forage on ruminant livestock, with a focus on the balance between productivity, animal welfare, and sustainability. The findings suggest the need for improved forage management practices to optimize ruminant nutrition and mitigate the adverse effects of high-lignin diets.

Keywords

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