Effects of Corn Bran and Degradable Protein Source on Microbial Protein Estimated From Spot Urine Samples in Heifers

Authors

R. Allen McDonald, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Tim W. Loy, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Kimberly M. Whittet, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Date of this Version

January 2004

Comments

Published in 2004 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Copyright © 2003 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

A metabolism trial was conducted in finishing heifers to determine if allantoin in spot urine samples could be a predictor of microbial CP (MCP) supply. When corn bran replaced high moisture corn, ruminal pH was higher and microbial efficiency and flow were greater. Estimated microbial efficiency and flow were not different for SBM compared to urea as a source of degradable protein. Daily variation in intake was reflected in MCP estimates. Within day variation for MCP estimates was consistent and small. Estimates of MCP from allantoin in spot urine samples followed NRC estimates. Results demonstrate that allantoin is an effective predictor of MCP flow.