Use of Direct Fed Microbials to Alleviate Subacute Acidosis

Authors

Shanna Lodge, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Rick Stock, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Dan Herold, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Date of this Version

January 1996

Comments

Published in 1996 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report; published by Agricultural Research Division, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Abstract

Direct fed rnicrobials are feed additives composed of live cultures of microorganisms that are currently being used in the feedlot industry to improve animal performance. Reported beneficial effects include increased feed intake and weight gain. The efficacy of these supplements have been associated with their abilities to alter rumen function, such as volatile fatty acid production, stabilization of pH, and reduction of the amount of lactate produced. This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of the direct fed microbials on rumen steady state and to evaluate their ability to alleviate subacute acidosis.