Effect of Source and Level of Sulfur on Rumen Metabolism and Finishing Performance

Authors

Cody A. Nichols, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kelsey Rolfe, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Crystal D. Buckner Buckner, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Galen Erickson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry Klopfenstein, Universitiy of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2011

Comments

Published in 2011 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Published by the Agricultural Research Division, University of Nebraska Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Copyright © 2011 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Five ruminally fistulated steers fitted with rumen gas extraction cannula plugs were utilized to quantify ruminal pH and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) levels produced at different times post feeding. Diets consisted of 1) 28.5% WDGS, 37.5% Sweet Bran®, 4% corn bran, 0% alfalfa hay; 2) 28.5% WDGS, 37.5% Sweet Bran, 7.5% alfalfa, 4% corn bran; 3) 44% WDGS, 44% Sweet Bran, 7.5% alfalfa; 4) 50% WDGS, 37.5% DRC, 7.5% alfalfa; and 5) 87.5% Sweet Bran, 7.5% Aafalfa. Dry matter intake was different (P = 0.05) across treatments. Steers fed diets containing 44% WDGS and 44% Sweet Bran had greater (P < 0.01) levels of H₂S compared to other diets; however, cattle fed 87.5% Sweet Bran produced less (P < 0.05) H₂S compared to the other four dietary treatments.