Animal Nutrition - AnSci 101 Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover important terms and concepts related to animal nutrition as presented in Dr. Beltaire's AnSci 101 course.

Nutrients

Feed substances necessary for cells to live, grow, and function.

Water

Essential nutrient; animals can live only days without it.

Carbohydrates

Major energy source composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

Lipids

Fats and oils; source of energy and essential fatty acids.

Proteins

Chains of amino acids; components of lean tissue, enzymes, hormones.

Macrominerals

Minerals required in large amounts for bodily functions.

Microminerals

Minerals required in small amounts, important for various enzyme systems.

Vitamins

Organic nutrients needed in very small amounts for specific functions.

Crude Protein

Determined by the Kjeldahl process; measure of nitrogen in feed.

Dry Matter (DM)

Feed with all moisture removed; critical for calculating nutrient intake.

Balanced Ration

Diet containing all necessary nutrients in the right proportions.

Forages/Roughages

High fiber feeds; examples include pasture, hay, and silage.

Concentrates

Low fiber, energy- or protein-dense feeds; includes grains and supplements.

Nonnutritive Additives

Ingredients added to rations for reasons other than their nutritive value.

Essential Fatty Acids

Fatty acids that must be supplied in the diet.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins; essential for various bodily functions.

Fermentation Phase

Anaerobic bacteria convert plant sugars into organic acids during silage production.

Haylage

Moist fermented feed containing high moisture and preserved for nutrient content.

Calcium

A macromineral important for bones and teeth; involved in various physiological functions.

Nitrogen-free extract (NFE)

Readily available or digestible carbohydrates within feed.