Animal Nutrition in Production Systems (Strand 2 — Animal Science)

Feedstuffs

Ingredients fed to animals to supply nutrients and energy.

Traditional feedstuffs

Widely used feeds with well-known nutrient profiles and handling characteristics.

Forages

Roughages such as pasture, hay, and silage, typically high in fiber.

Concentrates

Nutrient-dense ingredients like grains and protein meals, lower in fiber.

Mineral supplements

Products like salt blocks and premixes used to provide essential minerals.

Fermentable fiber

Essential for maintaining stable rumen function in ruminants.

Alternative feeds

Ingredients outside standard grain/forage programs, often used for cost reduction.

Byproducts

Ingredients from food and fuel industries, such as distillers grains and bakery waste.

Feed additives

Products added in small amounts to improve animal performance and health.

Preservatives

Additives that reduce spoilage and rancidity in feed.

Probiotics

Live microorganisms added to feed that support gut health.

Nutrient density

The amount of energy, protein, and minerals per kilogram of feed.

Digestibility

The proportion of nutrients that an animal can absorb and use from feed.

Mycotoxins

Toxins produced by molds that can contaminate feed and harm animals.

Dry matter basis

A standard measure used for nutrient content that excludes moisture.

Crude protein (CP)

An estimate of the protein content of feed based on nitrogen levels.

Calcium and phosphorus balance

Essential for bone health, particularly in growing animals.

Copper toxicity

Excessive copper intake can be toxic to certain species, like sheep.

Average daily gain (ADG)

A measure of growth rate, calculated as weight change over time.

Feed efficiency (FE)

The measure of weight gain per unit of feed consumed.

Feed conversion ratio (FCR)

The amount of feed needed to produce a unit of weight gain.

Water quality

The cleanliness and safety of water, crucial for animal health and performance.

TMR (Total Mixed Ration)

A method of feeding that mixes forages and concentrates together.

Nutrient deficiencies

When an animal's intake or absorption of nutrients is too low.

Toxicity

Harmful effects on animals due to excessive nutrient intake.

Sampling technique

The method used to collect feed samples for testing.

Feed contaminants

Unwanted substances in feed that may be harmful to animal health.