A note on the effect of Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract on the rumen fermentation of sheep given straw

Eight mature Dorset-cross sheep, each fitted with a permanent rumen cannula, were given a diet of chopped barley straw (plus urea and minerals) either with or without an Aspergillus oryzae (AO) fermentation extract (2 glday). The addition of AO fermentation extract to the diet increased the initial rate of straw degradation ( P < 0·05) but did not alter the final extent of degradation. Total culturable bacteria increased with AO treatment but numbers of cellulolytic bacteria, ciliate protozoa, and aerobic fungi, were not significantly altered. Rumen pH, liquid clearance rate, total volatile fatty acids, acetate, propionate, butyrate, L-lactate and ammonia concentrations were also unaffected.