In vitro degradation of sugarcane bagasse based ruminant rations using anaerobic fungi

In present study the in vitro degradation of sugarcane bagasse and total mixed ration (i.e. sugarcane bagasse, wheat straw, and concentrate mixture in the ratio of 20∶30∶50) were tested using anaerobic rumen fungi Neocallimastix spp. GR1 and Piromyces spp. WNG-12. These cultures produced hydrolytic enzymes (CMCase, FPCase and xylanase)and increased the in vitro digestibility of dry matter, neutral detergent fibre, and acid detergent fibre of bagasse and total mixed rations when compared with control. Neocallimastix spp. GR1 and Piromyces spp. WNG-12 also increased total volatile fatty acids by degradation of sugarcane bagasse and total mixed ration. Based on results obtained, it may be stated that Neocallimastix spp. GR1 may improve the nutritive value of high fibrous based diets.