Effect of Tree Leaves and Malic Acid Supplementation to Wheat Straw Based Substrates on in Vitro Rumen Fermentation Parameters

This experiment was conducted to study the effects of addition of malic acid (MA) and tree leaves in straw based total mixed ration on in vitro rumen fermentation parameters. Four experimental substrates were prepared: Control (C-wheat straw and concentrate in 1: 1 ratio), T₁ (45% wheat straw + 45% concentrate + 10% Leucaena leucocephala leaves), T₂ (T₁ diet + 1% MA), T₃ (T₁ diet + 2% MA). Inclusion of tree leaves increased (P<0.05) in vitro true dry (IVTMD) and organic matter (IVOMD) digestibility, however, no effect was observed on other fermentation parameters. Addition of MA in conjunction with tree leaves increased (P<0.05) total gas production, IVTDMD, IVTOMD and individual VFA concentrations. There was significant (P<0.05) reduction in CH₄ production in MA supplemented groups. Therefore, addition of tree leaves improved the nutrient availability from straw based rations and malic acid further improved digestibility and reduced methane production.