The Rumen Management System
New rationing technology accurately measuring fermentable NDF levels & rumen pH to be launched at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show by EnviroSystems UK.
EnviroSystems has joined forces with Edinburgh University spin out technology companies, Bioparametrics and Well Cow Ltd to develop the on farm complete rumen management tool. A development from traditional NIR analysis, this new approach provides more reliable rumen digestion predictions than existing rationing programmes through measurement of bacterial activity in the rumen and their gas production in the digestive process.
Measurement of rumen microbial activity and fermentable NDF produces fast, accurate measurements of carbohydrate and protein breakdown alongside starch and active fibre levels. Going beyond conventional silage analysis this tool which specifically measures ‘fermentable’ NDF (neutral detergent fibre) allows us to gain better rumen understanding to maximize their cows’ microbial yield and subsequently reduce Acidosis risk.
EnviroSystems Liz Russell explains “80% of energy supply in grass silage is in the form of NDF and correct measurement is therefore crucial. Having the opportunity to objectively measure ‘fermentable’ NDF (an aspect unique to ‘Biopara-Silage’ analysis) allows more accurate ration balancing to increase milk from forage.”
The innovation comprises:
· Optimize Plus specific enzyme formulation which actively opens up the fibre structure of forage, making nutrients more available for digestion which increases microbial activity and ‘fermentable’ NDF levels.
· Biopara-Silage analysis using predicted in-vitro gas production in combination with NIR to accurately measure rumen microbial activity.
· Biopara-Milk ration balancing. Feed programme researched and developed over the last decade to accurately predict rumen fermentation acid production, bicarbonate production and the transport mechanism for Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA’s) through the rumen wall.
· Well Cow Bolus to be placed in a single cow within the herd to determine and monitor rumen pH through wireless technology.
“Acidosis is an underlying problem on many farms leading to impaired fertility, lameness and digestive upsets. The ultimate goal of BioPara Milk feed system is to eliminate acidosis” says Bioparametrics Roy Fawcett. “Our research has shown that using specific enzymes on silage crops opens up the structure of the fibre so the microbes can do their work faster. NDF normally digests at 5% per hour, but with the correct enzymes the rate of degradation can be doubled.”
Liz explains “The silage additive Optimize Plus can consistently increase ME levels by increasing NDF fermentability which determines the forage’s feed potential. Carbohydrate and protein fermentation rates can for the first time be measured as gas production in the Biopara-Silage analysis, which is believed to be today’s most accurate method of analysis. This analysis assists in accurate ration formulation through Biopara-Milk which determines pH fluctuation and protects the diet from causing acidosis.”
The System is designed to help put farmers in control of their cows’ rumens by achieving diets which optimize milk from forage and ensure the rumen consistently achieves pH 6.2 or higher, a level required for optimum bacteria function. Roy continues “The art of ration balancing is not simply about getting the proportions of energy and protein correct but maintaining the pH at a high level. The difference in a rumen pH of 5.8 and one of 6.4 is equivalent to 3 litres of milk per cow per day.”
Placed in a representative cow, the Well Cow Bolus objectively logs pH inside the rumen every 15 minutes. These readings are then transmitted wirelessly from a distance of two meters via a mobile phone which supports the Biopara-Milk ration formulation. This former research device can now be administered orally and will be available for general purchase with the Rumen Management System by mid September.
This System offers dairy farmers and their advisors a unique opportunity to combine the latest enzyme and bolus technology with cutting edge analysis and rationing systems. The Rumen Management System objectively focuses on optimizing herd productivity through achieving ideal rumen pH to improve milk from forage, fertility and overall herd profitability.
Dr Roy Fawcett will be on the EnviroSystems stand presenting his rumen simulation display which will demonstrate gas production and fermentable NDF levels produced by live rumen liquor. The activity of this rumen will be measured using the Well Cow Bolus on both days.
Stand no FF152 (Feed and Forage).
