Effects of soil moisture and al-nitrilotriacetate on yeild chemical composition and digestibility of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum, L.) by meadow voles

Abstract

Flooding effects mineral composition of pasture grasses, but little is known concerning effects on mineral metabolism and fiber digestibility in animals. Experiments were conducted to investigate effects of flooding and Al-nitrilo-triacetate (Al-NTA) on growth, chemical composition and digestibility of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum, L.). Ryegrass was grown in a greenhouse experiment on Bucks silt loam soil with two soil moisture levels (flooding and 80% field capacity) and two Al rates (0 and 135 mg/kg) as Al-NTA.

Flooding increased Al, Fe, Cu, Ca and fiber and decreased dry matter yield, Mg, K and Zn concentrations. Treatment with 135 mg/kg Al had no effect on Al in plants, but decreased Ca and P concentrations.

Two digestion trials were conducted with meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) fed forage harvested from the greenhouse experiment. Voles were housed in stainless steel metabolism cages for total collections of feed and feces. A 2-day preliminary, during which voles were fed 100% ryegrass, preceded a 3-day collection period. At the end of the collection period, a blood sample was taken from the animals.

Forage grown under flooding increased apparent absorption of Al, and Ca concentration in urine samples. Apparent absorption of Mg and serum Mg were decreased, and dry matter digestibility tended to decrease.

Grazing forages produced under flooded conditions would increase potential for outbreaks of grass tetany in animals due to reduced Mg intake and absorption. Altered Mg and Ca metabolism appeared related to Al ingestion. Lowered animal performance could result from reduced DM digestibility.