Resumen

ESPINO-GARCIA, José Jesús et al. Effect of Xoconostle (Opuntia matudae Scheinvar) on methane concentration and ruminal variables during in vitro fermentation of corn stover. Rev. mex. de cienc. pecuarias [online]. 2023, vol.14, n.2, pp.309-325.  Epub 26-Jun-2023. ISSN 2448-6698.  https://doi.org/10.22319/rmcp.v14i2.6093.

The effect of the addition of xoconostle on in vitro ruminal fermentation of corn stover was determined in order to reduce methane emission. Previous studies have shown that xoconostle contains bioactive compounds with potential antimicrobial activity that enhance ruminal fermentation. Zero point zero percent, 2.0 %, 4.0 % and 6.0 % of xoconostle were added. The following were determined: chemical composition of the substrates, phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, in vitro disappearance of dry matter (IVDDM), the production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and the kinetic variables of gas production. The volume of methane was measured using the technique of capturing carbon dioxide in sodium hydroxide solution. The content of protein, ether extract, total phenols and antioxidant activity significantly increased (P<0.05) with the addition of xoconostle. The IVDDM also increased with the addition of xoconostle. Regarding the production of propionic acid, it increased significantly (P<0.05) with 6.0 % of xoconostle. The kinetic parameters obtained by the best fit of the experimental data showed a higher digestion rate and lower methane production with the addition of 4.0 and 6.0 % of xoconostle. The use of xoconostle as an additive in ruminant diets decreases methane production in vitro so it can be an alternative to mitigate the increase in the greenhouse effect and benefit the cultivation of a commercially not very appreciated fruit.

Palabras llave : Xoconostle; Corn stover; Ruminal fermentation; Climate change; Enteric methane.