Geron et al., 2008. Rev. Bras. Zootec., 37 (9): 1685-1695

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the partial and total digestibility coefficient (DC) of the nutrients, ruminal pH, ammonia nitrogen (N-NH3) concentration in the ruminal fluid and microbial efficiency synthesis in bovines fed rations containing 0, 8, 16 and 24% of brewers grains. The brewer grains were ensiled in surface silo (5,000 kg). Four Holstein cattle (480 ± 100 kg of body weight) fitted with ruminal and duodenal cannulas, were distributed to 4 × 4 Latin square design. The mean DM intake of animals was 1.7% BW. Total and ruminal DC of the nutrients did not differ among the levels of BG used in the rations. The levels of BG in the rations showed a linearly increased on the intestinal DC dry matter and TC, as % of that reached the compartment. There was no effect of levels of BG in rations on pH and N-NH3 concentration in the ruminal fluid. The levels of RCF in diets did not affect the microbial efficiency synthesis in g N-Mic/kg of rumen apparent degradable organic matter and rumen truly degradable organic matter. The inclusion of up to 24% of BG (%DM) cattle feed does not alter the processes of rumen fermentation and digestion of nutrients.