Abstract
The attenuation of secondary compounds in Uveda pods (Acacia macracantha, Am) were evaluated for potential use in ration for rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus mestizos California x Nueva Zelanda). Test 1: a completely random factorial arrangement, soaking temperature factor (25, 45 and 65°C) and water soaking time factor (0, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h). Test 2: consumption, digestibility and weight gain were determined by evaluating baseline ration (crude protein 183 g.kg-1 and NDF 467 g.kg-1, cornmeal and soybean mixture, Bermuda hay, soybean oil, minerals and amino acids) and serving containing 30% attenuated Am and varying amounts of basal raw materials (crude protein 184 g.kg-1 and NDF 511 g.kg-1). Twelve rabbits were used per treatment (live weight 969±48.7 g and age of 55 d). After the 7-day adaptation period, food intake was recorded and feces collected from 62 to 89 days of age. From the first trial, most effective secondary compound reduction was soaking of Am pods for 48 hours at 65°C. The initial content reductions were: 72.4% for total polyphenols, 82.1% for simple phenols, 63.3% for total tannins, 90.8% for condensed tannins and 74.5% for tannins that precipitate proteins. In trial 2: food intake was higher for Am ration (128 vs 107 g.d-1, p<0.01), with gross energy (11.0 vs. 11.7 Mj.kg-1, p<0.001) and digestibility of Crude protein (66.9 vs 76.4, p<0.001) lower compared to rabbits fed basal ration. On the contrary, fiber digestibility was higher in rabbits fed Am ration (p<0.01). In conclusion, it is feasible to include 30% of attenuated Am pods for rabbits, however more experiments are required to confirm their effect on production.
Keywords: Acacia macracantha pods; intake; rabbits; digestibility; attenuation of secondary compounds.