ROADMAP
Research Sub-Theme
Improvement of calf growth performance through modification of calf starter and milk replacer.
Ensuring adequate nutrition during the calf stage is crucial for promoting optimal growth. However, farmers frequently reduce their reliance on cows’ milk, as they typically sell the majority of the milk produced. At around 2 months of age, calves undergo a significant transition from liquid feed (cow’s milk) to solid feed (calf starter). It is essential to adjust the composition of the calf starter to enhance nutrition during this vital growth period.
Development of green concen- trate to optimize milk production.
Protein sources used in dairy cows’ feed are primarily imported commodities, which often results in high prices and limited availability. However, potential alternative protein sources include legumes such as Indigofera and Gliricidia, as well as other high-protein forages.
Improvement of livestock reproductive performance through quality feeding.
The reproductive performance of Friesian Holstein (FH) cows has a significant impact on milk production. However, these cows often face postpartum anestrus, which is the absence of estrus (heat) following childbirth. This condition is primarily caused by prolonged uterine involution due to nutritional deficiencies. To improve postpartum anestrus, it is essential to provide high-quality feed to the cows
Reducing the incidence of negative energy balance in dairy cows.
One of the primary causes of low milk production is negative energy balance (NEB) during early lactation, which arises from insufficient feed intake. NEB occurs when the energy expended for milk production and postpartum recovery surpasses the energy obtained from feed. This imbalance results in decreased animal performance, prompting the body to mobilize lipid, glycogen, and protein reserves to meet energy demands. The liver transforms these energy reserves into Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB), establishing a positive correlation between NEB and blood levels of BHB; the more severe the NEB, the higher the BHB levels. Elevated BHB can increase liver activity, which may lead to fat accumulation in the liver, a condition known as ketosis. Identifying the critical period during which NEB occurs is vital for effective management and treatment. Understanding this timeframe enables better optimization of feed management, ensuring that the provided feed effectively alleviates NEB symptoms. Proper feed management can accelerate postpartum recovery and enhance milk production. To reduce the incidence of NEB, it is crucial to offer feed that is rich in protein and energy. Increased protein intake can expedite the postpartum recovery process, as protein molecules can be converted into energy. Concentrates play an essential role in mitigating NEB incidence by supplying the nutritional needs that cannot be met solely through grass consumption. Consequently, incorporating protein-rich concentrates is vital for the health and productivity of dairy cows
Reducing the incidence of hypocalcemia through the provision of natural calcium minerals such as eggshells.
Hypocalcemia is one of the most prevalent and detrimental metabolic diseases affecting dairy cows. This condition arises from a deficiency of calcium in postpartum dairy cows, which require adequate calcium for fetal development and milk production. It is essential to provide sufficient minerals both before and after calving. While most minerals are currently supplied through commercial products, alternative sources, such as eggshells, are often overlooked but hold significant potential.
Development of whey dangke as a feed ingredient and prebiotic in dairy cows.
Whey dangke is a by-product of dangke production that is often underutilized. This whey boasts a nutritional profile comprising 55% of the components found in milk, including lactose, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, which suggests its potential as a valuable raw material for animal feed. Furthermore, dangke whey is enriched with lactic acid bacteria, which could function as a prebiotic.
Utilization of encapsulant technology to improve feed absorption in dairy cows.
The crucial factor in feed quality is digestibility. For instance, high levels of soluble protein may be degraded in the rumen and not used effectively. Therefore, technology is needed to protect this protein from degradation in the rumen, ensuring it can be optimally absorbed in the intestines. One solution is micro-encapsulation technology. A particularly effective method for micro-encapsulation involves using polysaccharides like chitosan. In the rumen, chitosan can protect proteins from degradation by forming ionic gel structures.
Utilization of farm waste as fertilizer and agricultural waste as animal feed.
Feces, urine, and leftover feed can serve as effective organic fertilizers. Besides utilizing agricultural byproducts such as corn straw and bran, there are various other options available.
Evaluation of the environment- tal conditions for dairy cows.
Dairy cows are particularly sensitive to changes in their environmental conditions, which makes it essential to evaluate these factors with care. Additionally, many dairy cows in Indonesia are Friesian Holsteins—sub-tropical breeds specifically adapted to thrive in the country’s tropical climate