ARS | Publication request: Methane emissions from cattle differing in feed intake and feed efficiency fed a high concentrate diet

Submitted to: Journal of Animal Science Supplement
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 18, 2011
Publication Date: September 20, 2011
Citation: Freetly, H.C., Brown Brandl, T.M. 2011. Methane emissions from cattle differing in feed intake and feed efficiency fed a high concentrate diet [abstract]. Journal of Animal Science Supplement. 89(E-Supplement 2):187. Abstract # 33.

Technical Abstract: One hundred thirteen steers were fed a dry-rolled corn-based ration to determine feed intake and growth over a 64-d period. Thirty–seven steers were selected to determine 6 h methane emissions. Steers that were evaluated had a methane emission of 3.6 ± 0.2 L/h, a BW of 573 ± 12 kg, a DMI of 696 ± 17 kg/64 d, a gain of 104 ± 3 kg/64 d, and a residual feed intake of -0.1 ± 0.1 kg. Methane emissions did not differ with DMI (P = 0.52) or gain (P = 0.26). Methane emissions did not differ with residual feed intake (P = 0.88). Our findings do not support that variation in methane emissions from cattle fed high-corn diets containing monensin can be explained by DMI and gain. *USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.