Holman, B.W.B., and Malau-Aduli, A.E.O. (2014) Effect of spirulina supplementation on haematological biomarkers of lamb productivity. In: Animal Production in Australia (30) p. 65. From: 30th Biennial Conference of the Australian Society of Animal Production, 8-12 September 2014, Canberra, ACT, Australia.

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Abstract

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a protein-rich and highly nutritious cyanobacterium which is a recognised livestock feed supplement (Holman & Malau-Aduli 2013). Protein supplementation to lambs generally results in a positive shift in productivity, liveweight and growth. These effects can be objectively assessed using specific haematological biomarkers (Braun et al 2010). The emergence of Spirulina supplementation has made it necessary to investigate its effects on haematological biomarkers of productivity.

Twenty-four, 6 month old lambs were randomly assigned Spirulina levels (CONTROL, LOW, HIGH) within a 9-week supplementation trial. All lambs were run together and supplemented Spirulina daily as a 1:10 g/mL suspension via oral drenching. Blood was sampled at the completion of the supplementation trial, using jugular venipuncture, and plasma was separated and commercially analysed for haematological metabolite concentrations (DPIPWE, TAS). Returned data was fitted into a Factorial ANOVA model in Statistical Analysis System, Version 9.1 software for interpretation, with means compared with normal ranges.

GGT indicates liver health. It was observed to be highest in CONTROL lambs, possibly because Spirulina supplementation has been previously associated with improved animal liver health (Holman 2013). Creatinine indicates muscle mass and was highest in MEDIUM Spirulina supplemented lambs suggesting these lambs to be larger than their experimental counterparts. This proves true, Holman et al 2012 corroborating MEDIUM Spirulina supplemented lambs to have highest liveweights. Heightened glucose concentrations found with HIGH Spirulina supplementation is thought to stem from its effects on dietary energy intake and consequential flow on effects. Spirulina supplementation does affect lamb productivity haematological biomarkers, albeit limited as several key productivity biomarkers failed to respond to Spirulina supplementation.

Item ID:	48294
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
ISSN:	0728-5965
Related URLs:	Organisation
Date Deposited:	20 Apr 2017 03:18
FoR Codes:	07 AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY SCIENCES > 0702 Animal Production > 070204 Animal Nutrition @ 50% 07 AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY SCIENCES > 0702 Animal Production > 070201 Animal Breeding @ 50%
SEO Codes:	83 ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND ANIMAL PRIMARY PRODUCTS > 8303 Livestock Raising > 830310 Sheep - Meat @ 100%
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