The Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Nutrient Profiles and Total Gas Production In Vitro of Two Sorghum Straw Variety

Abstract

The aim of the current work is to investigate the effects of some levels of gamma irradiation doses on nutrient composition and total gas production in vitro of two sorghum straw variety. The level doses 0, 50, 100 and 150 kGy from cobalt-60 gamma rays irradiator was used to treate sorghum straw. Variables measured were nutrient composition, in vitro total gas production, in vitro gas characteristics and rumen fermentation products after 72 h incubation times.  Experimental design of this study was 4 x 2 factorial design with irradiation dose as the first factor and sorghum variety as the second factor. All treatments were analyzed in three replicates. The results show that gamma irradiation doses of 150 kGy reduced neutral detergent fiber (NDF) of Pahat and Samurai 2 sorghum straw by 5.10 and 3.01% (P<0.05). Gamma irradiation doses of 150 kGy also reduced acid detergent fiber (ADF) of Pahat and Samurai 2 sorghum straw by 12.56 and 8.74% (P<0.05). The dose of 100 and 150 kGy increased total gas production at 72 h incubation of Pahat straw (P<0.05). Gamma irradiation had no effect on the total gas production of Samurai 2 straw. Gamma irradiation pretreatment was capable of improving sorghum straw nutrient profiles. Further study is needed to determine degradability and economically benefits.