In-Vitro Gas Production, Rumen Fermentation and Blood Characteristics of West African Dwarf Goats Fed Diets Fortified with Garlic (Allium sativum)
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the effects of garlic-based diet on in-vitro gas production, rumen fermentation and blood characteristics of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Twenty four (24) healthy growing goats were fed four (4) experimental diets formulated, in which garlic was incorporated as a dietary additive per kg of feed, including a control diet without garlic: T1= 0g, T2 = 0.25g, T3=0.5g, T4= 0.75g of garlic inclusion. Proximate analyses, In-vitro gas production, methane production, haematological and serum biochemical parameters were determined. Data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and means were separated using Duncan multiple range test. The in vitro gas production indicated that initial gas production was significantly (P<0.05) affected by garlic inclusion, with the highest gas production observed in T1 (0.33 mL) and the lowest in T4 (-0.67 mL). Total gas volume increased with garlic supplementation, reaching a maximum of 24.33 mL in T2 and T4. Notably, methane production decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing garlic levels, with values of 9.33% for T1 and 7.35% for T4. The VFA concentrations, particularly propionic and butyric acids, were enhanced by garlic fortification, reflecting improved fermentation efficiency. White blood cell decreased from 12.73 (T1) to 8.07×10³/μL (T4). Lymphocyte counts also varied significantly, ranging from 69.00% (T1) to 60.33% (T4), showing a decreasing trend with garlic inclusion. The T4 group showed the highest levels of total protein (7.76 g/dL) and glucose (102.46 mg/dL), with a concurrent reduction in cholesterol (99.73 mg/dl). Similarly, AST levels were elevated in T4 (194.67 μ/L). Hence, garlic supplementation in ruminant diets significantly improved gas production, enhanced VFA concentrations, and reduced methane emissions. Garlic supplementation also appears beneficial in improving the haematological and biochemical health markers in West African Dwarf Goats.
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