Some recent results of research in rumen microbiology

D.E. Wright

Plant Chemistry Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Palmerston North

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1960, 20: 67-74

Studies on the foaming properties of rumen liquor taken from cows fed daily on red clover have suggested that both foaming and anti-foaming substances are present. The ability of penicillin to reduce bloat has indicated that microbiological factors are involved possibly by inhibiting metabolism of chloroplast fat.

Both protozoa and rumen bacteria have been shown to hydrogenate the unsaturated fatty acids present in chloroplasts. Preliminary experiments on microbial lipase activity has demonstrated the presence of enzymes capable of hydrolysing various lipid substrates.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;

Last Updated 24-08-2000