Livestock Studies 2009, Vol 49, Num, 2     (Pages: 125-135)

Using Canola Forage as Roughage Source in Ruminant Nutrition

Ünal KILIÇ 1

1 Ondokuz Mayıs Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Zootekni Bölümü, 55139 Samsun - Canola products which are mentioned frequently recently due to its contribution to the biodiesel production are considered as an important source for meeting the roughage needs especially in winter. Hays, silages, stovers, straws and stubbles of canola are used as roughage source in ruminant nutrition. Canola products are recommended primarily for use in cow nutrition as sheep are more sensitive to the canola products compared to cows. Feeding canola hay and silage are more reliable compared to grazing and, if possible, silage should be preferred. However, canola products should be tested in terms of nutrient contents and also antinutritionel contents such as nitrates and sulfurs in order to prevent probable problems which can be seen in ruminants. Canola roughage should be used with other roughages, not singly, in ration. Furthermore, it should not be given above 40% of ration dry matter, should not be given to hungry cows and also it should be avoid of sudden feed change. Keywords : Forage, Canola, Ruminant, Silage, Hay