Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

Book Review: Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition, edited by J.P.F. D’Mello, is a comprehensive textbook that covers the metabolic and nutritional requirements of livestock species. The book provides a detailed overview of the digestive physiology of farm animals, including the structure and function of the digestive tract, the role of gut microflora, and the absorption and utilization of nutrients. It also discusses the nutritional requirements of farm animals, including energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins.

Introduction: Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

The book begins with an introduction that highlights the importance of understanding the metabolic and nutritional requirements of farm animals. The introduction emphasizes the need for optimal nutrition to support the high rates of growth and protein production demanded by producers. The chapter also acknowledges the limited research conducted on the specific transport systems of farm animal species.

Transporter Theory: Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

The next section of the book provides a detailed discussion of transport protein theory. The chapter describes the biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in the transport of free and peptide-bound amino acids across cellular membranes. It also explains the importance of transport systems in recognizing and acquiring compounds selectively from a milieu of other substrates. The chapter discusses the physiological significance of transporters in terms of their relative ability to recognize and bind a substrate molecule and the rate of substrate translocation through the membranes.

Energy Metabolism: Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

The following chapters provide an overview of energy metabolism in farm animals. The chapters cover the process of energy production, the role of hormones in regulating energy metabolism, and the contribution of the different macronutrients to energy production. The book also includes a discussion on the use of energy for growth, lactation, and exercise.

Protein Metabolism: Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition

The book then provides a detailed overview of protein metabolism in farm animals. The chapter discusses the role of protein in animal nutrition, including the importance of essential amino acids. It also covers the processes of protein digestion, absorption, and utilization in the body. The chapter also explains the role of protein in body functions, such as growth, reproduction, and milk production.

Minerals and Vitamins

The book also covers the nutritional requirements of minerals and vitamins in farm animals. The chapters discuss the roles of minerals and vitamins in animal nutrition, the absorption and utilization of these nutrients in the body, and the factors affecting their requirements. The book provides specific information on the mineral and vitamin requirements of different livestock species, including pigs, cattle, and sheep.

Feeding Strategies and Formulation of Diets

The book concludes with a discussion on feeding strategies and the formulation of diets for farm animals. The chapter discusses the importance of balancing the nutritional requirements of animals with the cost of feed. It also covers the different methods used to formulate diets, including the use of feed ingredients, the use of models to predict nutrient requirements, and the use of computer programs to formulate diets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Farm Animal Metabolism and Nutrition is a valuable textbook for students, researchers, and professionals in the field of animal nutrition. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the metabolic and nutritional requirements of farm animals, including the digestive physiology, energy metabolism, protein metabolism, and the requirements of minerals and vitamins. The book also discusses the different feeding strategies and methods used to formulate diets for farm animals. The book is an excellent resource for those involved in the livestock industry and those interested in animal nutrition.