Influence of feeding Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract on the milk yields, eating patterns, and body temperatures of lactating cows.

Trials were conducted to evaluate effects of a fermentation extract of Aspergillus oryzcze (AO) on milk production and composition, diet digestibility, and rectal temperature changes in lactating dairy cows. Treatments were incorporated as a top dressing at the morning feeding and consisted of control (90 g/d of ground sorghum) or A0 (3 g of culture + 87 g of ground sorghum daily). Twenty-four mid-lactation Holstein cows were paired for production in Lactation Trial 1 (LT-1). In Lactation Trial 2 (LT-2), 46 cows (20 primiparous and 26 multiparous) in early lactation were used. Trials lasted 12 wk In LT-1, A0 supplementation increased milk yields only at 2 (P .lo) affected by A0 supplementation. However, in Digestion Trial 2, A0 increased (P .lo) by feeding AO. In summary, milk yields, efficiency of milk production, and nutrient digestibilities were higher for early lactation cows fed a highconcentrate diet supplemented with 3 g of AO/d. Mid-lactation cows fed a lowerenergy diet were less responsive to A0 than early lactation cows, though similar trends were shown.