Comprehending the Significance of Physically Effective Neutral Detergent Fibre in Ruminant Nutrition
Black Sea Journal of Agriculture, vol.9, no.3, pp.469-476, 2026 (TRDizin)
- Publication Type: Article / Review
- Volume: 9 Issue: 3
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.47115/bsagriculture.1883317
- Journal Name: Black Sea Journal of Agriculture
- Journal Indexes: TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Page Numbers: pp.469-476
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
As with all other species, the primary focus in the nutrition of ruminant animals is meeting animal’s nutritionalrequirements. However, animal health, welfare, and metabolic status must be considered when meeting these needs. Therefore,understanding carbohydrate systems is crucial in ruminant nutrition. Starch, non-starch polysaccharides, sugars, and fibres areimportant carbohydrates in animal nutrition. Neutral detergent fibre (NDF), formed by cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, is primarilyassociated with dry matter intake. In addition, the concept of physically effective NDF (peNDF), which is related to total mixed rationparticle size, is becoming quite widespread in ruminant feeding practice. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of evaluatingpeNDF as a ration criterion in ruminant nutrition on dry matter intake, performance characteristics, rumen parameters, feedingbehavior, and rumination.