Effects of moringa (Moringa oleifera) silage on milk yield, milk composition and serum biochemical indexes of lactating Pabna cattle.

Moringa oleifera (MO) leaf contains higher level of crude protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve animal health, productivity and growth. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) silage on milk yield, milk quality and serum metabolites of lactating Pabna cattle. A total twelve (n = 12) lactating cow were selected for two dietary groups, where one was farm practice: 60% German + 40% concentrate and another one was MO silage: 60% MO silage + 40% concentrate, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six replication for 60 days. The statistical analysis was done using R studio (4.2.2) software. The results revealed non-significant differences for dry matter intake between two dietary groups, whereas significantly (p < 0.05) higher digestibility of DM, CP, ADF and NDF were observed in MO silage group. Moreover, MO silage had significant (p < 0.05) effects on milk yield, milk protein and lactose content. In serum metabolites, MO silage significantly (p < 0.05) decreased glucose and creatinine, whereas calcium also increased (p < 0.05) compared to farm practice group. Furthermore, alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol had significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in MO silage than farm practice. A correlation was found among blood metabolites, milk parameter and their interaction. Considering the results, it could be concluded that, MO silage can be a valuable alternative feed resources for increasing milk production of dairy cattle.