This course provides an advanced understanding of mammalian nutrition, biochemistry, and metabolism including principles of nutrient supply and demand in animals. It covers nutrient absorption, rumen function, fermentative and enzymatic digestion, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, minerals, vitamins and nutrient requirements throughout animal life cycles. Students will learn to explain energy and nutrient transfer systems in livestock, rumen function drivers, biochemical pathways of energy and nutrients, perform calculations for nutrient requirements, assess diet formulation for ruminants, and recognize role of research in livestock systems.

Course Content

• Energy and nutrient transfer systems in mono-gastric and ruminant livestock

• Key drivers and requirements for effective rumen function

• Biochemical pathways of energy and select nutrients in livestock cells

• Calculations of intake, energy and nutrient requirements in livestock

• Formulation and evaluation of ruminant diets based on energy and nutrient needs

• Role of research and extension in livestock system productivity