2026-10-09T18:05:46Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32826047 2026-10-01T16:11:13Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

The potential of willow (Salix sp), a tannin-rich tree to reduce the environmental impact from ruminants and improve productivity Joshua Philip Thompson (24304376) PUREID: 641505919 willow tannins ruminant microbiome metabolomics structure methane nitrogen digestibility fermentation <p>This thesis explores the use of condensed tannins from willow leaves (Salix spp.) as a sustainable dietary supplement for ruminants to reduce methane emissions and improve nitrogen use efficiency. Willow leaves, abundant across Europe, offers high protein and moderate energy levels, making it a useful feed source. The research aimed to evaluate the inclusion of willow leaves to potentially mitigate environmental impacts and enhance productivity in ruminant systems.</p><p>Key objectives included determining effective inclusion levels for reducing methane and ammonia, assessing palatability, evaluating digestion and nutrient efficiency, and testing willow’s viability in silvopastoral systems.</p><p>In vitro studies showed that 100% willow inclusion reduced methane and ammonia by 64% without affecting digestibility. In vivo trials with ewe hoggets' revealed no methane reduction at 20% inclusion, though fermentation patterns and microbial populations shifted. Beagle willow, with higher tannin content, reduced nitrogen digestibility but redirected nitrogen excretion from urine to faeces, potentially lowering ammonia emissions.</p><p>A grazing trial with beef steers showed a 27% methane reduction on a willow diet compared to grass, with no adverse effects on intake or energy use. These findings support the potential of willow-based systems to enhance ruminant sustainability.</p><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 July 2027.</i><br> 2026-10-01T16:11:13Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32826047.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/The_potential_of_willow_Salix_sp_a_tannin-rich_tree_to_reduce_the_environmental_impact_from_ruminants_and_improve_productivity/32826047 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2027-07-31