Effect of different levels of Fenugreek sprouts on rumen microbiota and milk yield in Hassani goats

Germinated Fenugreek is a rich source of nutrients and bioactive compounds; therefore, it has garnered interest in improving animal productivity and health. This study evaluated the effect of two levels of dried Fenugreek sprouts (DF) (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on milk yield and composition, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and rumen bacteria in Hassani goats. Thirty lactating Hassani goats were assigned to three groups (n = 10) to receive three diets: control non-supplemented diets composed of 60% concentrate mixture and 40% Egyptian Clover (Trifolium alexandrinum); control diet supplemented with DF at15 g/head/d (F15); and control diet supplemented with DF at 30 g/head/d (F30). The results indicated that DF is rich in several nutrients and phytochemicals such as phenols, tannins, and flavonoids. The supplementation improved the digestibility of nutrients (p < 0.05). Additionally, group F30 revealed higher ammonia, total volatile fatty acids (VFA), acetic, propionic, iso butyric, butyric, iso valeric, and valeric (p < 0.05). Supplemented groups (F15 and F30) showed lower predicted methane (p < 0.05). Higher milk yield was observed in group F30 (p < 0.05). The supplementation affected the bacterial community, which was dominated by phyla Bacteroidota and Firmicutes. Additionally, the supplementation enhanced fiber-degrading bacteria such as Prevotella, Butyrivibrio, Christensenellaceae R-7 group, and Ruminococcus (p < 0.05). Dried Fenugreek sprouts affected rumen microbiota and improved animal performance. Therefore, it could be supplemented to lactating goats at 30 g/head.