Utilization of a direct-fed microbial (Bacillus subtilis PB6) to improve performance of nursing piglets: Comparison of sow, piglet, and combination treatment regimens

摘要

The genus Clostridium comprises numerous species that can be found to inhabit animals, humans the environment, and also be both nonpathogenic and pathogenic to their respective host.Two species associated with enteric disease are the pathogenic strains Clostridium perfringem and Clostridium difficile, both of which have become more pronounced in swine, but especially, piglets prior to weaning. The infections by these opportunistic bacteria can result in decreased livability and overall poor performance. Piglets may become exposed from the physical environment due to inadequate disinfection practices between farrowing rotations and fecal shedding from the sow. Relative to animal well being; the microbial intestinal community of the gastrointestinal tract is under constant study, where microorganisms interact with the host animal both in nutrient utilization and inhibition of pathogen colonization. In addition, the use of direct-fed microbial (DFM) materials has become increasingly popular as feed additives which interact with both the commensal and opportunistic bacteria of the tract and may provide an opportunity for intestinal balance. Bacillus subtilis is a Gram-positive, catalase positive bacterium commonly found in soil and having the abilityto form a tough, protective endospore allowing the organism to tolerate extreme environmental conditions. In 2002, Kemin Industries isolated a Bacillus bacterium, which was identified and registered as Bacillus subtilis PB6. Based on laboratory inhibition tests against a variety of poultry, ruminant and swine isolates, the objectives of this study was to evaluate any performance responses in a commercial application.