Project


Efficiency of recovered phosphorous for monogastric animals

Contact: Prof. Dr. Cornelia C. Metges

Duration: 2019-2022

Funding: Leibniz-Gemeinschaft

Abstract:
Phosphorus is involved in a variety of metabolic processes and plays a key role in the mineralization and stability of bones. Therefore, P must be fed to ensure optimal growth for high productivity and sufficient bone mineralization in addition to animal welfare and maximum efficiency. Due to the limited availability of inorganic P as feed, it is necessary to look for alternative sources. In this project the feasibility and efficiency of feeding of recovered P-compounds from sludge/slurry to broilers will be investigated in comparison to commercial P-containing mineral feeds. Increasing experiments will compare palatability, digestibility, effects on zootechnical, endocrinological and metabolic parameters, the composition of microbiota in the digestive tract and the efficiency of the P source. In addition, the influence of the P source on skeletal health will be investigated by analyses of chemical composition, specific bone markers and fracture strength. These data will be compared with the results of a fish experiment (subproject II.1) and allow the estimation of the ecological and economic aspects of recovered phosphorus (in cooperation with subprojects II.1 and II.4). These results could help to reduce inefficient P-use.