PSVIII-2 - Evaluation of the effects of a stimbiotic and fiber source on nursery pig performance

Abstract: The objective was to evaluate the effects of feeding a stimbiotic, Signis (AB Vista), and fiber source, sugar beet pulp or wheat bran, on nursery performance. Pigs (n=480; 5.87±1.10 kg) were assigned to treatments in a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement of Stimbiotic (0 or 100 mg/kg) and Fiber Source (control, sugar beet pulp, or wheat bran). For phase 1, wheat bran and sugar beet pulp were added at 6.0% and 3.5%, respectively. For phase 2, wheat bran and sugar beet pulp were added at 10% and 6.0%, respectively. There were 8 pens containing 10 pigs per treatment group. A 2-phase feeding program lasting 3 weeks each was used. Performance was monitored for 6 weeks. Fecal scores were recorded, and fecal samples were collected to determine apparent total tract nutrient (ATTD) digestibility. Full value pigs (FVP) were determined by subtracting mortality and removals from total number placed. Pen gain was calculated as difference of sum of BW at D42 minus sum of BW at D0. Data were analysed by ANOVA using the fit model platform in JMP. Significance was accepted at P ≤ 0.05 and trends at P < 0.10. Phases 1 and 2 ADG, ADFI, gain:feed or D42 BW did not differ between treatment groups. There were effects of Stimbiotic and Fiber Source on FVP as there were increased FVP (P < 0.05) with Stimbiotic and decreased FVP (P < 0.05) for pigs fed wheat bran. Pen gain tended to increase (P = 0.06) in pigs fed Stimbiotic and was decreased (P < 0.05) for pigs fed wheat bran. Mean fecal scores were not affected by Fiber Source, but tended (P = 0.07) to be reduced by Stimbiotic. Stimbiotic tended (P ≤ 0.09) to increase ATTD of dry matter and energy. In conclusion, feeding a stimbiotic increased FVP, while feeding wheat bran decreased FVP. Further research is needed to explore the effects of fiber source in nursery diets and how it interacts with Stimbiotic.