# Comparison of ruminal ecology and blood profiles in Bali, Madura, and Ongole crossbred cattle of Indonesia

## TL;DR

This study compares the rumen and blood profiles of three Indonesian cattle breeds to understand their productivity and health traits.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the ruminal ecology and blood profiles of Bali, Madura, and Ongole crossbred cattle in Indonesia.

## Key findings

- Bali cattle showed higher total VFAs and propionic acid, indicating efficient glucogenic traits.
- Bali cattle had superior RBC size and hemoglobin content compared to other breeds.
- OC cattle had the highest RBC count, while Bali cattle had a more favorable rumen microbial profile.

## Abstract

Indonesian cattle breeds, primarily Bali, Madura, and Ongole crossbred (OC), are vital to local farming systems, yet little is known about their ruminal ecology and blood profiles. This study aimed to compare the rumen fluid characteristics and hematological parameters among these three indigenous cattle breeds.

Thirty heifers (10 per breed) were sourced from the Indonesian Beef Cattle Research Station. The animals, weighing 175–197 kg, were randomly allocated to individual pens. A diet of commercial concentrate and elephant grass (70:30 ratio) was provided at 3.5% of their body weight (dry matter basis). Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and hematological indices (White blood cell, red blood cells [RBC], hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin [MCH], and mean corpuscular volume [MCV]). Rumen fluid was assessed for pH, NH3, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), and microbial diversity. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences with significance set at p < 0.05.

No significant differences were observed in blood glucose and BUN levels across breeds. Bali cattle exhibited the highest concentrations of total VFAs (139.66 mMol) and propionic acid (33.31 mMol), with a lower acetic-to-propionic acid ratio, reflecting efficient glucogenic traits. Quinella, a propionate-producing bacterium, dominated Bali cattle rumen microbiota. Conversely, OC cattle demonstrated the highest RBC count (9.27 x 10³/µL), while Bali cattle showed superior RBC size (MCV: 48.84 fl) and hemoglobin content (MCH: 16.60 pg).

Bali cattle exhibited superior rumen fermentation efficiency and favorable hematological profiles, potentially supporting enhanced productive performance and reduced enteric methane emissions. These findings provide a foundation for breed-specific dietary management strategies to optimize local cattle productivity in tropical environments.