The effect of kelp on metabolism and energy exchange in young horses of the Yakutian breed

The analysis of the effect of adding kelp to the diet of young horses of the Yakutian breed on metabolism and energy is presented. It was shown that young animals in the experimental group that received laminaria in their diet demonstrated higher utilization of calcium and phosphorus, with an increase in their content in the body by 3.98% and 1.64%, respectively. This indicates an improved absorption of essential nutrients. It was noted that although the amount of gross energy consumed by the young animals in the experimental and control groups was relatively equal, the gross energy metabolism in the young animals in the experimental group was 1.16% higher, which indicates more efficient use of energy in the body. The young animals in the control group were inferior to their counterparts in the experimental group in terms of the digestibility coefficient of crude fiber (by 1.8%), dry matter (by 1.4%), organic matter (by 1.9%), and nitrogen-free extractive substances (by 5.5%) (P ≥ 0.95). The dynamics of live weight was also marked. At the beginning of the experiment, live weight of young animals in both groups was approximately the same, but by the end of the experiment, animals in the experimental group showed more intensive growth, increasing by 5.20 kg compared to 3.67 kg in the control group. The results of the studies indicate a direct effect of kelp supplementation on the growth rate and metabolism of young horses. Adding kelp to the diet promotes more efficient use of calcium and phosphorus, improves nutrient absorption, increases metabolic energy, and promotes intensive animal growth. These factors can be important when planning the feeding and care of young horses to achieve optimal growth and development.

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