University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 5

This module builds on animal nutrition concepts introduced in BO101 and in AG1101. Students begin by studying digestive systems of ruminant and non-ruminants, leading to concepts of feed digestion (carbohydrate, protein, fibre), products of digestion, and nutrient absorption and associated metabolism. Students are introduced to techniques for feed evaluation e.g. digestibility, content and mineral adequacy. Nutrient requirements, including energy, protein, vitamin and mineral, for maintenance, reproduction, growth and lactation and factors affecting same. Nutritional properties of common feed materials including the evaluation of the energy and protein contents and use nutrient requirement tables for different farm animals. Principles of feed formulation for animals in different physiological states. Principles of feed production, harvesting, conservations and the subsequent feeding and management of same. Practical sessions will include farm visits, identification of different feeds, on-farm assessment of feeding systems and the development of feeding systems for different livestock production systems.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Contrast the digestive systems of monogastric and ruminant farm animals
  2. Explain the concepts of digestibility, protein quality and energy partition as they relate to farm animals
  3. Explain the nutrient requirements for maintenance, reproduction, growth and lactation and factors affecting maintenance, reproduction , growth and lactation of farm animals
  4. Describe the nutritional properties of common feeds
  5. Interpret nutrient requirement tables for livestock animals.
  6. Explain the principles of feed formulation
  7. Explain the principles of feed production, harvesting, conservation of feed and the subsequent feeding and management of these feeds for farm animals
  8. Complete an on-farm assessment of the adequacy of feeding systems
  9. Develop a feeding system for different livestock production systems
Assessments
  • Written Assessment (60%)
  • Continuous Assessment (40%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Animal Nutrition" by Peter McDonald
    ISBN: 9781408204238.
    Publisher: Benjamin Cummings
The above information outlines module AG2101: "Livestock Animal Nutrition" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.