Physicochemical and microbial alterations in rumen liquor during Lantana camara toxicity in buffalo calves (Bubalus bubalis)

Rumen liquor analysis of Lantana camara intoxicated buffalo calves revealed complete absence of protozoal motility, concentration and idophillic activ ity with significant (P < 0.01) increase in sedimentation activity test and methylene blue reduction time. However the glucose fermentation test value decreased significantly (P < 0.01). Significant (P < 0.01) increase in rum en pH (8.16+/-0.18) and ammonia nitrogen concentration (27.33+/-2.05 mg/dl) was also recorded during the toxicity. Total volatile fatty acid concentra tion decreased significantly (P < 0.01) to 9.06+/-0.88 m Eq/litre. It was c oncluded that Lantana camara var. aculeata caused gross rumen microbial ina ctivity in buffalo calves.