Nordic Red calves rumen and fecal microbiota

Adult rumen liquid was given as an oral dose to Nordic Red calves when they were 2-8 weeks old. The effect of inoculation was evaluated on the development of rumen (bacteria, ciliate protozoa and fungi) and fecal (bacteria, fungi) microbial communities. Rumen microbial community was evaluated at weeks 2, 4, 6 and 8 after calving. Feces were collected on weekly basis during 1-8 weeks. Later rumen and fecal microbial development was followed until animals were 1 year old. After calving, production traits were recorded during the 1st lactation period.