Effects of ethanol and acetone extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra root on ruminal fermentation parameters, methane production and goat protozoa population

Effects of ethanol and acetone extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra at six levels (0, 50, 100, 200,300 or 500 µl) were evaluated on gas production process, ruminal fermentation and protozoa population in Markhoz goat. The gas production was conducted by alfalfa substrate using compiled randomized design with five replications in each treatment. The fermentation parameters, methane, partitioning factor (PF) and volatile fatty acids (VFA) were recorded. The gas production in 24 h was increased in all levels of both extracts (P˂0.01). The methane production decreased in ethanol extract (P˂ 0.05) however, it was increased by acetone extract at level of 300 and 500 µl (P˂0.01). The organic matter degradability was improved by addition of both extracts (P˂0.01). The Ammonia was declined by ethanol extract (P˂ 0.01). The PF and microbial mass production were decreased by inclusion of both extract, however the VFA and metabolizable energy were enhanced at all levels of both extracts (P˂0.01). All subfamily (except Diplodiniinae)and total protozoa population were decreased by both extracts. It can be concluded that ethanol and acetone extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra has the potential to improve degradability and were decreased methane production and protozoa population of goat rumen.