Forage Bioactive Compounds and Rumen Microbiota: Exploring Colonization, Density, and Diversity Dynamics in Dairy Cows

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page : 15 26
    By

    Md. Emran Hossain,

  • Shilpi Islam,

  1. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram, , Bangladesh
  2. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Gazipur Agricultural University, Salna, Gazipur, , Bangladesh

Abstract

The rumen microbiota plays a pivotal role in the health, productivity, and sustainability of dairy cows, with forage serving as a fundamental dietary component influencing microbial dynamics. This review explores the intricate interactions between forage bioactive compounds – such as tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and flavonoids – and the rumen microbiota, focusing on their effects on colonization, microbial density, and diversity. Forage bioactives modulate microbial adhesion, biofilm formation, and growth patterns, driving shifts in microbial populations and functional guilds. These compounds exhibit selective antimicrobial properties, promoting beneficial microbes while suppressing pathogenic or methanogenic species. Additionally, the indirect effects of bioactive compounds, mediated through metabolic intermediates, pH regulation, and nutrient availability, further shape microbial community structure and function. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the molecular and ecological mechanisms underpinning these interactions, identifies research gaps, and highlights the implications of forage bioactives for sustainable dairy production. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into optimizing forage-based diets to enhance rumen function, improve nutrient utilization, and mitigate environmental impacts.

Keywords: Bioactive compounds, colonization, dairy cows, density, diversity, microbiota

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology ]

How to cite this article:
Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Forage Bioactive Compounds and Rumen Microbiota: Exploring Colonization, Density, and Diversity Dynamics in Dairy Cows. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology. 2025; 15(03):15-26.
How to cite this URL:
Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Forage Bioactive Compounds and Rumen Microbiota: Exploring Colonization, Density, and Diversity Dynamics in Dairy Cows. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology. 2025; 15(03):15-26. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjomv/article=2025/view=233151


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 25/05/2025
Accepted 06/08/2025
Published 07/08/2025
Publication Time 74 Days
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