Evaluation of N-alkanes as Faecal Markers to Estimate Diet Composition, Feed Intake, and Digestibility in European Bison (Bison bonasus)

There is a lack of knowledge on the European bison (Bison bonasus L. 1758) foraging behavior that essential to develop an appropriate feeding strategy for each specific situation (captive or wild). Utilization faecal markers may allow us fill this gap, accommodating animal welfare and intensive labour issues are major limitations traditional techniques. This study aimed evaluate potential n-alkane (C25 C33) estimate diet composition, feed intake its digestibility three captive maleBison fed known amounts straw, beeswax labelled concentrate feed. Feeds samples were taken daily during 10 days. Prior calculations, concentrations corrected incomplete recovery (FR). Results indicated 4–5 days sufficient these reach steady concentration in faeces. Accurate estimates composition obtained not differing from values. suggest n-alkanes tend increase with carbon-chain length. Apparent dry-matter (DMDap) affected by (C27, C29,C31, used calculations. Estimates DMDap application FR corrections 6.3% higher than those without correction. indicate amount supplement can be successfully intake, digestibility, requiring data.