Autochthonous buffalo-gut origin Pediococcus pentosaceus RM119 decreased diarrhea and enhanced gut health, immunity in neonatal Murrah calves

This study assessed the effect of autochthonous probiotic Pediococcus pentosaceus RM119 on gut health, growth, and nutrient utilization in calves. Twelve buffalo calves (<15 d) were divided into two groups, control without probiotics, and probiotic group with P. pentosaceus RM119 @ 108 CFU/calf/d. The probiotic group showed a reduction (p < 0.05) in fecal score, diarrhea episodes and duration of diarrhea. The fecal pH, fecal ammonia was lower, whereas lactate was higher in probiotic group than control. There was a significant increase (p < 0.01) in the concentration of fecal acetate, propionate and butyrate levels in the probiotic supplemented group. The fecal lactobacilli and bifidobacterium were higher (p < 0.01), whereas, fecal coliform and clostridial count were lower (p < 0.01) in P. pentosaceus RM119 supplemented group. There was an improvement in reduced glutathione anti oxidant. Overall, buffalo-gut origin P. pentosaceus RM119 reduced the frequency and severity of diarrhea in neonatal buffalo calves and improved the gut health.