Abstract
Growth, hematologic and serum biochemical effects of a hatakeshimeji (Lyophyllum decastes Sing.) extract in Holstein calves were examined. Ten female Holstein calves were divided into two study groups; one received a hatakeshimeji extract (n=5), and the other served as an untreated control group (n=5). The study period was 8 weeks from the birth of the calves. In the treatment group, three capsules per head of the hatakeshimeji extract (160mg/capsule) were administered twice daily during feeding in the morning and evening. Body size and changes in complete blood cell count and serum biochemistry were similar between the two groups during the observation period. Based on these findings, we concluded that the hatakeshimeji extract had no negative impact on the growth, hematology and serum biochemistry in Holstein calves.
