ANSC Feeds Practice Exam

Which of the following feedstuffs is classified as carbonaceous roughage?

1. Soybean hulls

2. Ground corn

3. Molasses

4. Protein pellets

The correct answer is: Soybean hulls

Carbonaceous roughages are feedstuffs that are high in fiber and low in protein content. They typically consist of materials such as straw, hulls, and other plant parts that contribute primarily energy in the form of carbohydrates, while also providing some necessary fiber for digestion in ruminants. Soybean hulls, which are the outer coverings of soybeans removed during processing, fit this classification as they are primarily composed of fibrous material with a lower protein content compared to other feeds. They provide an excellent source of roughage, which aids in the digestive process and helps maintain gut health in animals. In contrast, ground corn is primarily a grain and is higher in energy and starch, while molasses is a high-sugar byproduct of sugar production, offering more rapidly fermentable carbohydrates. Protein pellets contain added protein sources, which do not align with the carbonaceous roughage classification. Thus, soybean hulls are correctly identified as carbonaceous roughage, fulfilling the criteria of being high in fiber and low in protein.