IntroductionThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of adding whole-plant ensiled corn stalks (WECS) to the diet of Holdorbagy geese on their growth performance, serum parameters, and cecal microbiota. Geese farming is an important agricultural practice, and optimizing their diet can contribute to better growth and health outcomes. However, there is limited research on the utilization ofWECSas a feed source for geese. Understanding the potential effects ofWECSon growth, blood parameters, and cecal microbiota can provide valuable insights into its feasibility and impact on geese farming practices.MethodsA total of 144 six-week-old Holdorbagy geese were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group (0%WECS), a group fed 15%WECSand 85% concentrated feed (15%WECS), and a group fed 30%WECSand 70% concentrated feed (30%WECS). The trial period lasted for three weeks, during which the growth performance, serum parameters, and cecal microbiota were assessed.ResultsThe results revealed significant findings in different aspects. Firstly, the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G ratio) of the 15%WECSgroup was significantly higher than that of the control group (p<0.05), indicating potential challenges in feed efficiency. Additionally, the average daily feed intake (ADFI) of both the 15% and 30%WECSgroups was significantly higher than that of the control group (p<0.05), suggesting increased appetite or palatability of the diet containingWECS. In terms of serum parameters, the level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the 30%WECSgroup was significantly lower than that in the control group (p<0.05). Moreover, there was a tendency for increasing Fe levels and decreasing Zn levels with higher levels ofWECSsupplementation, although the differences were not statistically significant (p<0.05). Furthermore, the principal coordinate analysis showed significant differences in the composition of cecal microbiota among the three groups (p< 0.01). The observed_species, Shannon, and Pielou_e indices of the 30%WECSgroup were significantly higher than those of the 0% and 15%WECSgroups (p<0.05), while the Simpson index of the 15%WECSgroup was significantly lower than that of the control group (p<0.05).DiscussionThe results indicate that the addition ofWECSto the geese diet has both positive and negative effects. The study suggests thatWECScan be a long-term stable feed source for geese, which can contribute to reducing feeding costs. However, it is important to monitor the amount ofWECSadded as it can affect the absorption of Zn by geese. Supplementation of Zn in the diet might be necessary to meet the needs of geese. Notably, adding 30%WECSto the diet can increase the richness, evenness, and diversity of the cecal microbiota, indicating potential benefits to gut health. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential ofWECSas a feed source for geese. It provides valuable insights into the effects ofWECSon growth performance, serum parameters, and cecal microbiota. These findings contribute to optimizing geese farming practices, improving feed utilization, and enhancing overall productivity and well-being of geese. Further research is needed to determine the optimal inclusion level ofWECSand to explore strategies for mitigating any negative effects.