Effect of Azolla pinnata Feeding on Linear Type Traits and its Relation to Economic Feasibility in Sahiwal Calves

Abstract

Background: Concentrate is the most vital element in animal diet, prepared primarily from traditional protein sources. All these protein sources are very expensive and responsible for reducing the income. Human beings and animals are competing for protein sources either for consumption or industrial use. Under this context, Azolla pinnata can act as best protein replacement source for protein. Methods: The study was conducted on eighteen female Sahiwal calves for 90 days. The animals were distributed into three groups (T0, T1 and T2). The animals in (T0) group were fed as per ICAR 2013 feeding standard. In the (T1 and T2) group, fresh Azolla pinnata was fed by replacing 15% and 30% protein content of concentrate with Azolla pinnata on DM basis, respectively. Result: There was no significant difference in all the parameters used for estimating the linear type traits (LTT). Body weight measured through Schaeffer’s formula showed a significant difference between the T0 and T2 groups. The significant difference (P less than 0.05) was obtained for feed cost/kg weight gain in between the T0 and T2 groups. The reduction in the feed cost/kg weight gain in T1 and T2 group as compared to T0 group was Rs. 7.28 and 14.51 respectively. It was concluded that Azolla inclusion at 30% replaced level was the most profitable replacement.