Reproductive and Productive Efficiency of Maghrebi Dairy She-Camels Fed Diets Supplemented with Zinc-Methionine.

Abstract

This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of dietary zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) supplementation during 3months prepartum up to 9months postpartum on reproductive performance, blood biochemical, and milk production of lactating she-camels besides growth performance of their calves. Twenty pregnant Maghrebi she-camels (439.49 ± 11.57kg; 3-5 parties) were divided into four similar groups. Animals were fed the basal diet (G1) or the basal diet supplemented with Zn-Met at levels of 30mg (G2), 40mg (G3), and 50mg (G4)/kg diet. Results revealed that IgA, IgM, and IgG concentrations in colostrum, monthly milk yield, and lactation period were significantly increased in Zn-Met-supplemented groups. Milk contents of fat, ash, and total solids improved (P < 0.05) in G4 as compared with other groups. Pre- and postpartum Zn, T3, T4, P4, and E2 concentrations in plasma and milk Zn level were higher (P < 0.05) in all Zn-Met-supplemented groups. Postpartum first estrus interval, number of services/conception, days open, pregnancy rate, duration of placental drop, and calving interval improved (P < 0.05) in G4. Weaning weight and average daily gain of calves were enhanced all in Zn-Met-supplemented groups. Conclusively, the inclusion of Zn-Met especially at a level of 50mg/kg diet, 3months prepartum up to 9months postpartum, led to better productive and reproductive performance, immunity of she-camels, and growth performance of their offspring.