Supply of water with salinity levels for Morada Nova sheep

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the production performance and nutritional state of Morada Nova sheep receiving water containing levels of total dissolved solids (TDS). Thirty-two uncastrated male sheep at an average body weight of 16 ± 1.40 kg were distributed into four treatments (levels of TDS in the drinking water: 640; 3200; 5760; and 8320 mg/L) in a completely randomized design with eight animals per treatment. Performance, intake, apparent nutrient digestibility, water balance, and nitrogen balance were evaluated. The TDS levels in the water did not promote significant alterations in the performance, nutrient intake, or apparent digestibility of the animals. The intake of water supplied in the trough did not show any difference (P>0.05) for the respective treatments, with no interference with the water balance (1.46 kg/animal/day), indicating that the animals kept their water control regular through their physiological mechanisms. Total water intake (1.94 kg/animal/day), water excretion via urine (0.44 kg/animal/day), water excretion via feces (0.03 kg/animal/day), total water output (0.47 kg/animal/day) and water absorption (1.90 kg/animal/day) were not significantly affected by any of the TDS levels in the water. Total nitrogen intake was not significantly affected by the salinity levels, and thus there was no effect on nitrogen balance. The use of water with TDS levels up to 8320 mg/L did not influence the intake, nutrient digestibility, or performance of the animals, only the intake of water provided in the trough. Therefore, water containing high levels of total dissolved solids can be used in the feeding of Morada Nova sheep.