Digestible Crude Protein Intake Research Articles

Assessing genotypes of buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) as an alternative to maize silage for sheep nutrition.

Nutritive value of five Cenchrus ciliaris (buffel grass) genotypes (IG96-50, IG96-96, IG96-358, IG96-401 and IG96-403) weredetermined. Their sugar contents (>70 mg/g of dry matter) and ensiling potential were evaluated using in vitro batch culture and in vivo studies. Research indicated significant differences (P < 0.05) in the dry matter, organic matter, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, cellulose and lignin contents of the C. ciliaris genotypes tested. Genotypes also differed (P < 0.05) in total carbohydrates, structural carbohydrates, non-structural carbohydrates and protein fractions. Genotype IG96-96 had the lowest total digestible nutrients, digestible energy and metabolizable energy contents (377.2 g/kg, 6.95 and 5.71 MJ/kg of dry matter, respectively), and net energy values for lactation, maintenance and growth. After 45 days of ensiling, C. ciliaris silages differed (P < 0.05) in dry matter, pH, and lactic acid contents, and their values ranged between 255-339, 4.06-5.17 g/kg of dry matter and 10.8-28.0 g/kg of dry matter, respectively. Maize silage had higher (P < 0.05) Organic Matter (919.5g/kg of dry matter), ether extract (20.4g/kg of dry matter) and hemi-cellulose (272.3 g/kg of dry matter) than IG96-401 and IG96-96 silages. The total carbohydrates and non-structural carbohydrates of maize silage were higher (P < 0.05), while structural carbohydrates were comparable (P < 0.05) with C. ciliaris silages. Sheep on maize silage had (P < 0.05) higher metabolizable energy, lower crude protein, and digestible crude protein intake (g/kg of dry matter) than those on C. ciliaris silage diets. Nitrogen intake and urinary-N excretion were higher (P < 0.05) on genotype IG96-96 silage diet. Overall, this study suggested that certain C. ciliaris genotypes, notably IG96-401 and IG96-96, exhibited nutritive values comparable to maize silage in sheep studies, offering a promising avenue for future exploration as potential alternatives in diversified and sustainable livestock nutrition programs.

Protein hydrolysate and oil from fish waste reveal potential as dog food ingredients.

The increased fish consumption by the growing human population in the world translates into an increase in fish waste. The reintroduction of these fish by-products into food and feed chains presents economic benefits and contributes to counteracting their negative environmental impact. Under this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the dietary inclusion of fish hydrolysate and oil obtained from fish waste (experimental diet) in substitution of shrimp hydrolysate and salmon oil (control diet) mainly imported from third countries on palatability, apparent total tract digestibility, fecal characteristics and metabolites, blood fatty acid profile, flatulence, and coat quality of adult dogs. A two-bowl test was performed to evaluate palatability by the pairwise comparison between the two diets. A feeding trial was conducted according to a crossover design with two diets (control and experimental diets), six adult Beagle dogs per diet, and two periods of 6 weeks each. The replacement of shrimp hydrolysate and salmon oil with fish hydrolysate and oil did not affect the first diet approach and taste, as well as the intake ratio. Generally, the digestibility of dry matter, nutrients, and energy was not affected by diet, but the intake of digestible crude protein (CP) and ether extract was higher, respectively, with the control and the experimental diet. The higher intake of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid with the experimental diet was reflected in a higher content of these long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and the omega-3 index of red blood cells, but it did not affect coat quality. The significantly higher intake of digestible CP with the control diet might have contributed to the higher fecal ammonia-N and valerate concentrations. Daily fecal output and characteristics were similar between diets. Overall, results suggest that fish hydrolysate and oil from the agrifood industry might constitute sustainable functional ingredients for dog feeding while adding value for wild fisheries, aquaculture, and fish farming under a circular economy approach and reducing dependence on imports from third countries with a high carbon footprint.

Effect of Feeding Moringa oleifera Replacing TMR on Nutrients Intake, Rumen Fermentation and Economics in Adult Cattle

A study was undertaken at Animal Nutrition Research Station, College of Veterinary Science &amp; Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India during January–March, 2020 to determine effect of feeding Moringa oleifera on nutrient intake, rumen fermentation and economics in adult cattle. Fourteen adult cattle were randomly divided into two groups on the basis of body weight viz., T1 (control): TMR (Wheat straw-70% and Concentrate-30%) and T2 (Treatment): Control TMR+Green Moringa oleifera (replacing TMR with 20% of total protein requirement of animal from green Moringa oleifera). The daily dry matter intake (kg), crude protein intake (g), digestible crude protein intake (g), TDN intake (kg) was found non-significant in both the groups, whereas dry matter intake and TDN intake (kg 100 kg- BW and g kg-1 W0.75) were significantly higher in control group. The crude protein intake (g 100 kg-1 BW) and DCP intake (g 100 kg-1 BW and g kg-1 W0.75) were significantly higher in Moringa supplemented group. The average ruminal pH, ammonical nitrogen (NH3-N) (mg dl-1), Non-protein nitrogen (NPN) (mg dl-1), soluble nitrogen (mg dl-1) and TCA precipitable nitrogen (mg dl-1) were found non-significant. However, the concentration of TVFA (mM dl-1) and total nitrogen (mg dl-1) were significantly higher in Moringa supplemented group. The daily feed cost was reduced by 8.93% in Moringa oleifera supplemented group but statistically the difference was found non-significant.

Nutritional value and energy balance of pearl millet fodder as influenced bydifferent nutrient management practices

Fodder deficiency and its poor-quality leads to lower productivity of Indian cattle. To improve productivity and nutritional value of fodder pearl millet, the present study was undertaken during kharif season of 2019-20 at Agronomy research farm, ICAR-NDRI, Karnal, and laid out in Randomized Block Design with eight treatments, viz. T1: Absolute control; T2: 100%RDF; T3: 100% RDF + Cow urine foliar spray (CU); T4: 100% RDF+ PGPR; T5: 100% RDF + PGPR + Cow urine foliar spray (CU); T6:75% RDF + Cow urine foliar spray (CU); T7: 75% RDF + PGPR andT8: 75% RDF + PGPR + Cow urine foliar spray (CU) with three replications. The results showed that the fodder nutritional value and digestibility viz., total digestible nutrients, digestible dry matter, digestible crude protein and dry matter intake increase by28.46, 13.10, 40.26 and 8.45% respectively, with T5 treatment than absolute control. The higher energy fraction such as digestible energy (11.54 MJ/Kg), metabolisable energy (9.47 MJ/Kg),digestible feed energy (9.27 MJ/Kg), net energy (3.07 MJ/Kg)and net energy for lactation (5.29 MJ/Kg) was observed with the application of 100% RDF+PGPR+CU (T5), which was found statistically at par with applications of 100% RDF+PGPR and both were found significantly higher over rest of the treatments. Quality fodder strengthen and sustain the performance of livestock in terms of health and milk production.

Effect of feeding hydroponic horse gram sprouts on nutrient intake, utilization and growth in Konkan Kanyal Goat kids

Twenty Konkan Kanyal kids (4 to 6 months old) were divided into four groups and fed hydroponic horse gram sprouts (HHGS) viz., HHGS-0:basal feed (500 g finger millet straw + 700 g green mulato grass + 200 g concentrate), HHGS-15:85% basal feed + 15% HHGS, HHGS30:70% basal feed + 30% HHGS and HHGS-45: 55% basal feed + 45% HHGS. Dry matter intake (g/d) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in HHGS-30 (667.02) than HHGS-0 (619.36), HHGS15(654.73), HHGS-45(663.59). Digestible crude protein (g/d) and metabolizable energy (MJ/d) intakes of kids were 38.28 and 4.32 in HHGS-0, 38.36 and 4.50 in HHGS-15, 38.50 and 4.54 in HHGS-30and 38.73 and 4.77 in HHGS-45 respectively. Average daily gain (g) was higher in HHGS-30 (81.44) than other groups. Feed efficiency was higher in HHGS-45 (4.36) than HHGS-0 (5.04). Haemoglobin and PCV were significantly (P<0.05) higher in HHGS-30 kids than other groups. Therefore, it is concluded that hydroponic horse gram fodder can be used as an alternative for concentrate mixture in the feed ration of kids. Based on feed cost per kg live weight gain, 85% basal feed with 15% horse gram sprouts found cost effective for higher growth performance and economic profitability in kid rearing.

Effect of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera foliage on nutrient metabolism, metabolic profile, immunity and growth performance of goat kids

The objective of present study was to ascertain the effect of dietary inclusion of moringa foliage on the performance of kids . Eighteen male kids were divided randomly into 3 groups and allocated to control (CON), COT and MOT groups. The kids in CON group fed with total mixed ration (TMR) consisting wheat straw and concentrate, however, kids in COT and MOT groups were offered TMRs replacing 25% wheat straw with cowpea and moringa foliage, respectively. The responses of various parameters were studied during 120 days of feeding. Intake of dry-matter (DM) and organic-matter (OM) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in MOT relative to CON and COT groups; however, digestibility of various nutrients was comparable among treatment groups. Intake of digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) was higher (p < 0.05) in MOT than CON. The intake and retention (gd −1 ) of nitrogen (N) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in MOT than COT and CON groups. The average daily gain (ADG, gd −1 ) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in MOT followed by COT and CON groups. Similarly, feed conversion ratio (FCR) was better (p < 0.05) in MOT and COT groups than CON. Haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were analogous amongst treatments. Serum glucose, total protein and globulin were found to be significantly higher in MOT and COT groups. The cholesterol and serum urea were decreased in MOT in comparison to CON. Serum growth hormone (GH), triiodothyronine (T 3 ), thyroxine (T 4 ) and cell mediated and humoral immune responses were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in MOT followed by COT and CON groups. Total antioxidant capacity was also found to be higher (p < 0.05) in MOT and COT groups. Dietary inclusion of moringa foliage as TMR substantially increased nutrient intake, metabolic profile, immunity and growth performance in goat kids.

Potential use of natural saline pasture for grazing lambs: Effect on digestibility, growth performances, carcass and meat quality

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a natural saline pasture on digestibility, intake, growth, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs. Forty weaned female Queue Fine de l′Ouest lambs (25.4 ± 4.33 kg) were allotted into two groups. The first group raised indoor (I) with oat straw ad libitum and the second grazed natural saline pasture (SP). Both groups were supplemented the same concentrate with 300 and 500 g for SP and I respectively, to have the same average daily gain (ADG). On the 49th day, digestibility and intake were determined on 8 lambs randomly selected from each group, using total fecal collection and Acid Insoluble Ash (AIA) marker method. After 83 days, the 16 lambs were slaughtered at 34 kg. Dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP) digestibility and metabolizable energy (ME) were higher (P < 0.001) for SP. Digestible crude protein (DCP)/ME ratio was higher (P < 0.05) for SP group. DM intake (P < 0.05) was lower for SP, while digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) and ME intake (MEI) were similar between the two groups. Water intake was higher for SP (P < 0.001). Final weight and ADG were similar between groups. Carcass dressing and high-priced joints percentages were higher for SP group. Lambs from the SP group had a higher percentage of muscle (P < 0.001) and a lower fat proportion (P < 0.01). No effect of feeding system on carcass linear measurements and on compactness indexes (P >0.05) was noted. Kidney fat decreased in favor of SP group (P < 0.01). There were no differences for fat color, whereas meat of I group had a higher lightness and yellowness than that of SP one. Meat of SP group had a higher DM, protein level (P < 0.05) and lower intramuscular fat (P < 0.01). It has higher content of Fe and Zn (P < 0.01). It could be concluded rearing lambs on saline pasture, with a moderate concentrate supplementation, allowed acceptable growth performances, leaner carcass, and higher nutritional meat quality lambs.

Winter grazing on cotton stubble affects grazing behavior, feed intake, production, and health of small ruminants

The effects of cotton (Gossypium barbadense Linn) stubble grazing during winter on the feed intake, grazing behavior, blood chemical parameters, production performance, and residual amount of free gossypol (FG) in animal products was investigated. Eighty adult ewes and twenty-five young goats grazed continuously on cotton stubble from sunrise to sunset for 90 d during the winter, without receiving any supplementary feed. We measured the biomass and components of cotton stubble before, and after 1 and 2 months of grazing; feed intake and grazing behavior at 1 and 2 months; and blood parameters and immunity indices at the beginning and end of the grazing period. The biomass of cotton stalk was 5486.08 kg/hm2 at the beginning and decreased to 4340.90 ± 917.10 kg/hm2 and 3599.09 ± 689.56 kg/hm2 after 1 and 2 months, respectively. The proportion of cotton leaves and boll shells in each component of cotton stalk decreased (P < 0.05). At 1 and 2 months, the walking time of ewes was 93.58 ± 3.08 min and 115.99 ± 2.25 min, and the distance covered was 6.80 ± 0.92 km and 10.20 ± 2.30 km, respectively; both increased during the late grazing stage (P < 0.05). At 1 and 2 months, the feed intake and dry matter digestibility did not differ (P> 0.05). The intake of digestible energy and digestible crude protein after 1 and 2 months in ewes was 7.91 MJ/d, 9.58 MJ/d, and 47.30 g/d, 69.04 g/d, respectively, which was lower than the nutritional requirements of grazing ewes. The blood platelet count and iron concentration at the end of grazing decreased (P < 0.05), whereas the concentrations of free gossypol (FG) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) increased (P < 0.05). The grazing time of ewes accounted for over 60 % of the total pasture time. The total weight gain and average daily gain of goats grazing for one month were 6.65 kg and 0.23 kg, respectively, and were higher in the second month of grazing (P < 0.05). Hepatic congestion, hepatocyte necrosis, and tubular epithelial cell disintegration were observed in the liver and kidney. After grazing, goat blood FG residue was higher than before grazing (P < 0.05). Owing to the limited feed intake and digestibility of cotton stubble in winter, the demand for digestible energy and digestible crude protein in ewes cannot be satisfied by grazing alone.

Effect of Hydroponic Maize Fodder Supplementation on Growth Performance, Nutritive Ratio and Intake of Digestible Nutrient in Gir Calves

A study was undertaken to assess the effect of addition of hydroponic maize fodder in concentrate mixture on growth performance of gir calves. A feeding trial of 120 days was undertaken on 16 gir calves divided in four groups of four calves. The animals in control group were fed 1.5 kg concentrate mixture, 2.5 kg groundnut straw and wheat straw ad lib. In group second, 75% of CP was met through concentrate mixture and rest through hydroponic maize fodder along with 2.5 kg groundnut straw and ad lib. wheat straw was given. While, in third group, 50% of CP was met through concentrate mixture and rest through hydroponic maize fodder and 2.5 kg of groundnut straw was given along with ad lib. wheat straw. In group fourth, 25% of CP was met through concentrate mixture and remaining by hydroponic maize fodder and 2.5 kg groundnut straw with ad lib. wheat straw was offered. Significantly higher daily weight gain, digestible crude protein percent, total digestible nutrient percent and intake of digestible dry matter and organic matter in respect of g D-1 was observed in the group in which up to 75% of crude protein of concentrate mixture was replaced by hydroponic maize fodder. Highest (p&lt;0.01) digestible crude protein intake and total digestible nutrient intake g D-1, Kg 100 kg BW-1 and g 100 kg-1 MBS (Metabolic body size) was observed in group provided with 75% crude protein through hydroponic fodder. Hydroponics maize fodder has beneficial effect on growth performance and intake of digestible nutrients in gir calves and it can replace up to 75% of crude protein of concentrate mixture.

Effects of concentrate mixture level on nutrient digestibility, growth, production and reproduction performance of Jamunapari goat under semi intensive condition

Twenty female Jamunapari goats of live weight of 10.5 ± 1.2 kg at 08± 0.56 months of age were used for 240 days feeding trial. Goats were assigned to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with five (05) goats in each group. All animals were supplied ad libitum green grass and water. They were supplied 150, 200, 250, 300 gm concentrate mixture per day with roughage for group T1, T2, T3, and T4 respectively. Total dry matter (TDM) intake (413.2, 456.67, 489.2 and 495.7g/day) in groups T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively, was significantly (p≤0.01) influenced by the level of concentrate in the diet. Average total digestible crude protein (DCP) intake (3.1, 3.5, 3.9, 4.0 g/kg body weight and average total digestible nutrient (TDN) intake 21.1, 22.3, 24.7, 25.1 g/kg body weight was significantly (p≤0.01) higher in group T4 and lower in group T1. The nutrient intake and digestibility were also significantly higher (p≤0.01) in T4 group. The percent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) were 70.1, 75.99, 73.50, 67.24, 62.13 and 49.60%, 73.14, 76.97,76.84, 68.32, 64.04 and 53.25%, 75.45,78.44,78.67,70.43,68.43 and 59.77%, 79.56, 80.16,81.69,72.45,70.82 and 63.09% in T1, T2, T3 and T4 group, respectively. Reproductive performances, birth weight of kids and litter size did not differ significantly between groups, but had significant effect on feed digestibility and milk production. Daily 300 gm concentrate mixture along with roughage is necessary for better growth, production and reproduction performance of Jamunapari doe in semi-intensive system.&#x0D; Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.8(2): 223-230, August 2021

Feeding and Management of Horses with and without Free Faecal Liquid: A Case-Control Study.

Simple SummaryHorses with free faecal liquid defecate in one solid and one liquid phase, and the liquid phase can be a concern for the horse owner and veterinarians. The causes of free faecal liquid are unknown, but previous studies have indicated that feed ration composition may play an important role in the occurrence of the condition. A study comparing feed rations, feeding practices and management factors for horses with and without free faecal liquid was performed. Horses without free faecal liquid were reported to have a lower daily intake of starch and sugar and a higher daily intake of protein and fibre compared to horses with free faecal liquid. Horses with and without free faecal liquid were fed similar amounts of wrapped forages and were subject to the same management practices. The reported differences may be of importance for the condition, but further studies are required to establish if its occurrence is due to specific feeding regimens.Free faecal liquid (FFL) in horses is characterised by the excretion of faeces in two phases (one solid and one liquid), which may cause dermatitis on the hindlegs. The causes of FFL are not known. Results from previous studies have indicated that feed ration composition and management factors may play important roles in the occurrence of FFL. A case–control study was therefore performed in which data on feed rations, feeding practices and management factors were compared between horses with (case) and without (control) FFL on 50 private farms in Sweden and Norway. The comparisons show that case and control horses were reported to be fed similar average amounts of wrapped forage (p = 0.97) and to be subject to similar management practices, but case horses were fed higher proportions of concentrates in their diet (p < 0.001) and lower average amounts of straw and lucerne (p < 0.05) compared to control horses. Case horses were reported to be fed twice as much concentrate per 100 kg BW and day as control horses and a higher daily intake of starch and water-soluble carbohydrates (p < 0.05). Case horses also had a lower daily intake of digestible crude protein and neutral detergent fibre compared to control horses (p < 0.05). These differences were small but are of interest for further studies of factors causing FFL.

THE NUTRITIVE VALUE OF HAY FROM FOUR GRASS SPECIES CUT AT THREE STAGES OF GROWTH AT IBADAN

Four grass species namely: Cynodon nlemfuensis var robustus (M); Pennisetum purpureum Schum (N); Cynodon nlemfuensis var nlemfuensis (P); and Panicum maximum Jacq. (Q), each between the 4th and 5th, 6th and 7th, and 8th and 9th week of regrowth, was cut in the fourth and fifth years of grazing for hay (i. e. in 1972 and 1973). Digestion trials with West African dwarf sheep showed that there were significant differences in the extent to which the dry matter of the different grass species was digested (P 0.001) and among the stages of growth (P 0.01). The differences between animals within and between treatments and the interactions between treatments and periods of cutting were statistically not significant. The differences among treatment means indicated that treatment Q (68.5 ± 2.73%) was digested better than treatment M (54.9 ± 7.18%, P 0.001), and treatments N and P (60.3 ± 5.37% and 58.7 ± 5.30% P 0.01) respectively. The digestibility of crude protein was generally low in each of the grass specie studied. This is probably a reflection of the low crude protein content of the grass hays which was below 9 percent of dry matter. It ranged from approximately 27.3 percent in treatment N for the 6th week regrowth hay to 51.9 percent in treatment Q for the hay harvested in the 8th week of regrowth. The differences among treatments, stage of maturity, and the interactions between treatments and stage of cutting were not statistically significant. Significant differences between treatments were observed in the digestion of the energy content of the feeds (P 0.001). Treatments N and Q were better digested than M and P (P 0.05). Expressed on metabolic size basis, the intakes of dry matter, crude protein, and energy showed significant differences between treatments and between ages at harvest. The intakes of dry matter in treatments Q, M, and P were significantly higher (P 0.05) than treatment N while there was more dry matter taken from the 4th and 8th week hays than from the hays made from the species harvested in the 6th week of regrowth (P 0.01). More crude protein was consumed per kg0.75 in treatments M, P and Q than in treatment N (P 0.01), and in treatment M than Q (P 0.05). There were higher protein intakes from hays made in the 4th and 8th than those made in 6th week of regrowth (P 0.05). Treatment Q supplied more energy per kgl. 75 than treatments M, P and N (P 0.05), while more energy was consumed per kilogramme of metabolic size in treatment P than in treatment N (P 0.05).&#x0D; Nutritive Value of Hay. The intake of digestible crude protein was relatively low and this probably accounted for the losses in the liveweight of the experimental animals. The results of the experiment are suggestive of the need for supplementary protein feed during the dry season if animals are to make any liveweight gains.

Protein and energy partitioning for growth by rabbits fed soybean cheese waste diet and lablab hay

Thirty crossbred rabbits were randomly allocated to five treatment combinations of soybean waste meal and lablab forage hay in a completely randomized design. The treatments comprised graded levels of soybean cheese waste meal diet (SCW) and lablab hay (LH) on a gram: gram basis: 1) 100g SCW: 60g LH (100:60S), 2) 75g SCW: 85g LH (75:85S), 3) 50g SCW: 110g LH (50:110S), 4) 25g SCW: 135g LH (25:135S), 5) 100g rabbit diet: 60g LH (100:60R,control). This gives a total feed supply of 160g/rabbit/day. Metabolic weight gain, empty body gain and composition of gain were significantly (p&lt;0.001) higher for rabbits on 100:60S than 100:60R (control) and decreases with decrease in level of soybean cheese waste diet. Digestible crude protein (DCP) intake was higher (p&lt;0.05) for the control (100:60R) than the SCW levels. DCP maintenance (DCPm) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower for rabbits on 50:110S than 100:60S but similar for all other treatments. DCP content of gain, total DCP required for protein synthesis decreased significantly (p&lt;0.001) as level of SCW decreased and LH increased and was higher for 100:60S than the control and other levels. Efficiency of DCP utilization for growth decreased as SCW level decreased and ranged between 0.41-0.85. Digestible energy (DE) intake of rabbits was significantly higher (p&lt;0.001) on 25:135S and lower for 100:60S. More DE was retained as protein, fat and for growth by rabbits on 100:60S than the control and other SCW levels. DE. DE requirement for protein, fat, growth and total energy required for growth also decreased with decrease in level of SCW. The control and 75:85S rabbits significantly had higher DE requirement than 25:135S. Efficiency of DE utilization for growth was similar for the control, 100:60S and 75:85S than 25:135S. Efficiency of DE utilization ranged between 0.21-0.24 and was lowest on 25:135S.

Nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance of Yankasa sheep fed urea-treated or untreated rice straw with supplements

A study was conducted at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Research and Teaching Farm between December and May 2006 to determine nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance in Yankasa rams fed urea-treated (UTRS) and untreated rice straw (URS) with supplementation. Thirty-two (32) Yankasa rams with an average weigh of 17.5kg, and aged 1.5 to 2 years old were alloted to eight (8) dietary treatments with four (4) rams per treatment in a 2 x 4 factorial design. The two basal feeds were urea0treated rice straw (UTRS) and untreated rice straw (URS). The supplements were maize bran (MB), MB + sun-dried poultry litter (MB + SDPL), MB + ensiled poultry litter (MB+ EPL) and MB + cotton seed cake (MB + CSC). Total dry matter intake (TDMI), daily basal feed intake (DBFI) were significant (P&lt;0.05) across dietary treatments. Animals on supplements MB and MB+CSC for both UTRS and URS recorded the lowest and highest DBFI. The digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) and digestible organic matter intake (DOMI) were high for rams on UTRS and the values ranged from 17.72 to 28.36g/d and 288.81 to 482.66g/d for DCPI and DOMI respectively. Nutrient digestibility was improved by treatment of straw and supplementation. However, crude protein digestibility was similar for animals fed URS but, significantly (P&lt;0.05) lower compared to those fed UTRS which were also similar across supplements. Average daily weight gain ranged from 53.58 to 91.18g/d across dietary treatment with animals on supplement MB recording the lowest (53.58 and 61.43g/d for URS and UTRs respectively) and those fed supplement MB+CSC the highest (81.38 and 91.18g/d fro URS and UTRS respectively) irrespective of straw treatment. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was least for animals on supplement MB+CSC for both URS and UTRs, indicating that this supplement (MB+CSC) influenced feed utilization more positively. From the results of this trial, it may be concluded that straw treatment and/or supplementation can enhance crop residue utilization by sheep. however, mixed supplements especially MB+CSC were more efficient in enhancing the utilization of the straw and consequently animal performance.

EFFECTS OF SOURCE AND LEVEL OF NITROGEN ON THE UTILIZATION OF SORGHUM STOVER BY YANKASA RAMS

The effects of cotton seed cake (CSC) or urea in supplying either 12% or 16% crude protein on sorghum stover utilization by Yankasa rams was studied for twelve weeks, using a 2 x 2 factorially designed experiment. Nutrient intake, digestibility, weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were monitored. In vitro volatile fatty acid (VFA) and ammonia-nitrogen (NH,-N) concentrations were also determined. The result of the study indicated that the source and/or level of nitrogen (or crude protein) significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected crude protein intake (CPI), digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) and in vitro NH,-N concentration. Total feed intake, live weight gain (LWG), FCR and DCPI were significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected by source x level interaction. Acid detergent fibre (A DF) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) intakes, CP, ADF and NDF digestibilities, digestible ADF and NDF intakes, stover intake and in vitro VFA concentration were not significantly (P&gt;0.05) affected by either main effects of CP source and level or their interaction. The rams on the 16% CSC and 12% urea ration gained more weight and had lower FCR than those on the 12% CSC and 16% urea. The 16% CSC ration gave the best result in terms of sorghum stover supplementation. The 12% urea treatment which also had a good result in terms of weight gain and FCR could also be recommended for use.

Scope and cost-effectiveness of fermented corn straw roughage-based buffalo fattening approach.

Objective:This experiment was undertaken to assess the scope and cost-effectiveness of the fermented corn mixture (FCM)-based buffalo fattening approach compared to urea molasses straw (UMS) and silage-based approach.Materials and Methods:A completely comparative randomized design experiment was conducted for 90 days with three treatments and five buffalo bulls in each. UMS, silage, and FCM roughage-based fattening diets were attributed as T1, T2, and T3, respectively. Two types of protein supplements, i.e., Type 1 (Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute-developed) for T1 and T2 and Type 2 (prescribed by farmers) for T3 treatments, were used. All the parameters were analyzed through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, 20 software.Results:Dry matter intake (kg, %live weight) was significantly higher in T1 (2.65), followed by T2 (2.34) and T3 (2.00), respectively. The crude protein intake, digestible crude protein intake, and digestible dry matter intake (kg/d) significantly (p < 0.05) differed between T1 and T3, but not T2. The digestibility of acid detergent fiber (65.97) was significantly higher for T3 than T1 and T2 (54.44 and 58.73, respectively). Neutral detergent fiber digestibility of T3 (70.35) also differed (p < 0.05) with T1 (60.97) but not T2 (64.78). No difference was observed in the case of growth, but feed conversion ration was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) better in T2 (7.10) than T1 (8.35), where T3 (7.24) was neutral. The significantly (p < 0.001) highest expense [216.37 Bangladesh taka (BDT)/kg gain] was required for T1, followed by T2 and T3 (174.47 and 126.33 BDT/kg gain, respectively). Net profit from T3 and T2 (15,877 and 15,175 BDT, respectively) gained significantly (p < 0.05) higher than T1 (11,265 BDT).Conclusion:The FCM-based diet was suitable and cost-effective as a buffalo fattening approach.

Growth performance, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs fed with increasing levels of spineless cactus

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of inclusion of the spineless cactus variety Miúda (0, 150, 300, and 450 g/kg) on the performance, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs. Forty crossbred Santa Inês lambs with an initial weight of 18.6 ± 2.8 kg were distributed in a randomized design with initial body weight as a covariate. There was a quadratic effect on dry matter, and metabolizable energy intake with the maximum points with the inclusion of the spineless cactus of 243 and 284 g/day, respectively. While the digestible crude protein intake did not differ. The average daily gain increased linearly. There was a quadratic effect on body weight at slaughter, empty body weight, hot carcass yield, and cold carcass yield with maximum values estimated with 265, 299, 254, and 285 g/kg of spineless cactus inclusion. The hot and cold carcass yields, the weights of shoulder, rib, leg, heart, liver, spleen, kidneys, perirenal fat, and carcass compactness index increased. Chemical and physical meat quality traits were not affected; however, the oleic acid, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), MUFA and saturated fatty acids (SFA) ratio (MUFA/SFA), hypocholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic fatty acids ratio (h:H), and desirable fatty acids increased linearly, while heptadecanoic, cisvaccenic, transvaccenic, linoleic, eicosapentaenoic acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), PUFA/SFA ratio, the total of omega 3 and omega 6 presented quadratic behavior, with maximum values estimated with levels of 255, 245, 380, 298, 217, 238, 250, 233, and 243 g/kg of spineless cactus. The inclusion of spineless cactus up to 275 g/kg in the diet of lambs improved carcass traits and the desirable fatty acids’ profile of the meat.

Effects of feeding siris (Albizia lebbeck) and Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna) tree leaves on nutrient intake, utilization and milk yield in surti goats

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding siris (Albizia lebbeck) and arjun (Terminalia arjuna) tree leaves on digestibility, nutrient utilization and production performance of Surti goats during December 2016 to February 2017. Twenty-five lactating Surti goats were selected and randomly allotted to five equal groups as T1 control - sorghum fodder (600 g/head/day), T2 -siris (600 g/head/day), T3 -arjun (600 g/head/day), T4 -siris and arjun (300 g each/head/day) and T5 -siris (400 g/head/day) and arjun (200 g/head/day). Significant (P<0.05) increase in dry mater, crude protein and digestible crude protein intake was observed in T3 and T4 and T5 groups. Similarly, digestibility of crude protein and fibre fractions were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T3, T4 and T5. Nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balances were positive and comparable in all the groups. Blood biochemical and rumen metabolites were comparable among the groups and within the normal range. The feeding of tree leaves did not affect the milk yield and feed conversion efficiency. The feed cost was similar among different groups. It was concluded that replacement of sorghum with arjun and siris+arjun leaves increased digestibility and nutrient utilization in Surti goats without affecting palatability and cost of feed.

The influence of dietary betaine supplementation to Ossimi rams on: (A) Growth performance, digestibility coefficients, some blood parameters and activity of thyroid gland

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary betaine supplementation on growth characteristics and some blood constituents of Ossimi rams. A total of 18 Ossimi rams were randomly divided into three equal groups, considering their body weight. Animals of the first group (Co) served as control, while animals of the second (BET1) and third (BET2) groups offered 2 and 4 g of betaine/head/day, respectively. At the last day of the experiment, blood samples were taken to estimate some blood metabolites. Three digestibility experiments were carried out to determine nutrients digestibility and nutritive values of the rations. Body weight was recorded while average daily gain, feed conversion and feed economic efficiency were calculated. The results show that betaine supplementation to rams either with 2 or 4 g/head/day increased (P≤0.05) plasma total protein, plasma globulin, plasma glucose and triiodothyronine hormone (T3), while it significantly (P≤0.05) decreased A/G ratio and plasma total cholesterol. Concentrations of plasma albumin and plasma urea N did not differ significantly due to betaine supplementation. Digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, EE and CF were significantly (P≤0.05) increased for BET2 group than for BET1 and Co groups. However, NFE digestibility was not influenced by betaine. The TDN value was increased (P≤0.05) for BET2 diet compared with other treated diets. While, the nutritive values as DCP did not significantly differ among treatments. Animals in BET1 and BET2 consumed more (P≤0.05) metabolizable energy (ME, Mcal/kg) compared with the control group. Live body weight did not differ (P>0.05) among groups while average daily gain and total weight gain were improved (P≤0.05) in treated groups. Feeding Ossimi rams on BET1 increased significantly (P≤0.05) daily dry mater intake (DMI), and total digestible nutrient intake (TDNI) when compared with BET2 and Co groups, while treated groups consumed (P≤0.05) metabolizable energy (ME) more than the control group. Daily digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) did not significantly differ among treatments. In conclusion, dietary betaine supplementation to Ossimi rams could modify some metabolic processes, and enhance feed consumption and energy mobilization which could be reflected on improving the productive performance.

Effect of the nutritional status of Creole goats on the density-dependent prolificacy of Haemonchus contortus

The objective of this study was to measure the effect of the nutritional status of Creole goat kids on the host responses and the nematode population established after an experimental H. contortus infection. Fifty six kids were fed with 4 diets corresponding to 2 nutritional statuses: the low nutritional status (HAY, hay ad libitum and HB, Hay ad libitum + banana) and the high nutritional status (HS, hay ad libitum + soya meal and HSB, hay ad libitum + banana + soya meal). For each diet, 8 kids were experimentally infected with 10,000 H. contortus infective larvae (L3) and 6 kids were kept as non-infected controls. From the day of infection until 6 weeks post-infection, samples were collected to measure individual intake, total tract digestibility, parasitological and hematological parameters. The dry matter intake (DMI), the average daily gain (ADG), the crude protein (CP) and the digestible CP intake were higher in goats fed the HS and HSB diets, but no statistically significant interaction between the nutritional status and the infection was observed. The packed cell volume (PCV), the red blood cell counts (RBC) and the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were higher with the HS and the HSB diets. In kids with the high nutritional status the nematode burden and pathophysiological impact of the infection were significantly lower but not the FEC. In conclusion, this reduced establishment rate was associated with an increased production of eggs by the female parasites and suggested a phenomenon of density-dependent prolificacy of H. contortus probably inherent to the fitness of the parasite population.