Growth Performance Of Lambs Research Articles

Effect of early weaning age on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and serum parameters of lambs

To determine the effect of a weaning program on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and serum parameters in Hu lambs, 48 newly born twin lambs (2.53 ± 0.13 kg; 24 male and 24 female) were randomly divided into four treatments: ewe reared (ER) or weaned at 10, 20, or 30 days post birth (EW10, EW20, and EW30) and fed milk replacer (MR). All liquid feed were eliminated at 60 days of age. Creep feed was offered ad libitum to all lambs from 15 to 90 days of age. The results indicated that lambs fed MR had higher liveweight, average daily gain, and creep feed intake (P < 0.001) than those in the ER group. There were no differences between treatments in the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, nitrogen or phosphorus (P > 0.05) from 50 to 60 days of age. The apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, nitrogen and phosphorus of EW20 and EW30 groups were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of EW10 and ER groups from 80 to 90 days of age. Lambs in the EW10 group had higher concentration of albumin, serum urea nitrogen, and immunoglobulin G levels than those of other groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, early weaning could improve creep intake, growth performance, and nutrient utilisation of Hu lambs. Early weaning age had a significant effect on the growth of lambs.

Growth performance, hematology, and meat quality characteristics of Mutton Merino lambs fed canola-based diets.

A 56-day feeding trial was carried out to evaluate the effect of feeding canola meal (CM) on growth performance, hematology, and meat quality parameters of lambs. Twenty lambs with an average body weight of 23 ± 2.64kg were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments and fed in individual cages for 56days. The soya bean meal (SBM) in the control ration was replaced with canola meal at 0 (CM0), 25 (CM25), 50 (CM50), 75 (CM75), and 100% (CM100) inclusion levels. Average daily weight gain (ADWG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) were significantly higher in the CM25 and CM50, respectively. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) (3.09-3.41) and slaughter weight (SLW) (33.2-34.7kg) were, however, similar among the treatment groups. Diet had no effect on carcass length (78.7-83.7cm) and ultimate meat pH (pHu) (5.70-5.81). Nevertheless, hot carcass weight (HCW) (16.5-18.7kg) and cold carcass weight (CCW) (16.2-18.2kg) were higher (P < 0.05) in the CM0 and CM50 treatment groups. The shear force measurements (1.67-2.17kg) differed (P < 0.05) across treatments. There was no dietary effect on the lightness (L*) (33.5-35.8), redness (a*) (11.35-12.7), and yellowness (b*) (13.4-14.8) of meat. In conclusion, CM can completely replace SBM in lamb diets without any negative effects on growth performance, general health, and meat quality of Mutton Merino lambs.

Effects of dietary inclusion of discarded cabbage (&lt;i&gt;Brassica oleracea&lt;/i&gt; var. &lt;i&gt;capitata&lt;/i&gt;) on the growth performance of South African Dorper lambs

A study was conducted to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of discarded cabbage (DC) on the intake and growth performance of lambs. Diets containing 0 (control, DC0), 100 g DC/kg (DC100), 150 g DC/kg (DC150) and 200 g DC/kg (DC200) were fed ad libitum to 36 South African Dorper lambs (22.0 ± 1.3 kg live weight). The dry matter intake (DMI) and lamb growth performance was reduced as the level of cabbage in the diet increased. The feed conversion rate of lambs was negatively affected by inclusion of cabbage in the diet. Diets containing cabbage had a lower DM, OM and aNDF digestibility compared with the control. Nitrogen intake and retention was lower in lambs fed diets containing cabbage. Discarded cabbage can be included in finishing diets for lambs but reduced animal performance can be expected. Keywords: By-products, digestibility, feed intake, lambs, nitrogen, supplementation

FEEDING SUGAR BEET TOPS SILAGE FOR SHEEP: 1 - IN SUMMER

This study was conducted to investigate the growth performance of lambs fed sugar beet tops silage (SBTS) with concentrate feed mixture CFM. Forty growing male lambs (20 Frafra and 20 saidi weight 20.19 kg as average) were used in feeding trail. Animals were randomly divided into five similar groups according to their live body weight beside twenty mature rams (45 kg live body weight) were used in digestibility trails. Each groups were fed one of the following diet. (T1), CFM +Wheat Straw control, (T2) , CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.25 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage un-chopped), (T3), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.25 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage chopped), (T4), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.5 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage un-chopped), (T5), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.5 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage chopped). CFM were offered as 3% of live body weight for all groups ,while roughages were fed ad lib. Control T1 had higher (P<0.05) digestibility in CP, CF, EE and TDN compared with treatments containing ureated SBTS chopped or un-chopped, but diets ureated with 0.25% urea chopped or unchopped was better in digestibility than those ureated with 0.5% urea. Rations containing 0.25% urea chopped or un-chopped(T2 andT3) were the best (P<0.05) digestibility in OM, NFE and digestible crude protein (DCP) than rations T4,T5 and control. The values of total nitrogen intake (TNI), fecal nitrogen (FN),urinary nitrogen(UN), total nitrogen excretion(TNE), nitrogen balance(NB) and nitrogen absorption (NAB) in control treatment lower (P<0.05) than other treatments. Total gain and daily gain were reicorded by the rations contain SBTS( U .0250% ) higher than rations contain SBTS (U.0.5%) and control ration . This diferences were insignificant. The significant(P<0.05) higher DM and TDN consumed by lambs fed control ration (T1),but feed intake as DCP has lower than other treatments . Lambs fed T2 and T3, showed the best conversion as DM and TDN, compared with those fed (T1),(T4) and(T5). Therefore, the lowest feed cost and the best weight gain equal the best revenue and better economic efficiency which showed by lambs fed diets containing ureated sugar beet tops T2 flowed by T3, T4, T5 and T1.

Effects of feeding Atriplex halimus L. on growth performance and carcass characteristics of fattening Awassi lambs

A study was conducted to determine the effect of partial replacement of wheat straw by Atriplex halimus L. (ATR) on growth performance, nutrient intake, digestibility, carcass characteristics and meat quality of Awassi lambs fed finishing diet. Twenty seven Awassi ram lambs (initial body weight 14.9±0.54kg) were divided randomly into three dietary groups. Group one served as a control and received no ATR (CON), group two (ATR75) and three (ATR150) received diet containing 75 and 150g/kg ATR, respectively. Lambs were housed individually in shaded pen (1.5×0.75m), and fed ad libitum isonitrogenous diets. Nutrient intakes were determined daily throughout the experimental period, which lasted for 91 days. On day 56, of the fattening period, 6 lambs from each group were chosen at random and housed individually in metabolism crates to determine nutrient digestibilities and N balance. At the end of the study, all lambs were slaughtered to evaluate carcass characteristics and meat quality. Intakes of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were similar among treatment diets as well as water intake. Growth performance parameters did not differ among all treatment diets although lambs fed on the CON diet had greater (P<0.05) intake of acid detergent fiber (ADF) compared to lambs fed on ATR diets. Feeding cost was reduced (P<0.05) when wheat straws was replaced by ATR. Digestibility of DM, OM, CP, NDF and ADF was similar among treatment diets. Nitrogen balance and fecal N was greater (P<0.05) in ATR150 diet followed by CON and ATR75 diets. Rumen fluid pH and carcass characteristics showed similar values among all dietary treatments. The longissimuss muscle leaner dimensions and fat measurements were comparable among all treatment groups. Also, carcasses from different dietary groups scored similar pH, cooking loss, water holding capacity, shear force and color coordinates. Results of this study demonstrated the possibility of including A. halimus L. up to 150g/kg in fattening diets of Awassi lambs without any adverse effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality; whereas it reduced the cost of feeding.

The potential use of layer litter in Awassi lambs’ diet: It’s effects on nutrient intake, digestibility, N balance, and growth performance

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of feeding layer hen litter (LL) at various levels on nutrient intake, digestibility, N balance and growth performance of Awassi ram lambs. Forty two Awassi lambs [initial body weight (BW)=20.5±0.88kg; age 70±2.02days] were randomly assigned to three isonitogenous fattening diets for 75days. The LL was included in the diets at 0 (LL0; n=14), 150g/kg (LL150; n=14), and 300g/kg (LL300; n=14) of dietary dry matter (DM) to replace part of the soybean meal and barley grain. On day 50 of the fattening period, 6 animals from each group were randomly selected and housed individually in metabolism crates (1.05×0.80m) to evaluate nutrient digestibility and N balance. Intake of DM (DMI) was greater (P<0.05) for LL150 diet than for LL0 diet, whereas LL300 diet was intermediate. Intake of organic matter and crude protein was similar among diets. Neutral detergent fiber and copper intake were the highest for lambs fed LL300 diet followed by LL150 diets and LL0 diets. Acid detergent fiber intake was greater (P<0.05) for lambs fed LL diets compared to LL0 diet. No significant differences were observed in nutrient digestibilities among treatments. The N retention was greater (P<0.05) in lambs fed LL150 diet than in lambs fed LL0 diet, whereas LL300 diet was intermediate. Final BW and average daily gain (ADG) were greatest (P<0.05) in lambs fed LL150 diet. Feed efficiency (ADG:DMI) was improved in lambs fed the LL150 diet compared to LL0 diet. Cost of gain was lower (P<0.05) for diets containing LL than the LL0 diet. Feeding Awassi lambs finishing diets containing layer hen litter at 150g/kg improved growth performance and lowered the cost of production.

Intake, digestibility, performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs fed different levels of crambe meal in the diet

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different levels of crambe meal (CM) in the diet as a substitute for soybean meal on feed intake, growth performance, blood parameters, carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs. A total of 80 sheep predominantly from the Texel breed, 40 male (23.3±0.98kg) and 40 female (22.1±0.95kg) lambs, were fed 0, 64, 128 or 192g/kg dry matter (DM) CM in the total mixed diet. Intake of DM increased in parallel with the level of CM inclusion in the diet and there was no effect of CM on digestibility and weight gain. The feed to gain ratio decreased as levels of CM increased in the diet. Yields of carcass and commercial cuts were similar among diets. The proportion of muscle and the muscle to bone ratio tended to decrease with higher CM level in the diet. Male and female lambs responded similarly to CM levels except for subcutaneous fat where there was a greater decrease in carcass of male than female lambs with increasing CM dietary level. Chemical composition and quality of the longissimus dorsi were similar among diets. These data suggest that there are no ill effects on carcass quality and animal performance when CM is provided at up to 192g/kg DM in the diet of growing lambs fed a forage to concentrate ratio of 350–650.

Effect of Concentrate Feeding in Lambs

Sheep farming plays a significant role in ensuring livelihood security to the millions of small and marginal farmers. This is one of the most profitable entrepreneurial avenues among different momentum. Based on the observation and conclusion of PRA techniques, KVK scientist planned to organize front line demonstration (FLD) on feeding of concentrate supplementation on the growth performance in lambs. Ten shepherds were identified for conducting FLD. The lambs under demonstration group were provided concentrate mixture consisting of bajra 77 kg, groundnut cake 20 kg, mineral mixture 2 kg and common salt 1 kg and fed @ 1 per cent of the body weight in addition to grazing for 90d while control group lambs were maintained on sole grazing. The feeding trial was conducted for 90d during 2013–14. it was found that supplemented group of lambs achieved significantly higher (P<0.01) body weight gain than the control group. Similarly, the body weight gain (kg) and average daily gain (g) were also higher in demonstration group. It can be concluded that supplementary feeding of concentrate with grazing was beneficial in growing sheep for higher economic returns.

Effect of Different Levels of Biosaf Probiotic in Medium Concentrate Diet on Performance and Blood Factors of Iranian Zandi Lambs

In order to evaluate the effect of different levels of Biosaf probiotic(yeast based) in supplemental diet containing medium concentrate (65%) on growth performance and blood factors of zandi lambs, 27 male weaned lambs(29.9 ± 0.28 kg, 90 ± 5 days) were allocated to one of three treatment diets in a completely randomized design, including: 1-basal diet without probiotics (Control, C) 2-basal diet supplemented with 3 g probiotic per lamb (Low Probiotic, LP) 3-basal diet supplemented with 4.5 g probiotic per lamb (High Probiotic, HP). Basal diet was containing 2.59 MCal/ Kg ME and 15.5% crude protein. Lambs live weight was measured at the beginning of the experiment and every two weeks interval. Dry matter intake (DMI) was measured daily. Water consumption offered ad lib. Blood sample were collected at the beginning of the trial, 42 and 84 days and analyzed for total protein, globulin, albumin, BUN, white blood cells and heterophil: lymphocyte ratio according to standard methods. Result shows DMI was unaffected by treatments (P>0.05). ADG was greater in HP group at first 4 weeks but total ADG was unaffected among treatment. Blood parameters were not significantly different among treatments (P>0.05) except BUN and total protein on 84 day. BUN and total protein were significantly higher in control group (P<0.05). It is concluded that addition of probiotic at the dose of 4.5 gr/lamb is superior to enhanced growth performance and immune response of Zandi lambs.

Amino acids in sheep production.

Increasing production efficiency with a high standard of animal welfare and respect for the environment is a goal of sheep farming systems. Substantial gains in productivity have been achieved through improved genetics, nutrition and management changes; however the survival and growth performance of multiple-born lambs still remains a problem. This is a significant production efficiency and animal well-being issue. There is a growing body of evidence that some amino acids have a role in regulating growth, reproduction and immunity through modulation of metabolic and cell signaling pathways. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of what is currently known about the role of amino acids in sheep production and the potential for supplementation strategies to influence on-farm survival and growth of lambs.

Effect of feeding protected soybean fat supplement and Salbutamol administration on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of Iranian Bahmaei feedlot lambs

Effect of feeding protected soybean fat supplement and Salbutamol administration on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of Iranian Bahmaei feedlot lambs

Partial substitution of barley for corn: effect on "Hamra" lamb growth performance, carcass and meat characteristics.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of two kinds of given diets on growth, on some carcass characteristics and on the major meat nutrients of local Algerian sheep breed. The investigated sheep breed called "Hamra" is one of the most famous breeds in Algeria. Among one 106 animals, 40 lambs were selected according to their age, similar livestock characteristics and body weight. The samples were divided into two equal groups: control and experimental lambs according to their live weight; 24.63 ± 0.47 and 24.35 ± 0.64kg, respectively. Both groups were fed with two varieties of concentrate diets: corn diet based for the first group of control lambs (n = 20) and corn substituted by barley (Variety Saïda 183) for the second experimental group lambs (n = 20). Both diets were supplemented with 200g straw of barley/animal/ration. The chemical analysis of diets showed an elevated crude fibre content in the commercial concentrate. However, the experimental concentrate contained higher amounts of calcium. After 59days of fattening, no significant difference was found among the two studied groups on the growth performance (p > 0.05), showing the same final body weight. In contrast, a significant difference was found (p ≤ 0.001) in relation to the cost of the given diet. This could affect the price of the produced meat. At 37.85 ± 0.78kg live weight, 10 lambs fed with experimental concentrate were slaughtered. The dressing percentage was 46.65%, with 2.49% of carcass shrink. Furthermore, an interesting percentage of total muscle was obtained (63.73%) with a good carcass conformation scoring 9.56. Compared to other breed sheep, Hamra carcass could be considered as the most valuable one economically.

Pistachio by-product as an alternative forage source for male lambs: Effects on performance, blood metabolites, and urine characteristics

Thirty-two Kermanian male lambs (5–6 months of age and 23.73±2.20kg BW) were used to determine the effects of feeding sun-dried pistachio by-product (PBP) on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, blood metabolites, and urine characteristics over a 4-months period. Lambs were randomly allocated to one of four experimental diets containing 0 (DM basis; 0PBP), 10 (10PBP), 20 (20PBP), and 30% of PBP (30PBP), substituted with alfalfa hay and wheat straw. Experimental diets were fed twice daily in two equal portions as pelleted total mixed rations. Lambs were weighed at the beginning of trial and the end of each month over the experimental period. Blood and urine samples were also collected monthly. Eight Kermanian castrated rams (48.35±2.81kg BW) placed in metabolic cages were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design during four 3-week periods to evaluate nutrient digestibility in response to feeding experimental diets. Dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) reduced linearly (P=0.001) with increasing the amount of PBP in the diets. The lambs fed 30PBP, had the lowest daily DMI and ADG, which were lower (P<0.01) than the control group (1549g/d vs. 1063g/d and 195.7g/d vs. 129.4g/d, respectively). Feed conversion ratio increased linearly and it was greater (P<0.05) in 30PBP than the control group (13.82 vs. 7.96). Plasma activities of circulating enzymes including alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase as indicators of liver function were not affected by experimental diets. Blood urea nitrogen responded quadratically (P=0.001) and decreased in lambs fed 30PBP in comparison with lambs fed the control diet (13.52 vs. 16.21mg/dl). Urine characteristics including pH, specific gravity, and the counts of white and red blood cells and also epithelial cells were not different across experimental diets. Apparent total tract digestibility of DM and CP reduced linearly (P<0.01) with increasing the amount of PBP in the experimental diets; however, ether-extract and ash digestibility were not affected by diets. Results indicate that using PBP to replace alfalfa hay and wheat straw up to 20% of dietary DM had no negative effects on feed intake and growth performance in Kermanian male lambs.

Effects of Suaeda glauca crushed seed on rumen microbial populations, ruminal fermentation, methane emission, and growth performance in Ujumqin lambs

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Suaeda glauca crushed seed on rumen microbial populations, ruminal fermentation, methane emission, and growth performance in lambs. Thirty male Ujumqin lambs (a local breed, average body weight 25.5±1.28kg) were equally divided into three treatments for a 56 d feeding period. The treatments were control diet (CTR), 80g of SG seed/kg of diet (SGS80, dry matter (DM) basis), and 160g of SG seed/kg of diet (SGS160, DM basis). Ruminal samples were collected at 0, 3, 6 and 9h after the morning feeding on d 28 and 56 to investigate treatment, sampling day, sampling hour, and their interactions effects on ruminal parameters and microorganism population. After the feeding trial, all lambs were moved to respiratory chambers to measure methane emission. Addition of SG seed decreased methanogen (P<0.05), protozoa (P<0.01), and Fibrobacter succinogenes populations (P<0.05). Methanogen and protozoa populations were also affected by an interaction between treatment and sampling day (P<0.01) and the effect of SG seed on methanogen and protozoa populations decreased with feeding time. Addition of SG seed did not change populations of fungi, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and Ruminococcus albus. Lambs fed SG160 diet had lower rumen ammonia nitrogen concentration (P<0.01) compared with lambs fed CTR diet. Ammonia nitrogen concentration was affected by an interaction between treatment and sampling day (P<0.01). No SG seed effects were found in ruminal pH, total volatile fatty acid concentration and molar proportion of volatile fatty acid. Addition of SG seed increased average daily gain (P<0.05) and dry matter intake (P<0.05) of lambs but reduced methane emissions (P<0.05). No SG seed effects were found in feed efficiency. In conclusion, addition of SG seed seemed to be a feasible means of decreasing methane emissions from lambs by reducing methanogen and protozoa populations.

Effects of supplementation of rumen-protected choline on growth performance, meat quality and gene expression in longissimus dorsi muscle of lambs

This study determined the effects of rumen-protected choline (RPC) on growth performance, blood lipids, meat quality and expression of genes involved in fatty-acid metabolism in young lambs. A total of 24 Dorper × Hu lambs (about 20 kg body weight) were kept in individual pens and fed diets with 0%, 0.25%, 0.50% and 0.75% RPC for 60 d. Supplementation of 0.25% RPC increased average daily gain of lambs, whereas treatments had no significant effect on feed intake. The pH values of meat were increased at 0.25% RPC and both, dripping loss and shear force of meat, were significantly decreased in RPC-supplemented lambs. No significant changes were observed for dressing percentage and intramuscular fat. RPC supplementations had no significant effect on the concentrations of triglycerides and cholesterols in serum, but the concentration of high-density lipoprotein was decreased at 0.50% RPC and that of low-density lipoprotein was increased at 0.75% RPC. In m. longissimus dorsi, the expressions of cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty-acid synthase (FASN) genes were increased at 0.25% RPC. Supplementation of 0.75% RPC increased the expressions of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and FASN genes, decreased the expression of ACC gene and had no effect on CD36 gene. The results of this study showed that supplementation of 0.25% RPC could promote growth performance of lambs and improve meat quality. This may be mediated by effects on blood lipid profiles and the metabolism of fatty acids in skeleton muscles. However, the beneficial effects of 0.25% RPC supplementation need to be validated with a larger number of animals. Higher doses, particularly 0.75% RPC, showed adverse effects on live weight gain and ACC expression.

Nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance of Washera lambs supplemented with graded levels of sweet blue lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) seed

The experiment was conducted to evaluate nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance of Washera lambs fed natural pasture hay-based diet supplemented with graded levels of sweet blue lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) seed. Twenty male intact Washera lambs with average age of four months and initial body weight of 16.9±0.32kg (mean±SD) were used in 90 days feeding trial followed by 10 days digestibility trial. The design of the experiment was randomized complete block design (RCBD) with five replications. The four supplement feeds were;150g wheat bran (WB) (control-T1), 150g WB+195g sweet lupin seed (SLS) (T2), 150g WB+245g SLS (T3) and 150g WB and 295g SLS (T4). Natural pasture hay was offered ad libitum. Digestibility trial was conducted at the end of the growth trial. Data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedures of SAS (version 9.2). Means were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range test. Correlation between nutrient intake, digestibility of nutrients and weight gain were analyzed using Pearson correlation procedure. Results showed that supplementation of SLS significantly increased total dry matter, crude protein and organic matter intakes. Supplementation of SLS improved the digestibility of dry matter and organic matter (P<0.05) and crude protein (P<0.001). However, the digestibility of NDF and ADF were not affected by supplementation (P>0.05). Average daily gain (ADG) was higher (P<0.001) for the SLS supplemented groups (61.8–89.1g/day). It was concluded that sweet blue lupin seed could serve as alternative CP supplement in natural pasture hay-based feeding of Washera sheep. Based on the biological performance of the experimental lambs (ADG and FCE values), T3 could be recommended for practical feeding of lambs if optimum performance is targeted.

Growth performance and carcass characteristics of lambs fed halophytes as a partial or whole replacement of berseem hay

The aim of this study was to evaluate partial or whole substitution of berseem hay with Atriplex nummularia (AT) and/or Acacia saligna (AC) in the diet of Barki lambs. Thirty-six male lambs (body weight 26.5±1.1kg and age 13±1.1 months) were divided into four groups and fed: (1) the control diet (70% concentrate mixture and 30% berseem hay), (2) AT (AT15 diet) or (3) AC (AC15 diet) replaced 50% of berseem hay in the diet, or (4) AT and AC at a ratio of 1:1 to replace 100% of berseem hay (TC30 diet), respectively. Lamb growth performance, rumen fermentation, blood chemistry, carcass characteristics and intestine histological properties were investigated. Dry matter intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion were measured every two weeks (period) for 10 weeks. Interactions were observed (P<0.05) between period×diet for these measurements and period affected (P<0.05) daily weight gain and feed conversion. Lambs in the AT15 and AC15 groups had increased (P<0.05) dry matter intake (g/lamb/day), water consumption (L/lamb/day), daily weight gain (g/lamb/day) and feed conversion (feed intake/body weight gain) during the last 2, 6, 2 and 8–10 weeks, respectively. The treatments AT15, AC15 and TC30 had decreased concentrations (P<0.01) of ruminal volatile fatty acids, but did not affect ruminal ammonia-N concentrations. Lambs fed the experimental diets had lower (P<0.05) concentrations of blood cholesterol, low density lipoproteins and glucose and higher (P<0.05) concentrations of serum urea. The treatment AT15 had increased (P<0.05) gut fill, pelt and mesentery weights, whereas the treatment AC15 increased (P<0.05) spleen and lung weight as a percentage of carcass weight. In regards to the protein content of the 9–11th ribs, the treatment AT15 was similar to the control, but the AC15 and TC30 were lower (P<0.05) than the control. Lambs in the treatment groups showed a normal histology of ileum, sub-mucosa and Peyer's patches. It could be concluded that AT or AC can replace 50% of berseem in the diet of Barki lambs without compromising lamb growth performance.

DOSE-RESPONSE OF VITAMIN E AND SELENIUM INJECTION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, PHYSIOLOGICAL AND IMMUNE RESPONSES OF OSSIMI LAMBS

ABSTRACTEighteen growing lambs averaged 3 months old and 16.92±1.23 kg body weight were used to assess the dose-response of vitamin E and Selenium (Se) injection on growth performance, hemato-biochemical indices, thyroid hormones, immune and antioxidant status. Lambs were randomly allocated into 3 equal groups (6 lambs each). The 1st group served as control and injected with 1.0 ml/head of sterile saline solution (0.9 % NaCl). The 2nd (T1) and the 3rd (T2) groups received vitamin E and Se injection at rate 0.5 ml/head (contained 3.57 IU vitamin E + 0.03 mg Se/head/day) and 1.0 ml/head (contained 7.14 IU vitamin E + 0.06 mg Se/head/day), respectively. The injection solution was administered biweekly and continued for 12 weeks. The results show that lambs received T2 had heavier (P<0.05) final body weight (FBW) than the control and T1. Average daily gain (ADG) was improved (P<0.05) for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in FBW and ADG of lambs received T2 compared with those of T1. No significant differences in dry matter intake for lambs of T1 and T2 vs. control, while averages of feed conversion ratio were improved (P<0.05) for lambs received T2 compared to T1 and control. Lambs of T2 had higher (P<0.05) concentration of blood Hb and PCV % than those of T1 and control. The increase (P<0.05) in RBCs count was dose-dependent for lambs received T1 and T2. Leucocytes count and lymphocytes (%) increased (P<0.01) for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. Moreover, lambs of T2 had higher (P<0.05) concentrations of serum total protein and globulin than those of T1 and control. Serum cholesterol concentration decreased (P<0.05) for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. Also, lambs received T1 and T2 had higher (P<0.05) serum immunoglobulin G concentrations than the control. Serum triiodothyronine (T3) levels and T3:T4 ratio increased (P<0.05) for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. In addition, the results showed that serum total antioxidant capacity increased (P<0.01) for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. Lambs received T2 had higher (P<0.05) serum superoxide dismutase activity than those of control and T1. There were dose-dependent increases (P<0.05) in serum glutathione peroxidase activity for lambs received T1 and T2 vs. control. No significant differences in neutrophils, eosinophils,basophils, monocytes (%), serum levels of glucose, albumin, AST enzyme and T4 hormone due to injection of vitamin E and Se. These results show that injection of vitamin E and Se could exert dose-dependent beneficial effects on growing lambs which improve their growth performance concomitant with favourable signs for physiological responses, enhancing their immune function and antioxidant status.

Changes in productive performance, hemato-biochemical indices, immune and antioxidant status of growing Ossimi lambs subjected to vitamins A and E administration.

ABSTRACTThis study included 32 growing Ossimi male lambs, averaged 3.5 months of age and 19.08±1.09 kg body weight. They divided into four equal groups (8 lambs each) to determine the effects of vitamins A and E oral administration on growth performance, hematological and biochemical parameters, immune and antioxidant status. The 1st group served as control, the 2nd group (VA) received oral administration of vitamin A at 50,000 IU/head/biweekly, the 3rd group (VE) received vitamin E at 400 mg/head/biweekly, and the 4th group (VA+E) received 50,000 IU vitamin A plus 400 mg vitamin E /head/biweekly. Data showed an increase (P<0.05) in body weight (BW) of lambs received VA and VA+E vs. control. Average daily gain (ADG) increased (P<0.05) for lambs received VA and VA+E vs. control and VE treatment. ADG was higher (P<0.05) for lambs received VA+E than those received each of VA or VE alone. Feed conversion efficiency (FCE) was improved (P<0.05) for lambs received VA and VA+E vs. control and VE treatment. No differences in dry matter intake (DMI) was recorded among the experimental groups. Blood Hb concentrations increased (P<0.05) for lambs received VA, VE and VA+E, while RBCs count and PCV % were increased (P<0.05) only for lambs received VE and VA+E. No significant response of WBCs count among lambs received VA, VE and VA+E vs. control. Lymphocytes %increased (P<0.05) with no significant differences in eosinophils, basophils and monocytes % for lambs received VA, VE and VA+E vs. control. Lambs treated with VE alone exhibited a decrease (P<0.05) in neutrophils vs. lambs of control, VA and VA+E. Serum total protein (TP) and globulin concentrations increased (P<0.05) with VA, VE and VA+E treatments vs. control. Serum TP and albumin concentrations increased (P<0.05) for lambs treated with VA+E treatment when compared to those treated with VA treatment alone. Lambs received VA, VE and VA+E treatments had higher (P<0.05) serum IgG concentrations than the control. VE treatment increased (P<0.05) serumIgG concentrations vs. VA treatment. There were significant (P<0.05) increases in serum total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity for lambs received VA, VE and VA+E treatments vs. control. Lambs of VE treatment had higher (P<0.05) serum GSH-Px activity than those of VA treatment. No significant differences in serum concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, AST and superoxide dismutase activity was noticed due to treatments VA, VE and VA+E vs. control. These results indicate that combination of vitamins A and E exerted beneficial additive effects that improve ADG and physiological responses of lambs. Vitamin A was more effective than vitamin E in enhancing growth performance of lambs, whereas vitamin E had more potent effect on improving immune response and antioxidant status.

Digestibility and growth performance of sheep fed alfalfa hay treated with fibrolytic enzymes and a ferulic acid esterase producing bacterial additive

This study was conducted to determine the effects of fibrolytic enzymes applied at baling, with or without ferulic acid esterase (FAE) producing bacterial inoculant, or to hay at feeding on digestibility and growth performance of lambs. Prior to starting the animal studies, two runs of replicated 24- and 48-h batch culture in vitro incubations were conducted using control alfalfa hay to select a suitable enzyme and dose. Eleven replicate bales of alfalfa-grass (93.8:6.2) hay (∼500kg) were produced with the application of one of three treatments: control (water), enzyme applied at baling (Eb; Econase RDE-L, AB Vista, Wiltshire, UK) and enzyme plus ferulic acid esterase producing bacterial additive applied at baling (EIb; 11 GFT, Pioneer HI-Bred Ltd., Chathan, ON, Canada). The mean internal bale temperature after 50 days of storage was greater (P<0.001) for Eb than control and EIb, as was the post-storage hemicellulose concentration (P<0.05). Two animal experiments using lambs were conducted after bales were stored for at least 90 days. The digestibility study was a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with 16 lambs and the animal performance study consisted of 32 lambs (8 per treatment) in a randomized complete block design. In both studies lambs received one of four treatments: control, Eb, EIb and enzymes added to control hay at feeding (Ef). In the digestibility study, total tract apparent organic matter (OM) (P=0.07) digestibility tended to be affected by treatment, with OM digestibilities greater for lambs fed Ef compared with lambs fed the other treatments, although differences were small (Ef vs. others; OM, 0.658 vs. 0.646). However, neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) and hemicellulose digestibilities were greatest (P<0.05) for lambs fed Eb, with no differences among the other treatments (aNDF, Eb=0.480, control=0.437, Ef=0.430, EIb=0.430; hemicellulose, Eb=0.524, control=0.460, Ef=0.458, EIb=0.446). In both studies there was no effect (P>0.05) of treatment on OM intakes. Average daily gain (ADG, g/d) of lambs in the performance study was greater (P=0.048) for EIb (233) than control (192) and Ef (202), and intermediate for Eb (206). Feed efficiency tended to be affected (P=0.07) by treatment; gain:feed for EIb was 18% greater than control and Eb and Ef were similar to the control. This study showed that applying enzymes to alfalfa hay at baling decreased aerobic stability, and increased fiber content and its digestibility, but ADG and gain:feed of lambs were not improved. Adding FAE producing bacterial inoculant with enzymes at baling improved aerobic stability of hay and ADG and gain:feed of lambs were increased relative to lambs fed control and enzymes applied at feeding. Applying enzymes at feeding increased apparent OM digestibilities but not fiber digestibilities, and had no effect on animal performance. We conclude that fibrolytic enzyme application with FAE producing bacterial inoculant at baling was the most promising method for enhancing performance of lambs fed baled alfalfa hay.