ABSTRACT

Gowda, N.K.S. and Ledoux, D.R. 2008. Use of antioxidants in amelioration of mycotoxin toxicity: A review. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 1-11. Mycotoxins are toxic metabolites of different species of fungi naturally occurring in various feed stuff. Two mycotoxins of major significance to livestock production are aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA). They cause pathological lesions in liver and kidney through cell damage, release of free radicals, and lipid peroxidation. Several synthetic and natural antioxidants have been used to ameliorate the toxic effects of these mycotoxins. Vitamins (A, E, C) and provitamins (â - carotene, carotenoids), phenolic compounds, curcuminoids, and sulfur containing compounds (glutathione, methionine) are known to exhibit antioxidant action against AFB1 and OTA. Some of these compounds are also effective in preventing carcinogenesis during mycotoxicosis. There is a need to evaluate the antioxidant potential of these compounds with emphasis on their stability, effective level of inclusion and effect on other biochemical or tissue functions. Ascertaining and confirming the antioxidant properties of cultivable medicinal/aromatic plants would add value to these products and contribute to their commercial viability.

Key words: Aflatoxin, Antioxidants, Cytotoxicity, Free radicals, Ochratoxin.

*Corresponding author: nksgowda@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Garg, M.R., Bhanderi, B.M., Sathish Kumar, S. and Sherasia, P.L. 2008. Macro and micro mineral status of dairy animals in hilly zone of Kerala. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 13-23.
A study was conducted in the hilly zone of Kerala, to assess the status of certain macro and microminerals in dairy animals, by analyzing feed and fodder samples. Paddy straw was major dry roughage available for feeding dairy animals and found to be low in Ca (0.11%), P (0.09%), S (0.11%), Cu (1.79 ppm) and Zn (11.69 ppm). Amongst green fodders, mainly local grasses and hybrid napier were available and found to be good sources of Ca (0.43%), Mg (0.34%), Cu (13.83 ppm), Mn (74.52 ppm) and Fe(1379 ppm). Azolla was subsidiary green fodder grown in stagnant water by the farmers and found to be a good source of various minerals. The feeds and fodder were found to be rich in K content (1.83%) and Fe (192-3600 ppm). Groundnut cake and copra extraction were major concentrate supplements in the surveyed area. Groundnut cake, copra extraction, rice bran and wheat bran were good sources of P (0.57-1.13%), Mg (0.25-0.45%), S (0.24-0.33%), Cu (17.82-41.22 ppm), Zn (38.40-84.12 ppm) and Mn (44.51-174.5 ppm). The Na content was lower in concentrate ingredients (0.014%) and roughages (0.06%). Se content in feeds and fodder was adequate (0.18-0.83 ppm), however, Co was found to be marginally deficient in feedstuffs (0.10-1.19 ppm). From the present study, it was apparent that in view of the feeding practices followed in the survey area, levels of certain minerals such as Ca, P, S, Zn, Cu and Co were inadequate and much below the requirement of animals yielding 8-11 kg milk (4% fat) per day. Supplementation of area specific mineral mixture with highly bio-available mineral salts could be a cost effective method to improve productive life and productivity of animals in the zone.

Key words: Calcium, Phosphorus, Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Hilly zone, Cows, Kerala.

*Corresponding author: mrgarg@nddb.coop

ABSTRACT

Ramgaokar, J.S., Verma, A.K., Singh, P. and Mehra, U.R. 2008. Effect of dietary protein levels on urinary excretion and plasma concentration of purine derivatives in crossbred bulls. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 25-34.
The study evaluated the effect of different levels of crude protein (CP) intake on urinary excretion and plasma concentration of purine derivatives (PD) and creatinine in crossbred bulls. In a randomized block design, 15 growing crossbred bulls were fed a mixed diet (1:1) of wheat straw and concentrate mixture (with varying levels of CP) to meet their maintenance requirement for dry matter. A metabolism trial of ten days duration was conducted after 30 days of experimental feeding. The daily urinary excretion of allantoin and other PD decreased with the reduction in CP intake while creatinine excretion remained similar in groups fed at different levels. The microbial nitrogen (MN) supply calculated from the PD excreted in total urine (55.62 to 63.97 g/d) was higher at increased levels of CP intake. The concentration of PD in plasma reflected the differences in MN supply among groups fed at different levels of CP. The glomerular filtration rate (L/d) was unaffected by dietary levels of CP in crossbred bulls. The results of this study revealed that the plasma concentration of PD can be used as an index of microbial protein supply in crossbred bulls fed at different levels of CP.

Key words: Crossbred bulls, Crude protein level, Purine derivatives, Microbial nitrogen.

*Corresponding author: akverma@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Shinde, A.K. and Sankhyan, S.K. 2008. Mineral contents of locally available feeds and fodders in flood prone eastern plains of Rajasthan and dietary status in ruminants. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 35-44.
Mineral contents of common feeds and fodders and dietary mineral composition of cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats under existing feeding practices in flood prone eastern plains of Rajasthan have been evaluated to identify the deficiency and development of supplementation strategies. Wheat, barley and sorghum cereal grains contained Ca 0.03-0.50%, P 0.34-0.39%, Mg 0.13-0.27%, Zn 28-36 ppm, Cu 7-8 ppm, Mn 27-50 ppm and Fe 319-365 ppm. Mustard, cotton seed cake, cluster bean grain and gram churi contained Ca 0.49-0.81%, P 0.34-0.60%, Mg 0.46-0.68%, Zn 35-51 ppm, Cu 4-10 ppm, Mn 13-67 ppm and Fe 131-635 ppm. Green fodder contained Ca 0.42-1.00%, P 0.09%, Mg 0.64-0.83%, Zn 23-51 ppm, Cu 3-19 ppm, Mn 86-106 ppm and Fe 925-1536 ppm. Cereal straws and Stover contained Ca 0.47-1.14%, P 0.09-0.18%, Mg 0.18-0.83%, Zn 13-29 ppm, Cu 3-11 ppm, Mn 23-63 ppm and Fe 434-1431 ppm. Tree leaves contained Ca 0.79-1.61%, P 0.09-0.10%, Mg 0.46-0.86%, Zn 24-34 ppm, Cu 9-31 ppm, Mn 34-68 ppm and Fe 555-801 ppm. Cattle and buffaloes in pregnancy and lactation stages were found short of Ca (7-10%) and P (50-56%) requirement. Magnesium content of diet of cattle and buffaloes was adequate and excesses the requirement in all the stages. Zn content during pregnancy and lactation stages in the diet were deficient (14-16%), Cu and Mn contents of diet were adequate and Fe content of diet was considerably higher (1074-1201 ppm) than requirement in the diet. Sheep and goats under existing feeding practices were found short of Ca in their diet. Phosphorus content of diet of sheep and goats in all the stage were below than the requirement owing to grazing resource and tree leaves in the region were primarily poor in P content. Mg, Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe intakes of sheep and goats were found to be adequate under the prevailing feeding practices. It was concluded from the study that diet of pregnant and lactating cattle and buffaloes were deficient in Ca, P and Zn and sheep and goats diets were deficient only in Ca and P. Mineral mixtures or concentrate need to be supplemented, to overcome the deficiency and production and health losses.

Key words: Mineral content, Feed and fodder, Ruminants.

*Corresponding author: akshinde58@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Shivakumar, M.C., Umakantha, B. and Hosaman, S.V. 2008. Influence of virginiamycin on performance of broilers fed two levels of energy. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 45-51.
Biological trial of 42 days duration was conducted on broiler chicks to evaluate the effect of virginiamycin supplementation with two levels of energy 2900 and 2800 ME kcal/kg during starter and 2950 and 2850 ME kcal/Kg during finisher using 352, day-old chicks. Virginiamycin at the rate of 20 ppm during starter and 10 ppm during finisher was added to each test diet. Supplementation of low energy diets with virginiamycin significantly (P<0.05) improved the body weight over its corresponding unsupplemented group. feed consumption remained unaffected. feed efficiency was better in all the virginiamycin supplemented groups. mortality rate of 1.25 and 5.00 percent was recorded in unsupplemented groups of normal energy and low energy groups respectively but no mortality was recorded in supplemented groups. litter moisture did not differ significantly (p<0.05) among the groups. Litter score was significantly lower in normal energy with virginiamycin group compared to its unsupplemented control. Total bacterial and cocci counts differed significantly (P<0.05) between supplemented and control groups from second and fourth week onwards. Net economic returns per bird over feed cost was better in all the supplemented groups.

Key words: Broilers, Virginiamycin, Energy, Performance, Microbial count, Parameters.

ABSTRACT

Garg, M.R., Bhanderi, B.M. and Sherasia, P.L. 2008. Assessment of macro and micro minerals status of milch animals for developing area specific mineral mixture for Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 53-64.
A study was conducted in Bharatpur district (tropical zone) of Rajasthan, to assess the prevalence of macro and micro-minerals deficiency in animals, by analyzing feed and fodder samples (n=240) at random from various locations. The calcium content (0.14%) was low in concentrate ingredients, except mustard cake (0.74%). Phosphorus content (0.45%) in concentrates was higher in comparison to roughages. The average calcium content in straws (0.34%) was higher in comparison to phosphorus (0.10%). The calcium and phosphorus content in green berseem were 1.33 and 0.31 per cent, respectively. The magnesium content in feedstuffs was adequate (0.38%) to meet the requirement of large ruminants (0.20%). The feed ingredients of the surveyed area were rich in potassium content (1.55%), whereas, sodium content was consistently low in dry roughages (0.14%) and concentrate ingredients (0.064%). The sulphur content was low in crop residues (0.13%), whereas, concentrate feed ingredients (0.18%) were better source of sulphur. Cobalt was occasionally deficient in the diet of animals. However, iron and manganese contents were adequate in the diet of animals, with traditional feeding system. The average copper content was low in straws (5.40 ppm), moderate in green fodders (9.68 ppm) and concentrate ingredients (9.87 ppm). Molybdenum content in feeds was within safe limit (average level<1.25 ppm). selenium content in most of the feeds and fodder samples was adequate (0.61 ppm) and its supplementation in the diet was not necessary. zinc was acutely deficient in most of the feedstuffs (average level<26.30 ppm) and needed to be supplemented in the ration of animals for proper productive and reproductive functions. It was apparent from the present study that the feeds and fodders available in tropical zone of Rajasthan may not meet the requirements for calcium, phosphorus, sodium, sulphur, zinc, copper and cobalt in order to sustain a milk production of ~8 kg/day. Hence, it is necessary to supplement these minerals in the ration by formulating area specific mineral mixture.

Key words: Calcium, Phosphorus, Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Buffalo, Tropical zone, Rajasthan.

*Corresponding author: mrgarg@nddb.coop

ABSTRACT

Jadhav, S.E., Garg, A.K. and Dass, R.S. 2008. Effect of graded levels of zinc supplementation on growth and nutrient utilization in male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 65-72.
Eighteen Murrah male buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves (219.2±5.76 kg body weight; ~14-15 months of age) were assigned into three groups of six animals in each in a randomized block design. Experimental feeding was similar in the three groups (concentrate mixture and ad libitum wheat straw), except for the level of zinc (as zinc sulphate) supplementation, which were 0, 35 and 70 ppm in Gr. I, II and III, respectively. The study was conducted for a period of 120 days including a 6 days metabolism trial. The mean dry matter (DM) intake was comparable (P>0.05) at 73.83, 72.76 and 75.59 g/kgW0.75 in Gr. I, II and III, respectively. Intake and digestibility of organic nutrients including fibre fractions were also similar (P>0.05) among the three groups. Intake of N, Ca and P, their excretion through faeces and urine and balances were also similar (P>0.05) among the three groups. However, average daily gain of the calves was significantly (P<0.05) higher in gr. iii (601.4 g />d), as compared to Gr. I (547.4 g/d) and Gr. II (566.7 g/d). Feed (DM) required per unit of body weight gain was also significantly (P<0.05) lower in gr. iii (8.97), as compared to gr. i (10.3). these results indicated that supplementation of 70 ppm zinc in the basal diet containing about 35 ppm zinc may improve the growth performance and feed conversion efficiency in the male buffalo calves. however, further studies with more number of animals are suggested.

Key words: Buffalo calves, Zinc supplementation, Nutrient utilization, Growth rate.

*Corresponding author: garg@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Appelbaum, S. and Arockiaraj, A.J. 2008. Utilization of canola oil and beef fat coated commercial diets by African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) juveniles. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 73-79.
The objective of the present study was to investigate the utilization of canola oil and beef fat as lipid from different sources by African catfish Clarias gariepinus. The fish were fed plant oil (canola oil) and animal fat (beef fat) coated commercial extruded diets for 40 days. The catfish were reared in a fresh water flow through system (0.5 ml/min) at 30°C and 0.2–0.4 ppt temperature and salinity, respectively. The feed was coated with lipid sources at three different concentrations viz. 20% canola oil, 20% beef fat, and 10% canola oil plus 10% beef fat. The control diet was not sprayed with any lipid sources. Three replicates were maintained for each treatment. The fishes were fed to satiation, three times a day at 0900, 1300 and 1700 hrs. The highest specific growth rate (SGR; 1.33%d-1) and the best food conversion ratio (FCR; 0.94) were obtained when the fish were fed a 20% canola oil coated diet. Feeding this diet the survival was 86.6%. The SGR of juveniles fed 20% canola oil coated commercial diet was statistically significant (P<0.05) compared with the growth rate of juveniles fed 20% beef fat and 10% canola oil plus 10% beef fat coated commercial diets.

Key words: Canola oil, Beef fat, Lipid utilization, Clarias gariepinus.

*Corresponding author: sappl@bgu.ac.il

ABSTRACT

Chuadhary, J.L. and Jat, H.R. 2008. Effect of feeding different levels of cottonseed on the reproductive performance of Surti buffaloes. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 81-88.
Eighteen lactating Surti buffaloes in early stage of lactation were divided into three groups of six animals each on the basis of body weight (475.83±13.23 kg) and milk yield (6.75±0.32 kg) and were allotted to three dietary treatments viz. T1 – zero per cent cottonseed in concentrate mixture, T2 – 30 per cent cottonseed in concentrate mixture and T3 – 60 per cent cottonseed in concentrate mixture. Additionally, all groups were fed on a basal roughage consisting of 15 kg green Lucerne and ad libitum sorghum stover. The buffaloes of T3 group consumed significantly (P<0.05) more dm, dcp and tdn than t1 group, but there were no significant differences were observed between t2 and t1 groups. the milk yield and fat in milk were affected (p<0.05) by the level of cottonseed given to buffaloes. The average 6 per cent FCM yield 9.21, 10.16 ands 11.32 kg in T1, T2 and T3 groups, respectively. Higher (P<0.05) milk yield was recorded in T3 as compared to T1 group. However, there was no difference in milk yield of T2 and T1 groups. A vasectomised bull was paraded among the experimental animals daily for finding the buffaloes in heat and buffaloes showing complete estrus symptom were inseminated. The average post partum oestrus interval in T1, T2 and T3 was 142.33, 85.0 and 83.0 days, respectively. The mean service period was 292.50, 184.50 and 172.33 days, respectively in T1, T2 and T3 treatments. The numbers of services required per conception were 5.83, 3.50 and 3.00 in T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The results showed that higher levels of cottonseed in the diet substantially improved the milk yield and post partum reproductive performance of buffaloes.

Key words: Cottonseed, Surti buffalo, Milk production, Reproduction, Sorghum stover.

ABSTRACT

Prabhakar, S.K., Sardar, P. and Das, R.C. 2008. Effect of starvation with subsequent realimentation with respect to compensatory growth of Indian major carp, Rohu (Labeo rohita H.). Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 89-96.
The aim of the present study was to determine the suitability of starvation followed by the realimentation for culture of rohu. Five different feeding schedules were tried by altering the period of starvation and realimentation of an isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diet. The control group (TCS) was fed @ 3% of body weight for 90 days trial period and other experimental groups also fed at 3% of BW, were alternatively starved and fed adopting of cycles of 3 (T1S), 7 (T2S), 15 (T3S) or 25 (T4S) days during 90 days trial period. Feed was offered to replicates of 10 fingerlings with three replicates per experimental group, twice at morning and at afternoon. Results indicated that the deprived fish of T1S and T2S groups showed compensatory growth with hyperphagia, better feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate and protein efficiency ration. However, the retention of different nutrients was almost similar among all treatment groups. Fish showed compensatory growth had still lower values of haemoglobin, haematocrit value, total erythrocytic count, total plasma protein, plasma glucose and, total plasma lipid and liver glycogen in comparison to control at the end of 90 days trial. These findings suggested that a cyclic feeding schedule with starvation for 3 to 7 days followed by realimentation for same period is promising for use in rohu culture as they result in saving of feed cost without compromising the performance of fish.

Key words: Starvation, Re-alimentation, Nutrient utilization, Haematology, Rohu (Labeo rohita).

*Corresponding author: parimalsardar2004@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Shelly, M., Saijpaul, S. and Naik, P.K. 2008. Prediction of grain content of compounded feeds. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 97-104.
Ten sets of compounded feeds (T1-T10) having 2 to 20% grain of maize (MC), rice kani (RC) or wheat (WC) and six more sets of compounded feeds containing 25 to 50 per cent maize (T11-T16) were analyzed to develop equations for predicting the grain level. At the same level of grain, the NDF value differed (P<0.05) for mc, rc and wc but the starch content remained similar. every 2% increase in grain level increased (p<0.05) the starch content of the compounded feeds but the change in trend of NDF values was less consistent. For predicting the grain content, 14 simple linear regression equations based upon the starch and NDF values of the compounded feeds were developed and the predictability of grain content had more than 85 per cent coefficient of correlation (r2). To test the accuracy of the derived prediction equations, several compounded feeds with known grain levels of 10 - 48% were formulated. The starch and NDF values were fitted in the derived equations and the r2 values were determined. The equation Y = -14.31 + 1.323 X; where, Y = the grain content and X = the starch content of the compounded feed, had high accuracy of prediction with grain content up to 30 per cent. From the above study, it may be concluded that the prediction equations based on the starch content are most reliable for predicting the grain content of the compounded feeds containing maize, rice kani or wheat up to 30 per cent level.

Key words: Prediction equation, Grain, Maize, Broken rice, Wheat, Compounded feed.

*Corresponding Author: sksaijpaul@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Nehra, R., Purohit, G.R., Sharma, T., Dhuria, R.K. and Legha, R.A. 2008. Nutritional evaluation of sewan (Lasiurus sindicus) grass hay in Marwari horses of arid region. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 105-109.
Marwari stallions (5-6 year age and 345 kg BW) were fed on a sole diet of sewan grass (Lasiurus sindicus) hay in order to define its nutritive value for horses. The grass contained 2.45% DCP, 57.47% TDN, 1:22.46 nutritive ratio and 52.31% starch equivalent. The daily dry matter intake was recorded to be 2.77 kg/100 kg BW equivalent to 119.80 g/kg W0.75 indicative of its high palatability in horses. The average digestibility coefficients were found to be 52.39, 55.75, 45.46, 47.04, 67.35, 39.70, 30.66, 49.48 and 47.91 for DM, CP, CF, EE, NFE, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose and cellulose, respectively. The intake of digestible nutrients i.e. DCP (236 g/d) and DE (24.43 Mcal/d) revealed that a sole feeding of the hay is adequate to meet the maintenance requirements of mature horses at rest. It was observed from the study that horses can efficiently utilize sewan grass hay and it can serve as basal roughage source for horses in arid regions of country.

Key words: Sewan grass hay, Digestibility, Marwari horses, Arid region.

*Corresponding Author: raj_vet_ nehra76@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Vasan, P., Narayan Dutta, Mandal, A.B. and Sharma, K. 2008. Effect of grinding on apparent and true digestibilities of amino acids of pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) in adult roosters. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 111-114.
The present study was designed to determine the apparent and true digestibility of amino acids of pearl millet in adult cockerels. The test ingredient was offered as per Farrell’s rapid ME method either as whole grain or as ground grain to six cockerels each. The apparent digestibilities of most of the amino acids of whole grains were significantly higher than those of broken grains. The true digestibility o cystine, lysine and histidine of whole grain was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those observed in broken pearl millet grain. however, the digestibilities of remaining twelve amino acids studied were similar in whole as well as broken pearl millet grain. overall the amino acid digestibility of pearl millet was comparable to the true digestibilities of amino acids of other cereal grains such as maize and whit sorghum. the present investigation revealed that pearl millet grain can be offered as a whole rather than coarse grain, since grinding neither improves the amino acid digestibility value nor reduces the feed cost.

Keywords: Amino acids, Digestibility, Pearl millet, Roosters.

*Corresponding author: drpvasan@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Kumar, P., Prasad, Y., Ranjan, R., Swarup, D., Pattanaik, A.K. and Patra, R.C. 2008. Accumulation patterns of cadmium in tissues of Indian catfish Clarias batrachus. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 115-119.
A study was conducted to determine the accumulation pattern of cadmium in selected tissues of Clarias batrachus. Sixty Clarias batrachus were first acclimatized for 15 days in plastic pools filled with non-chlorinated water and subsequently divided equally into four groups and subjected to different concentrations (0, 14, 28 and 56 mg/L) of cadmium for a period of 96 hours. Physio-chemical attributes viz. pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, hardness and choride content of aquaria water were monitored. Following 96h of exposure, all the fishes were sacrificed and cadmium content of various organs were assessed. The result revealed that the highest level of cadmium was accumulated in kidney 17.276±0.975 ppm, followed by liver 4.018±0.508, gill 2.881±0.138 and intestine 2.493±0.285. Skin and muscles accumulated the lowest level (0.135±0.010 to 0.982±0.027) of cadmium. The kidney and liver seems to be the target organ for cadmium accumulation with respect to exposure level in Clarias batrachus and may have public health significance for human consumer.

Keywords: Accumulation, Cadmium, Clarias batrachus, Fish, Heavy metal, Toxicity.

*Corresponding author: yogendraps_2004@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Sahoo, S.K., Naskar, S.K., Panda, B.K., Mohapatra, C.M., Padhi, M.K., Giri, S.C. and Panda, S.K. 2008. Performance of the broiler on replacement of maize with different levels of whole and peeled cassava tuber meals. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 121-126.
An experiment was conducted to study the performance of broilers on replacement of maize with different levels of whole and peeled cassava tuber meals. Day old broiler chicks (n =125) of either sex were randomly divided into five groups having equal number of chicks in each group. The control group (T1) was provided with conventional ration without any cassava tuber meal. The chicks of T2 and T3 were provided with ration by replacing maize with whole cassava tuber meal at 20 and 40%, respectively. Similarly, the T4 and T5 chicks were fed with ration replacing maize with peeled cassava meal at 20 and 40%, respectively. The body weight of birds at six weeks of age was 1571.16±27.72, 1470.17±28.93, 1426.15±26.87, 1538.59±29.47 and 1653.57±20.34g in T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively, with no significant differences in the weight gain between the groups. Significantly (P<0.01) higher metabolizability of protein and nitrogen balance was observed in t4 and t5 than other groups. glucose, glutamateoxaloacetate transaminase and glutamate-pyruvate transaminase values in the serum samples did not revealed any significant difference between the groups. significantly (p<0.05) higher percentage of breast meat was observed in control and T3 than other groups. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney showed mild hyperplacia of bile duct, congestion and focal infiltration of inflammatory cells in liver of T3. From this experiment it was concluded that cassava tuber meals could be incorporated in broiler ration by replacing maize upto 40 per cent.

Keywords: Cassava tuber meals, Broiler, Performance, Maize.

*Corresponding author: sahoosk4@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Das, P.P., Roy, B. and Sardar, P. 2008. Evaluation of paddy straw based complete feeds through in vitro dry matter digestibility. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 127-132.
A study was undertaken to evaluate three potential complete feeds made from locally available feed ingredients through in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Three fistulated steers used as donors of rumen inoculums were fed the same three complete feeds (CRI, CRII and CRIII) after proper adaptation. The roughage: concentrate ratio in CRI, CRII and CRIII was maintained at 60: 40 but the cost/kg diet were Rs. 3.33, 3.70 and 3.91/kg diet, respectively. The CP, EE and TA of the three complete feeds ranged between 11.45-11.50, 3.07-3.32 and 12.61-13.21 per cent, respectively, indicating little variations. However, variation was apparent in the fibre fractions of the three feeds attributable to varying contents of the fibrous feed ingredients. Overall IVDMD (%) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in CRI (50.67±0.82) followed by CRIII (47.00±0.89) and in CRII (43.33±0.67). Overall TVFA (meq/100ml) production was significantly (P<0.05) higher in CRI (12.76±0.30) than CRII (11.01±0.63) and CRIII (11.05±0.43) but values between CRII and CRIII did not differ significantly. It may be concluded that CR1 is superior to CRII and CRIII in terms of IVDMD, in vitro TVFA production and cost of formulation.

Corresponding Author: parimalsardar2004@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Singh, A., Gill, M.S., Puri, K.P. and Tiwana, U.S. 2008. Comparative evaluation of ryegrass varieties in buffalo calves by chemical, in situ and in vivo techniques. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 133-136.
The nutritive value of a new cutlivar of Ryegrass variety V2 was compared with the standard variety of Punjab Ryegrass No. 1. Six male buffalo calves were divided into two equal groups. Fodder from third cut of both the varieties was offered ad lib to both the groups for 14 days followed by 5 days metabolic trial. The crude protein content was 1.5% more in Ryegrass variety V2 (15.2%) than that of Punjab Ryegrass No. 1 (13.7%) whereas the ether extract contents of both the varieties were quite similar. However, cell wall constituents were slightly higher in variety V2. The prediction of DM intake (kg/100 kg BW) was found to be slightly less than that of in vivo studies. Apparent digestibility coefficient of dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre and ether extract were found to be more in variety V2 as compared to the check variety. The nutritional quality of variety V2 in terms of % DCP and TDN (12.07±0.31, 74.53±1.60) were higher as compared to the check variety (10.60±0.57, 73.09±2.19). The voluntary DM intake (kg/100 kg BW) was (2.30±0.04 and 2.22±0.06) in two respective varieties. The results of the nutritional yield revealed that variety V2 produced more DCP and TDN (15.40±0.85 and 95.1±1.78 q/ha) than the check variety (11.85±0.79 and 82.72±2.44 q/ha). The quality parameters in terms of DCP and TDN indicated that the variety V2 has edge over the check variety Punjab Ryegrass No. 1.

Keywords: Ryegrass, Nutritive value, Variety, Degradability.

ABSTRACT

Das, S.K. and Tripathi, H. 2008. Livestock feeds and feeding practices in rural sundarbans delta of India. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 137-142.
The aim of the study was to explore, understand and document livestock feeds and feedings practices traditionally followed by the rural people in Sundarbans delta of India A qualitative participatory case study design was used for the present study with an anthropological approach to field research in the four identified villages. Various tools of participatory rural appraisal like semi–structured interview, micro-environment mapping, listing, on-site observation, seasonal analysis, and photography were applied for generation, collection, and documentation of various issues from local people’s perspectives. The study reveals that livestock feeding mainly consists of grazing complemented and supplemented with stall feeding. Grazing or tethering contributed bulk of the feed. Stall feeds mainly comprised of paddy and its byproducts. Grazing practices varied with the sowing and harvesting time of paddy, and also with the intensity of cropping. Grazing starts freely in the agricultural field after harvesting of wet paddy (November to January) and continued until sowing (May to July). Tethering starts from sowing and continued till harvesting. Movement of domestic fowls was restricted mainly at the time of wet paddy sowing. The study provided valuable information that may be taken into consideration while planning an extension intervention in order to improve the situation. Many locally available grasses and plants can effectively and efficiently be utilized as valuable livestock feeds which presently remain unutilized. Seasonality of feed scarcity may be overcome to some extent by adopting the practice of hay feeding.

Keywords: Feed resources, Feeding practice, Sundarbans, Livestock, India.

*Corresponding Author: hematripathi1@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Ravi, A. and Rama Prasad, J. 2008. Male kids and lambs response to supplementation under intensive system of management. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 147-156.
Thirty each of growing male kids and ram lambs were stall fed ad libitum on fresh, hand chopped Napier Bajra-21 (NB-21) and supplemented with either concentrates (Maize grain (MG) + deoiled groundnut cake (GNC) alone (T-1) or along with groundnut haulms (T-2), dried leaf meal of Leucaena leucocephala (T-3), Sesbania grandiflora (T-4), Gliricidia maculata (T-5) or Ficus bengalensis (T-6) to meet 30 % of DM requirements. The effect of supplementation on rumen fermentation pattern, digestibility of nutrients and growth performance was studied in two parallel growth trials (180 days). The concentration of rumen metabolites except total N was higher (P<0.01) in rams than in bucks across treatments and among the treatments, t-1 or t-4 sustained higher (p<0.01) concentration of rumen metabolites. Nutrient digestibility except CP was higher (P<0.01) in kids than in lambs while among treatments, the digestibility of OM, CF, ADF and cellulose was comparable. The digestibility of CP and NDF was lower (P<0.05) in T-6 than in other treatments. The nitrogen retention (g/d) and % of intake or absorbed in lambs was higher (P<0.05) in kids than in lambs and among treatments, higher (P<0.01) nitrogen retention was observed in T-3 or T-4 fed animals. The ADG was less (P<0.01) and the EFU was inferior (P<0.01) in kids than in lambs due to lower (P<0.01) DMI from NB21, and roughage supplements. Among treatments, the ADG was comparable while the EFU was superior (P<0.01) in animals fed T-3, T-4 or T-5 than in T-2 or T-6. Supplementation with legume tree leaves (T-3 to T-5) was beneficial for economic and sustainable production of ram lambs whereas, intensive system of management was not successful with kids due to low DMI from basal roughage and roughage supplements.

Key words: Intensive system, Supplementation, Production, Male kids/ram lambs.

*Corresponding Author: ramaprasadjin@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Shinde, P.L., Dass, R.S., Garg, A.K. and Bhadane, K.P. 2008. Effect of vitamin E and selenium supplementation on growth, nutrient utilization and their balance in male buffalo calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 157-165.
Twenty male buffalo calves (10-12 months, 75.30±2.20kg) were divided into four groups of five animals in each in a complete randomized design. Animals were fed on wheat straw and concentrate mixture to meet their nutrient requirements. Treatments were- group I-control (without any supplementation), whereas groups II, III and IV were supplemented with 0.3 ppm selenium, 300 IU of DL- alpha tocopheryl acetate, and both 300 IU DL-alpha tocopheryl acetate and 0.3 ppm selenium, respectively. Experimental feeding lasted for a period of 196 days during which fortnightly body weights and weekly DM intake were recorded. At 120 days of experimental feeding a metabolism trial of 6 days duration was conducted to study the effect of vitamin E and Se supplementation on digestibility of proximate principles, fiber fractions, and balance of nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus. ADG were 423.47, 458.47, 459.65 and 462.85g respectively, in groups I, II, III and IV, revealing a statistically non-significant difference among the four groups. The intake and digestibility of DM, OM, CP, EE, NDF, ADF, cellulose and hemicellulose were also statistically comparable (P>0.05) in the different groups. The intake, excretion and balance of nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus were also found to be similar in the four groups. The TDN and DCP intake (g/day) was also found to be statistically (P>0.05) comparable in the different groups. The overall mean total dry matter intake (TDMI) for the entire experimental period was 3.02, 3.14, 3.03 and 3.18 kg/d in groups I, II, III and IV, respectively and was comparable (P>0.05) among the different groups. It is concluded that supplementation of vitamin E and Se had no effect on the growth performance and nutrient utilization in male buffalo calves.

Key words: Vitamin E, Selenium, Buffalo calves, Growth, Digestibility.

*Corresponding author: rsd@ivri.up.nic.in

ABSTRACT

Yasothai, R., Mohan, B. and Ravi, R. 2008. Chemical composition, metabolizable energy and protein efficiency ratio of sesame oil cake (Sesamum indicum L.) for chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology,8: 167-173.
Chemical composition of sesame oil cake (n=20) were analyzed and the true and apparent metabolizable energy content was estimated in cockerels. The protein efficiency ratio and net protein ratio values of sesame oil cake were estimated and compared with those of other protein sources in broiler chicks by conducting chick growth assay. The sesame oil cake contained (%) 92.6 DM, 32.0 CP, 7.46 CF, 10.1 EE, 38.7 NFE, 12.0 total ash and 2.4 acid insoluble ash. The calcium, phosphorus, sodium chloride, lysine, methionine, free fatty acid, oxalate and aflatoxin B1 content in sesame oil cake were 2.09%, 0.86%, 1.08%, 2.24 (g/16g N), 2.72 (g/16g N), 2.15%, 3.90% and 2.1 ppb, respectively. The true and apparent metabolizable energy content in sesame oil cake were 2955.2 and 2688.9 kcal/kg, respectively. The protein efficiency ratio and net protein ratio values in broilers fed various vegetable and animal protein feedstuffs infers that the fish meal (5.2 and 3.7) is the superior protein feedstuff for broilers followed by soybean meal (4.2 and 2.5), sunflower deoiled cake (3.3 and 1.5), groundnut deoiled cake (2.9 and 0.9), sesame oil cake (2.3 and 0.1) and meat and bone meal (2.3 and – 0.5).

Key words: Sesame oil cake, Chemical composition, True metabolizable energy, Protein efficiency ratio.

*Corresponding author: yasothairamalingam@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Prakash, B., Dhali, A., Das, K.C., Rathore, S.S., Hazarika, H. and Rajkhowa, C. 2008. Nutrient composition and in situ degradability of forest foliages consumed by Mithun (Bos frontalis). Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 175-183.
The present investigation was carried out to determine the nutrient composition, macro and micro mineral content and nutritive values of foliages consumed by mithun. Crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), acid detergent fibre (ADF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and ash content of foliages were found to be very between 11.8 to 26.4, 1.91 to 2.81, 19.4 to 28.0, 25 to 38 and 5.1 to 8.9 percent, respectively. The foliages contained 1.62 to 3.32, 0.22 to 0.84 percent of Ca and Mg respectively, but Na content of all the selected foliages was low (less than 0.015%). Phosphorous was mostly within the range of 0.22 to 0.47 percent. Trace minerals, like Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn contents were found to be 6.3 to 19.2, 132.2 to 594.7, 36.6 to 206 and 51.3 to 424.5 mg/kg, respectively, on DM basis. The mean value of the effective degradability of DM and CP calculated from the rumen out flow rates (5% h-1, as average) were 29.9 to 38.7 and 35.3 to 40.2 percent respectively. Degradation of DM (r = -0.50) and CP (r = -0.28) were negatively correlated with NDF content. The selected foliages indicated that the mineral concentrations were within the normal range. Nevertheless, Na was deficient in all the foliages. It is concluded that among different foliages, Ficus dalhousiae, Callicarpa vestita, Melia azadiracta, Trema orientalis and Lagerstroemia speciosa could be used as moderate energy and rumen undegradable protein source.

Key words: Tree foliage, Nutrient composition, In situ degradability, Mithun.

*Corresponding author: drbhukyaprakash@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Senthilkumar, P., Ramana Reddy, Y., Ramesh, S., Gobinath, S. and Ravinder Reddy, V. 2008. Effect of replacing maize with pigment extracted annatto (Bixa Orallena) seed meal on the performance of broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 185-192.
The effect of quantitatively replacing 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 percent of dietary maize with pigment extracted annatto (Bixa orellana) seed meal (ASM) was investigated for broiler. Each one of the 5 diets was offered as mash ad libitum to 4 replicates (8 per replicate) of 32 chicks each, during 0-42 days of age. Replacement of maize with ASM up to 25 per cent level did not significantly (P>0.05) affect the body weight gain, feed intake, feed efficiency, dressing percentage and visceral organs weight while pigmentation of shank and skin colour was significantly (P<0.05) lower compared to control. there was no mortality in any of the dietary treatment throughout the experiment. replacing the maize with asm more than 25% in the diet decreased the growth performance, dressing percentage and increased the visceral organ and intestine weights and intestine length. results indicated that asm can replace 25 percent level of maize without affecting the performance and return over feed cost in broiler starter and finisher rations.

Key words: Annatto seed meal, Bixa orellana, Replacement, Maize, Broiler, Performance.

*Corresponding author: ramanayr19@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kore, K.B., Pattanaik, A.K., Das, A. and Sharma, K. 2008. Nutritional and metabolic response of adult Spitz dogs fed pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) based diets to exogenous enzyme supplementation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 193-202.
An experiment was conducted to study the effect of exogenous multi-enzyme supplementation to pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) based homemade diet for dogs. The experiment was carried out in a complete crossover design having two periods of 14 days each using five adult Spitz dogs. A commercial multi-enzyme (containing amylase, cellulase, phytase, xylanase, β-glucanase, pectinase and protease) was supplemented at 0.75 g/kg feed. The results indicated that the of total tract digestibility of DM, protein, fat, fibre and carbohydrates were without any significant (P>0.05) difference between the two groups. The mean faecal concentrations of acetate (P=0.146) and propionate (P=0.067) tended to increase upon enzyme supplementation, resulting in a trend of greater (P=0.112) total short-chain fatty acids compared to control. The molar proportion between acetate, propionate and butyrate, however, did not show any influence of the dietary intervention. There was no influence of enzyme supplementation on most of the plasma metabolites except for alkaline phosphatase, which tended (P=0.090) to be higher in the enzyme supplemented group than the control. The mean plasma values of creatinine (P<0.05) was reduced significantly upon enzyme supplementation while that of plasma sodium and potassium were higher (p<0.05) in enzyme-supplemented group than the control. The study reveled that although there are subtle changes in the indices for hind gut fermentation, supplementation of enzyme at 0.75 g/kg of pearl millet based homemade diet had no apparent influence on the nutrient digestibility.

Key words: Digestibility, Dogs, Enzymes, Faecal quality, Pearl millet, Plasma metabolites.

*Corresponding author: akpattanaik1@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Ganai, A.M. and Sharma, T. 2008. Performance of lambs fed formaldehyde treated mustard oil cake and bakery waste based concentrate mixture. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 203-212.
Sixteen male Nali lambs (7-8 months, 15-16 kg BW) divided into 4 equal groups in a randomized block design were fed isonitrogenous and isocaloric rations in 4 different treatments viz. T1: control, containing cotton seed cake (CSC), T2: CSC replaced by mustard oil cake (MOC) on protein basis, T3: CSC replaced by 1% formaldehyde (HCHO) treated MOC, and T4: CSC replaced by 1% HCHO treated MOC and wheat bran (WB) by bakery waste on protein basis along with sewan (Lasirus sindicus) hay for a period of 120 days. At the end of growth trial, a metabolism trial of seven days was conducted to know the digestibility of nutrients. The digestibility of dry matter (DM) and proximate principles were similar in four treatments. Palatability score in terms of DM intake per 100 kg body weight and per kg W0.75 was significantly (P<0.01) lower in t3 and t4 in comparison to t1 and t2. feed efficiency in terms of weight gain and wool production was significantly (p<0.05) higher in T3 and T4 in comparison to T1 and T2. The average body weight gain of lambs in T3 and T4 was significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1 and T2 with an average daily gain of 76.9±2.59, 57.8±4.11, 120.0±3.13 and 102.2±2.26 g in T1,T2, T3 and T4 groups, respectively. All the animals were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. Significantly (P<0.05) higher nitrogen balance and blood urea nitrogen was observed in T3 and T4 in comparison to other groups. Highly significant (P<0.01) effect of treatment on greasy fleece weight and clean wool yield indicated better performance of T3 and T4 groups. Results indicated adequate scope for replacement of CSC by 1% HCHO treated MOC and WB by bakery waste in the ration of lambs without any adverse effect on growth, digestibility of nutrients and wool production in sheep.

Key words: Bakery waste, Mustard oil cake, Formaldehyde treatment, Growth, Lambs.

*Corresponding author: amganai@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Das, A. 2008. Effect of different levels of concentrate supplementation on growth performance of Sikkim local kids fed mixed jungle grass based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 213-218.
Twelve Sikkim local male kids (3-6 months of age) of 10.29±0.70 kg body weight were divided into three groups of 4 each in an experiment based on randomized block design. Mixed jungle grass (winter season, Dec-Feb) was offered ad libitum to all the animals. Besides, all the kids received about 500g of fresh Nevaro (Ficus hookerii) leaves. Concentrate was supplemented @ 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% of body weight, in groups I, II and III, respectively. The trial was conducted for 90 days during which weekly change in body weight and feed intake was recorded. All the kids consumed all the nevaro leaves and consumption of jungle grass was not affected by different level of concentrate supplementation. As a result, total dry matter intake (DMI) increased significantly (P<0.05) with increased level of concentrate supplementation. digestibility of dry matter (dm) and organic matter (om) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in groups II and III in comparison to group I. The combined effect of increased intake and digestibility of CP and OM resulted in higher (P<0.01) digestible crude protein (DCP) intake, N balance, and significant (P<0.05) increase in digestible organic matter (DOM) intake in groups II and III in comparison to group I. Average daily gain (ADG) was 24.40, 42.55 and 51.40 g/day in groups I, II and III, respectively. ADG was significantly (P<0.01) higher in group III as compared to other groups. Hence, it was concluded that maximum growth rate during winter season can be obtained in Sikkim local kids fed mixed jungle grass based diet when concentrate is supplemented @1.5% of their body weight.

Key words: Concentrate, Supplementation, Growth, Goat, Jungle grass.

*Corresponding author: drasitdas@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Bugalia, H.L., Chaudhary, J.L. and Gupta, L. 2008. Effect of feeding formaldehyde treated sesame (Sesamum Indicum L.) cake on reproductive efficiency and physiological responses of crossbred cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 219-226.
An experiment was conducted on 15 crossbred (Holstein Friesian x Tharparkar) cows (BW 393.80±16.15 kg) to study the effect of feeding formaldehyde treated sesame cake on reproductive efficiency and physiological responses. The animals were randomly divided into three equal groups and allotted to three dietary treatments viz., T1: green berseem and concentrate containing untreated sesame cake (control); T2: green berseem and concentrate containing 1.0% formaldehyde treated (1.0 g FA/100g CP) sesame cake and T3: green berseem and concentrate containing 1.5% formaldehyde treated (1.5 g FA/100g CP) sesame cake. Sorghum stover was fed ad libitum in all the groups. The CP and TDN contents of the three diets did not vary significantly among the diets. The DM intake (%BW) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in t3 (3.14±0.02) followed by t2 (2.70±0.10) and t1 (2.63±0.06). there was significant (p<0.05) difference between the treatments for mean daily intake of CP and TDN, which was higher in T3 than T2 and T1. The digestibility coefficients of CF and EE were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T3 than T2 and T1. The indices of post partum reproductive efficiency were higher in T3 as compared to T2 and T1. The number of services per conception did not differ significantly among groups, though the values were lower in T3 group. It may be concluded that the feeding of protected protein in the form of 1.5% formaldehyde treated sesame cake showed a significant improvement in the over all reproductive performance of the crossbred cows.

Key words: Formaldehyde, Sesame cake, Reproductive efficiency, Physiological responses, Crossbred cows.

*Corresponding author: chaudharyjl@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Moorthy, M. and Viswanathan, K. 2008. Extracted coconut meal in white leghorn layer diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 227-236.
An experiment was conducted using 180 Single Comb White Leghorn layers from 21 to 53 weeks by feeding extracted coconut meal (ECM) to study their production performance. These birds were randomly divided into five treatments with three replicates of twelve birds each. The treatment groups consisted of 0 (T1), 5 (T2), 10 (T3), 15 (T4) and 20 per cent (T5) coconut meal inclusion in the diet. No significant difference was observed feed consumption, feed conversion ratio and livability during the experimental period. Both overall hen housed (199.14) and hen day egg production (88.90%) were significantly (P<0.05) reduced in t5 compared to other treatment groups. the per cent broken eggs was significantly (p<0.05) high in T4 (0.47%) and T5 (0.98%) compared to control group (0.07%). Based upon this study, it is recommended to include the coconut meal up to 10 per cent in egg type ration for better egg production.

Key words: Extracted coconut meal, White Leghorn layers, Egg production, Performance.

*Corresponding author: poultrymoorthy@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Bolu, S.A., Olakotan, S., Elkanah, A. and Soyemi, F. 2008. Response of broiler chicks to supplementation of a commercial growth promoter-cum-immunomodulator. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 237-244.
A study was conducted to investigate the effect of graded supplementation levels of Livelong (a commercial growth promoter and immunomodulator) on the performance, specific serum biochemistry, haematology, histology of broiler chicks. Supplemental Livelong tended to significantly increase (P>0.05) voluntary feed intake, improve weight gain and efficiency of feed conversion. Broiler chicks fed the control diet recorded the lowest values for these criteria. Mortality was also highest for birds in the control group. Serum biochemical indices and haematology were improved with various levels of supplementation with Livelong. Nutrient retention values for broiler chicks supplemented with Livelong were significantly higher (P>0.05) than the control group. Liver histology was not affected by supplementation levels of Livelong studied. Broiler chicks supplemented with Livelong at 40 ml/L drinking water recorded the highest overall performance.

Key words: Livelong, Growth promoter, Immunomodulator, Broiler chicks, Performance.

*Corresponding author: bolusao2002@yahoo.co.uk

ABSTRACT

Behura, N.C., Dehuri, P.K., Mishra, S.K. and Samal, P.C. 2008. Processing of simaruba (Simarouba glauca) oil cake for detoxification and its evaluation in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 245-252.
Ten physical, chemical and physico chemical methods were tried to detoxify the Simaruba oilcake (SOC) which is a very rich source of protein and contains a bitter toxic constituent known as quassinoids making it unsuitable for livestock and poultry feeding. The crude protein and crude fibre contents of the processed samples were 49.5 and 18.45, 47 and 18.85, 48.02 and 16.49, 61.98 and 7.59, 62.34 and 7.34, 42 and 18.51, 46 and 19.23, 40.20 and 12.12, 59 and 12.45 and 62.8 and 7.83 percent, respectively, for the soaking, fermentation, boiling, roasting, autoclaving, HCl treatment, acetic acid treatment, NaOH treatment, methanol extraction and roasting following ammonia treatment. Treatment with acids, alkali as well as water resulted in loss of dry matter, reduction in protein content and increases in crude fibre content of the SOC. The processed oilcakes were evaluated through a biological trial by incorporating it at 10% level in broiler diet. The growth, feed efficiency and mortality were compared with the control. The average sixth week body weight of the T1 (control), T2 (SOC), T3 (soaked SOC), T4 (fermented SOC), T5 (boiled SOC), T6 (roasted SOC), T7 (autoclaved SOC), T8 (HCl treated SOC), T9 (acetic acid treated SOC), T10 (NaOH treated SOC), T11 (alcohol extracted SOC), and T12 (NH3 treated and roasted SOC) groups were 1944, 198, 496, 604, 399, 1203, 367, 681, 916, 412, 775 and 1681 g, respectively. The FCR and mortality of the T12 group was comparable with the control though the 6th week body weight of all the treatments differed significantly from the control. It was concluded that ammonia treatment followed by roasting of the oilcake was found to be a suitable method of detoxification of the oilcake without much adverse effect on its nutrient composition

Key words: Simaruba oilcake, Detoxification, Broiler, Feeding. invitee

*Corresponding author: kvk_semiliguda@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, R., Sharma, K.B., Sharma, M. and Sharma, R. 2008. Mineral status of livestock of shivalik hill zone of Himachal Pradesh. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 253-257.
The present study was conducted to assess the mineral status of the livestock of Amb and Gagret blocks of district Una representing agroclimatic zone I of Himachal Pradesh. The blood samples were collected randomly from local and crossbred animals and were analyzed for various macro and micro minerals. Results indicated high levels of K in the blood plasma of the animals of both Amb and Gagret blocks. Ca level was deficient in animals of Amb (8.68±0.29 mg/dl) and Gagret (8.17±0.35 mg/dl) blocks, whereas, P was found to be marginally higher in Gagret block (6.57±0.23 mg/dl). Among micro minerals, Zn was found to be deficient in the animals of both Amb (0.42±0.04ppm) and Gagret (0.61±0.09 ppm) blocks, whereas, marginally lower values of Cu were recorded in both the blocks. However, Fe concentration in Amb and Gagret blocks were 1.64±0.10 and 1.69±0.11 ppm, respectively. Significantly lower values (P<0.05) of na and p were observed in amb block as compared to gagret block. zn was also found to be significantly lower (p<0.05) in Amb block in comparison to Gagret block. Analysis of feed and fodder samples indicated that all the minerals were within normal range except Cu which was found to be lower in both the blocks. All minerals were in sufficient amount in feed and fodder samples except copper which was below the normal critical range in both the blocks, thus indicating the need for calcium and copper supplementation to the animals of this area.

Keywords: Mineral, Macro minerals, Micro minerals, Blood, Plasma, Feed, Fodder.

*Corresponding author: sharmakb@hillagric.ernet.in

ABSTRACT

Bhat, G.A. and Gupta, S.C. 2008. Effect of anti-stress agents on the performance of WLH hens during summer season. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 259-264.
An experiment was undertaken on 210 White Leg Horn hens raised on deep litter and divided into five equal groups to study the effect of incorporating anti-stress agents viz vitamin C, vitamin E, sodium bicarbonate and ammonium chloride @ 0.8, 0.1, 15 and 10 g/kg feed respectively in the ration of WLH pullets during summer season (May to October) on, age at 50% production, percent hen day production, and egg weight. There was decrease (P<0.05) in age at 50% production which was 158.67, 160.00, 162.33, 165.00 days in ammonium chloride, vitamin c, sodium bicarbonate and vitamin e groups, respectively, as compared to 174.33 days in control. incorporation of anti-stress agents resulted in improvement (p<0.05) in percent hen day egg production, being highest in vitamin C group (53.17%) followed by 40.85, 45.95 and 44.29 percent in vitamin E, ammonium chloride and sodium bicarbonate groups, respectively. The egg weight in the control group was lower (P<0.05) in the vitamin C group (50.92g) followed by 50.24, 50.22, 50.20 g in ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and vitamin E groups, respectively. It could therefore be concluded that anti stress agents like vitamin C, vitamin E, sodium bicarbonate and ammonium chloride could be helpful in ameliorating the heat stress caused by high temperatures during summer season.

Keywords: Pullets, Anti-stress agents, Egg production, Egg weight.

ABSTRACT

Singh, P., Gupta, V.K., Sikka, S.S., Sethi, A.P.S. and Chawla, J.S. 2008. Studies on improvement in the nutritive value of poultry droppings by fungal fermentation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 265-272.
An attempt was made to reduce the uric acid of poultry droppings by solid state fermentation using Alternaria sp-1 and 2, Aspergilus sp-1 (AP-1), Coprinus sp, Fusarium moniliformis, Pencillium sp, Rhizopus sp, Trichoderma reesei (TR-9123 and TR-9414) fungal species. TR–9414 and Alternaria sp-1 had maximum growth and penetration. Fermentation reduced crude fibre and uric acid. AP–1 fermented droppings had minimum uric acid. Fermentation with AP–1, Fusarium moniliformis and TR– 9414 increased crude protein. Screening of AP–1, TR–9123 and TR–9414 further indicated that AP-1 had significantly (P<0.05) less organic matter but tr–9414 had significantly (p<0.05) more ether extract. Crude fibre in AP-1 fermented droppings was significantly (P<0.05) less than TR–9123. Similarly TR–9123 had significantly (P<0.05) less crude protein. However AP-1 had significantly (P<0.05) more true protein. Fermentation time significantly (P<0.05) affected the nutrient contents. Pepsin-trypsin digestibility in TR–9414 fermented droppings was significantly (P<0.05) more than in AP-1 fermented poultry dropping. Irrespective of the fungi fermentation time significantly (P<0.05) affected in-vitro digestibilities. Pepsin-trypsin digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) more in TR–9414 than AP-1 fermented poultry droppings. It was concluded that fermentation for ten days significantly (P<0.05) decreased crude fibre and uric acid with increase in true protein and nitrogen free extract of poultry droppings.

Keywords: Poultry droppings, Fungal fermentation, Nutritive value.

*Corresponding author: sssikka04@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Roy, D., Mani, V., Kaur, H. and Kewalramani, N. 2008. Status of arsenic and mercury in different sources of water in Haryana. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 273-278.
To assess As and Hg status in water samples in Haryana, 163 samples from different sources were collected randomly from different locations from all the 19 districts covering industrial and non-industrial areas. The data obtained was classified into two zones as per agro-climatic conditions of different districts. The As content in hand pump and tube well samples in different districts averaged 4.39±0.21 and 4.18±0.31 ppb in zone I and 4.66±0.51 and 4.27±0.19 ppb in zone II respectively, showing no significant difference between the two zones. There was no difference in the arsenic content of water samples collected from industrial and non industrial areas. Arsenic content in all the water samples (except 2 samples) was below maximum contamination level (MCL) of 10 ppb. The mean concentration of Hg in hand pump and tube well water samples was 2.19±0.57 and 2.33±1.04 ppb in zone I and 1.17±0.23 and 1.47±0.19 ppb in zone II, respectively, showing significantly (P<0.05) higher levels in zone i in both the sources of water. the level of hg was higher than mcl in industrial areas. it can be concluded from the present survey that arsenic content was within the safe limits in almost all the water samples, but, mercury content in water samples collected from various sources in some of the industrial districts was higher than mcl.

Keywords: Mercury, Arsenic, Water, Haryana.

*Corresponding author: veenamani1@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Bade, R.N., Kank, V.D., Patil, M.B., Gadegaonkar, G.M., Jagadale, S.D. and Phondba, B.T. 2008. Effect of replacement of cottonseed cake with sunflower extraction on lactation performance of cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 279-284.
A 91 days feeding trial was undertaken on 18 crossbred cows (Gir X HF and Gir X Jersey) randomly divided into three groups of 6 cows each to study the effect of replacement of cottonseed cake with sunflower extraction on the milk yield and its composition. All the animals received a basal diet of concentrate mixture, green, hay and jowar straw. Groups I, II and III received a concentrate mixture in which cottonseed cake was replaced at 0, 50 and 75% level with sunflower extraction. The average daily milk yield of cows from groups I, II and III was 9.76±0.21, 9.77±0.20 and 9.12±0.17 kg, respectively. The average daily milk yield of group II was highest where as the group III had significantly (P£0.01) lower milk yield as compared to groups II and I. The average FCM yield was 9.07±0.09, 9.32±0.15 and 8.56±0.08 kg, for groups I, II and III, respectively and the apparent differences among different groups were statistically significant (P≤0.01). Total solids, fat, SNF, protein, ash and specific gravity of milk among different groups were statistically similar. It was concluded that 50 part cottonseed cake can be replaced by sunflower extraction to economize the cost of concentrate mixture without any adverse effect on milk yield and its composition.

Keywords: Cottonseed cake, Crossbred cows, Milk yield, Sunflower extraction.

*Corresponding author: dr_rakeshbade@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, S., Prasad, N., Thakur, S. and Singh, S.K. 2008. Effect of higher levels of zinc on nutrient utilization and mineral balance in indigenous pigs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 285-288.
The study was conducted on 27 adults indigenous pigs (age 12 months; BW 56.0±5.96 kg) divided into three equal groups (2 male and 7 female) and fed concentrate mixture with different levels of zinc content. The control group (T1) pigs received zinc as per recommended requirements i.e. 50 ppm while pigs in groups T2 and T3 received higher levels at 150 and 200%, respectively, of the suggested level during experimental feeding period of three months. Addition of 100 ppm zinc in concentrate mixture (T3) had significant (P<0.05) effects on the digestibility of cp, ee, om and balances of n, ca, p and zn. the intake of dcp was also significantly (p<0.05) higher in that group. It was concluded that supplementation of higher Zn levels in adult indigenous pig ration improved digestibility and balance of nutrients.

Keywords: Indigenous, Pigs, Zinc, Digestibility, Nutrient utilization.

ABSTRACT

Bhatt, R.S., Mondal, D., Sharma, R.B. and Risam, K.S. 2008. Utilization of mulberry (Morus alba) leaves for economic angora rabbit production. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 289-294.
An experiment was conducted on 38 adult angora rabbit divided into two equal groups to study the utilization of mulberry leaves as compared to control. Rabbits in T1 group were offered 110g of concentrate pellets and ad libitum green grass. In T2 group rabbits were given 80g of concentrate, ad libitum green grass and remaining 30 g of concentrate was supplemented through 200 g of fresh mulberry leaves. The experiment was conducted for a period of 225 days. Initial body weight in T1 and T2 groups was 3.14 kg and 3.14 kg respectively. At the end of 3rd shearing (at 225 d) the respective body weights were 3.16 kg and 3.10 kg in both the groups, and the differences were non-significant. The total average wool production in three shearing in these groups was 431.5 g and 421.8 g in T1 and T2 group while the wool yield/ shearing as 130.8g and 125.3g respectively. Total dry matter intake in T1 and T2 group was 139.3±8.3 g and 162.8±5.3 g respectively. Proportion of mulberry leaves in daily dry matter intake was 40.72 %. Non-significant differences were recorded for staple length, fiber diameter, medullation percent, pure fiber and guard hair. Significant differences were recorded for the digestibility of crude fiber and ether extract. Dry matter required for producing 100 g wool was 7.84 kg in T1 and 9.12 kg in T2 groups with the respective cost as Rs. 49.82 and 41.66. From this experiment, it may be concluded that the mulberry leaves can successfully replace upto 28% of concentrate from the daily concentrate requirement of adult angoras.

Keywords: Mulberry leaves, Angora rabbit, Wool production, Digestibility.

*Corresponding author: bhatt_rs@yahoo.com