ABSTRACT

Blümmel, M., Rao, S.S., Palaniswami, S., Shah, L. and Reddy, Belum V.S. 2009. Evaluation of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) used for bio-ethanol production in the context of optimizing whole plant utilization. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 1-10. Eighteen hybrids and 16 varieties of sweet sorghum were investigated for yields of grain, stover, juice extract for bio-ethanol distillation and bagasse and the relationships between these productive traits. There was a large degree of independency between grain and stover yields, suggesting that sweets sorghum can provide both grain and fodder yield. Juice extract yields from the stems were not significantly related to grain yields. The differences in stover fodder quality traits were significant: nitrogen content ranged from 0.44 to 0.72% in hybrids and from 0.50 to 0.89% in varieties while in vitro digestibility ranged from 43.8 to 54.5% in hybrids and from 48.8 to 54.8% in varieties. Differences in in vitro digestibility of bagasse plus stripped leaves were also substantial, ranging from 39.3 to 49.1% in hybrids and from 42.0 to 50.4% in varieties. The palatability of bagasse and stripped leaves to cattle was investigated by incorporation of the distillery residues of one sweet sorghum variety into a commercial feed block, replacing the traditionally used (non sweet) sorghum stover. There was no statistical difference in intake (DMI) and live weight gain (LWG) between bulls fed the bagasse plus stripped leaf based blocks (DMI of 3.7% of live weight and 0.73 kg/d of LWG) and bulls fed the original sorghum stover based commercial feed block (DMI of 3.5% of live weight and 0.82 kg/d of LWG). We conclude that sweet sorghum can provide food (grain), fodder (bagasse/leaf residues) and bio-ethanol at the same time.

Key words: Sweet sorghum, Bio-ethanol, Digestibility in vitro.

*Corresponding author: m.blummel@cgiar.org

ABSTRACT

Thirumalesh, T. and Krishnamoorthy, U. 2009. Effect of diets differing in partitioning factor on intake, digestibility and nitrogen metabolism in ram lambs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 11-20.
This study was conducted to determine effect of diets differing in partitioning factor (PF) on feed intake, N metabolism and urinary purine derivative excretion (PDe) in 12 bannur ram lambs (Body weight:15.7±0.57 kg) in a 4 x 4 Latin Square Design (LSD) experiment. The diet consisted of Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) hay as the sole forage and compound feed mixtures, with a concentrate to roughage ratio of 50:50, to provide metabolizable energy and other nutrients for maintenance, plus a weight gain of 50 g/d/ram. The concentrate supplements were formulated using tabulated PF data to differ in PF in order to create diets with PF values that increased linearly from 3.0 to 3.5. The feeding study lasted for16 weeks in 4 periods of 4 weeks with collection period of 7 days. Measured PF values ranged from 3.07 to 3.59, but k values were similar among the diets (i.e., 0.0496 to 0.0525/h). Intake of NDF and ADF was lowest (P = 0.05 or less) for the lowest PF diet, and digestibility of DM and OM decreased (P<0.01) as the diet pf increased. digestion of ndf and adf was lower (p=0.05 or less) as the pf of the diet increased. there were no differences among diets in purine derivative excretion in urine or estimated microbial n supply to the duodenum. results appear to suggest that feeding of diets differing in pf to a much greater extent than k had no impact on measured microbial n flow to the duodenum.

*Corresponding author: ukmthy@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Verma, A.K., Singh, P., Deshpande, K.Y., Verma, Vinay and Mehra, U.R. 2008. Influence of dietary proteins levels on nutrient utilization and blood parameters in buffaloes fed on wheat straw based diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 21-28.
Thirty growing bulls (Murrah, 1 year age, 80.3±1.95 kg b.wt.), divided into three equal groups following completely randomized design, were fed on isocaloric (2.01ME Mcal/kg diet) diets containing standard protein ration at 100 (SP), 90 (MP), and (80) LP percent of requirements as per Kearl, respectively. After 21 days of feeding, a metabolic trial of 6 days duration was conducted on 6 animals of each group. Intake and digestibility of CP and DCP intake (g/kgW0.75) varied significantly (P<0.05) among groups, being lowest in group 3. intake of dm and om (g />kgW0.75) was also similar in groups 1 and 2 but significantly (P<0.05) higher than in group 3. nutrient digestibility other than cp did not vary among the groups. intake and balance of n (g />d) were significantly (P<0.05) higher in group 1 than in groups 3 however variation between group 1 and 2 was not significant. n balance as percent of intake as well as absorbed did not differ significantly among 3 groups. intake and balance of ca and p balance were higher (p<0.05) in group 2 than in other groups. The blood biochemical profiles were comparable among all groups except for glucose and globulin (mg/dl), which were higher (P<0.05) in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. It may be deduced that feeding of animals up to 90 percent of Kearl’s standard protein requirements had no adverse effect on nutrient utilization and blood profile.

Key words: Buffaloes, Levels of protein intake, Blood profile, Nutrient utilization.

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

ABSTRACT

Adeniji, A.A. 2009. Effects of dietary grit inclusion on the utilization of palm kernel cake by pullet chicks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 29-36.
Two hundred and forty day-old pullet chicks of Harco strain were used to investigate the effect of grit inclusion on the utilization of palm kernel cake (PKC). Palm kernel cake was fed at 0, 7.5, 15 and 22.5%levels of inclusion and grit at 0 and 5% levels. Increasing the inclusion level of PKC in the diets of pullet chicks had significant effect on the feed intake, weight gain and feed-to-gain ratio (P<0.05). there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the fat retention. The crude protein and crude fibre retention had significant difference (P<0.05). the cost of feed reduced with the increase in pkc inclusion level, also with an increase in grit level of the diet. the result from this experiment showed that pkc could be included at 22.5% inclusion level in the diets of pullet chicks, and grit at 5% level without any detrimental effects.

Key words: Grit, Palm kernel cake, Pullet Chicks, Utilization, Profitability.

*Corresponding author: feyidot@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Kishore, K.R. and Parthasarathy, M. 2009. Prediction of energy content of tropical forages and tree leaves using NRC-2001 (a TDN-based model) in ruminants. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9:37-43.
An experiment was conducted to predict the TDN content of various tropical forages and tree leaves by the equations of NRC (2001) as given by the summative approach and compare it with the estimated values obtained after digestion trials. Twenty four feedstuffs (8 each of cultivated grasses, leguminous forages and fodder tree leaves) were analysed for their proximate principles, detergent fiber components, ADIN, NDIN and the TDN was then calculated. Gliricidia, Andhra Pradesh Bajra Napier-1 (APBN-1) and groundnut haulms were evaluated as sole feed for total tract digestibility of nutrients and nutritive value using four growing male goats. The TDN (%) obtained by the equations of NRC (2001) for gliricidia (55.4), APBN-1 (60.3) and groundnut haulms (53.3) were in conformity with that of TDN obtained by in vivo studies (53.5, 61.8 and 55.4), respectively. It was concluded that the summative approach provides a rapid, inexpensive and accurate means to calculate the energy density (TDN) of tropical forages and tree leaves.

Key words: Energy content, TDN, NRC-2001 model, Tropical forages, Tree leaves, Ruminants.

*Corresponding author: mandadi.parthasarathy@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Mondal, S., Samanta, C.C., Bairagi, B. and Biswas, P. 2009. Effects of organic and inorganic forms of supplemental copper, zinc, iron and manganese at different dose levels on growth performance and plasma minerals in crossbred male calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 45-50.
The present experiment was carried out to assess the effect of organic and inorganic forms of trace minerals at different supplementary levels on the growth performance of crossbred male calves. Twenty cross-bred male calves (6-9 months), were randomly distributed into 5 groups viz. C (Control), T1, T2, T3, T4 consisting of four calves each. Inorganic trace minerals (Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn) were fed at 200% of the NRC requirements in T1 group and proteinate trace minerals (Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn) were supplemented at 100%, 50% and 25% of the NRC (2001) requirements in T2, T3 and T4 respectively. In Control (C) group the said trace mineral requirements were met through addition of inorganic salt of those elements. Effect of proteinate and inorganic trace minerals supplementation was assessed by body weight gain, average daily gain, plasma major (Ca, P and Mg) and trace (Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe) mineral profiles. Result revealed that supplementation of proteinate trace minerals at NRC dose level to male calves improved body weight gain and average daily gain as compared to the calves supplemented inorganic minerals at NRC (2001) dose level. Supplementation of proteinate trace mineral at NRC dose level to male calves did not alter plasma major mineral (Ca, P and Mg) profile but increased plasma Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe after 90 days of feeding trial. It was concluded that supplementation of proteinate trace elements (Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn) at NRC requirement in crossbred male calves may improve the body weight gain than that of inorganic trace minerals.

Key words: Calves, Growth, Inorganic, Trace mineral, Proteinate, Plasma.

*Corresponding author: souvik823@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Sethi, A.P.S. and Sikka, S.S. 2009. Effect of varying levels of available phosphorus on performance of broiler chicks in hot humid climate. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 51-56.
An experiment was conducted in hot and humid climate on one-week-old broilers to study the effect of varying levels of available phosphorus on the growth performance. Eighty broiler chicks of one week age were divided into eight groups of 10 chicks (5 males and 5 females) in each. Four experimental diets with varying available phosphorus levels of 0.40, 0.50, 0.60 and 0.65 percent at one percent calcium level were formulated. Each diet was fed to a duplicate group of chicks up to sixth week of age. Results revealed that the highest body weight was at 0.5 percent available phosphorus level beyond which it declined. But the body weights at 0.6 and 0.65 percent available phosphorus were more than that at 0.4 percent available phosphorus levels. Weight gain at 0.4 percent available phosphorus level was significantly (P<0.05) less than at higher levels studied. dietary increase in the phosphorus level significantly (p<0.05) affected the feed consumption of the birds. Significantly (P<0.05) more feed consumption was recorded at 0.60 and 0.65 percent phosphorus levels as compared to the lowest level of (0.4 percent) available phosphorus. Minimum feed intake per unit gain was recorded at 0.5 percent available phosphorus level. Dressing percentage, meat: bone ratio, shank length and shank width was significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. Males put up more weight in bones than females and also had significantly higher shank weight, length and shank width. From the data it was concluded that the broiler diets during hot humid climatic conditions should contain 0.5 percent available phosphorus.

Key words: Available phosphorus, Broilers, Calcium, Climate.

*Corresponding author: sssikka04@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Saraf, R.S., Baghel, R.P.S. and Manwar, S.J. 2009. Effect of coarse cereals replacing maize on performance, cost of feeding and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 57-64.
The present investigations have been undertaken to study the effects of feeding coarse cereals on growth performance, carcass quality traits and cost of feeding in broilers. A total of 168 chicks were randomly distributed into 21 replicates of 8 chicks each; three replicates were allotted to each of the seven dietary treatments. Treatment one was control diet containing maize as sole source of cereal, while rest of the diets were formulated replacing maize in the control diet by sorghum (at 50, 75 and 100% levels) or kodomillet (Paspalum scorbiculatum) (at 25, 50 and 75% levels). Feed consumption of broilers fed maize or sorghum diets were similar (P>0.05). Broilers fed 25% kodomillet consumed maximum (P<0.05) quantity of feed but with increasing level of kodomillet drastic reduction in the feed intake was noticed. the bw gain as well as performance index (pi) of broiler fed control diet was significantly (p<0.05) higher than all other groups. Incorporation of sorghum or kodomillet caused significant reduction in these attributes. This was reflected in feed cost per kg BW gain as well which was minimum in groups assigned maize based control diet. However, the feed cost per unit BW gain was increased (P<0.05) in kodomillet based diets compared to either control or sorghum based diets. Dietary treatments had significant influence on the overall carcass characteristics and showed variable response in different parameters in response to dietary treatments. Use of higher level of sorghum had reducing effect on the organ weights of broilers. Use of kodomillet was responsible for higher processing losses. It may be concluded that sorghum can be used economically in broiler diet to the extent of 75% replacing maize while kodo can substitute maize beneficially to the tune of only 25%. However, these coarse cereals can be economical only if they are cheaper to that of maize.

Key words: Broilers, Carcass traits, Feed cost, Kodomillet, Sorghum.

*Corresponding author: docdolit@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Ghosh, M.K., Atreja, P. and Bandyopadhyay, S. 2009. Biodegradation of mimosine and 3-hydroxy-4 (1H) pyridone in Karan Fries crossbred (Holstein Friesian x Tharparkar) cattle. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 65-72.
Three rumen fistulated Karan Fries crossbred (Holstein Friesian x Tharparkar) calves were fed increasing dry matter (DM) levels of 25, 50, 75 and 100% through leucaena leaf meal (LLM) starting in week 1, 2, 3, and 6, respectively. The mimosine, 3, 4 DHP and 2, 3 DHP levels were determined in strained rumen liquor (SRL) at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h post feeding on days 1, 8, 15, 22 and 42 and in serum samples at 0, 4, 8h post feeding on days 1, 8, 15, 22 and 45. LLM was incubated for 24 h with SRL in vitro on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 42 and 98 to study mimosine and dihydroxy pyridone (DHP) biodegradation. DM intake was 2.29, 2.14, 1.83, 1.51, 1.46 and 0.71% of live weight through 1st to 6th weeks, respectively. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed degradation of mimosine to 3, 4 DHP and 2, 3 DHP from 1st day of LLM feeding, but from 2, 3 DHP to further degradation to nontoxic compound was limited. The overall in vitro DHP degradation was 33.11, 48.65, 39.37, 57.93 and 31.94% on day zero, 7th, 14th, 21st and 42nd of LLM feeding. The appearance of mimosine, 3, 4 DHP and 2, 3 DHP in blood indicated their absorption from gastrointestinal tract. The faecal and urinary excretion of mimosine, 3, 4 DHP and 2, 3 DHP as per cent of mimosine intake declined from first week (40.09±1.63) to 6th week (27.44±2.22).

Key words: Leucaena leaf meal, Mimosine, Thyroid, Liver, Cattle.

*Corresponding author: samiranvet@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Adeniji, A.A. 2009. Protein and energy requirements of weaner grasscutters. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 73-79.
Fifty-four 8-weeks old weaner grasscutters were used to investigate the effect of feeding varying protein (14, 16 and 18%) and ME (2400, 2600 and 2800 kcal/kg) levels in diets on the performance of fed animals. There was no significant effect (P>0.05) of treatments on weight gain, feed intake, feed to gain ratio and cost per kilogram of body weight of the grasscutters during the eight weeks experimental period. The nitrogen digestibility varied significantly (P<0.05) with both the protein and energy levels. the results showed that 14, 16 and 18% protein levels were comparable but the 18% protein level tended to be the best for it had the lowest feed to gain ratio (6.84 vs. 7.63 and 7.12). likewise, of the three levels of me evaluated, the 2800 kcal me />kg diet tended to be the best for weaner grasscutters especially in terms of feed to gain ratio. Hence, 18% CP and 2800 kcal ME/kg is recommended for weaner grasscutters.

Key words: Weaner, Grasscutter, Protein, Energy, Requirements.

*Corresponding author: feyidot@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Kumar, S., Sinha, A.P., Singh, R.N., Singh, S.K. and Thakur, S. 2008. Effect of kitchen waste on growth of crossbred (Tamworth x Desi) pigs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 81-84.
The study was conducted on 36 weaned crossbred (Tamworth x Desi) pigs (2.5 months, 11.00±0.54 kg) divided into three equal groups and maintained on isocaloric and iso-introgenous grower ration. The control group (T1) ration was totally replaced with raw kitchen waste and boiled kitchen waste in groups T2 and T3, respectively. Feeding trial continued for 126 days. Pigs on raw kitchen waste (T2) and boiled kitchen waste (T3) had significantly (P<0.05) higher daily weight gain (340±11.3 and 316±12.0 g) than group t1 (265±9.9 g). the feed conversion efficiency (kg feed />kg gain in BW) was also significantly (P<0.05) better in t2 (3.42±0.08) and t3 (3.62±0.12) than the control group (4.10±0.20). cost of feed per kg gain in body weight was lowest in t2 (rs. 20.53) followed by t3 (21.70) and higher in group t1 (rs. 42.46). the percent reduction in cost against the control diet was 51.65% in t2 and 48.87% in t3. it was concluded that feeding of kitchen waste as raw or boiled replacing concentrate mixture totally increased the productive performance of pigs.

Key words: Crossbred pigs, Kitchen waste, Growth, Feed conversion efficiency, Economics.

ABSTRACT

Singh, S.K., Niranjan, P.S., Singh, U.B., Koley, S. and Verma, D.N. 2009. Effects of dietary supplementation of probiotics on broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 85-90.
A study was conducted to observe the effects of dietary supplementation of probiotics on broiler chicken. Day old chicks (n=240) were randomly distributed in one of four dietary treatments, viz. C (Control, basal diet only), T1 (probiotic at 0.02% of diet), T2 (probiotic at 0.025%) and T3 (probiotic at 0.03%). The probiotic supplement was used in the form of Lacto-Sacc (Alltech, Bangalore) that contained live yeast culture (Yea Sacc1026 4.49x109, Lactobacillus acidophilus 108 and Streptococcus faecium 108 per gram). Results obtained from the six week study revealed that supplementation of probiotics at varying levels to the broiler chicken yielded positive effects on growth performance (3.28–4.03 per cent higher body weight than control) in broilers such as increased body weight gain, feed efficiency, protein efficiency and performance index and the best effect was observed for the supplementation at 0.025% level. However, there was no significant effect on haematobiochemical parameters assessed at six weeks of age except serum cholesterol level (mg/dl) which was significantly (P<0.05) lower in probiotic supplemented groups t3 (156.94±0.42), t2 (157.56±0.61), t1 (158.15±0.51) than control (174.78±0.57) group. it is concluded that probiotic supplementation at different level in poultry diet has beneficial effect on growth performance.

Key words: Probiotic, Broiler chicken, Growth, Performance, Haematobiochemical.

ABSTRACT

Roy, R.K., Shrivastava, H.P., Deo, C., Sastry, K.V.H. and Mandal, A.B. 2009. Effect of feeding fenvalerate on haematobiochemicals in broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 91-96.
A 42-days feeding trial was conducted to study the effect of fenvalerate (FEN) on certain haematobiochemicals in broiler chicks. Day-old straight run chicks (n=180) of same strain were randomly distributed to 5 experimental groups, each comprising 3 replicates of 12 chicks. Different levels of FEN at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 ppm were added in starter (0-21d) and finisher (22-42 d) basal diets. At the end of starter and finisher phases, the blood samples were collected randomly from 2 birds per replicate viz. 6 birds per treatment, centrifuged for serum separation and analysed for certain haematobiochemicals. Alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, glucose and total protein increased significantly (P<0.01) in broilers fed diets containing 30 to 120 ppm fen as compared to untreated basal diet during both the phases, while acid phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase and uric acid increased significantly (p<0.01) during starter phase but not during finisher phase. Total cholesterol was significantly higher (P<0.01) during the finisher phase. The study indicated that the fenvalerate when added in broiler diets caused disturbances in homeostasis of major blood biochemicals.

Keywords: Broilers, Fenvalerate, Haematobiochemicals.

*Corresponding author: hpshri@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Kishore, K.R. and Parthasarathy, M. 2009. In vitro nitrogen degradability of some forages, top feeds and fibrous crop residues. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 97-101.
The study was conducted to evaluate some forages, top feeds and fibrous crop residues for their total N content and N fractions in vitro based on their solubility in buffer and detergent solutions. The feed samples include eight cultivated grasses, eight leguminous forages, eight top feeds and six fibrous crop residues. Total N content (g/kg DM) for grasses, leguminous forages, top feeds and crop residues was 12.9, 22.0, 30.1 and 7.2, respectively. Potentially digestible N was more than 90 per cent for most of the feedstuffs with the exception of paragrass (88.2%), napier bajra (NB-21) (86.6%), Cenchrus ciliaris (86.6%), gliricidia (86.9%), rice straw (68.6%), maize straw (77.6%), sorghum straw (82.0%) and finger millet straw (86.3%). It was concluded that dietary N can be partitioned into various fractions based on solubility in buffer and detergent solutions and various feed sources can have wide variation in rumen degradation pattern thus presenting different N fractions at duodenal level. Nitrogen degradability of feedstuffs in vitro is useful to screen various feedstuffs for their utility in ruminant rations.

Keywords: Nitrogen degradability, Forages, Top feeds, Crop residues, In vitro

*Corresponding author: mandadi.parthasarathy@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Yadava, P.K., Niranjan, P.S., Udeybir, Koley, S. and Verma, D.N. 2009. Performance of broiler chicken as affected by varying levels of multi enzyme supplementation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 103-108.
A study was carried out to observe the effects of dietary supplementation of enzymes on the commercial broiler chicken. Day old chicks (n=240) were randomly distributed in 12 groups with three replicates. Four dietary treatments with varying levels of Allzyme-SSF® supplementation viz. C (Control, basal diet only), T1 (enzymes 0.015%), T2 (enzymes 0.020%) and T3 (enzymes 0.025%) were formulated and fed triplicate group of birds. The basal diet was formulated for starter (0–4 weeks) and finisher phase (4–6 weeks) separately following BIS (1992) requirements. Body weight gain (g) of the birds was significantly higher in treatment groups than control (981.89±6.34) at 0-4 weeks period and feed intake (g) in T1 (478.50±7.21) and T2 (473.67±2.52) than T3 (456.00±2.17) at 0-2 weeks of age. Feed efficiency was 2.05±0.01, 1.92.0±0.01, 1.93±0.01, 1.93±0.01 for control, T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Protein efficiency was significantly higher in enzyme treated groups as compared to control. Blood samples collected from 10 birds from each replicate during slaughtering at 42 days revealed no influence of enzymes on haemato-biochemical parameters. It is concluded that the supplementation of enzymes at varying levels to the diets of broiler chicken yielded positive effects on the birds performances with cost effective production and had no significant effect on haematobiochemical parameters of commercial broiler chicken of mixed strain.

Keywords: Enzyme, Broiler chicken, Growth, Performance, Haematobiochemical.

*Corresponding author: psnd@india.com

ABSTRACT

Santra, A. and Karim, S.A. 2009. Effect of dietary roughage and concentrate ratio on nutrient utilization and performance of ruminant animals. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 113-135.
The objective of this review paper is to highlights the role of dietary roughage and concentrate ratio on feed intake, nutrient utilisation and growth performance of ruminant animals. Daily dry matter intake increases with increase in the dietary concentrate level. The digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract and nitrogen-free extract increased whereas the fibre digestibility decreases with increase in proportion of concentrate in the diet of the ruminants. Rumen VFA, total nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen production increase and rumen pH decrease with the increase in proportion of concentrate in the diet. The number of total viable rumen bacteria, amylolytic bacteria, proteolytic bacteria, rumen ciliate protozoa and rumen fungi are increased with increased levels of concentrate feeding. Milk production, body weight gain and feed conversion efficiency are better in high than low concentrate fed animals. Higher concentrate diets reduced production cost compared to higher forage diet.

Key words: Body growth, Nutrient utilization, Roughage: concentrate ratio, Rumen fermentation.

*Corresponding Author: santra_ashok@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Garg, D.D., Sharma, T. and Dhuria, R.K. 2009. Evaluation of groundnut straw based complete feed blocks alone and in combination with yeast in ration of sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 137-144.
Groundnut straw based complete feed blocks with (YS) or without (YU) yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were fed to sheep to study the effect on nutrient utilization, growth performance and rumen fermentation pattern by conducting a growth trial of 120 days followed by metabolism trial of 7 days on 12 male Magra lambs divided in two groups of 6 in each. The dry matter intake was 72.13 and 74.33 g/kgW0.75 and 3.52 and 3.56 kg/100 kg BW, respectively in YU and YS groups. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, gross nutrients and fibre fractions were comparable between two groups. Average daily gain was significantly higher in YS group (88.57 g) compared to YU group (80.26 g), whereas, feed conversion ratio was similar. The DCP and TDN contents were 10.53 and 51.82 per cent in YU group and 11.32 and 56.38 per cent in YS group, respectively. Animals of both groups were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. Yeast supplementation significantly improved rumen fermentation by stabilizing rumen pH, decreased concentrations of lactic acid, ammonia nitrogen, NPN and increased TVFA, total protozoal counts, total nitrogen and TCA perceptible nitrogen. It was concluded that groundnut straw based complete feed blocks along with yeast supplementation could be beneficial to improve performance of sheep due to a marked improvement in rumen fermentation pattern.

Key words: Groundnut straw, Yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Complete feed, Digestibility, Sheep, Performance.

*Corresponding author: drddgarg@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Sudha, S.K., Krishnamoorthy, U., Bhaskaran, R. and Robinson, P.H. 2009. Effect of diets differing in rate of gas production on intake, digestibility and nitrogen metabolism in crossbred lactating cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 145-154.
Effects of diets (finger millet straw (FMS) and concentrate supplement (CS) differing in their in vitro determined rate of fermentation (k) on total DM intake, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen metabolism were studied in crossbred dairy cows. The two diets, viz high k (0.081/h) and low k (0.065/h), were formulated to be iso-energetic and iso-nitrogenous. Six crossbred cows were divided into two groups of three based on body weight, milk yield and days in lactation. Diets consisted of ad libitum access to finger millet straw and concentrate. The experiment was completed in two periods in a switch-over design, with each period lasting 6 weeks with a 6 day metabolism trial at the end of each period. Intake (kg/d) of DM, organic matter (OM) and CP for the two groups did not differ, and the digestibility (g/kg DM consumed) of OM and CP for the two groups also did not differ. The N retained in both groups were similar (8.0 g/d), and urinary allantoin excretion (mmol/d) in the High k diet was 170.0 vs. 131.0 in the Low k diet (P=0.05). Calculated microbial N supply to the duodenum (g/d) was also higher (P=0.05) in the High k (136) vs. Low k (112) diet. These findings suggest that the higher in vitro measured k, tends to increase rumen microbial growth efficiency.

Key words: Partitioning factor, Microbial efficiency, Rate of fermentation, Allantoin.

*Corresponding author: ukmthy@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Reddy, D.V., Tiwari, C.M., Elanchezhian, N. and Maheswari, D.U. 2009. Evaluation of supplementary feeding value of local tree foliages in goats fed on napier bajra green fodder. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 155-163.
Six metabolism trials were conducted using four male goats (local nondescript breed; BW 13.5 kg) in a crossover design to study the supplementary feeding value of fresh foliage of subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), sesbania (Sesbania grandiflora), acacia (Acacia auriculiformis), jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus), yellow gold mohur (Peltophorum ferrugineum) and cashew (Anacardium occidentale). Respective foliages were supplemented @ 300 g/head/day to goats fed ad libitum quantity of Napier Bajra green fodder as basal feed. The crude protein content of NB green fodder, subabul, sesbania, acacia, jack, yellow gold mohur and cashew were, respectively, 10.38, 21.31, 34.44, 15.94, 12.82, 12.69 and 9.69 per cent. Total DM intake (g/day) of goats was 380, 444, 459, 477, 424 and 352, respectively, for the six experimental diets. Digestibility of DM and OM were enhanced (P<0.05) in goats fed on all the tree foliage-supplemented diets, except for that supplemented with cashew leaves. greatest depression was observed in the digestibility of ndf (38.32%) and adf (23.86%) when goats were fed on cashew (p<0.05), followed by yellow gold mohur, and jack as supplementary feeds. Based on nitrogen and calcium retention and nutrient intake data, it was concluded that sesbania, subabul, jack and acacia foliage were better than yellow gold mohur and cashew in their supplementary role.

Key words: Tree foliage, Goats, Supplementation, Subabul, Sesbania grandiflora, Acacia auriculiformis, Jack, Yellow gold mohur, Cashew

*Corresponding author: dv.duvvuru@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Adeniji, A.A. 2009. Replacement value of three energy sources for maize in grower’s diet containing blood-rumen content mixture. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 165-170.
Six–week old Nera chicks (n=315) were used in a 8 -weeks feeding trial to determine which of these three energy sources (sorghum, millet and cassava flour) and their level of inclusion can effectively replace maize in blood- rumen content -based diet for growers. There were seven experimental treatments, such that there were three energy sources and each replaced maize at 2 levels (60 and 80% of dietary level of maize). A 3x2 factorial experiment was adopted while seventh diet was a maize based control diet for comparison. Blood -rumen content as an unconventional feed stuff was fed at an inclusion level of 20% (an established level) across all the diets. Birds increased (P<0.05) their feed intake as maize was replaced at 80% level. birds fed on the millet replacement diets had the lowest (p<0.05) feed intake, while growers fed on sorghum, and cassava diets had comparable feed intake values. Birds on the replacement diets consumed less feed compared with growers on the maize diets. Body weight gain of birds increased as the replacement level of the energy sources increased in the diet. Pullets on the cassava replacement feed had the lowest body weight grain. Feed to gain ratio for all the experimental birds were comparable (P<0.05). The millet-fed birds gave the best profitability of 91.43%. The millet is recommended of the three assessed energy sources and it is to be fed at 80% replacement level for maize.

Key words: Maize, Millet, Cassava flour, Replacement level.

*Corresponding author: feyidot@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Sahoo, B., Bhushan, V.C., Kwatra, J. and Agarwal, A. 2009. Effect of urea molasses mineral block supplementation on milk production of cows (Bos indicus) in mid hills of Uttarakhand. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 171-178.
An on farm trial was conducted in hills of Uttarakhand to assess the effect of urea molasses mineral block (UMMB) supplementation on productive performance of lactating cows. Ten crossbred cows (Bos indicus) were divided into two groups (T1 and T2) consisting 5 animals each. Animals were fed on homemade concentrate mixture and grass hay. The animals in group T2 were additionally supplemented with UMMB of around 300 g/day/animal. DM intake, milk yield, milk composition were recorded at fortnight intervals in a 3 month lactation trial. A digestibility trial of 7 days was conducted at the end of the lactation trial. Daily DM intake through concentrate (kg/d) was significantly lower (P<0.05) in t2 (0.63) than t1 (0.87) with concomitant increase (p<0.05) in roughage intake (8.35 vs 7.58 kg/d). The total DM intake (kg/d) was significantly higher (P<0.05) by 10.1% in UMMB supplemented group (T2) than control (9.30 vs 8.45). The digestibility of organic nutrients viz. DM, OM, CP, EE, CF and total carbohydrates were higher (P<0.05) in T2 indicating improvement in bioavailability of nutrients which was reflected in improvement in production performance. Milk yield, FCM yield and milk composition were significantly increased (P<0.05) in T2 compared to the control T1. The total income, net return over feed cost along with feed efficiency was better in animals of group T2. It was concluded that UMMB supplementation economically improved the feed efficiency and milk production of lactating cows in hilly region of Uttarakhand.

Key words: Urea molasses mineral block, Nutrient utilization, Cow, Milk, Hills.

*Corresponding author: biswanath_72@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Paul, B.N., Datta, A.K., Giri, S.S. and Mohanty, S.N. 2009. Dietary protein requirement of Labeo bata fry. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 179-184.
A 60-day experiment was conducted to study on the protein requirement of Labeo bata fry (Average Weight 0.23 g). Three purified diets were prepared using casein, gelatin, dextrin, carboxymethyl cellulose, vegetable oil and vitamin-mineral premix, with three different levels of protein (CP) viz, D-1 (24.85%), D-2 (29.70%) and D-3 (35.10%). The net weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of L. bata fry fed with different levels of protein were 1.74±0.08, 2.02±0.04 and 2.17±0.09 (g); 1.97±0.11, 1.71±0.04 and 1.67±0.02, respectively, for D-1 to D-3. Results indicated that the growth performance was significantly higher (P<0.01) in d-2 and d-3 groups compared to that of d-1. it was further observed that the fcr was significantly lower in d-2 and d-3 than d-1. carcass protein and lipid percentage were also increased significantly (p<0.01) with the diet of higher protein level. It may be concluded from the present experiment that the best growth performance in L. bata was observed with a dietary protein level of 29.70%.

Key words: Growth, Feed conversion ratio, Labeo bata, Protein requirement, Carcass composition.

*Corresponding author: bnp63@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Dutta, N., Sharma, K., Pattanaik, A.K. and Singh, M. 2009. Effect of strategic feeding of urea treated cereal straws supplemented with agricultural by products on the performance of growing buffalo calves and heifers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 185-193.
Buffalo calves (35) and heifers (18) were randomly selected for the on-farm studies to investigate the effect of long-term feeding of urea treated cereal straws with agricultural by-products on their performance. The buffalo calves and heifers (two separate experiments) were randomly divided in two groups to receive either urea treated straw (UTS) or untreated straw (Control). Farmers’ formulated supplement (Parts/100; oil cake 10-12; rice polish 88-90) was used in both the groups. Supplementary concentrate allowance fed to each animal was adjusted in consultation with the farmers’. Mineral mixture and salt was provided to all the animals irrespective of dietary treatments to avoid a compensatory intake effect of UTS on mineral deficient animal. The duration of feeding trial was 6 months during which monitoring was done for feed intake, general health and body weight changes. The intake (kg/d or %LW or g/kg W0.75) of dry-matter was significantly (P<0.05) higher in uts as compared to control group. roughage moiety (kg />d or g/kg W0.75) also followed the same trend; however, intake of supplement moiety was comparable between control and UTS treatments. Net change in body weights, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR, kg DM/kg gain) by buffalo calves (6-12 m) and heifers were significantly (P<0.05) higher in uts as compared to control group. the nutrient intake in term of dcp (g />d) and ME (Mcal/d) from composite diet was almost sufficient to meet the maintenance and growth requirements of animals in UTS group; however, DCP was about 50% deficit in control group. Strategic feeding of urea treated cereal straws within the existing feeding systems significantly improved the overall performance of young stocks and it may be a practically feasible feed under mixed farming system.

Key words: Strategic feeding, Urea treated straw, Growth, Buffalo calves and heifers.

*Corresponding author: pn@ivri.up.nic.in; dutta65@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Behura, N.C., Dehuri, P.K., Mishra, S.K. and Mohapatra, A. 2009. Scope of utilizing simaruba (Simarouba glauca) oilcake in broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 195-202.
The physicochemical characteristics of the simaruba (Simarouba glauca) seeds were determined. A feeding experiment was conducted with 400 day-old broiler chicks to study the effects of feeding of simaruba oilcake (SOC). Five dietary treatments viz. T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 containing 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 per cent of expeller pressed SOC were tried. Weekly individual body weight and feed consumption of the groups were recorded. Serum biochemical parameters, serum enzyme activity and histopathology examination was conducted at the end of the experiment. The average length and width of the seed were 21.51±0.37 mm and 12.98±0.14 mm, respectively, with an average weight of 86.86±4.65 g/100 seeds. The average hull and kernel fraction of the seeds were 70.94-±1.39% and 29.06±0.43%, respectively. The kernel on expeller pressing yielded on an average 52.7% oil. The average 6th week BW of birds in T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 were 1812, 309, 262, 215 and 208 grams, respectively, being significantly (P<0.05) higher in t1. the feed conversion ratio of the t1, t2, t3, t4 and t5 groups were 1.89, 3.24, 3.42, 3.69 and 4.01, respectively. the serum protein, albumin, globulin and serum urea nitrogen content of all the treatment groups were significantly (p<0.05) differed from that of the T1. Similar was the case with the serum enzymes. The histopathology of the SOC fed birds revealed severe vacuolar degeneration, extensive hepatic necrosis and moderate vascular degeneration of liver. Inclusion of raw SOC as a source of protein supplement in the diet of broiler chicken may not be suitable.

Key words: Simaruba (Simarouba glauca), Broiler, FCR, Serum biochemistry, Histopathology.

*Corresponding author: kvk_semiliguda@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Belewu, M.A., Muhammed, N.O., Ajayi, F.T. and Abdulgafar, D.T. 2009. Performance characteristics of goat fed Trichoderma treated feather meal-rice husk mixture. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 203-208.
Twelve West African Dwarf goats (10.0±3.5 kg BW) were devided into three equal groups in a completely randomized design model and fed for a 56 day period either diet A (control, soybean based diet), diet B (10% feather meal+15% rice husk) or diet C (12.5% feather meal+12.5% rice husk). Total DM intake was highest in diet C, followed by B and A, respectively. Similar trends were recorded for crude protein intake and crude fibre intake. Diet C also recorded highest ether extract intake while diet B was lowest. Dry matter digestibility, crude protein digestibility, crude fibre digestibility and ether extract digestibility were also significantly higher in C compared to other diets. The results of the haematological parameters showed similarities among the experimental diets. In conclusion the result suggests that the diet of West African goats can be composed of 12.5% feather meal plus 12.5% rice husk with encouraging results in all the parameters studied.

Key words: Feed intake, Weight gain, WAD goats, Feather meal-Rice husk mixture.

*Corresponding author: milkyinka@yahoo.com; mabel@unilorin.edu.ng

ABSTRACT

Garg, M.R., Bhanderi, B.M. and Sherasia, P.L. 2009. Macro and micro-mineral status of feeds and fodders fed to buffaloes in the semi-arid zone of Rajasthan. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 209-220.
A survey was conducted in the semi-arid zone of Rajasthan, to find out the role of feeding practices and farm management system on certain macro and micro-minerals status of dairy animals. Feeds and fodder samples were collected at random from the area under survey. The cobalt was occasionally deficient in the diet of animals, however, iron level in most of the feed ingredients was adequate (average level>500 ppm). Manganese was deficient in concentrate ingredients (35 ppm), whereas, crop residues and green forages were richer (62 ppm). The average Cu content was unduly low in straws (6.61 ppm) and moderate in green fodders (14.0 ppm), whereas, concentrate ingredients were better source of copper (26.0 ppm), except grains. Zinc was deficient in most of the feedstuffs (avg.<42.0 ppm) and needed to be supplemented in the ration of animals. the average ca content in straws (0.35%) was higher, whereas, concentrate ingredients were low in ca (0.26%), except sesame cake. the p content in crop residues was lower (0.09%), but higher in green fodder (0.33%) and concentrate ingredients (0.50%). the mg content in samples of feeds and fodder was adequate (0.42%), to meet the requirement of animals (0.20%). the sulphur content was adequate in green fodder (0.55%), whereas, crop residues and concentrate ingredients were deficient in sulphur (0.15%). the magnesium, sodium and potassium levels in feedstuffs were found to be adequate, from animal’s requirement point of view. from the present study, it was apparent that the level of certain minerals such as zinc, copper, cobalt, calcium, phosphorus and sulphur was inadequate, as per the estimates for the requirement of buffalo yielding 10 kg milk (7% fat) per day.

Key words: Calcium, Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Semi-arid zone, Buffaloes.

*Corresponding author: mrgarg@nddb.coop

ABSTRACT

Hooda, S., Tyagi, Praveen K., Elangovan, A.V., Mandal, A.B. and Tyagi, Pramod K. 2009. Self-life and sensory quality of stored quail meat as influenced by higher dietary levels of vitamin E. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 221-230.
The effect of higher dietary concentrations of vitamin E on self-life and sensory quality of stored meat were examined in broiler quails. Day-old heavy body weight quail chicks (n=320) were randomly selected and divided into 20 groups of 16 chicks each. The quail chicks were reared in electrically heated battery cages fitted with feeders and waterers. A basal diet having 24% crude protein and 2700 kcal ME/ kg was formulated. From this basal diet, five experimental diets were prepared by incorporating vitamin E (α-tocopherol acetate) at graded levels of 75, 150, 225 and 300 mg/kg in diet. Each experimental diet was offered ad libitum as mash to four groups of quail chicks for 5 weeks. At the end of the trial, meat samples were collected from four birds picked up randomly from each replicate and stored at -180 C at different time intervals for analysis of various meat and sensory quality parameters. The results of the study revealed that higher dietary vitamin E levels at 225 and 300 mg vitamin E/kg were more effective in retarding oxidative deterioration of meat samples stored at -18°C for two and three months, respectively. Drip loss of one and two months stored meat samples decreased gradually with an increase in dietary vitamin E concentration. Supplemental vitamin E had no effect on ether extract content and total bacterial count of fresh and stored meat samples. The sensory quality of pressure-cooked quail meat (appearance, flavour, texture, tenderness and overall acceptability) deteriorated more rapidly in diets low in vitamin E concentration with increasing storage interval. It is concluded that dietary vitamin E at higher supplemental levels of 225-300 mg/kg in diet of quail was beneficial for storage of meat under frozen condition.

Key words: Vitamin E, Stored meat, Self-life, Sensory quality, Quails.

*Corresponding author: pktyagi57@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Dhuria, R.K., Sharma, T. and Purohit, G.R. 2009. Effect of densification of gram straw (Cicer arietinum) based complete feed mixture on performance of magra lambs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 231-236.
An experiment was conducted for a period of 120 days to evaluate gram straw based complete feed blocks in Magra lambs. Eight male Magra lambs with average age of 4-5 m and weight 13.41±0.74 kg were randomly divided into two equal groups. One group was given complete feed in loose form (CFL) and second group was offered in block form (CFB) prepared at 4000 psi. The complete feed prepared was consisting of gram straw 60%, groundnut cake 12%, barley 8%, DORB 5%, guar korma 12%, mineral mixture 2% and common salt 1%. The dry matter intake calculated in terms of g/kgW0.75 and kg/100 kg BW were recorded to be 76.81 and 3.72 for CFL and 83.76 and 4.02 for CFB group, respectively. The digestibility of dry matter, gross nutrients and fibre fractions did not reveal any significant effect of densification of complete feed. Complete feed in block form ensured significantly higher live weight gain (92.92g/d) as compared to loose form (78.33 g/d). DCP and TDN contents as well as intakes were also comparable in both the groups. All the animals had positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance with significantly higher nitrogen balance in block fed group. It was concluded that densification of complete feed improved nutrient utilization and growth performance in lambs.

Keywords: Gram straw, Complete feed block, Nutrient utilization, Magra lambs.

*Corresponding author: dhuriark12@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, R., Kamra, D.N., Agarwal, N. and Chaudhary, L.C. 2009. Effect of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) oil on in vitro methanogenesis and fermentation of feed with buffalo rumen liquor. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 237-243.
The effect of inclusion of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules) oil (EO) at the levels of 0, 0.33, 0.66, 1.0, 1.33 and 1.66 μl/ml of incubation medium on methane production and rumen fermentation was studied in in vitro gas production test. The gas production decreased linearly with the increasing level of EO. At the highest inclusion level (1.66 μl/ml) there was 39.7% decrease in gas production. Methane emission was reduced by 10, 17, 35, 46 and 56% at 0.33, 0.66, 1.0, 1.33 and 1.66 μl/ml levels of EO inclusion, respectively. The total volatile fatty acids were reduced (P<0.05) by inclusion of eo at higher levels, whereas at 0.33 μl level there was no effect. the butyrate content increased significantly (p<0.05) with increasing EO level at the cost of acetate as it decreased linearly. In vitro true digestibility decreased linearly only upto 1.0 μl level of EO. The numbers of holotrichs and spirotrichs decreased (P<0.05) by increasing level of EO. The results indicated that EO had a potential to inhibit methane production but further in vivo trials are required to standardize the dose which inhibits methane production without adversely affecting feed digestibility.

Keywords: Eucalyptus oil, Methane, In vitro gas production test, Buffalo.

*Corresponding author: dnkamra@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Phondba, B.T., Kank, V.D., Patil, M.B., Gadegaonkar, G.M., Jagadale, S.D. and Bade, R.N. 2009.Effect of feeding probiotic feed supplement on yield and composition of milk in crossbred cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 245-252.
A 91-days feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of probiotic feed supplement containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae on milk yield and its composition in crossbred cows. Eighteen crossbred cows (Gir X HF and Gir X Jersey) were randomly divided into three equal groups of six each on the basis of breed, average milk yield, stage of lactation and parity. All the three groups were fed on concentrate mixture of same composition which was supplemented with probiotic feed supplement @ 0 (Group I, control), 10 (Group II) and 20 (Group III) g/day/cow, respectively, containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae (6x109 cfu/g probiotic feed supplement). The average milk yield in group II (9.90±0.54 kg) was significantly (P<0.05) higher as compared to groups i and iii (9.42±0.41 and 9.35±0.50 kg). the average fcm yield in group ii (8.76±0.41 kg) was significantly (p<0.01) higher than groups I and III. The total solids of milk differed significantly (P<0.01) with each other in all the groups. The milk fat in both treatment groups improved significantly (P<0.01) over control. Milk total ash in group II improved significantly (P<0.05) than groups I and III. It is concluded that supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae @ 6x1010 cfu/day in diet of dairy cows have positive influence on milk yield and its composition.

Keywords: Cows, Milk yield, Probiotic feed supplement, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

*Corresponding author: bhupendra_vet@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, N., Garg, A.K. and Dass R.S. 2009. Effect of dietary supplementation of inorganic and organicselenium on intake and utilization of nutrients in lambs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 253-260.
To investigate and compare the effect of supplementation of inorganic and organic selenium (Se), eighteen male lambs of about 8-9 months of age and 24.68±2.89 kg mean body weight were divided into three equal groups of six animals in each following randomized block design. While animals in the control group (T0) were fed a standard total mixed ration (TMR) containing 65 parts of concentrate mixture (CM) and 35 parts of wheat straw (WS), animals in group T1 and T2 were additionally supplemented with 0.15 ppm Se either through sodium selenite (inorganic Se) or Jevsel-101 (organic Se). CM contained 30% crushed maize grain, 27% soybean meal, 40% wheat bran, 2% mineral mixture (without Se) and 1% common salt. Experimental feeding was done for a period of 90 days including a 6 days metabolism trial. Intake and digestibility of DM, OM, CP, EE, NDF, hemicellulose; balances of Ca and P and level and intake of DCP and TDN were comparable (P>0.05) among the three groups. However, there was a significant increase in the N retention in both the Se supplemented groups as compared to control group. It was concluded that supplementation of Se, irrespective of source (organic or inorganic), had no effect on intake and utilization of different nutrients, except for improved N balance in the lambs.

Keywords: Lambs, Selenium, Nutrient intake, Nutrient utilization.

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

ABSTRACT

Vijayakumar, P., Dutt, T., Pandey, H.N., Sastry, V.R.B. and Singh, M. 2009. Effect of bedding and jacketing on the growth and nutritional response of buffalo heifers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 9: 261-266.
A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of bedding and jacketing on the growth and nutritional response of buffalo heifers. Eighteen Murrah buffalo heifers (20-35 months) were divided into three equal groups viz. T1 - control (without bedding and jacketing), T2- provided with paddy straw bedding and T3 - provided with bedding and gunny bag jacketing. There was no significant difference in ADG of the heifers among the groups. Animals in T2 consumed more DM through feed (6.92 kg/d) when compared to T1 (6.61 kg/d). Similarly, mean water intake was more in animals under T3 (6.30 L/d) when compared to T2 (6.32 L/d) and T1 (6.02 L/d); however no significant difference was observed among treatment groups. The digestibility coefficients of proximate nutrients were not significantly different among the treatments. The DCP intake (g/kg W0.75) was found to be significantly (P<0.05) higher in t3 group. it was concluded that provision of bedding and jacketing did not affect the growth, feed intake and digestibility of nutrients of buffalo heifers.

Keywords: Buffalo, Heifers, Bedding, Jacketing, Nutrition.

*Corresponding author: vijivet@yahoo.com