ABSTRACT

Nagalakshmi, D. and Reddy, D.N. 2010. Effect of feeding expander extruder processed complete diet containing sugarcane bagasse on performance of Murrah buffaloes. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology,10: 1-8. A complete diet was formulated with sugarcane bagasse as sole roughage source (28.5%) and processed with expander-extruder. The extruded diet was compared with a traditional system of feeding comprising concentrate mixture, ad libitum chopped sorghum straw and limited quantity of green hybrid Napier (10kg/animal/day) in terms of nutrient utilization and milk characteristics in 12 lactating Murrah buffaloes (6 in each group) for 180 days. The buffaloes consumed less (P<0.01) dry matter (dm) per kg metabolic body weight when fed processed complete diet than those fed conventional ration. however, the dm intakes in both the groups were higher than the standard recommended requirements (kearl, 1982). the water intake />kg DM intake was higher (P<0.01) in expander extruder processed complete diet fed animals. blending of bagasse with concentrates and expander extruder processing complete diet resulted in higher (p<0.01) crude protein digestibility. The digestibility of other nutrients and fibre fractions remained comparable among the groups. The digestible crude protein of complete ration was higher (P<0.05) than the conventional ration. The higher (P<0.01) intakes of total digestible nutrients and metabolizable energy by buffaloes fed conventional ration was a reflection of more roughage consumption (61.9% Vs 28.5%) by these animals. Milk yield, fat corrected milk (FCM) yield, fat and SNF % was similar between both the groups. The DMI/kg FCM production was significantly (P<0.05) lower on processed complete diet compared to conventional diet. The cost of feeding/kg milk production was lower (P<0.01) and reduced by 31.53% when expander extruder pellet complete diet containing sugarcane bagasse was fed to animals.

Key words: Expander-extruder, Complete diet, Sugarcane bagasse, Buffaloes, Nutrient digestibilities.

*Corresponding author: dnlakshmi@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Panda, A.K., Raju, M.V.L.N., Rama Rao, S.V. Shyam Sunder, G. and Reddy, M.R. 2010. Effect of post hatch feed deprivation on growth, immune organ development and immune competence in broiler chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 9-17.
The effect of post hatch feed deprivation on growth, immune organ development and immune competence was studied in broiler chickens. A total of 240 broiler chicks hatched with in a period of 8h were transported to the rearing site with in 30 minutes of hatch. The body weight of chicks (41.33±0.24 g) were measured individually and randomly distributed into 4 groups of 60 chicks each with 6 replicates in each group. The treatments included accessed to feed at 0, 12, 24 and 48h post hatching. All the chicks were reared in battery brooder cages under uniform managemental conditions. The body weight gain during 0-7, 0-21 and 0-42 d were significantly lower in the chicks those were deprived of for 48h of hatch compared to the other groups. Feed conversion ratio and mortality was not affected by the duration of post hatch feed deprivation. The development of both bursa and spleen, and cell mediated (LPR) and humoral (SRBC and ND tires) immune responses were affected due to feed deprivation during initial 24h of hatch. Feed deprivation for more duration i.e. 48h after hatch further reduced the immune response. The findings of the present study thus suggested that feed deprivation for 48h after hatch had negative effect on growth; however, feed deprivation for 24h had adverse effect on development of immune system as well as immune competence in broilers.

Key words: Post-hatch feed deprivation, Growth, Immune organ development, Immune competence, Broiler chickens.

*Corresponding author: akpanda59@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Gurbuz, Y. and Davies, D.R. 2010. Organic matter digestibility and condensed tannin content of some hybrid sorghum. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 19-29.
The purpose of the study was to determine fermentation, chemical composition and digestibility of thirteen sorghum grain hybrids, being SH1, SH2, SH3, SH4, SH5, SH6, SH7, SH8, SH9, SH10, SH11, SH12 and SH13. Samples were analyzed for ash, acid detergent fibre and crude protein. Grain samples were assayed for condensed tannins (CT), and their interference on gas production. Differences (P<0.01) in chemical composition occurred among hybrids. grains of hybrids with low ct levels had higher organic matter digestibility (omd; p<0.01). Negative correlations (P<0.01) occurred between CT content and gas production as well as organic matter digestibility (OMD). Grain hybrids without CT had better fermentation parameters and OMD. There was variation in condensed tannins content in SH8 and SH9, 11.48 and 15.25 mg/kg, respectively. A cumulative gas production, kinetics of gas production, ME, OMD, NH3-N and VFA concentrations were determined. Average CP ranged from 7.44 to 10.27 g/kg DM. VFA concentration in rumen fluid, ME, OMD, CT content, WSC, NH3 -N and pH values were significantly (P<0.01) different among all sorghum hybrids. The present study concluded that different sorghum hybrids are good quality energy source and has potential as alternative to corn for animal feeding based on chemical composition, gas production and OMD; However, the presence of CT in some of the sorghum hybrids may adversely affect their potential nutritive value.

Key words: Condensed tannins, OMD, Feed value, Gas production, Hybrid grain sorghum.

*Corresponding author: yavuzselim-06@hotmail.com

ABSTRACT

Nargeskhani, A., Dabiri, N., Esmaeilkhanian, S., Mohammad Alipour, M. and Bojarpour, M. 2010. Effects of mannanoligosaccharide– β glucan or antibiotics on health and performance of dairy calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 29-36.
Twenty four Holstein calves at birth (initial BW= 40±3.0 kg) were used to study the effects of mannanoligosaccharide–β Glucan (MOS-β Glucan) or antibiotics on health and performance of dairy calves. Calves were assigned randomly to one of three treatments. Treatments included: whole milk with no additives (control), whole milk containing MOS-β Glucan at 4g per meal, whole milk containing antibiotic at 500 mg of oxytetracycline/d. Calves received whole milk twice daily. Water and starter were offered ad lib throughout the trial of 56 days. Body weight were measured at birth and thereafter weekly till 8 wk of age. Starter intake were measured daily. Faecal scores were monitored 3 times per week. Blood samples were collected at 3, 7, 15, 30, 45 and 56 days, and analyzed for total protein, blood urea N, albumin and ratio albumin:glubolin. Analysis of weekly DMI revealed no significant difference from week 1 to 7 among the treatment. The calves fed MOS-β Glucan or antibiotic at 8 week had greater (P<0.05) dmi than control. during at 8 week adg was significantly greater (p<0.01) for MOS-β Glucan and antibiotic groups. It was observed that calves fed MOS-β Glucan had lower faecal score than control and antibiotic treatments. No treatment differences in feed efficiency and blood samples were detected during the trial. This study showed that MOS-β Glucan can be substitute with antibiotic as a supplement for calf growth.

Key words: Dairy calves, Mannanoligosaccharide-β Glucan, Antibiotic, Performance, Health.

*Corresponding author: esmaeilkhanian@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Mamen, D., Vadivel, V., Pugalenthi, M. and Parimelazhagan, T. 2010. Evaluation of fibrolytic activity of two different anaerobic rumen fungal isolates for their utilization as microbial feed additive. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 37-49.
In the present study, two different anaerobic fungal organisms namely, Anaeromyces sp. (CTS-67) and Orpinomyces sp. (CTS-91) isolated from the rumen liquor of indigenous breeds of sheep and goat, respectively, were added to the mixed rumen microflora of buffalo to study their effect on the improvement of degradation of fibrous feeds under in vitro conditions. Between two fungal isolates investigated, CTS-67 showed higher level of in vitro gas production (18.65 ml/0.1 g DM) and exhibited highest stimulating effect on the true digestibility (35.28 and 43.31%), apparent digestibility (44.50 and 52.74%) and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (30.11 and 39.43%) of lignocellulosic feed after 24 and 48 h of incubation. The production of certain extra-cellular fibrolytic enzymes such as carboxymethylcellulase, xylanase and b-glucosidase were significantly higher in CTS-67 inoculated medium. Further, the fermentation end products such as total volatile fatty acids as well as the concentration of acetate, butyrate, isobutyrate, isovalerate and valerate were also significantly higher in CTS-67 added group when compared to CTS-91 and control groups. Hence, after conducting extensive in vivo trials, such potential fungal strain Anaeromyces sp. (CTS-67), isolated from the rumen liquor of Indian indigenous breed of sheep (Madras red), could be recommended as a microbial feed additive for improving the fiber degradation in buffaloes.

Key words: Anaerobic fungi, Buffalo, Sheep, Goat, Fiber degradation, Fibrolytic enzymes, Rumen fermentation.

*Corresponding author: pugalmuthiah@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

AL-Beitawi, N.A., Awawdeh, F.T. and Khwaile, M.M. 2010. Preliminary study on Prosopis juliflora pods as unconventional feed ingredient in diets of broiler chicks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 51-60.
Evaluation of Prosopis juliflora pods (PJP) as unconventional feed ingredient in broilers diets was studied. An experiment with one d-old broiler chicks (n=540) was conducted from 1 to 42-d of age. There were 4 dietary treatments each with 3 replicates and contained graded levels of PJP at 0 (Control), 10 (PJP-10), 15 (PJP-15) and 20 (PJP-20) percent instead of yellow corn. Chickens fed PJP-20 diet had the highest (P<0.05) live body weight, body weight gain and better (p<0.05) feed conversion. No significant differences were noticed in dressing, breast meat and leg meat percentage among treatments. Cooking loss percent was the highest (P<0.05) for control group. Breast meat of chickens fed control diet and PJP-10 had the highest (P<0.05) pH values. While, PJP-10 and PJP-15 gave the highest (P<0.05) shear force values. Chickens fed PJP-15 and PJP-20 had the highest (P<0.05) breast meat crude protein and moisture percent. Ether extract percent and ash content were higher (P<0.05) for chickens fed control diet. With respect to gastrointestinal tract segments, chickens fed PJP-20 diet had the highest (P<0.05) segment weight. It can be concluded that PJP can replace corn by 20 percent level in the diet of broiler chickens.

Key words: Carcass, Chickens, Gastrointestinal tract, Performance, Prosopis juliflora.

*Corresponding author: beitawi@just.edu.jo

ABSTRACT

Shakhar, C., Pattanaik, A.K., Kore, K.B. and Sharma, K. 2010. Appraisal of feeding practices and blood metabolic profile of pet dogs reared on homemade diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 61-73.
A survey was carried out covering 494 pet dogs along with collection of 251 blood samples to gather first-hand information on prevailing feeding practices and its effects on metabolic profile of dogs. Data pertaining to feeding management along with components of their diet were recorded through questionnaire at the time of sample collection to asses its effects on metabolic profile of dogs. Most (~80%) of the dogs surveyed were reared on homemade diets with about 42% of the population receiving vegetarian diets. There was wide variation in the dietary composition of the homemade diets which comprised of varied combinations of bread, vegetables, meat and egg, however milk was found to be an indispensable part of all the dietary combinations. Commercial pet foods were used mainly to supplement the basal homemade diets and limited to 17.2% dogs. The metabolic profile of the surveyed population revealed wider prevalence of calcium and phosphorus malnutrition. Further, a total of 30.3 and 45.4% of the plasma samples exhibited higher cholesterol and lower blood urea-nitrogen values compared to the respective normal physiological ranges. The metabolic profile of the dogs were interpreted in relation to type and source of diet as well as basal dietary combinations. Overall, the study revealed that homemade diets constitute the mainstay of feeding pet dogs in India, but these diets seem to be nutritionally inadequate and/or imbalanced especially with respect to protein, energy and minerals especially calcium and phosphorus.

Key words: Dogs, Feeding practice, Homemade diets, Metabolic profile, India.

*Corresponding author: akpattanaik1@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Das, K.C., Prakash, B., Dutta, P. and Rajkhowa, C. 2010. Performance of male & female mithun (Bos frontalis) reared in captivity and fed mixed tree leaves and straw based ration. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 75-80.
Growth performance, nutrient utilization and some of the biochemical characteristics of rumen liquor and blood of male and female mithun were studied under captive condition. Five nos of each male and female mithun (Bos frontalis) of 1 year age were reared in captivity and fed concentrate mixture, mixed tree leaves and paddy straw to meet nutrient requirement. The tree leaves consisted of temechiedie (Ficus hirta), Pedu (Debrogesia longifolia), thenha (Litsea sps) and thumero (Legroestromea spaciosa). The experiment was continued for 24 weeks of age. The body weight of animals was recorded fortnightly where as DM intake through concentrate and roughage was recorded daily. At the completion of 24 weeks of age, a digestibility trial was conducted to know the digestibility of individual nutrients and nutritive value of the ration. Rumen liquor samples were collected and analysed for pH, TVFA, ammonia N and total nitrogen where as blood was collected and analysed for total protein, albumin and globulin. The average daily gain of male and female mithun was recorded to be 602 g and 554 g respectively. Total DMI per 100 kg body weight was 2.74 and 2.71 for male and female, respectively. There was no significant difference in digestibility of DM, OM, EE, CF and NFE between male and female mithun except CP, NDF and ADF which was higher in male mithun compared to female. The DCP and TDN% of the ration were 8.97, 60.31 and 8.25, 59.63 for male and female respectively. The pH, TVFA (meq/ L), NH3N (mg/100ml) of rumen liquor were 6.27, 132.5 and 12.03 for male and 6.25, 127.8 and 20.20 for female mithun respectively. The NH3N level of rumen liquor in male animal is significantly less compared to female animals. The serum biochemical parameters like serum total protein, albumin and globulin varied from 5.95, 2.50 and 3.45 g/dl for male and 5.80, 2.84, 2.97 g/dl for female respectively. The values of total protein, albumin and globulin of serum did not differ significantly between male and female animals. The present study indicated that mithun can be reared in captivity on tree leaves and straw along with concentrate mixture. There was also difference in the performance of male and female mithun for the above period.

Key words: Mithun, Body weight gain, Tree leaves, Captivity, Sex.

*Corresponding author: kcdasicar@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Paul, B.N., Giri, S.S., Sarkar, S., Mohanty, S.N. and Sarangi, N. 2010. Effect of varying protein and lipid levels on the growth of medium carp, Puntius gonionotus. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology,10: 81-86.
A 60 days feeding trial was conducted to evaluate varying levels of dietary protein and lipid on growth of medium carp (Puntius gonionotus) fry (avg. wt. 2.11 g). Nine purified diets having 25% (low protein; LP), 30% (medium protein; MP) and 35% (high protein; HP) protein, and 6% (low lipid; LL), each with either 8% (medium lipid; ML) or 10% (high lipid; HL) lipid were prepared. The net weight gain, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate and survival rate did not differ significantly among the treatments, but protein efficiency ratio (PER) differed among the treatments. The PER was significantly (P<0.01) higher in lpll diet and it did not differ significantly with mpml diet. the carcass composition of medium carp was significantly influenced by different levels of protein and lipid. carcass protein and lipid contents were significantly (p<0.01) higher in HPHL diet but it did not differ with MPML. It may be concluded that MPML having a combination of 30% protein and 8% lipid was optimum for medium carp.

Key words: Protein, Lipid, Growth, Carcass composition, Medium carp, Puntius gonionotus.

*Corresponding author: bnp63@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Das, A. 2010. Effect of different levels of concentrate supplementation on performance of Sikkim local kids fed mixed jungle grass based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 91-101.
Fifteen Sikkim local kids of about 9 months of age and average body weight of 16.1±1.19 kg were randomly distributed into three groups of five each in an experiment based on Randomized block design. Mixed jungle grass was offered ad libitum to all the animals. A balanced concentrate mixture was supplemented @ 0, 0.5 and 1% of BW in groups I, II and III, respectively. As supplementary concentrates did not reduce the consumption of mixed jungle grass, total dry matter intake (DMI) increased (P<0.05) with increased level of supplementation. digestibility of cp increased (p<0.05), and that of ADF and hemicellulose decreased (P<0.05) in Group III in comparison to other groups, however, overall digestibility of DM and OM was not significantly different among the groups. Ruminal pH was not significantly different among the groups. However, concentration of rumen ammonia-N, plasma urea nitrogen and blood glucose increased (P<0.01) with increased level of supplementation. The TVFA concentration increased only up to 0.5% level of supplementation. Balance of nitrogen increased (P<0.01) with increased level of supplementation. Average daily gain (ADG) was 23.6, 43.9 and 54.00 g/d in groups I, II and III, respectively. ADG and DMI/kg gain increased only up to 0.5% level of supplementation beyond which there was no further improvement. From the results of this experiment it was concluded that maximum response in terms of feed consumption, nutrient digestibility, balance of nutrients and average daily gain could be obtained in Sikkim local goats when mixed jungle grass is supplemented with concentrate mixture at the rate of 0.5% of body weight.

Key words: Mixed jungle grass, Concentrate supplement, Nutrient utilization, Goat, Growth.

*Corresponding author: drasitdas@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Dubey, M., Mathur, M.M., Singh, S.K., Dubey, D.D. and Tiwari, S.P. 2010. Effect of dietary replacement of cereal maize with rice polish on nutrient utilization and laying performance of white leg horn layers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 99-105.
To evaluate non-cereal ration for layer birds an experiment was conducted on 72 WLH pullets which were raised on three different dietary treatments i.e. cereal based control (C), non-cereal low energy (NCLE) and non-cereal iso-caloric to control (NCIC) diet from 9 to 20 weeks of age. For present investigation at 20 weeks of age pullets each of the three groups were divided into two equal subgroup and were fed either the C diet or NCLE diet (for C and NCLE group) or C and NCIC diet (for NCIC group). The study was continued up to 40 weeks to see the dietary effect on nutrient utilization and laying performance of the birds. The ME intake of the birds fed on control diet was significantly (P<0.05) high than the birds fed ncle diet. the birds on ncle diet though tried to compensate energy deficit best to their capacity but failed to come to the level of the layers fed on c and ncic diet. egg production was significantly (p<0.05) low in layers fed on NCLE diet. Feed intake and egg weight did not show any significant (P<0.05) variation. The feed efficiency (kg feed/12 eggs) was significantly (P<0.05) better in pullets fed on C and NCIC diet. Feed consumption in kg/kg egg was significantly (P<0.05) better in pullets fed on C and NCIC diet. No significant effects of dietary treatments were observed on egg quality traits like shape index, yolk index and shell thickness, however, the albumen index of eggs under control group was significantly (P<0.05) higher than other groups. Cost of feed per 12 eggs was significantly (P<0.05) low in control group. It may be concluded that after 20 weeks layers should not be raised on low energy diet, since egg production goes down by over 20%.

Key words: Rice polish, Non-cereal, Nutrient utilization, Layers.

*Corresponding author: drmeenu.d@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Yadav, C.M. and Chaudhary, J.L. 2010. Effect of feeding formaldehyde treated groundnut cake on dry matter intake, digestibility of nutrients and body measurements in crossbred heifers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 111-117.
Eighteen crossbred heifers were divided into 3 groups of 6 heifers each as uniformly as possible with regard to their age and body weight and maintained on 3 respective isonitrogenous and isocaloric rations. Each animal in all the groups were fed standard ration, comprising 5 kg green berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) straw ad lib. and in treatment T1 heifers were given untreated GNC, while in treatment T2 and T3 formaldehyde (FA) treated @ 0.5 g FA/100 g CP and FA treated @ 1.0 g FA/100 g CP, respectively, as a source of protein in the concentrate mixtures as per their requirements. The crude protein (CP) intake per 100 kg body weight was significantly (P<0.05) higher in t1 as compared to t3 group. the voluntary water intake (vwi) and total water intake (twi) were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by the treatments. The differences in digestibility coefficient for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) except ether extract (EE) were non significant among different groups. However, ether extract (EE) digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) higher in T3 than T1 group, but at par for T3 and T2 and T1 and T2. Body measurement parameters were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T3 group as compared to T2 and T1 except height in crossbred heifers.

Key words: Protected, Groundnut cake, Intake, Body measurement, Heifers.

*Corresponding author: cmyadav_jaipur@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Singh, T., Mehta, M.K., Jain, R.K. and Jain, A. 2010. Effect of supplementing deficient trace minerals on hematological parameters and plasma micro mineral status in kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 115-119.
A feeding trial of two months duration was conducted on ten male kids, randomly divided into two equal groups. Group-I was supplemented with mineral mixture containing Mn, Cu and Zn which were deficient in their feeds. While group-II was un-supplemented control. Animals of both the groups were grazed eight hours daily, without any concentrate supplementation. Hematological parameters and trace mineral status of blood in animals of supplemented and un-supplemented groups were estimated. The hematological values were within the normal range in both the groups before and after the experiment. Mineral supplementation significantly (P<0.01) improved the hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume. there was significant (p<0.05) improvement mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration values in the supplemented group after the experiment. Status of Mn, Cu and Zn in blood was within the normal range in both the groups. The concentration of trace minerals in plasma tended to increase upon supplementation.

Keywords: Trace minerals, Hematological parameters, Kids.

*Corresponding author: drmkmehtamau@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Galkate, U.V. and Rokde, S.N. 2010. Effect of dietary aflatoxin on certain egg production and quality parameters in white leghorn layers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 121-126.
The present investigation was carried out to investigate the effect of graded levels of aflatoxin AFB1 [@ 0.5(T1), 1.0 (T2), 2.0 (T3) and 0.0 (T4 - control)] incorporated in the basal diet of fifty two White Leghorn pullets on certain egg production and quality parameters. The result revealed that there was significant (P<0.05) decline in the egg weight, whereas, significant increase (p<0.05) in egg shell thickness in pullets given aflatoxin at all levels tested. The percent nitrogen retained was highest (52.89) in group T4 (control) as compared to T1 (51.30), T2 (49.86) and T3 (48.73). The differences in the egg production, egg mass, Haugh Unit, yolk index and albumin index of pullets in the four treatment groups were non- significant (P>0.05). It was concluded that inclusion of dietary AFB1 from 0 to 2.0 ppm resulted in lowered egg weight and nitrogen retention. There was significant increase in shell thickness. However, it had non-significant effect on egg production, egg mass, haugh unit, albumin index and yolk index.

Keywords: Aflatoxin, Laying hens, Egg production, Egg quality, Nitrogen retention.

*Corresponding author: uvgalkate@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Shukla, S., Tiwari, D.P., Mondal, B.C. and Kumar, A. 2010. Mineral interrelationship among soil, plants and animals in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 127-132.
Samples of soil, feeds and fodder and blood serum of animals (cattle and buffaloes) in four villages, two from each tehsils (Pithoragarh and Gangolihat) of Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand were collected and analysed for different macro and micro mineral contents to establish the mineral correlation among soil, plants and animals. The macro and micro mineral contents in soils of Pithoragarh district were higher than their respective critical levels except Ca. Average daily macro and micro mineral intake per animal through different feed ingredients were found optimum except calcium and copper which were deficient with an average value of 11.4 g and 48.16 ppm, respectively. The soil and plants (r=-0.07) and soil and animal (r=-0.34) showed non-significant negative correlations while, significant (P<0.05) negative correlation (r=0.08) between plants and animals for ca was observed. the correlation for phosphorus, magnesium, iron, copper, cobalt, manganese and zinc was observed between soil-plants, plants-animals as well as soil-animals. the total mineral intake showed non-significant positive correlations for phosphorus, zinc and copper while negative correlations for calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese. based on present study, supplementation of calcium, copper and manganese in the diet of cattle and buffaloes under existing feeding practices in pithoragarh district of uttarakhand is imperative for better health and productivity. however, further, studies could elucidate the bioavailability and strategic dietary supplementation of minerals for livestock.

Keywords: Soil, Feeds and Fodder, Animal, Blood serum, Mineral, Interrelationship.

*Corresponding author: dptiwari4@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Ganai, A.M., Ahmad , H.A. and Bilal, S. 2010. Nutritional evaluation of mulberry (Morus multicaulis) leaves in sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 133-138.
Mulberry (Morus multicaulis) leaves were analyzed for chemical composition and nutritive value. The leaves contained 16.57% CP, 7.38% EE, 15.50% CF, 33.10% NDF, 23.04% ADF, 2.10 % calcium and 0.20% phosphorus. These leaves were fed to six healthy Corriedale rams of about 2 years age (45 kg BW) for 28 days followed by a 5-day metabolism trial. The leaves contained 10.16% digestible crude protein (DCP), 66.10% total digestible nutrients (TDN). The percent dry matter (DM) intake was 3.44 kg. Average digestibility of coefficient of CP, EE, CF, NFE, NDF, ADF, cellulose and hemicellulose were 61.32, 58.33,76.74, 76.60, 62.88, 52.65, 70.55 and 55.39, respectively. All the animals were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. Blood parameters and rumen metabolites were within the normal range. But there was decrease in blood urea level and increase in creatinine, alkaline phosphatase activity and rumen ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N ) after feeding of mulberry leaves. Total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and TCA-Ppt.N remained unchanged after feeding. It was concluded that green mulberry leaves are palatable and can be used as an alternative source for maintenance diet of sheep.

Keywords: Blood parameters, Digestibility, Mulberry leaves, Rumen metabolites, Sheep.

*Corresponding author: ganaimajeed@gmail.com / amganainutr@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Kumar, S., Sinha, A.P., Thakur, S., Singh, R.N. and Singh, S.K. 2010. Growth performance of indigenous pigs reared on kitchen waste. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 139-142.
The study was conducted on 45 weaned indigenous pigs of 2 to 3 month (B.W. 7.55±0.07 kg) divided into 5 equal groups (2 male and 7 female) and maintained on standard grower ration as per NRC (1988). The control ration (T1) was replaced with kitchen waste at 75 per cent level in T2, kitchen waste and rice fermented waste (1:1) combined at 75 per cent in T3, kitchen waste at 100 per cent level in T4, kitchen waste and rice fermented waste (1:1) combined at 100 per cent level in T5 group in a 238 day feeding trial. Pigs fed kitchen waste (T4) as sole feed achieved highest daily weight gain compared to pigs in other groups. The feed intake was almost similar among the five groups but feed conversion efficiency was significantly (p<0.05) better in kitchen waste fed group (t4) as compared to groups t3, t5 and t1. cost of feed (rs.) per kg gain in body weight was minimum (25.24) in t5 followed by t4 (28.56), t3 (34.50), t2 (36.61) and maximum (61.95) in t1 group. reduction of cost against the control diet was also highest in t5 (59.26%) followed by t4 (53.90%), t3 (44.31 %) and t2 (40.90%), respectively. it was concluded that replacement of concentrate mixture with kitchen waste as well as kitchen and rice fermented waste increased the growth performance of pigs and thereby reduced the cost of feeding.

Keywords: Indigenous pigs, Kitchen waste, Rice fermented waste, Daily gain, FCR, Economics.

ABSTRACT

Ondiek, J.O., Abdulrazak, S.A. and Njoka, E.N. 2010. Effects of supplementing Chloris gayana hay and Maerua angolensis with graded levels of maize germ meal on voluntary feed intake, diet digestion,nitrogen balance and average daily gains of growing Small East African Goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 147-155.
Maerua angolensis and graded levels of maize germ meal were offered to Small East African goats to assess the effects on voluntary feed intake, diet digestion, nitrogen balance and growth. The M. angolensis was offered at a rate of 20 g kg-1 W0.75 to all animals and maize germ meal treatment diets was given at five graded levels (0, 15, 20, 25, and 30 gDM kg-1 W0.75) designated as MG0, MG15, MG20, MG25 and MG30, in a completely randomized block design with 4 animals per treatment with the basal diet of Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) hay fed ad libitum. The CP levels were 320, 200 and 61.4 g kg-1 DM for M. angolensis, maize germ and C. gayana hay, and NDF contents were 449, 393 and 528 g kg-1 DM, respectively. The DMI was 461-599 g DM d-1 which increased with energy supplementation (P<0.05) although the supplemented groups did not differ and the goats consumed the feed at 3.72-4.53% of their live weight. the adg was 4.92, 23.7, 26.4, 34.4 and 35.7 g d-1, respectively, with mg25 and mg30 being similar (p>0.05). The rumen NH3-N was in the normal range of 1.85-2.63 mg100 ml-1 while the nitrogen balance was in the range of 2.90-7.68 mg N/100 ml for MG0 and MG30, respectively. The DM, OM, CP, ADF and NDF digestibility was improved with supplementation, but supplemented animals had similar values (P>0.05). It is concluded that the maize germ meal supplemented at 25 g DM kg-1 W0.75 had high rumen NH3-N, N-retention and ADG 8.16 mg-1 100 ml, 6.25 g Nd-1 of 34.4 g d-1, respectively, and this can be used together with M. angolensis at 20 g DM-1 W0.75 to make use of the tree forage and low quality basal diet for growing Small East African Goats.

Key words: Maeura angolensis, Maize germ meal, Nitrogen balance, Rumen ammonia nitrogen, Small East African Goats.

*Corresponding Author: ondiekjo2002@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Palanivel, M., Sharma, K. Dutta, N. and Singh, A. 2010. Effect of feeding raw or water soaked rapeseed-mustard cake on nutrient utilization and growth performance of kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 157-167.
In order to assess the effect of feeding raw or water soaked rapeseed-mustard cake (RMC) based supplement on the performance of kids, eighteen male kids of 6 months old (BW 11.10±0.77 kg), were randomly assigned to 3 dietary treatments of 6 each, viz. GNC, RMC-dry and RMC-sani containing groundnut cake (GNC) as major protein source, 100% replacement of GNC with RMC and overnight water soaked (1:3 w/v ratio) RMC concentrate mixture fed as mixed ration (sani) with part of daily allowance of wheat straw, respectively for an experimental period of 180 days. The glucosinolates (GLS) content of RMC concentrate mixture was reduced by 31.96 % after overnight water soaking. Feeding of RMC based diet in sani form reduced (P<0.01) the wheat straw and total dm intake as compared to other treatments. the digestibility coefficient of various nutrients did not differ significantly except, digestibility of om and cp which were higher (p<0.01) in RMC-sani group. Intake and retention of N (g/d) was lower (P<0.05) in RMC fed groups as compared to GNC. TDN intake (g/kg W0.75) was lower (P<0.01) for both RMC fed groups as compared to GNC; however, DCP intake (g/kg W0.75) was higher (P<0.05) in RMC-sani. The Glucosinolates (GLS) intake (ìmol/kg W0.75) by kids was lower (P<0.01) in RMC-sani as compared to RMC-dry. Total weight gain (kg) and average daily gain (g/d) by kids were higher (P<0.01) in GNC followed by RMC-dry and RMC-sani, respectively. Mean levels of Hb, total serum protein, albumin and glucose were lower (P<0.01) and that of total cholesterol and serum thiocyanate were higher (P<0.01) in RMC fed groups. Serum T3 hormone did not differ (P>0.05) among the treatments while that of T4 hormone was lower (P<0.05) in RMC-dry as compared to GNC. It may be concluded that despite reduction in GLS content of RMC by overnight water soaking, its feeding as mixed ration (sani) did not improve the performance of kids.

Key words: Rapeseed-mustard cake, Glucosinolates, Water soaking, Growth performance, Kids.

*Corresponding author: ksharma52@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Olafadehan, O.O., Olafadehan, O.A. and Fapohunda, J.B. 2010. Performance and economics of production of laying hens fed dried bakery waste. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 169-175.
The response of laying hens fed graded levels of dried bakery waste (DBW) as partial replacement of maize was investigated in an 8-week experiment using completely randomized design. Sixty four, 35 weeks old Isa brown layers were divided into four treatment groups of two replicates each consisting of 8 birds per replicate and assigned to four diets were formulated to containing 0% (control), 10, 20 and 30% levels of DBW. Feed intake, body weight gain, protein intake and egg weight did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the dietary treatments. Hen day production was higher (P<0.05) in 20 and 30% dbw diets than in 10% dbw and control. efficiency of conversion feed to eggs was superior (p<0.05) in DBW diets as compared with control; even among the DBW diets, it was better in 20 and 30% DBW than 10% DBW. Cost of feed consumed/day and feed cost/dozen egg were lower (P<0.05) in DBW diets than the control and least in 30% DBW diet, though 20% DBW diet has an intermediate position between 10 and 30% DBW diets. Savings on feed cost and feed cost/dozen egg were significantly higher with 30% DBW followed by 20 and 10% DBW diets, respectively. Birds fed 30% DBW diets exhibited best performance and the diet was most cost effective.

Key words: Bakery waste, Cost, Laying hens, Performance

*Corresponding author: oaolafadehan@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Ingale, S.L., Singh, P., Verma, A.K. and Mehra, U.R. 2010. Effect of Fasciola gigantica infection on nutrient utilization and cytokine gene expression during prepatent period in growing crossbred (Bos taurus x Bos indicus) cattle. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 177-185.
A study was undertaken to investigate the nutrient utilization and cytokine gene expression as influenced by Fasciola gigantica infection in crossbred male cattle during prepatent period. Fifteen male (12 months age and 184.5±6.75 kg mean body wt) were randomly divided into three groups of five animals in each group following completely randomized design. Animals in groups I and II were fed with 100 percent, whereas, group III were fed with 75 % of NRC (1988) requirement. Animals in groups II and III were infected orally with a dose of 1000 metacercariae of F. gigantica, whereas, animals of group I served as uninfected control. Digestion cum metabolism trial of 8 days duration was conducted after 45 days post infection. The cytokine gene expression (IL-2 and IL-10) were analyzed 45 days post infection by using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with the double stranded DNA-binding dye SYBR Green to know the T cell response during clinical phase of fasciolosis. Dry matter intake of group III was significantly (P<0.01) lower than groups i and ii. digestibility of ether extract of infected animals was significantly (p<0.05) lower than control whereas digestibility of other nutrients were not influenced due to F. gigantica infection. IL-10 was present in detectable levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of infected animals, whereas in control animals IL-2 was not present in detectable levels. IL-2 was not present in detectable levels in PBMCs of both infected and control groups. It can be construed that nutrient utilization was hardly affected due to Fasciola gigantica infection during prepatent period and T cell response was Th2 type.

Key words: Crossbred calves, Fasciola gigantica, Prepatent period, Nutrient utilization, Cytokine expression.

*Corresponding author: slingale@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Srinivas, B. and Sankhyan, S.K. 2010. Optimum nitrogen and energy retention in ewes and foetal growth in the late gestation on concentrate supplementation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 187-194.
Average and marginal efficiency of utilization of N and energy by breeding ewes from 75 d of gestation was studied by feeding varying levels of concentrate supplement (CS) to guar straw in 1 (EG1) 2 (EG2), 3 (EG3) and 5 (EG4) multiples of recommended requirement. Control group (CG) was kept alone on guar straw. Guar straw intake was reduced (P<0.01) with higher level of cs in eg4. average and marginal efficiency of n retention was higher in eg1 and energy retention was higher in eg3. optimum level of cs was in the range of eg1 to eg3, beyond which n and energy retention by ewe was inefficient. no significant difference in the net protein and energy retention by the foetus during subsequent fortnight from 90 d of gestation. although n and energy retention by ewe was negative in cg, foetal protein and energy retention was not affected. actual birth weight of the lambs was lesser than the predicted birth weight in cg, eg1, eg2 and eg4 but contrary was true for eg3 that may be due to higher average and marginal efficiency of n and energy utilization by ewe. maternal weight loss in cg and eg4 indicated that both under and over feeding will not yield better lamb weights. in conclusion, threshold level of cs required to breeding ewe was 100 g />d. CS of 300 g/d on fresh basis was optimum for higher marginal efficiency of maternal N and energy retention beyond which there was inefficiency in maternal system.

Key words: Energy, Ewes, Foetus, Late gestation, Nutrition.

*Corresponding author: bandla_srinivas@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Bashir, K., Patil, S. and Ganai, A.M. 2010. Effect of formulated feeds with different protein levels on performance of Koi carp (Cyprinus carpio var. koi). Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 195-200.
Koi carp (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) were reared for 60 days in the laboratory under five dietary treatments (A, B, C, D and E) with varying crude protein levels. Diet ‘A’ was commercial pelleted feed (CP 30.30%), while diets B, C, D and E were formulated from locally available feed ingredients having CP percentage of 24.4, 27.23 35.24 and 43.00, respectively. There was significant (P<0.01) difference in body weight gain of koi carp with values 27.55±0.03g, 28.72±0.06g, 30.7±0.2g, 33.62±0.5g and 38.0±0.04g in treatment a, b, c, d and e, respectively. the highest body weight gain was observed in treatment e (38.02±0.04g) and lowest in treatment a (27.55±0.32g). the feed conversion ratio (fcr) and specific growth rate (sgr) showed significantly (p<0.05) better performance in treatment E.Digestibility of nutrients viz; crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) were significantly (P<0.05) higher for diet E and D. Commercial pelleted feed (treatment A) was cost intensive compared to formulated feeds. The body composition of fish showed significant differences (P<0.05) in protein and lipid content with highest protein and lipid content in treatment E (64.84 & 23.97) and D (64.09 & 21.86). The gross energy (k cal/g) content of the body showed the same trend. The water quality parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and total alkalinity) were within normal range. It was concluded that for growing stages of Koi carp a crude protein level of 35.44 to 43.0 percent was better for growth and carcass composition.

Key words: Digestibility, Carcass composition, Growth, Koi carp, Protein.

*Corresponding author: ganaimajeed@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Madhavi, K., Reddy, T.J., Ramana Reddy, Y. and Reddy, G.V.N. 2010. Growth rate and carcass characteristics of nellore ram lambs fed on differently processed and detoxified neem (Azadirachta indica) seed cake incorporated complete diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 209-214.
A complete diet formulated with detoxified neem (Azadirachta indica) cake was processed into three different physical forms viz. mash, expander-extruded pellets and steam pellets. These three diets were compared with a conventional ration in a 180-day growth trial using twenty four Nellore ram lambs (18.81±0.5) divided into four groups of six lambs each in a completely randomized design. The average daily gain was significantly (P<0.05) higher on pelleted diets in comparison to that on control and mash diets. no significant (p>0.05) differences with regard to dressing percentage, primal cuts, proportion of lean, bone and fat, and edible and inedible ratio could be observed due to incorporation of detoxified neem seed cake. Further, pelleting the diet decreased the feed cost per kg gain by 14.95 to 15.50 and 10.93 to 11.5 per cent compared to control and mash diets. Hence, neem seed cake can be incorporated into complete diet after detoxification with out any deleterious effect on growth and meat quality. Among the processing methods expander-extruder processing cost can be preferred over steam pelleting because of low processing as compared to steam pelleting.

Key words: Neem seed cake, Complete diet, Processing, Growth rate, Carcass characteristics.

*Corresponding author: nvjadhav2007@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Yasothai, R., Mohan, B. and Ravi, R. 2010. Effect of feeding sesame oil cake (Sesamum indicum L.) by replacing protein concentrate mixture on the performance of broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 207-218.
Day-old chicks (n= 240), randomly allotted to eight treatment groups in duplicate of fifteen chicks each, were used in the study for 6 weeks. The sesame oil cake was included at different levels viz., 0% (T1), 5% (T2), 7.5% (T3), 10% (T4), 12.5% (T5), 15% (T6), 17.5% (T7) and 20% (T8) in broiler rations by replacing the protein concentrate mixture. At the end of 6 weeks, there was a linear increase in weight gain as the level of sesame oil cake increased from 0-15% (T1 to T6) and the weight gain (P<0.05) and feed efficiency was superior at 15% sesame oil cake inclusion level (1495 g and 1.98) compared to control diet (1379 g and 1.99). the blood profile of broilers fed sesame oil cake revealed a non-significant reduction in total lipids, cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (ldl) and increase in the high density lipoprotein (hdl) content as the level of sesame oil cake increased in the ration. the blood calcium (p<0.05) and phosphorus (P<0.01) content were also significantly reduced as the level of sesame oil cake increased in the ration. The dressing percentage and weight of liver, heart, gizzard, spleen and abdominal fat were not affected in sesame oil cake fed birds. The overall ranking of the taste of the broiler breast meat increased linearly to the level of inclusion of sesame oil cake from 5 to 15% (T2 to T6) in the ration. A maximum profit of 32 paise/kg live weight was obtained in broilers fed 17.5% (T7) sesame oil cake in the ration. Based on the overall performance and cost effectiveness, inclusion of sesame oil cake up to 15% (T6) level in broiler starter and finisher ration is recommended.

Key words: Sesame oil cake, Blood profile, Dressing percentage, Broilers.

*Corresponding author: yasothairamalingam@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Prasad, R., Chaturvedi, O.H., Misra, A.K., Mishra, A.S., Tripathi, M.K., Raghuvansi, S.K.S. and Jakhmola, R.C. 2010. Effect of different energy sources on feed fermentation and nutrient utilization in sheep fed mustard straw based complete diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 219 228.
The study was conducted on 20 yearlings Bharat Merino rams, divided randomly into 4 groups of 5 animals each. Four complete diets were prepared using two types of mustard straw (untreated, UMS: 60% or 2% sodium hydroxide treated, TMS: 60%) as roughage source and two energy sources (barley, BR: 10% or molasses, MOL: 10%). The feeding was continued for 28 days followed by 7 days metabolism trial. Dry matter intake from complete diets containing TMS was higher (36%) than those contained UMS. Intakes of organic matter, crude protein and cell wall constituents were also higher (P<0.05) in tms based diets than that of ums based diets. the energy source in the form of molasses or barley did not have any effect on the intake or digestibility of nutrients. the rams fed on tms based diets had higher (p<0.01) rumen pH than those on UMS containing diets. Addition of molasses in the diet favoured the production of propionate and butyrate in the rumen of sheep. The production of microbial nitrogen as percent of total rumen nitrogen was facilitated both by alkali treatment and addition of barley in the diets. It is inferred that treatment of mustard straw with alkali improved intake of dry matter and other nutrients. In the same way addition of energy in the form of molasses enhanced rumen fermentation with high rumen total-N and NH3-N.

Key words: Barley, Energy sources, Molasses, Mustard straw, Sheep

*Corresponding author: omharichaturvedi@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Waje, S.H., Singh, S.K. and Mudgal, V. 2010. Effect of using forest grass based complete rations on growth and nutrient utilization in growing crossbred calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 229-234.
Three mixed forest grass (Themeda quadrivalvis, Dichanthium aristatum and Dichanthium annulatum) based rations were evaluated in the diet of crossbred female calves. Eighteen crossbred female calves (body weight, 66.44±0.51 kg) were divided into three equal groups and fed in the form of conventional feeding system (mixed forest grass and concentrate mixture separately, T1), total mixed ration (TMR, T2) or pelleted ration (T3) for a period of 45 days including a digestion trial of 7 days. DM, protein and energy intake as well as digestibility of OM, CF and NFE were higher (P<0.05) when ration was provided either pelleted or tmr form as compared to conventional feeding system. the improvement (p<0.05) in the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and ether extract in pelleted form was higher (P<0.05) to that of TMR and the digestibility in TMR was also remained higher (P<0.05) to their conventional counterpart. Pelleting of ration also showed improvement (P<0.05) in the growth rate of crossbred calves as compared to calves fed either conventional or TMR diets. The cost of feeding/kg body weight gain remained comparable among the three groups. It may be concluded that pelleting is a practical method of densification and is useful for nutritional improvement of a diet.

Key words: Crossbred calves, Growth, Nutrient utilization, Pelleted ration, Total mixed ration.

*Corresponding author: sureshksingh48@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Wadhwa, M., Kaur, N. and Bakshi, M.P.S. 2010. Degradability of Protein Fractions of Conventional and Non-conventional Protein Supplements. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 235-243.
Conventional [solvent extracted groundnut cake (GNC) and mechanically extracted mustard cake (MC)] and non-conventional protein supplements [mechanically extracted castor oil seed cake (COSC), un-decorticated solvent extracted neem seed cake (NSC) and corn gluten meal (CGM)] and their protein fractions were evaluated for their degradation in the rumen. Protein supplements before and after rumen incubations (for 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hrs) were subjected to sequential fractionation into albumin, globulin, glutelin and prolamins on the basis of solubility. The concentration of soluble proteins (albumin and globulin) was observed to be higher (P<0.05) in cosc, whereas that of insoluble protein (glutelin and prolamin) fractions was higher (p<0.05) in CGM. The globulin constituted the major (P<0.05) soluble fraction of all protein supplements selected. The 48 h crude protein degradability of groundnut and mustard cake (98 and 94%) was comparable to that of castor oil seed cake (98%), but significantly higher than that of neem seed cake (69%) and corn gluten meal (37%). The degradability of soluble protein fractions was higher (P<0.05) than that of insoluble protein fractions. Irrespective of protein supplements, the degradability of globulin was highest (P<0.05), followed by albumin, glutelin and prolamin. It was concluded that GNC and COSC were highly susceptible to rumen micro-organisms, resulting in negligible amount of rumen undegradable protein fraction, while CGM showed great resistance to rumen microbes.

Key words: Protein supplements, Protein fractions, In-sacco degradability

*Corresponding author: bakshimps@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Singh, J. and Sikka, S.S. 2010. Effect of supplementation of vitamin D3 at varying dietary Ca:tP ratio in diets supplemented with phytase on growth performance of broiler chicks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 245-253.
A feeding trial was conducted on the broiler to assess the effect of supplementation of vitamin D3 at four different Calcium:total phosphorus (Ca:tP) ratios of 1:1,1.2:1,1.4:1 and 2:1 in the wheat based diet supplemented with phytase on the growth performance. Eight diets containing phytase were prepared with and without vitamin D3 supplementation. Ca:tP ratio of the diets were obtained by varying the limestone powder and deoiled rice bran. The effects of supplementation of vitamin D3 at different Ca:tP ratios supplemented with phytase significantly (P<0.05) affected body weight, weight gain (1-3 week) along with feed intake, feed conversion ratio, protein conversion ratio and calorie conversion ratio during 4-5 and 1-5 weeks of age.

Key words: Vitamin D3, Phytase, Growth performance.

*Corresponding author: sssikka04@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Ganie, A.A., Baghel, R.P.S., Mudgal, V. and Sheikh, G.G. 2010. Effect of selenium supplementation on growth and nutrient utilization in buffalo heifers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 10: 255-259.
Twenty buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) heifers of 18–36 months of age (239.0±16.46 kg) were divided into two groups (n=10 per group). Animals in the control (T1) group were fed diet comprising of concentrate mixture (40% maize, 44% mustard cake, 8% wheat bran, 5% arhar chuni, 2% mineral mixture and 1% common salt) and wheat straw ad libitum. Animals in the experimental group (T2) were also fed same basal diet except that they were supplemented with 0.2 ppm selenium (Se) in their concentrate mixture. Experimental feeding lasted for 120 days including a 7 days digestion trial. The intake of DM and digestibility of DM, CP, EE, CF and NFE were similar (P>0.05) between the two groups. While supplementation of Se had no effect on DCP intake, TDN intake was significantly (P<0.05) higher in t2 group. average daily gain (adg) of the buffalo heifers was also significantly (p<0.05) higher in group T2 as compared to the control (T1) group up to 300 kg body weight. However, after 300 kg body weight there was no effect of selenium supplementation on ADG. These results suggest that Se supplementation (0.2 ppm in concentrate mixture) improves the growth performance of buffalo heifers during early stages.

Keywords: Buffalo heifers, Growth, Nutrient utilization, Selenium.

*Corresponding author: vishalmudgal1@rediffmail.com