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ABSTRACT

Ravi, A. and Rama Prasad, J. 2008. Male kids and lambs response to supplementation under intensive system of management. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 147-156.

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

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

*Corresponding author: ramaprasadjin@yahoo.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Vitamin E and Selenium Supplementation on Growth, Nutrient Utilization and their Balance in Male Buffalo Calves
P.L. Shinde, R.S. Dass*, A.K. Garg and K.P. Bhadane

Centre of Advanced Studies in Animal Nutrition

Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, India

(Received January 03, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Shinde, P.L., Dass, R.S., Garg, A.K. and Bhadane, K.P. 2008. Effect of vitamin E and selenium supplementation on growth, nutrient utilization and their balance in male buffalo calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 157-165.

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

Keywords: Vitamin E, Selenium, Buffalo calves, Growth, Digestibility.

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

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Research Paper

Chemical Composition, Metabolizable Energy and Protein Efficiency Ratio of Sesame Oil Cake (Sesamum indicum L.) for Chicken
R. Yasothai*, B. Mohan and R. Ravi

Department of Animal Nutrition

Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637 001, India

(Received April 26, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Yasothai, R., Mohan, B. and Ravi, R. 2008. Chemical composition, metabolizable energy and protein efficiency ratio of sesame oil cake (Sesamum indicum L.) for chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology,8: 167-173.

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

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

*Corresponding author: yasothairamalingam@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Nutrient Composition and In Situ Degradability of Forest Foliages Consumed by Mithun (Bos frontalis)

B. Prakash*, A. Dhali, K.C. Das, S.S. Rathore, H. Hazarika and C. Rajkhowa

National Research Centre on Mithun

Jharnapani, Medziphema, Nagaland-797 106, India

(Received May 07, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Prakash, B., Dhali, A., Das, K.C., Rathore, S.S., Hazarika, H. and Rajkhowa, C. 2008. Nutrient composition and in situ degradability of forest foliages consumed by Mithun (Bos frontalis). Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 175-183.

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

Keywords: Tree foliage, Nutrient composition, In situ degradability, Mithun.

*Corresponding author: drbhukyaprakash@gmail.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Replacing Maize with Pigment Extracted Annatto (Bixa Orallena) Seed Meal on the Performance of Broilers

P. Senthilkumar, Y. Ramana Reddy*, S. Ramesh, S. Gobinath and V. Ravinder Reddy

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science

Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Hyderabad-500 030, India

(Received June 07, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Senthilkumar, P., Ramana Reddy, Y., Ramesh, S., Gobinath, S. and Ravinder Reddy, V. 2008. Effect of replacing maize with pigment extracted annatto (Bixa Orallena) seed meal on the performance of broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 185-192.

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

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

*Corresponding author: ramanayr19@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Nutritional and Metabolic Response of Adult Spitz Dogs Fed Pearl Millet (Pennisetum typhoides) Based Diets to Exogenous Enzyme Supplementation

K.B. Kore, A.K. Pattanaik*, A. Das and K. Sharma

Clinical & Pet Nutrition Laboratory, Centre of Advanced Studies in Animal Nutrition

Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, India

(Received June 12, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Kore, K.B., Pattanaik, A.K., Das, A. and Sharma, K. 2008. Nutritional and metabolic response of adult Spitz dogs fed pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) based diets to exogenous enzyme supplementation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 193-202.

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

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

*Corresponding author: akpattanaik1@gmail.com

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Research Paper

Performance of Lambs Fed Formaldehyde Treated Mustard Oil Cake and Bakery Waste Based Concentrate Mixture

A.M. Ganai* and T. Sharma

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary and Animal Science

Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner-334 001, India

(Received August 14, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Ganai, A.M. and Sharma, T. 2008. Performance of lambs fed formaldehyde treated mustard oil cake and bakery waste based concentrate mixture. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 203-212.

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

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

*Corresponding author: amganai@rediffmail.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Different Levels of Concentrate Supplementation on Growth Performance of Sikkim Local Kids Fed Mixed Jungle Grass Based Diet

A. Das*

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre

Tadong, Gangtok-737 102, India

(Received August 18, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Das, A. 2008. Effect of different levels of concentrate supplementation on growth performance of Sikkim local kids fed mixed jungle grass based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 213-218.

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

Keywords: Concentrate, Supplementation, Growth, Goat, Jungle grass.

*Corresponding author: drasitdas@rediffmail.com

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Research Paper

Effect of Feeding Formaldehyde Treated Sesame (Sesamum Indicum L.) Cake on Reproductive Efficiency and Physiological Responses of Crossbred Cows

H.L. Bugalia, J.L. Chaudhary* and Lokesh Gupta

Livestock Research Station

Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology

Vallabhnagar, Udaipur-313 601, India

(Received September 17, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Bugalia, H.L., Chaudhary, J.L. and Gupta, L. 2008. Effect of feeding formaldehyde treated sesame (Sesamum Indicum L.) cake on reproductive efficiency and physiological responses of crossbred cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 219-226.

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

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

*Corresponding author: chaudharyjl@yahoo.com

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Research Paper

Extracted Coconut Meal in White Leghorn Layer Diet

M. Moorthy* and K. Viswanathan

Department of Poultry Science

Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637 002, India

(Received September 22, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Moorthy, M. and Viswanathan, K. 2008. Extracted coconut meal in white leghorn layer diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 227-236.

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

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

*Corresponding author: poultrymoorthy@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Response of Broiler Chicks to Supplementation of a Commercial Growth Promoter-cum-Immunomodulator

S.A. Bolu*, S. Olakotan, A. Elkanah, F. Soyemi

Department of Animal Production

University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria

(Received November 12, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Bolu, S.A., Olakotan, S., Elkanah, A. and Soyemi, F. 2008. Response of broiler chicks to supplementation of a commercial growth promoter-cum-immunomodulator. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 237-244.

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

Keyword: Livelong, Growth promoter, Immunomodulator, Broiler chicks, Performance.

*Corresponding author: bolusao2002@yahoo.co.uk

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Research Paper

Processing of Simaruba (Simarouba glauca) Oil Cake for Detoxification and its Evaluation in Broiler Chicken

N.C. Behura*, P.K. Dehuri, S.K. Mishra and P.C. Samal

Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry

Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003, India

(Received November 16, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Behura, N.C., Dehuri, P.K., Mishra, S.K. and Samal, P.C. 2008. Processing of simaruba (Simarouba glauca) oil cake for detoxification and its evaluation in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 245-252.

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

Keywords: Simaruba oilcake, Detoxification, Broiler, Feeding. invitee

*Corresponding author: kvk_semiliguda@yahoo.co.in

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Research Paper

Mineral Status of Livestock of Shivalik Hill Zone of Himachal Pradesh

R. Kumar, K.B. Sharma*, Manjinder Sharma and Ravi Sharma

Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences

CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062, India

(Received August 14, 2006)

ABSTRACT

Kumar, R., Sharma, K.B., Sharma, M. and Sharma, R. 2008. Mineral status of livestock of shivalik hill zone of Himachal Pradesh. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 253-257.

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

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

*Corresponding author: sharmakb@hillagric.ernet.in

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Short Communication

Effect of Anti-stress Agents on the Performance of WLH Hens During Summer Season

G.A. Bhat* and S.C. Gupta

Department of Livestock Production and Management

College of Animal Sciences, CCS Haryana Agricultural University

Hissar-110 000, India

(Received October 10, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Bhat, G.A. and Gupta, S.C. 2008. Effect of anti-stress agents on the performance of WLH hens during summer season. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 259-264.

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

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

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Short Communication

Studies on Improvement in the Nutritive Value of Poultry Droppings By Fungal Fermentation

Parminder Singh, V.K. Gupta, S.S. Sikka*, A.P.S. Sethi and J.S. Chawla

Department of Animal Nutrition

Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

Ludhiana-141 004, India

(Received November 10, 2006)

ABSTRACT

Singh, P., Gupta, V.K., Sikka, S.S., Sethi, A.P.S. and Chawla, J.S. 2008. Studies on improvement in the nutritive value of poultry droppings by fungal fermentation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 265-272.

An attempt was made to reduce the uric acid of poultry droppings by solid state fermentation using Alternaria sp-1 and 2, Aspergilus sp-1 (AP-1), Coprinus sp, Fusarium moniliformis, Pencillium sp, Rhizopus sp, Trichoderma reesei (TR-9123 and TR-9414) fungal species. TR–9414 and Alternaria sp-1 had maximum growth and penetration. Fermentation reduced crude fibre and uric acid. AP–1 fermented droppings had minimum uric acid. Fermentation with AP–1, Fusarium moniliformis and TR– 9414 increased crude protein. Screening of AP–1, TR–9123 and TR–9414 further indicated that AP-1 had significantly (P<0.05) less organic matter but TR–9414 had significantly (P<0.05) more ether extract. Crude fibre in AP-1 fermented droppings was significantly (P<0.05) less than TR–9123. Similarly TR–9123 had significantly (P<0.05) less crude protein. However AP-1 had significantly (P<0.05) more true protein. Fermentation time significantly (P<0.05) affected the nutrient contents. Pepsin-trypsin digestibility in TR–9414 fermented droppings was significantly (P<0.05) more than in AP-1 fermented poultry dropping. Irrespective of the fungi fermentation time significantly (P<0.05) affected in-vitro digestibilities. Pepsin-trypsin digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) more in TR–9414 than AP-1 fermented poultry droppings. It was concluded that fermentation for ten days significantly (P<0.05) decreased crude fibre and uric acid with increase in true protein and nitrogen free extract of poultry droppings.

Keywords: Poultry droppings, Fungal fermentation, Nutritive value.

*Corresponding author: sssikka04@rediffmail.com

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Short Communication

Status of Arsenic and Mercury in Different Sources of Water in Haryana

Debashis Roy, Veena Mani*, Harjit Kaur and Neelam Kewalramani

Dairy Cattle Nutrition Division

National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001, India

(Received January 03, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Roy, D., Mani, V., Kaur, H. and Kewalramani, N. 2008. Status of arsenic and mercury in different sources of water in Haryana. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 273-278.

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

Keywords: Mercury, Arsenic, Water, Haryana.

*Corresponding author: veenamani1@yahoo.com

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Short Communication

Effect of Replacement of Cottonseed Cake with Sunflower Extraction on Lactation Performance of Cows

R.N. Bade*, V.D. Kank, M.B. Patil, G.M. Gadegaonkar, S.D. Jagadale and B.T. Phondba

Department of Animal Nutrition

Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai-400 012, India

(Received March 01, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Bade, R.N., Kank, V.D., Patil, M.B., Gadegaonkar, G.M., Jagadale, S.D. and Phondba, B.T. 2008. Effect of replacement of cottonseed cake with sunflower extraction on lactation performance of cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 279-284.

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

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

*Corresponding author: dr_rakeshbade@yahoo.co.in

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Short Communication

Effect of Higher Levels of Zinc on Nutrient Utilization and Mineral Balance in Indigenous Pigs

S. Kumar, N. Prasad, S. Thakur* and S.K. Singh

Department of Animal Nutrition

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry

Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi-834 006, India

(Received July 27, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Kumar, S., Prasad, N., Thakur, S. and Singh, S.K. 2008. Effect of higher levels of zinc on nutrient utilization and mineral balance in indigenous pigs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 285-288.

The study was conducted on 27 adults indigenous pigs (age 12 months; BW 56.0±5.96 kg) divided into three equal groups (2 male and 7 female) and fed concentrate mixture with different levels of zinc content. The control group (T1) pigs received zinc as per recommended requirements i.e. 50 ppm while pigs in groups T2 and T3 received higher levels at 150 and 200%, respectively, of the suggested level during experimental feeding period of three months. Addition of 100 ppm zinc in concentrate mixture (T3) had significant (P<0.05) effects on the digestibility of CP, EE, OM and balances of N, Ca, P and Zn. The intake of DCP was also significantly (P<0.05) higher in that group. It was concluded that supplementation of higher Zn levels in adult indigenous pig ration improved digestibility and balance of nutrients.

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

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Short Communication

Utilization of Mulberry (Morus alba) Leaves for Economic Angora Rabbit Production

R.S. Bhatt*, D. Mondal, R.B. Sharma and K.S. Risam

North Temperate Regional Station

Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Garsa, Kullu-175 141, India

(Received November 16, 2007)

ABSTRACT

Bhatt, R.S., Mondal, D., Sharma, R.B. and Risam, K.S. 2008. Utilization of mulberry (Morus alba) leaves for economic angora rabbit production. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 8: 289-294.

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

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

*Corresponding author: bhatt_rs@yahoo.com

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