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ANFT JANUARY 2012 ISSUES 01

ABSTRACT

Chae, B.J., Ingale, S.L., Kim, J.S., Kim, K.H., Sen, S., Lee, S.H., Khong, C., Kim, E.K. and Kwon, I.K. 2012. Effect of dietary supplementation of probiotics on performance, caecal microbiology and small intestinal morphology of broiler chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 1-12.An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of different probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bacillus subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on growth performance, nutrient retention, caecal microbiology and intestinal morphology of broilers. Three hundred twenty day-old broiler chicks (Ross) were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 treatments on the basis of body weight in a randomized complete block design. Each treatment was comprised of 4 replicates with 20 chicks in each. Experimental diets were fed in 2 phases, starter (d 0 to 21) and finisher (d 22 to 35). Dietary treatments were basal diet without any probiotic (Control) and basal diet supplemented with 0.30% of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA), Bacillus subtilis (BS) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC). Supplementation of LA, BS and SC to broilers diets improved (P<0.05) feed intake, BW gain and digestibility of CP and GE (d 21 and 35), DM (d 35) than broilers fed control diet. Moreover, birds in treatments LA, BS and SC showed better (P<0.05) overall FCR compared to control. At d 35 birds in treatments LA, BS and SC showed decrease (P<0.05) in caecal Clostridium and Coliform count than control. Villus height of duodenum and villus height:crypt depth ratio of ileum were increased (P<0.05) in treatments LA, BS and SC as compared to control. Result obtained in present study indicates that L.acidophilus, B. subtilis and S. cerviciae at 0.30% level of inclusion improved nutrient digestibility, caecal microbial balance and intestinal morphology of broilers.

Key words: Probiotics, Performance, Caecal microbiology, Intestinal morphology, Broilers.

*Corresponding author: ikkwon@kangwon.ac.kr

ABSTRACT

Beura, T.K., Panda, N., Mishra, P.K., Panigrahi, B., Panda, H.K. and Pati, P.K. 2012. Effect of Vitamin E and C on the growth and immunocompetence of coloured birds during Summer. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 13-24.
The influence of vitamin E and/or vitamin C supplementation on growth, immunity, carcass traits and lymphoid organs of coloured chicks during summer was studied. Coloured broiler chicks (n=540) divided into 9 treatment groups were fed basal diet with supplementation of vitamin E (250 mg or 500 mg) and vitamin C (250 mg or 500 mg) either alone or in combinations from 0-56 days of age. The treatment-wise supplementation to the basal diet was, T1: control without supplementation, T2: E 250 mg, T3: E 500 mg, T4: C 250 mg, T5: C 500 mg, T6: E 250 mg+C 500 mg, T7: E 500 mg+C 250 mg, T8: E 250 mg+C 500 mg, T9: E 500 mg+C 500 mg/kg feed. The average highest temperature and relative humidity during the experimental period was 37.98°C and 87.9%, respectively. The growth rate, feed conversion ratio, humoral, cell mediated immunity and carcass characteristics were determined. Higher body weight and better FCR (P<0.05) were seen in groups supplemented with both the vitamins i.e. t6, t7, t8 and t9 than individual vitamin supplementated (t2, t3, t4 and t5) and control group; but no effect on feed intake was observed. better humoral immunity as shown by higher (p<0.05) haemagglutination inhibition titre against Newcastle Disease vaccine and against sheep red blood cells and higher cell mediated as reflected by increased (P<0.05) cutaneous basophilic hypersensitivity response was seen in T7 (E 500 mg+C 250 mg) and T8 (E 250 mg+C 500 mg), groups. From the results, it was concluded that supplementation of vitamin E @500 mg/kg and C @250 mg/kg in the diet of coloured broilers improved growth performance, increased both celluar and humoral immune response during summer stress.

Key words: Coloured birds, Growth, Immunity, Summer, Vitamin E, Vitamin C.

*Corresponding author: npandaouat@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Dhayagude, R.S., Garg, A.K., Dass, R.S. and Bhadane, K.P. 2012. Nutrient utilization and growth performance of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) exposed to different levels of dietary cadmium. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 25-34.
The experiment was aimed to study the effects of dietary cadmium (Cd) concentration on growth and nutrient metabolism in guinea pigs. Forty-eight healthy guinea pigs (30-35d old, mean body weight 297.4±2.76 g) were divided into four dietary groups (n=12 per group) and fed diets added with 0, 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mg Cd/kg for 91 days including a metabolism trial which lasted for 4 days. Intake and digestibility of nutrients and balance of calcium and phosphorus were not affected by dietary Cd concentration. However, nitrogen balance decreased and feed conversion efficiency was deteriorated in all the Cd supplemented groups, with significantly (P<0.05) lower values in group fed diet having 4.5 mg cd />kg as compared with the control group. The average daily gain was also reduced in a linear manner as dietary cadmium content increased (r2=0.98), with significantly (P<0.05) lower values in the groups supplemented with 3.0 and 4.5 mg cd />kg diet as compared to control group. Results indicated that addition of Cd even at 3 mg/kg level (which is below the presently recommended safe level of 5 mg Cd/kg) in the diet had an adverse effect on growth performance, feed conversion efficiency and N metabolism in the guinea pigs. On the basis of these results it may be deduced that prolonged exposure of dietary Cd even at 3 mg/kg is not safe for the animals.

Key words: Cadmium, Feed efficiency, Growth, Guinea pigs, Nutrient utilization.

*Corresponding author: akgivri@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Sing, K.W., Sofian-Azirun, M. and Tayyab, S. 2012. Protein analysis of Chrysomya megacephala maggot meal. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 35-46.
Protein content of Chysomya megacephala maggot meal extract was determined using different colorimetric methods such as biuret method, dye-binding method and Lowry method. Protein estimation was performed after dissolution of maggot powder in 0.06 M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) both in the absence and the presence of 1% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). Alternatively, use of color reagent was made both before and after centrifugation of the dissolved mixture. Whereas dye-binding method could not be performed in presence of SDS due to its interference, both biuret method and Lowry method were employed using standard curves in presence of 1 % SDS. Two other methods, namely, Warburg- Christian method and semi-micro Kjeldahl method were also used to determine protein concentration. Both inclusion of SDS and addition of color reagents before centrifugation of the dissolved sample showed a significant increase in the percentage protein content compared to the results obtained under normal condition. A comparison of all these results suggested the use of biuret method and Lowry method under specific conditions as the substitute for semi-micro Kjeldahl method for protein estimation. The SDSpolyacryalmide gel electrophoresis of maggot meal extract showed the presence of both small and medium sized proteins ranging in molecular weights from 17 kDa to 83 kDa. Maggot meal powder was also found rich in essential amino acids as determined by amino acid analysis. Taken together, all these results suggested the suitability of C. megacephala maggot meal as a good protein source in animal feed.

Key words: Amino acid

*Corresponding author: saadtayyab2004@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Chaji, M. and Mohammadabadi, T. 2011. Determination of rumen fungi growth on steam-treated sugarcane pith by quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 47-53.
This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of high temperature-steam treatment (180- 210°C, 3 min) of sugarcane pith on rumen fungi growth using a quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (QC-PCR) assay. Rumen anaerobic fungi were grown in culture medium containing untreated or high temperature-steam treated sugarcane pith. Fungi growth was determined by quantitative competitive-PCR. The results showed that rumen anaerobic fungi growth was greater (P<0.05) in the medium containing steam-treated sugarcane pith compared to the untreated sugarcane pith (+0.6 vs – 0.3). results indicated that steam processing of sugarcane pith does not negatively affect on the growth of rumen fungi.

Key words: Steam, Sugarcane pith, Rumen fungi, Quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction.

*Corresponding author: chaji@raminuni.ac.ir / morteza34312002@yahoo.co.uk

ABSTRACT

Zakaria, A., Yaakub, H., Radziah, O. and Alimon, A.R. 2012. Effect of bacteria inoculants on corn silage quality. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 55-62.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of bacterial inoculants on fermentation rate and quality of corn silage. There are five lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from corn silage; Lactobacillus buchneri, L. hilgardii, L. kefiri, L. oris and L. rhamnosus which were applied at ~107-108 cfu/g of fresh corn forage. The inoculated chopped corn forage was stored in approximately 12 kg-capacity polyester containers for 14, 21 and 28 days. The temperature, pH, nutrient composition and aerobic stability was determined. Inoculation LAB improved the fermentation characteristics, increased nutrient digestibility and improved aerobic stability of corn silages. The bacterial inoculants did not significantly (P>0.05) decreased pH values of the corn silages. Addition of bacterial inoculants to corn silages increased its crude protein content significantly (P<0.05) with time. however, adding bacterial inoculants also significantly (p<0.05) decreased the neutral detergent fiber content with time. After 21 days, the process of fermentation appeared to be complete for all treatments. Among the five lactic acid bacteria used, L. buchneri was identified as the best inoculants for ensiling of corn forage.

Key words: Inoculants, Corn forage, Fermentation, Lactic acid bacteria, Silage.

*Corresponding author: hali@agri.upm.edu.my

ABSTRACT

Rajendran, D. and Balakrishnan, V. 2012. Diet composition, biomass yield and mineral contents of vegetation in native tract of Mecheri sheep. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 63-71.
The diet composition, biomass yield, preference index and mineral contents of vegetation in mountain, fallow and waste/roadside land were assessed in native tract of Mecheri sheep during South West monsoon (June–September) season. Biomass yield (g/m2 on DM) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in mountain (743.05) than in fallow land (107.16) and waste />roadside land (187.29). Botanical composition revealed that out of 31 herbage species in mountain land, Acacia planifrons constituted 23.27±6.02%; out of 12 herbage species in fallow land, Cyanodan dactylon constituted 43.28±3.48%; out of 11 herbage species in waste/roadside land, Tephrosia parpuria constituted 19.70±7.47%; and these three were the dominant species in the respective areas. The diet composition of Mecheri sheep consisted of 20, 12 and 10 out of 31, 12 and 11 herbage species in mountain, fallow and waste/roadside land, respectively. Preference index (percentage diet composition/percentage botanical composition) indicated that herbages in the waste/roadside land were more edible than fallow and/or mountain land. Mineral contents of major graze species in the diet composition of mountain as well as fallow land contained Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Co above the critical level of 0.3%, and 50, 8, 30, 40 and 0.1 ppm, respectively but phosphorous was below the critical level of 0.25%. These observations indicates that to balance the phosphorous requirement, sheep that are grazed at mountain land or fallow land needs to be grazed at waste/roadside land at least on rotational basis or may be supplemented with area specific mineral mixture or concentrate feed.

Key words: Botanical composition, Biomass, Grazing land, Minerals, Preference index, Sheep.

*Corresponding author: rajnutri@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Santra, A., Konar, S., Chatterjee, A. and Das, S.K. 2012. Effect of dietary sunflower oil on rumen protozoal population and fermentation characteristics in growing crossbred calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 73-82.
A study was undertaken to investigate the effect of dietary sunflower oil supplementation on rumen protozoal population, fermentation characteristics and enzyme profile in growing calves. Fifteen growing Jersey male crossbred calves were divided in to three equal groups (G1, G2 and G3) of five each. These calves were fed individually under stall feeding on a mixed ration containing green maize fodder and concentrate mixture in 50:50 ratio for 110 days. Sunflower oil was supplemented along with concentrate mixture at 0, 2 and 4% of the daily DM intake for two consecutive days at seven days intervals to the calves of G1, G2 and G3 group, respectively. Daily DM intake and apparent nutrient digestibility were similar among the three groups. Lowest (P<0.01) rumen protozoal number (both holotrich and spirotrich) was observed in the calves of g3 group followed by g2 and g1 group. rumen ph and ammonia nitrogen concentration became lower (p<0.01) while TVFA and propionate production were higher in G2 and G3 calves. Further, the pH and ammonia nitrogen level were lower (P<0.01) whereas TVFA and propionate concentration were higher (P<0.01) in the rumen liquor of calves fed 4% (G3) than 2% (G2) sunflower oil. Activity of carboxymethyl cellulase, xylanase and β-glucosidase was not influenced by the dietary supplementation. The results of the study indicated that dietary sunflower oil supplementation drastically reduced the rumen protozoal population and increased ruminal propionate production.

Key words: Growth, Calves, Digestibility, Feed conversion efficiency, Sunflower oil.

*Corresponding author: santraashok@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Saijpaul, S., Singh, P., and Sikka S.S. 2012. Quality assessment of mineral mixture and chelated minerals available in the market. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 83-90.
Samples of 19 mineral mixtures and 6 chelated minerals were collected from the progressive dairy farmers and analysed. The range of DM, ash, acid insoluble ash (AIA), Mg, Mn, Zn, Fe, Cu, S, Ca and P were 93.69-99.8, 20.13-90.18, 0.85-23.35, 0.26-15.1, 0.01-0.25, 0.0-0.9, 0.0-2.69, 0.0-0.41, 0.19-1.98, 7.2-30.9 and 0.0-19.78%, respectively. As compared to the BIS specification for mineral mixture, all the samples had the required DM but contained 21.1% lower total ash and 94.7% higher AIA. The number of samples failing BIS specification for Mg, Mn, Zn, Fe and Cu were 57.9, 47.4, 47.4, 36.8 and 42.1%, respectively; whereas samples having lower Ca, P and S were 21.1, 63.2 and 73.7%, respectively. The price (Rs 40/kg to 350/kg) also did not relate to the mineral content or quality of the mineral mixture. In the 6 samples of chelated minerals, the range of Mn, Zn and Cu was 0.42- 3.68%, 1.46-5.08% and 0.36-2.0%, respectively, and all met the daily requirement at the recommended dose. However, wide variation was observed in the total ash and AIA content. The price ranged from Rs 140 to 700/kg which supplied several times higher chelated minerals in the suggested dose. It may be concluded that there is a need to monitor the quality of mineral mixtures available in the market due to their non-uniformity in the minerals and higher AIA content. The chelated minerals supply the specific minerals in the daily dose but may not be cost effective due to its exuberant price.

Key words: Quality, Mineral mixture, Feed supplement, Chelated minerals.

*Corresponding author: sksaijpaul@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Dubey, M., Dutta, N., Banerjee, P.S., Pattanaik, A.K., Sharma, K. and Singh, M. 2012. Effect of condensed tannin supplementation through a tree leaves mixture on erythrocytic antioxidant status and gastrointestinal nematodes in kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 91-102.
In order to assess the effect of condensed tannins (CT) through tanniferous tree leaves on erythrocytic antioxidant status and GI nematodes, indigenous kids (n=18) were randomly divided into 3 groups of 6 each and fed iso-nitrogenous diets to contain 0 (CT-0), 1.0 (CT-1) and 2.0 (CT-2)% CT through a dried and ground leaf meal mixture of Ficus infectoria, Psidium guajava and Ficus bengalensis. Blood-biochemical profile and erythrocytic antioxidant status was monitored in all the kids at 0, 40, 80 and 120d of feeding. Supplementation of CT upto 2.0% of diet for 120d showed a significant (P<0.001) improvement on the performance of kids. total bw gain and adg were higher (p<0.001) in both CT supplemented groups than control. Feed conversion ratio was higher (P<0.001) in CT-2 followed by CT-1 and CT-0, respectively. Haemoglobin, PCV, serum glucose, total protein were similar among the dietary treatments except for a reduction (P<0.01) in serum urea level in CT-fed kids. There was improvement (P<0.05) in erythrocytic antioxidant status n the CT supplemented groups evident from increased concentrations of superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, catalase and total thiol groups concomitant to a reduction in lipid peroxidation as compared to the control. Feeding of CT containing diets up to 2.0% level significantly (P<0.05) decreased the faecal egg counts when compared with the control group. It may be concluded that a mixture of tree leaves (containing 1-2% CT) has the potential to improve antioxidant status with an apparent negative impact on GI nematodes in kids.

Key words: Antioxidant status, Condensed tannins, Growth, GI nematodes, Kids, Tree leaves.

*Corresponding author: dutta65@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Swain, B.K., Naik, P.K., Chakurkar, E.B. and Singh, N.P. 2012. Effect of combined supplementation of probiotic and yeast on growth, carcass characteristics and economics of production in broiler chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 103-110.
An experiment was conducted to study the effect of combined supplementation of probiotic and yeast on growth, carcass traits, organ weights and economics of production in commercial broiler chickens from 0 to 6 weeks of age. Basal diets were formulated containing maize, soybean meal and rice polish with 22.8% CP and 2900 kcal ME/kg at starter phase (0-3 weeks) and 19.9% CP and 3000 kcal ME/kg at finisher phase (4-6 weeks). The broiler chicks were fed basal diet supplemented with Improval (mixture of probiotic and yeast) @ 0 (T0), 0.5 (T0.5), 1.0 (T1.0) and 1.5 (T1.5) g/kg diet. Growth and feed efficiency of broilers fed T1.0 diet were better (P<0.05) than those recorded on control diet. higher (p<0.05) dressing percent and breast yield were observed in chicks fed T1.0 diet supplemented with 1.0 g/kg supplement. The abdominal fat content was reduced (P<0.05) in the supplementated groups compared to control. The relative weights of liver, heart, spleen and bursa were higher in all the supplemented groups while that of the ceaca was reduced (P<0.05) in the birds fed T1.0 diet. Findings of the present study suggested that supplementation of probiotic and yeast mixture @ 1.0 g/kg diet was effective in improving performance and economics in broiler chickens.

Key words: Broiler chickens, Carcass characteristics, Economics, Growth, Probiotic, Yeast.

*Corresponding author: rbkswain@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Nagi, P.R.S., Reddy, D.N., Nagalakshmi, D., Reddy, Y.R. and Raghunandan, T. 2011. Effect of particle size of paddy straw on physical characteristics and performance of lambs fed paddy straw based complete diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 111-119.
Three complete diets were formulated and processed into mash using paddy (Oryza sativa) straw ground through 8, 12 and 16 mm sieve as sole source of roughage at 35% level and were compared with conventional diet (concentrate mixture and chopped jowar straw, fed separately). The four diets were fed to 32 growing Deccani lambs (3-4 months) divided into four equal groups. Incorporating 8 mm or 12 mm ground paddy straw in complete diets (8PS and 12PS, respectively) increased the bulk density by 56.06 and 10.81 per cent, respectively, compared to complete diet with 16 mm (16PS) paddy straw. The average particle size of paddy straw ground through 16, 12 and 8 mm sieve was 1995.3, 1445.4 and 1202.3 m, respectively. Complete diet 16PS had more coarse (60%) and less medium and fine (40%) particle compared to other two complete diets. Complete diet 8PS had only 30% coarse particle due to fine grinding of paddy straw. The modulus of fineness of complete diet increased from 3.34 to 4.80 as the size of screen increased from 8 to 16 mm. Similarly, the average particle size in complete diets increased from 912.1 to 1687.3 with increase in screen size from 8 to 16 mm. The ADG of lambs fed complete diets 8PS and 12PS was higher (P<0.01) compared to those fed conventional diet. The nutrient efficiency was higher (P<0.01) in complete diets compared to conventional diet. It was concluded that grinding of paddy straw with 8 mm or 12 mm sieve were optimum for inclusion in complete diet in order to obtain higher growth rate in lambs. Complete diet system was economical and resulted in higher performance compared to conventional system of feeding in Deccani sheep.

Key words: Bulk density, Growth, Lambs, Modulus of fineness, Nutrient intake, Particle size.

*Corresponding author: dnlakshmi@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Behura, N.C., Dehuri, P.K., Mishra, S.K. and Mohapatra, A.K. 2012. Feeding value of detoxified simaruba (Simarouba glauca) oilcake in egg type growers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 121-126.
To find out the feeding value of detoxified simaruba (Simarouba glauca) oilcake in egg type growers, a feeding trial was conducted with 1750 grower chicks of 8 weeks of age, distributed in to seven dietary groups. Test diets T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 containing 0, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5 and 15 percent NH3 treated and roasted simaruba oilcake (TSOC) were prepared and fed to the experimental chicks from 9 to 16 weeks of age. Weekly individual body weight and group-wise feed consumption of birds were recorded and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated at the end. The 16th week body weight of T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 were 1113, 1111, 1107, 1105, 1025 and 905 g, respectively showing no significant difference among the groups. However, birds of T5 and T6 groups showed significantly (P<0.05) lower as compared to other groups. The FCR of T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 groups were 5.48, 5.78, 5.75, 5.83, 6.16 and 7.25, respectively. The profit was the highest in T4 group. The study revealed that TSOC could be fed to egg type growers up to a level of 10% without any adverse effect on the growth of the egg type growers.

Keywords: Ammoniation, Feeding value, Growers, Rosting, Simarouba glauca, Simaruba oil cake.

*Corresponding author: ncbehura@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Naik, P.K., Swain, B.K., Chakurkar, E.B. and Singh, N.P. 2012. Assessment of potential animal and poultry feed resources in Goa. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 127-133.
A study on the assessment of potential animal and poultry feed resources in Goa was made based on the extrapolation of secondary data from livestock census 2007 and land utilization and crop production pattern of last three consecutive years (2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09). Goa had ruminant livestock unit (RLU) of 69295. Goa had potential green forage availability of 128493 tonnes on dry matter (DM) basis including 61213 tonnes from North Goa and 67280 tonnes from South Goa. Similarly, Goa had potential crop residues availability of 84375 tonnes on DM basis including 50395 tonnes from North Goa and 33980 tonnes from South Goa. Annual potential concentrates availability of Goa was 8672 tonnes, out of which 5388 tonnes was from North Goa and 3284 tonnes was from South Goa. Total concentrates consumed annually by pigs and poultry population had been estimated as 36870 tonnes. Potential total DM availability (kg/RLU/day) was 9.874 including 8.362 in North Goa and 9.251 in South Goa against requirement of 10.5 kg/RLU/day. Thus, there was potential deficit of 0.626 kg DM/RLU/day in Goa including deficit of 2.138 kg DM/RLU/day in North Goa and 1.249 kg DM/RLU/day in South Goa. Thus, it could be concluded that there was a potential deficit of concentrate and roughages to fulfill the nutritional requirement of the livestock and poultry population in Goa.

Key words: Animal, Assessment, Feed, Goa, Livestock, Poultry.

*Corresponding author: pknaikicar@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Fernandes, A.P., Wagh, A.J. and Kamble, D.K. 2012. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility and semen production in Pandharpuri buffalo bulls fed sprouted finger millet (Eleucine coracana) grain. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 135-140.
Twelve Pandharpuri buffalo bulls were divided into two groups and fed for a period of 180d to assess the effect of dietary replacement of maize grain with finger millet. In treatment group, maize of the control group was replaced with 30 parts of sprouted finger millet grains. Animals were fed required quantity of maize as green and sorghum straw as dry fodder. The ADG was 432 and 440g in control and treatment group, respectively, with no (P>0.05) difference. Dry matter intake as well as intake of CP, DCP and TDN remained similar between the two groups. Significant (P<0.05) difference was observed in dm, ee and cf digestibility with values 54.68, 63.04 and 53.83%, and 53.24, 61.13 and 52.22% in treatment and control groups, respectively. the digestibility of cp (54.72 and 55.16%) and nfe (62.18 and 62.72%) however were similar for treatment and control groups, respectively. semen was collected twice a week in the morning and the volume was 2.28 and 2.98 ml per ejaculation with mass activity 1.77 and 2.29 in control and treatment groups, respectively which shown significant (p<0.05) difference. Better quality of semen in the treatment group was further reflected by high percent (60.67 vs. 53.30%) of creamy ejaculation. The study conducted inferred that sprouted finger millet can replace 75% of maize without any adverse effect on feed intake and weight gain and with added advantage of better digestibility and semen quality in buffalo bulls.

Key words: Buffalo bull, Nutrient digestibility, Sprouted grains.

*Corresponding author: kolhapurnpb@gmail.com

ANFT SEPTEMBER 2012 ISSUES 03

ABSTRACT

S.T. Beyene and Mlambo, V. 2012. Yield and nutritive values of grasses in degraded communal savannas of Swaziland surrounding dip-tanks and relationship with soil and herbaceous structure. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 279-296. The use of dip–tanks to control ticks on Swaziland’s communal grazing lands represents an alteration of the natural state of savannas and may have long-lasting effects on the ecology of the surrounding areas. Few studies have explored the zone around dip–tank for gradients of animal impact on soil, forage biomass and nutritive value. Soil and plant samples were collected at 50, 100, 150, 300, 500, 700 and 900 m from dip–tanks in three soil types; deep pale brown old alluvium sandy (DPBS), deep yellow–red loamy (DYRL), and rock outcrops and stony ground (ROSG). All soil minerals except N showed differences among the soil types. Grass biomass was low (range: 126.7–240 kg ha) and together with CP, ADF and NDF, did not show a gradient with distance from a dip–tank. Higher plant Ca, Mg, and P were evident closer to a dip–tank. The relationship between soil and forage mineral was not significant in most instances. The current study has concluded that animals may suffer from low nutrient intake during the growing season and therefore should be supplemented. Since grass production was low, a holistic communal based rangeland management programm and fodder flow interventions are needed to restore the productivity.

Key words: Bare patch, Biomass, Crude Protein, Ecology, Minerals.

*Corresponding author: teferabeyenesolomon@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Panda, A.K., Lavanya, G., Reddy, E.P.K., Rao, S.V.R. and Raju, M.V.L.N. 2012. Effect of dietary supplementation of enzymes on performance of broiler chickens in maize-soybean meal based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 297-303.
The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of multi-carbohydrase enzymes (xylanase, glucanase, cellulase and mannanase) supplementation in maize-soybean meal based diet on the performance of broiler chickens. Control starter (0-3 wk) and finisher (4-6 wk) diet based on maize-soybean meal was formulated to meet respective nutrient requirement. Another low energy diet was formulated in which the AME value was lowered by 100 kcal/kg. Three other experimental diets were formulated by adding 1x (low), 2x (medium) and 3x (high concentration of enzymes per kg to the low energy diet. The content of enzymes in 1x concentration per kg diet was xylanase–3250 U, glucanase–1200 U, cellulase–900 U and mannanase 4000 U. Each diet was fed at random to 10 replicates of 6 chicks each throughout the experimental period. Supplementation of enzymes at the lowest concentration to the low energy diet resulted in higher weight gain at 3 wks, improved feed conversion ratio at both 3 and 6 weeks of age, and higher retention of nitrogen and energy and the values were similar to control group. No difference on performance could be noticed due to variation in the dose of enzymes indicating that lowest concentration of enzymes employed was adequate in eliciting the desired response. The carcass characteristics did not vary significantly amongst the dietary groups except the abdominal fat content. The abdominal fat content was significantly lower in the birds fed the low energy diet compared to either control or enzyme supplemented diets. Thus, it is concluded that AME can be reduced by 100kcal/kg in maize-soybean meal based diet by supplementing carbohydrase enzyme.

Key words: Enzyme, Performance, Broiler chickens, Maize-soybean meal based diet.

*Corresponding author: akpanda59@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Das, K.C., Baruah, K.K., Haque, N., Sharma, R. and Rajkhowa, C. 2012. Effect of different dietary protein levels on growth, nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation in Mithun (Bos frontalis) fed on rice straw based diet. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 305-313.
To assess the growth, nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation pattern in growing mithun (Bos frontalis) calves fed on different levels of dietary protein fed on paddy straw based diet, 21 male mithun of about 10-12 months of age were divided into three groups. The animals of each group was fed on rice straw-based iso-energetic diet containing three levels of dietary CP viz. 80 (LP), 100 (MP) and 120 (HP) g/kg DM to represent low, medium and high protein diets. Fortnightly body weight gain and daily DM intake were recorded. After 6 months, a metabolism trial was conducted. Rumen liquor was collected from three groups of animals and analysed. The experiment was continued for 42 weeks. The average daily gain (ADG) exhibited by LP, MP and HP group of calves were 0.464±0.03, 0.476±0.04 and 0.477±0.02 kg, respectively, with no differences (P>0.05) among the groups. The digestibility of nutrients remained similar except for a higher (P<0.05) cp digestibility in hp group of calves. higher (p<0.05) intake of nitrogen in HP group was accompanied by higher (P<0.05) excretion though both faeces and urine leading to similar (P>0.0) retention among the three groups. Rumen parameters revealed that level of ammonia nitrogen as well as activities of protease and urease enzymes increased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing CP level; whereas α-amylase activity was significantly lower in HP fed animals than other two groups. Similarly the carboxymethyl-cellulase and xylanase activities were reduced in MP and HP as compared to LP. Overall, it was concluded that male growing mithun calves may be reared with the rice straw based diet containing minimum protein level of 80 g/kg DM.

Key words: Mithun, Protein, Digestibility, Growth, Enzymes.

*Corresponding author: kcdasicar@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Paengkoum, P. and Bunnakit, K. 2012. Nutritional evaluation of extrusion-processed mixture of cassava pulp and urea using in vitro gas production technique. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 315-324.
In order to evaluate the nutritive value of extrusion processed mixture of cassava pulp and urea (Capsurea), gas production characteristics from the fermentation of Caspurea vis-a-vis control (soybean meal, SBM) were measured at 1 to 96 h using in vitro gas production technique adapted to describe the kinetics of fermentation. Results revealed that the mean gas production was significantly (P<0.01) higher in capsurea than control. the rapidly soluble fractions of dm and om were higher (p<0.05) in Caspurea than the control at 3 to 12 h post incubation. The potentially degradable fraction (b) of DM and OM did not differ (P>0.05) significantly. Ammonia concentrations from the fermentation of the insoluble N fraction of Caspurea and Control were significantly (P<0.01) different. It is concluded that the cassava pulp based product Capsurea has improved potential for use as a ruminant feed.

Key words: Caspurea, Cassava pulp, Nutritional evaluation.

*Corresponding author: pramote@sut.ac.th

ABSTRACT

Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding four commercial multi-enzymes on growth performance, meat yield, water intake, litter moisture, jejunal digesta viscosity, and characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract of chicks fed wheat-based diet in comparison with control and corn-based diets. Two hundred and thirty four, one-day-old, Ross 308, male chicks were distributed into pens in a randomized complete block design with six treatments each with three replicate of 13 birds. In all of rearing periods, average daily feed intake, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and related parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by enzyme supplementation, exception following cases. The relative weight of the breast as proportion of live weight was significantly (P<0.05) decreased by fed diets included enzymes b, c, and d and corn diet in comparison with control diet. the relative weight of the abdominal fat as proportion of live weight at 28 and 42 days of age was significantly (p<0.05) increased by fed diet included enzyme B and corn diet, and diet included enzyme A and corn diet, respectively, in comparison with control diet. Therefore, these results led to the conclusion that it is possible to use high levels of some varieties of wheat (with low-non-starch polysaccharides) instead of corn in broiler diets without enzyme supplementation.

Key words: Broilers, Characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract, Enzyme, Growth performance,meat yield.

*Corresponding author: h_shirzadi@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Das, U.M., Swain, R.K., Mishra, S.K., Dehuri, P.K. and Dash, S.K. 2012. Effect of supplementation of concentrate on growth performance of grazing Ganjam goats in its native tract. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 335-342.
In order to study the effect of supplementation of concentrates, 40 male kids were randomly divided into four equal groups and kept either on normal browsing (as per farmer’s practice; (G) alone or with additional supplementation of concentrate mixture at 50 (G 2) 100 (G3) and 150 (G) g per day per kid. During the experimental period of 120 days, BW of kids was recorded fortnightly. Blood was collected at monthly interval. A digestibility trial was conducted at the end of experimental feeding period employing indicator method. Further, 27 top feed resources were identified in order to study the availability of top fodders to grazing Ganjam goats in the native tract. The average CP, EE, CF, NFE, total ash and Ca were observed to be 16.15±0.89, 5.59±0.34, 20.98±0.72, 48.68±1.25, 8.57±0.47 and 1.94±0.13 percent on DM basis, respectively. The ADG of the kids was 31.32±0.47, 41.45±0.38, 54.02±0.19 and 62.84±0.37 g in GG2, G3 and G44respectively, with significant difference (P<0.05) among all the groups. blood glucose and cholesterol levels were significantly (p<0.05) higher in G3 and G4compared to G1 and G; however, no differences (P>0.05) were observed in serum levels of total protein, albumin, urea and calcium. The digestibility of DM and other nutrients were significantly (P<0.05) higher in G412 compared to G. It is concluded that, provision of 150g concentrate mixture significantly improved growth performance of Ganjam goats attributable to a more efficient utilization of the native pasture.

Key words: Ganjam goats, Concentrate supplementation, Body weight, Digestibility.

*Corresponding author: sumantkmishra@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Samal, L., Chaturvedi, V.B., Baliyan, S., Saxena, M. and Pattanaik, A.K. 2012. Jerusalem artichoke as a potential prebiotic: influence on nutrient utilization, hindgut fermentation and immune response of Labrador dogs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 343-352.
In order to explore the potential of Jerusalem artichoke (JA) as a prebiotic, four groups (CON, PRE-1, PRE-2 and PRE-3) of adult Labrador dogs (n=4 in each) were fed for 90d on a basal diet supplemented with pulverized JA tuber at 0, 1, 2 and 3% levels, respectively. Cell-mediated immunity was assessed on d56 by measuring skin indurations following intra-dermal phytohaemagglutinin-P inoculation. At d60, peripheral lymphocyte sub-populations in blood were assessed by flow cytometry. Humoral immunity was assessed by quantifying the antibody titre against sheep-RBC (SRBC). A digestion trial of 6d duration was conducted after 80d of feeding. Results revealed an increase (P=0.016) in skin indurations in PRE1 and PRE-2 compared to CON and PRE-3. There was no impact of JA on circulating peripheral CD3+ and CD8+ populations, however, CD4+ populations enhanced (P=0.005) in JA supplemented groups than CON. The antibody titre (log) against SRBC was also higher (P=0.007) in treatment groups than control. There was an increase (P<0.05) in faecal concentration of lactate and short-chain fatty acids with a concomitant reduction in ammonia. the faecal counts (log 2cfu />g) of health-positive Bifidobacterium (P=0.035) and Lactobacillus (P=0.062) were higher in treatment groups while health-negative coliforms and Clostridium counts remained unaltered. The digestion trial indicated that JA supplementation improved the digestibility of fibre (P=0.003) along with that of calcium and phosphorus. Overall findings revealed that JA may constitute a perspective prebiotic additive because of its apparent positive impacts on immune status as well as hindgut fermentation.

Key words: Jerusalem artichoke, Digestibility, Hindgut fermentation, Immune response, Dogs.

*Corresponding author: akpattanaik1@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Sethy, K., Dass, R.S., Garg, A.K., Bhadane, K.P. and V.K. Chaturvedi and Chaturvedi, V.K. 2012. Effect of dietary cadmium on growth, nutrient utilization and immune response in kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12:353-362.
Twenty four male kids (3-4 months, 9.1±0.03 kg BW) were divided into four groups of six animals in each and fed on a wheat straw based total mixed ration (TMR) added with cadmium as (cadmium chloride) at 0 (Cd0, control), 1.5 (Cd1.5), 3.0 (Cd3.0) and 4.5 (Cd4.5) ppm levels. Experimental feeding was done for a period of 126 days including a 6-day metabolism trial. To assess the growth performance, kids were weighed every seven days throughout the experimental period. After 90 days of experimental feeding, all the kids were intramuscularly inoculated with a single dose (2 ml) of Pasteurella multocida formalin inactivated antigen, and blood was collected on 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days of post vaccination to evaluate humoral immune response. Cell mediated immune (CMI) response of kids was assessed by in vivo delayed type hypersensitivity reaction using phytohaemaglutinin-P as a mitogen. Results revealed that supplementation of Cd had no effect (P>0.05) on intake and digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose; and balances of phosphorus, zinc, iron and copper. However, Cd supplementation had an adverse effect on calcium balance and also increased (P<0.05) the retention of cd. average daily gain was significantly (p<0.05) reduced in group Cd4.5 (28.76 g); however, growth performance in group Cd1.5 (37.46 g) and Cd3.0 (39.12 g) was comparable to control (Cd0) group (41.60 g). Humoral immune response and CMI response were significantly (P<0.05) reduced in all the Cd supplemented groups as compared to control group. These results indicated that while growth rate was adversely affected at 4.5 ppm level of Cd supplementation, immune response was hampered even at as low as 1.5 ppm level of Cd supplementation in goat kids.

Key words: Kids, Cadmium, Growth, Nutrient utilization, Immune response.

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

ABSTRACT

Rajalekshmi, M., Ravichandran, M., Sripathy, R., Chirakkal, H. and Rajendran, D. 2012. Organic chromium supplementation modulates the serum corticosterone response to heat stress in wistar albino rats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 363-371.
The effect of organic chromium supplementation on serum corticosterone levels in rats exposed to heat stress was investigated. The study was conducted in 8-10 week old male Wistar albino rats, which were supplemented with chromium propionate (300 ppb) for 14 days and subjected to heat stress on day 1, 7 and 14. The study groups included an unstressed control (C), stressed control without any supplementation (Negative control, NC) and a stressed group (T) supplemented with organic chromium, in the form of chromium propionate (dosage equivalent to 300 ppb elemental chromium). Chromium supplementation reduced the response to intermittent heat stress, as shown by lower (P<0.05) serum corticosterone levels in the treated, stressed group as compared to the untreated, stressed negative control group. no significant effect on body weight gain, or feed and water consumption were observed in any groups. exposure to stress did not increase (p>0.05) the glucose levels in the chromium supplemented group, whereas the glucose levels in the untreated, stressed negative control group tended to be higher (P<0.10) as compared to untreated, unstressed control. the study brings out the beneficial effects of supplementation of chromium, reducing the stress response and improving glucose utilization in rats.

Key words: Chromium propionate, Corticosterone, Stress, Wistar albino rat.

*Corresponding author: rajalekshmi.m@kemin.com

ABSTRACT

Tayo, T., Dutta, N., Sharma, K., Pattanaik, A.K. Singh, A., Narang, A. and Kumar, A. 2012. Effect of feeding canola quality meal on the performance of lactating cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 373-381.
The study was carried out to ascertain the effect of feeding canola quality RMC on the lactation performance of 18 crossbred lactating cows. The cows were randomly divided into three treatments 6 each in a completely randomized design and allocated in 3 dietary supplements viz. soybean meal (SBM), rapeseed mustard cake (RMC) and canola quality meal (CQM) containing soybean meal, rapeseed mustard cake and canola quality rapeseed mustard meal, respectively as a major protein source for a period of 90 days. The glucosinolates (GLS) content of RMC and CQM were 38.12 and 3.91μmol g DM, respectively. The daily intake of DM, OM and green fodder by lactating cows did not differ significantly (P>0.05) irrespective of the dietary treatments. However, concentrate intake (kg d ) was linearly (P<0.04) lower in the animals given rmc concentrate as compared to their counterparts either fed sbm or cqm based concentrates. the digestibility coefficient (%) of dm, om, cp, ee, ndf and adf; and the nutrient intake (g />kgW0.75-1) and density (%) of composite diets in terms of DCP and TDN did not differ significantly (P>0.05) irrespective of dietary treatments. The GLS intake (μmol d) by cows was linearly (P<0.001) higher in rmc as compared to cqm group. feeding of rmc basedsupplement to cows resulted in decreased (p≤0.03) daily milk yield, 4% fcm (kg d-1), fat and proteinyield (g d) and total milk production (kg), as compared to cqm fed cows, however, sbm group hadan intermediate position in respect to target parameters in between rmc and cqm groups. the efficiency of milk production was quadratically better (p<0.07) in CQM group followed by cows given SBM and RMC without any significant effect (P>0.05) on milk composition irrespective of dietary treatments. It may be concluded that soybean meal can be replaced completely by canola quality rapeseed-mustard meal without compromising the lactation performance of crossbred cows.

Key words: Rapeseed mustard cake, Canola quality meal, Milk yield, Lactation performance, Crossbred cows.

*Corresponding author: dutta65@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Kumar, A., Bhar, R., Mandal, A.B., Ojha, B.K., Baliyan, S., Shrivastava, S. and Goswami, T.K. 2012. Effect of feeding lysine supplemented low protein diet on growth performance, nutrient utilization and immunity in growing landrace crossbred pigs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 383-393.
A total of 21 (9 male and 12 female) landrace crossbred weaned piglets (11.72±0.57 kg BW; 7.59±0.14 weeks of age) were randomly assigned to three dietary groups (SPSL, LPSL and LPLL), of seven each to study the effect of feeding a low protein (LP) diet supplemented with lysine on growth performance, nutrient utilization and immunity. A basal diet formulated as per NRC requirements served as control (SPSL). The CP content of the SPSL diet was reduced by 10%, and fed with supplemental lysine (as L-lysine HCl) at 100 (LPSL) and 85 (LPLL) percent levels in the two treatment groups. All the diets were iso-caloric and offered for 126 days in phases according to the body weight (10-20, 2050, 50-80 and >80kg). A metabolism trial of 6 days duration was conducted after 45 days of experimental feeding to assess the digestibility of nutrients, nitrogen balance and plane of nutrition. Immunological studies (humoral through microhemagglutination assay against sheep-red blood cells, and cellular immunity through delayed type hypersensitivity reaction to intradermal PHA-P inoculation) along with different blood parameters were estimated in last month of the experiment. The body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion efficiency did not differ (P<0.05) among the treatment groups. the intake and digestibility of different proximate nutrients also did not differ. immunological and certain blood biochemical parameters were also comparable among the different group. it was concluded that the dietary protein and lysine supply can be reduced by 10 and 15%, respectively, compared to nrc recommendation without any compromise on performance, nutrient utilization and immunity in landrace crossbred growing pigs.

Key words: Amino acids, Immunity, Lysine, Nutrient utilization, Performance, Pig, Protein.

*Corresponding author: ajitraj2k@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Animal Nutrition Research Station College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry Anand Agricultural University, Anand-388 001, India
The effect of compounded concentrate mixture with bypass protein (formaldehyde treated) on nutrient utilization and economics of feeding was studied. The on-farm trial was conducted on 24 growing buffalo heifers for a period of 24 weeks in a tribal belt of Panchmahal district, Gujarat. The selected animals with an average age of 246±4.8 days and 75.2±2.42 kg body weight were divided in to two groups of 12 each. The selected animals were fed with compound concentrate mixture (20% CP), with bypass protein source in treatment group (T2) and without bypass protein in control group (T1). Paddy straw was offered ad lib. along with 2.0 kg of green pasture grass in both groups. The digestibility of nutrients like DM, CP, EE and CF was significantly improved (P<0.05) in treatment group (t2). the dm required to achieve unit gain (kg />kg gain) was significantly higher (P<0.01) in group t1 (8.43±0.39) than in group t2 (6.41±0.14). similar significant differences were observed for intake of nutrients like cp, dcp and tdn per kg gain. the daily feed cost per kg gain was significantly (p<0.01) lower in T2 (Rs.27.79) as compared to T1 (Rs.31.45). Results indicated that the nutrient utilization and economics of raising buffalo heifers could be significantly improved in feeding of bypass protein containing concentrate mixture.

Key words: Buffalo heifers, Bypass protein, Digestibility, Efficiency, Economics, On-farm trial.

*Corresponding author: vrpatel_19@yahoo.co.in

ABSTRACT

Rath, S.C., Sarkar, S., Mohanty, S.N. and Mohanta, K.N. 2012. Growth, nutrient utilization and whole body composition of genetically improved Labeo rohita fry reared on diets varying in source of protein.Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 403-410.
An experiment was conducted to investigate the growth, nutritional indices and whole body chemical composition of genetically improved (selective bred) rohu (Labeo rohita) fry using three iso-nitrogenous (30% CP) diets. Experimental diets viz. F1 (exclusively plant based ingredients with mineral vitamin supplement), F2 (plant based ingredient along with fish meal, but without mineral vitamin supplement) and F3 (F1 with probiotic) were fed to L. rohita fry in FRP tank in triplicates for 30 days. Although the survival rate of fry was found maximum in F3 (95%), the differences was not statistically significant (P>0.05) among the three groups. Weight gain (279.58±2.53%), SGR (4.45±0.02 g day ), PER (1.72±0.02) and NPU (35.66±0.46%) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in f3 followed by f1 and f2 diets. the fcr was found lowest (p<0.05) in F3 (1.92±0.02) followed by F1 (2.64±0.03) and F2 (2.82±0.02). The whole body crude protein content of F3 (74.9±0.02%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than F2 (72.8±0.38%) and F1 (68.2±0.33%). The crude lipid content was more in F2 (12.1±0.06%) followed by F1 (11.4±0.24%) and F3 (10.4±0.34%). The experiment results showed that the genetically improved rohu had better growth performance and nutrient utilization in plant based diet supplemented with probiotic and vitamin and mineral premix.

Keywords: Carp, Diet, Growth, Nutrient utilization

*Corresponding author: scrathcifa@yahoo.com

ANFT MAY 2012 ISSUES 02

ABSTRACT

Seresinhe, T., Marapana, R.A.U.J. and Kumanayaka, L. 2012. Role of local feed resources on the productivity and financial viability of a coconut-cattle integrated system in the southern Sri Lanka. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 145-156.
Effects of grazing the natural herbage in coconut plantations on the growth and reproduction of heifers as well as productivity of coconut, soil fertility and financial viability were studied in three-year experiment. The treatments were; T1, coconut monoculture stand (control; without animal component); T2, coconut monoculture stand with standard fertilizer levels and other management practices;T3, cattle fed with natural grasses, simulating the grazing system adopted by local farmers in coconut plantations; and T4, cattle fed with natural grasses supplemented with tree fodder, low cost concentrates and minerals. Results indicated that the supplementation of tree fodder and concentrate significantly (P<0.05) improved live weight, and average daily gain in heifers with improved reproductive performance. supplementation, while increasing the live weight at oestrus and conception, also resulted in calves of higher live weight at birth (r2=0.87). the milk yield of the supplemented group of animals were higher (p<0.05) accompanying higher (P<0.05) fat yield. Birth weight was found to be a good predictor of the potential milk yield of dam since there was a high correlation with supplemented animals between the two parameters (r2=0.89). The substitution of chemical fertilizer by dung and urine could reduce the cost of fertilizing coconut by approximately 67%. Grazing also reduced the weeding cost considerably. Cattlerearing in coconut plots improved plant nutrient status as well as soil fertility which improved further when cows were given additional feed supplementation. A near-doubling of coconut yield was reported in grazed coconut plots when compared with un-grazed plots. Both the income and cost of the management system was increased when cattle was integrated with coconut. It is concluded that integrated system represents a key solution for enhancing livestock and coconut production and safeguarding the environment through prudent and efficient resource use.

Key words: Crossbred cattle, Coconut, Soil fertility, Heifers, Grazing.

*Corresponding Author: thakshas@ansci.ruh.ac.lk

ABSTRACT

Verma, V., Chaudhary, L.C., Agarwal, N., Bhar, R. and Kamra, D.N. 2012. Effect of feeding mixture garlic bulb and peppermint oil on methane emission, rumen fermentation and microbial profile in buffalo. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 157-164.
Feeding of a mixture of two plant products (25 g garlic bulb mixed with 1ml peppermint oil; GP) was tested for its effect on methane production, rumen fermentation and microbial profile in 4 rumen fistulated buffaloes given a ration containing 50% wheat straw and 50% concentrate mixture in 2x2 switch over design. The animals of one group served as control, and the diet of animals of other group (GP) was supplemented with GP @ 2.5% of the DM intake. The supplementation of GP did not show any affect on dry matter intake, digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and ether extract (EE). The rumen pH, concentration of ammonia nitrogen, lactic acid and activities of carboxymethylcellulase and xylanase were also similar in both the groups. The population density of total bacteria, fungi, Fibrobacter succinogenes and methanogens and protozoa was also similar in both the groups. The inclusion of GP in the diet resulted in 13.0% reduction in methane production (l/day), but when expressed as l/kg DMI the inhibition was 7% as compared to the control animals. The results indicated that the use of mixture of garlic bulb as feed additive can be explored to mitigate methane production in buffaloes.

Key words: Buffalo, Feed additive, Peppermint oil, Garlic bulb, Microbial profile.

*Corresponding author: lcchaudhary1@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Tripathi, M.K., Mondal, D., Raghuvansi, S.K.S. and Karim, S.A. 2012. Effect of Bt-cottonseed meal feeding on intake, growth, nutrient utilization, serum cholesterol, immunological status, organ weight and slaughtering performance of growing lambs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 165-178.
This experiment studied feeding value of conventional and Bt cottonseed meal as replacement of groundnut oil meal for the feeding of lamb (90±5 day of age; 15.5±0.89 kg). Diet fed to control lambs contained meal of groundnut oil cake as source of CP while other two groups received diet containing either conventional cottonseed meal (CSM) or Bt-cottonseed meal (Bt-CSM) at 18% level. Total and average daily BW gain, feed intake and its conversion efficiency were similar among groups. However, Bt-CSM diet fed lambs had ADG (111g/ day) and feed efficiency (8.0 kg feed/ kg gain) than CSM lambs (89 g and 9.1, respectively). DM intake ranged from 706 to 861 g, which was similar among groups, but Bt-CSM diet fed lambs had higher DMI by 8.6 per cent. Intake and digestibility of OM, CP and NDF were similar, whereas CSM diet fed lambs had higher digestibility of ADF (P=0.022), and cellulose (P=0.002). N intake, excretion and balance were similar among groups. Excretion of allantoin in urine was higher in Bt-CSM diet fed lambs. Urinary PD excretion and MCP synthesis was higher by 23.3 and 37%, respectively, in Bt-CSM diet fed lamb compared to CSM lambs. Total cholesterol was higher in Bt-CSM diet fed lambs. Serum IgG level, carcass characteristics and organ weights were not different. Feeding of Bt-CSM improved average daily gain by 24%, feed efficiency by 13.8% and microbial crude protein synthesis by 37% to that of conventional CSM, while digestibility, nitrogen utilization, immune status, slaughtering performance and organs weight did not change. Therefore, genetically modified cottonseed can be used in lamb feeding in replacement of conventional cottonseed or groundnut oil meal as protein supplement up to 18% for mutton production.

Key words: Bt-cottonseed, Nutritional evaluation, Carcass characteristics, Performance, Sheep.

*Corresponding author: mktripathi@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

De, D., Ghoshal, T.K. and Kundu, J. 2012. Effect of feeding different level of protein on growth performance, feed utilization and digestive enzyme of grey mullet (Mugil Cephalus L). Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 179-186.
A growth trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary protein level on growth performance, feed utilization and digestive enzyme activity of Mugil cephalus. Four isocaloric (4 kcal/g) experimental diets were formulated using locally available feed ingredients to contain different protein levels viz., 20, 25, 30 and 35% on DM basis and fed to triplicate groups (P20, P25, P30 and P35) of 25 grey mullet fry (average wt. ranging from 0.76 to 0.84 g), stocked in fibre glass tanks containing filtered brackish water and fed @ 10% BW twice daily. After 125 days of experiment, total weight gain in P20, P25, P30 and P35 were 2.82±0.31, 3.10±0.32, 3.81±0.23 and 3.70±0.16 (g) with corresponding feed conversion ratio of 7.69±0.65, 6.36±0.90, 4.86±0.53 and 6.01±0.25, respectively. The best growth performance and lowest feed conversion ratio (P<0.06) in mugil cephalus was obtained in group fed with 30% protein diet. protein and lipid digestibility increased (p<0.01) with increase in dietary protein level. Gut protease and cellulase activity were also significantly increased (P<0.05 and P<0.01) with dietary protein level up to 30%. Therefore, it can be concluded that diet containing 30 % protein is optimum for growth and digestibility of Mugil cephalus fry at 4 kcal/g energy level.

Key words: Mugil cephalus, Protein requirement, Growth, FCR.

*Corresponding author: debasiskrc@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Koley, S. and Samanta, G. 2012. Effect of organic acid supplementation on feed quality, performance, gastrointestinal milieu and blood minerals of khaki campbell ducks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 187-197.
The experiment was conducted to assess the effects of dietary supplementation of formic, propionic and lactic acid, vis-à-vis bacitracin methyl disalicylate (BMD) on feed quality as well as performances of Khaki Campbell ducklings. The day old birds (n=234) were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments, viz., control, BMD (0.05%), formic acid (0.3%), propionic acid (0.3%), formic and propionic acid (FP) (0.15% each), and formic, propionic and lactic acid (FPL) (0.1% each). The diets of all the treatments were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. Each group comprised of 3 replicates of 13 birds each. In the experiment it was found that pH, B-value, total coliforms, Escherechia coli, Clostridium perfringens, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus and aflatoxins B1 levels were significantly reduced in the organic acid supplemented feeds. However, BMD had no effects on feed quality. The body weight and feed efficiency of the birds were significantly improved for organic acid and antibiotic supplemented groups and these were highest for FP group and lowest for the control group. Total feed intake was not affected by the treatments. Digesta pH in the crops of the birds was significantly reduced for organic acid groups and lowest pH was for formate group. However, there were no significant changes in digesta pH in other parts of gastrointestinal tracts of the birds of organic acid and BMD groups compared with control group. Concentrations of total coliforms, Escherechia coli and Clostridium perfringens in the small intestine were significantly decreased for organic acid and BMD supplemented groups. The villus height was highest for FP group followed by propionate, FPL, BMD, formate and control groups. The blood mineral levels were also significantly increased for FP group followed by propionate, FPL, BMD, formate and control groups.

Key words: Duck, Feed, Intestinal milieu, Organic acid, Performance.

*Corresponding author: skoley@sify.com

ABSTRACT

Pailan, G.H., Sinha, A. and Borkar, A. 2012. Rose petals meal as a natural carotenoid source for pigmentation and growth of dwarf gourami, Colisa lalia. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 199-207.
An experiment was conducted to observe the effect of feeding graded levels of rose petals meal (RPM) on carotenoids concentration in muscle and skin, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and biochemical composition of muscle of Indigenous ornamental fish, dwarf gourami (Colisa lalia). The control diet was prepared by using fish meal 25%, soyabean meal 22%, groundnut oil cake 15%, rice bran 20%, wheat flour 12%, starch powder 3%, soya oil 2% and vitamins-minerals 1%. Five experimental diets were prepared by supplementing RPM at five levels viz. 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8% of the control diet by replacing the same quantity of rice bran. The feeding trial continued for 45 days in dwarf gourami. At the start of the experiment the carotenoids concentration in the mixture of muscle and skin of dwarf gourami was 2.53 and 1.58 μg/g in male and female, respectively. At the end of the feeding trial total carotenoids concentration increased in proportion RPM supplementation in the diet, the highest (P<0.05) being in 6% level for both male (6.87 μg />g) and female (3.35 μg/g). The weight gain was higher in 6% RPM supplemented diets. Feed conversion efficiency was significantly lower (P<0.05) in 6% rose petal meal supplemented diets. biochemical composition of fish flesh was not affected (p>0.05) due to incorporation of various level of PRM in the experimental diets. The results showed that rose petals meal can be supplemented at 6% levels in the diets of dwarf gourami for improvement of their colour through increase in the carotenoids concentration in skin and muscle without any adverse effect on growth and feed conversion efficiency.

Key words: Pigmentation, carotenoids, Rose petal meal, Colisa lalia, Fish.

*Corresponding author: ghp_par@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Gupta, A. and Dhawan, A. 2012. Effect of dietary probiotic improval (Lactobacillus sporogenes and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on growth and feed utilization of macrobrachium rosenbergii post larvae. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 209-217.
An investigation was carried out to determine the effect of adding probiotic ‘Improval’, containing bacteria Lactobacillus sporogenes and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as growth promoters, in the diet of freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) during the post larval stage of growth. Post larvae (n=450; 0.38±0.02 g mean weight) were divided into five experimental groups each with three replicates. The experiment was conducted for 60 days. Control diet (CD) had no Improval, diet 1 (D1), 2 (D2), 3 (D3) and 4 (D4) contained 2, 4, 6 and 8% Improval, respectively. Significantly (P<0.05) higher growth for final body weight (16.14±3.57 g), net body weight gain (15.76±3.24 g) and specific growth rate (7.50±0.38 %bw day-1) was recorded in groups of prawn fed diet containing 4% improval (d2). in addition, the feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio in treatments receiving ‘improval’ as growth promoters were significantly (p<0.05) better than those fed the control diet. The protein content of carcass showed the highest value for prawn fed diet D2 (65.3±2.21%) and the lowest was observed in D4 (58.9±2.5%). No significant differences were observed in lipid content among groups of prawn fed diet D1, D4 and CD, while the best and lowest values of lipid carcass were recorded for those fed on D2 (7.14±0.98%) and D3 (7.63±0.77%). The result suggests that the addition of probiotic ‘Improval’ as growth promoter in the diet @ 4% improved the growth performance of Macrobrachium rosenbergii post larvae.

Key words: Growth promoter, Lactobacillus sporogenes, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, Probiotic Improval, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

*Corresponding author: drakhilgupta@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Suresh, B.N., Reddy, B.S.V., Prabhu, T.M. and Gowda, N.K.S. 2012. Growth performance of broilers fed sugarcane press residue incorporated diets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 219-227.
To assess the effect of inclusion of sun-dried sugarcane press residue (SPR) at different levels on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of broilers, day-old straight-run commercial broiler chicks (n=360) were assigned to twelve dietary treatments. Three iso-nitorgenous and iso-caloric experimental diets containing 0, 5 and 10 per cent SPR replacing the relevant organic nutrients and mineral sources were formulated. Further, each diet was fortified with supplements viz., lipid utilizing agents (lipase 0.2 g + soy lecithin @ 2g/kg) or NSP degrading enzymes @ 0.4g /kg or together to result in another 8 test diets. Each diet prepared for starter (0-14 days), grower (15-28 days) and finisher (29-42days) phases was offered to triplicate groups of 10 chicks each. The results revealed a significantly (P<0.01) lower body weight gain during all the phases and cumulatively, less feed consumption during starter phase and poor feed conversion ratio during starter and finisher phase with the incremental level of spr. the net returns, performance index and economic index scores were significantly (p<0.05) lower at higher level of SPR inclusion. The main factor, SPR level (0, 5 and 10%), showed significant (P<0.01) differences for all the growth performance parameters while the biotechnological supplements showed non-significant differences among different groups. The inclusion of SPR beyond 5 per cent in broiler diets is not economically feasible and none of the biotechnological approaches used in this study proved to be effective in improving the nutritive value of SPR.

Key words: Sugarcane press residue, Broilers, Growth performance, Economics.

*Corresponding author: suresh658@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Deshpande, K.Y., Mehra, U.R., Singh, P. and Verma, A.K. 2012. Milk allantoin secretion as an indicator to assess nutrient utilization in dairy cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 229-239.
Response parameters were studied in thirty dairy cows (Bos taurus x Bos indicus; 348.67±10.77kg mean body weight and 10.00±0.63kg/d average milk yield) divided into three groups, and fed on the diets having mixed green roughages and concentrate mixtures containing varying metabolisable energy (ME) i.e. 28, 30 and 32 Mcal/day. The experimental feeding was continued for 90days and a digestion trial was conducted at the end. The dietary DCP levels ranged from 16.0 to 16.9 g/kg W0.75. Digestibility of DM and OM was similar among three groups. The digestibility of NDF and ether extract increased significantly in group III. However, ADF digestibility was significantly higher in groups II and III. Urinary excretion of allantoin (mmol/L), purine derivatives : creatinine (PD: C) ratio and PDC index increased significantly with the increase in dietary energy levels. Milk composition was comparable among three groups throughout the study. The concentration of allantoin, uric acid and total PD (mmol/L) in plasma and milk increased significantly in groups II and III. The correlation coefficient (r) between digestible dry matter intake (kg/d) and milk allantoin (mmol/L) was 0.67 (P<0.05). it is concluded that pd assay in milk may be used as an alternate indicator to assess nutrient utilization and microbial protein supply in dairy cows.

Key words: Dairy cows, Purine derivatives, Milk, Plasma, Urine.

*Corresponding author: mehra62@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Paul, B.N., Das, S., Datta, A.K., Giri, S.S. and Mohanty, S.N. 2012. Effect of dietary protein levels on growth of Ompok pabda (Siluridae) fry. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 247-252.
An 80-day experiment was conducted to study the effect of different levels of dietary protein on growth, feed utilization and carcass composition of Ompok pabda fry. The feeds were prepared with three dietary levels of protein (Low, Medium and high), viz., 28 (LP 28), 33 (MP 33) and 38 (HP 38) percent on DM basis. Triplicate groups of O. pabda fry with mean initial body weight of 1.05 g were fed with the respective experimental diets, and were reared in tanks plumbed with flow through fresh water. The net weight gain was significantly higher (P<0.05) in lp33 compared to mp28 and hp38. feed conversion ratio (fcr) of o. pabda fry was significantly (p<0.05) lower in MP33 and HP38 when compared to LP28. Protein efficiency ratio (PER) was significantly (P<0.01) lower for HP38 than MP33 and LP28.Carcass composition of O. pabda fry did not differ significantly with different level of protein. Thus from the present experiment it may be concluded that the O. pabda fry performed optimally on a diet with 33.2% crude protein.

Key words: Butter catfish, Carcass composition, FCR, growth, Ompok pabda, Protein efficiency ratio.

*Corresponding author: bnp63@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Rajendran, D., Vasanthakumar, P., Selvaraju, G., Thomas, K.S., Premkumar, N. and Dineshkumar, D. 2012. Effect of organic chromium supplementation on performance of white leghorn chicken recovering from newcastle disease. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 247-255.
An experiment was conducted for a period of 4 weeks to study the stress relieving effect of chromium supplementation on production performance and egg quality traits in Newcastle disease (ND) affected laying hens. Total of 3000 birds (White Leghorn chicken, BV 300 strain) of 33 weeks were divided into 6 groups (T1 to T6) having 10 replicates in each group and each replicate having 50 birds. The group: T1 was control, unaffected by Newcastle disease (ND), while all other groups (T2 to T6) were affected by ND and were recovering from the disease. T2 was not supplemented with chromium source and acted as negative control. T3, T4, T5 and T6 were supplemented with inorganic (chromium chloride), organochromium enriched yeast (OCEY), chromium yeast and chromium picolinate @ 200 ppb, respectively. The results revealed that weekly average egg production was maximum in laying hens of T5 followed by T6 and T4 groups during first week, T5 followed by T4 and T6 during second week while T4 followed by T5 and T6 during third and fourth week. Organic chromium supplementation (T4, T5 and T6) reduced the mortality significantly (P<0.01) in birds. the reduction in the mortality (%) compared to untreated t2 was about 58.06, 54.84 and 41.94% in laying hens of t4, t5 and t6 groups, respectively. no significant difference was observed in feed intake and egg shell thickness among the treatment groups. the egg shell weight was significantly high in the healthy birds (t1) than other treatment groups except for t4 group. egg cholesterol levels were significantly (p< 0.05) reduced by supplementation of organic chromium. Increase in egg production in ND affected birds and decrease in egg yolk cholesterol by means of inclusion of organic chromium, in particular chromium yeast, organochromium enriched yeast and chromium picolinate supplementation to layer feed could be useful measure for laying hens and it ensures economical benefit.

Key words: Chromium yeast, Organochromium enriched yeast, Layer, Newcastle disease stress, egg production.

*Corresponding author: rajnutri@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Suresh, B.N., Reddy, B.S.V., Gloridoss, R.G. and Rajendiran, A.S. 2012. Production performance of layer chicken fed diets containing sugarcane press residue. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 257-263.
A twelve week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of inclusion of sugarcane press residue (SPR) as a source of feed ingredient in the diets of layers. Three iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric experimental diets were formulated by incorporating 0, 5 and 10 per cent SPR to meet the organic and inorganic nutrients requirements. Further, each diet was supplemented with lipid utilizing agents (lipase and lecithin) or NSP degrading enzymes or together to result in another set of 8 test diets. Each diet was offered to triplicate groups of 4 laying hens (42 wk old, white leg horn) each. The results revealed a significant (P<0.05) difference in cumulative egg production (77.1 to 84.5 %), feed consumption (116.2 to 118.5 g />bird) and egg weight (58.51 to 60.07 g) among various treatments however, body weight changes remained statistically similar. The main factors, SPR level (0, 5 and 10%) and biotechnological supplements showed a significant differences (P<0.01) among different groups for all the production parameters excepting egg weight. as a general trend, the increased level of spr in diets decreased performance of layers and none of the supplements proved to be effective in improving the nutritive value of spr. thus the inclusion of spr at higher levels in layers is not economically feasible.

Key words: Sugarcane press residue, Layers, Egg production, Economics.

*Corresponding author: suresh658@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

Naik, P.K., Swain, B.K., Chakurkar, E.B. and Singh, N.P. 2012. Performance of dairy cows on green fodder maize based ration in coastal hot and humid climate. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 265-270.
Ten crossbred dairy cows (avg. BW 276.80±11.51 kg) were divided into two groups i.e. control group (CG) and treatment group (TG) of five animals in each to find out the effect of feeding green fodder maize as replacement of concentrate mixture on their performance. The animals of CG were offered daily 4 kg concentrate mixture (CM) along with 1 kg fresh green fodder maize and ad lib. jowar straw; while in TG, 50% of the CM as offered in the CG was replaced by 20 kg fresh green fodder maize. The total DM intake in both the groups was in the range of 10.20-10.33 kg/day, and was similar (P>0.05) between the two groups. There was difference (P<0.05) in roughage concentrate ratio of the total rations in cg (61.27 38.73) and tg (80.36 19.64). the milk yield (4.83 vs 4.87 kg />day) and 4% FCM yield (4.41 vs. 4.12 kg/day) of the animals of the CG was similar (P>0.05) to TG. There were no differences (P>0.05) in the milk compositions i.e. fat (3.49 vs 3.01%) and SNF (8.88 vs 8.51%) content of milk between the two groups. There was no difference (P>0.05) in the CP% of the diets. The DCP content of the CG (6.59%) was however higher (P<0.05) than that of the tg (5.36%); but the tdn content of the tg (62.21%) was higher (p<0.05) than the CG (57.18%). The net cost (Rs.) of feed in TG (97.53) was lower than the CG (125.74). Based on the 4% FCM yield, the cost of milk was similar in both the groups. There was higher net profit of Rs. 17.99 per animal per day due to replacement of concentrate mixture by green fodder maize. It was concluded that dairy cows yielding around five kg milk daily, 1 kg concentrate mixture can be replaced by 10 kg green fodder maize without affecting the daily milk yield.

Keywords: Cows, Concentrate, Climate, Dairy, Feeding, Fodder, Goa, Maize.

*Corresponding author: pknaikicar@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Khan, N., Barman, K., Rastogi, A. and Sharma, R.K. 2012. Chemical composition and digestion kinetics of mixed silages of maize fodder-tree leaves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 12: 271-278.
Six different mixed silages were prepared by using maize fodder and two tree leaves viz jamun (Syzygium cuminii) and mango (Mangifera indica) each at 75:25, 50:50 and 25:75 ratio (w/w), and compared with a control (100 % maize fodder) in glass jar to determine the effect of addition of these leaves on silage characteristics as well as digestion kinetic of ensiling as mixture of maize fodder. pH of the silages ranged from 4.55–4.85. Silage made from 100 % maize had lower (P<0.05) ph in comparison to tree leaves–maize mixed silages. there were no differences in color and texture among various silages. smell became slight butyric acid odour from lactic acid odour when the proportion of tree leaves were above 25 % irrespective of either jamun or mango leaves. the dm content of silages ranged from 28.00±0.20 in pure maize silage to 38.85±3.80 in 25:75 mixed silage. the protein content of maize-tree leaves silages were decreased with increased proportion of either jamun or mango leaves in the silages. the ndf, adf and lignin content of mixed silages were increased (p<0.05) with increased levels of tree leaves in the silages. The potential and effective degradability of silages decreased with increased level of tree leaves in the silages. The potential degradability of crude protein did not follow any pattern irrespective of silages. The effective degradability (%) of crude protein decreased from 52.80 in pure maize silage to 14.90 when proportion of jamun leaves increased from 0 to 75% while same was decreased to 27.42 with increased level of mango leaves in silages from 0 to 75%. The UDP content (g/kg DM) of silages containing 25% jamun and mango leaves was higher (109.57, 101.89) than other silages. It is inferred that mango and jamun tree leaves can be used @ 25 % level along with maize fodder for preparation silages without affecting quality of silages.

Keywords: Digestion kinetics, Mixed silage, Maize fodder, Tree leaves.

*Corresponding author: barman74@rediffmail.com