Current Volume

current volume

EDITORIAL BOARD

AUTHORS GUIDELINES

CURRENT VOLUME

ISSUES FROM ARCHIVE

ASSOCIATION NEWS

ANFT SEP 2025

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00035.5

Effect of Garlic Essential Oil Supplementation on Performance, Milk Yield and Economics in Lactating Berari Goats

A.M. Borkar, K.Y. Deshpande*, A. Vedpathak, M.R. Patil, S.M. Gore, R.S. Ingole, G.J. Panchbhai and P.S. Kuralkar Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, India

ABSTRACT

Borkar, A.M., Deshpande, K.Y., Vedpathak, A., Patil, M.R., Gore, S.M., Ingole, R.S., Panchbhai, G.J. and Kuralkar, P.S. 2024. Effect of garlic essential oil supplementation on performance, milk yield and economics in lactating berari goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 461-476.

In this experiment, twelve lactating goats of similar age, body weight (31.48±1.18 kg) and lactation (2^nd to 3^rd) were selected and divided into control (T₀) and treatment (T₁) groups, having six animals each for 90 d. The animals were fed as per ICAR (2013) standards, where T₀ were fed basal diet and T₁ were fed basal diet along with 1 g/goat/d garlic essential oil powder mixed in concentrate mixture. The weekly DMI (g/d) were comparable (P>0.05), however crude protein digestibility increased significantly (P<0.05) in T₁. The weekly body weight changes (kg) and milk yield (ml) were not affected (P>0.05), however milk components like lactose (%) and density of milk increased significantly (P<0.05) in T₁. Rumen fermentation parameters like pH and titrable acidity decreased significantly (P<0.05) in T₁; while TVFA concentration, bacterial and protozoal count were comparable (P>0.05) among the groups. The calculated methane emission (g/kg DMI) did not differ significantly (P>0.05). Monthly faecal egg count decreased significantly (P<0.05) in T₁. The CMI response was significantly better (P<0.05) at 0 and 96 h post PHA-p injection in T₁. The feed cost (₹/litre) of milk yield reduced in T₁ (₹ 48.18) along with significant reduction in feed cost/litre milk production than T₀ (₹ 61.95). Hence, it is concluded that the garlic oil supplementation at 1g/goat/d improved animal performance, and cost economics of milk production in lactating Berari goats.

Keywords: Berari goats, Digestibility, Garlic essential oil, Milk yield, Rumen fermentation parameters

*Corresponding author: kuldeepdeshpande@mafsu.in

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00036.1

Calf Fecal Origin Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Helianthus tuberosus Synbiotic Improved Gut Health with Calf Fecal Inoculum Using In vitro Hind Gut Model

K.S. Lakshmi R., Anju Kala*, A.K. Verma, L.C. Chaudhary, Neeta Agarwal, Md. Younus Ali and Bharath Shindhe Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, India

ABSTRACT

Lakshmi, K.S.R., Kala, A., Verma, A.K., Chaudhary, L.C., Agarwal, N., Ali, Md. Y. and Shindhe, B. 2024. Calf fecal origin Limosiilactobacillus reuteri and Helianthus tuberosus synbiotic improved gut health with calf fecal inoculum using In vitro hind gut model. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 477-493.

This study aimed to evaluate a synbiotic product as a growth promoter for young calves using autochthonic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates as probiotics in conjunction with Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) tuber (JAT) powder under in vitro conditions. Ten LABs isolates underwent rigorous screening for their probiotic attributes like low pH and bile salt tolerance, cell surface hydrophobicity, autoagglutination ability, antibiotic sensitivity, biofilm formation, and anti-pathogen activity. Based on the preliminary screening results, the best three isolates (RM102, RM119 and RM125) selected and identified as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Pediococcus pentosaceus, and Limosilactobacillus reuteri, via 16S rRNA sequence analysis. In the subsequent phase, JAT powder was incorporated at varying concentrations (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/mL) in the anaerobic fecal inoculum using in vitro hindgut model (IHM). Post 24 h incubation, the fermented fecal inoculum was assessed for changes in log CFU of Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, Coliforms, Salmonella and biochemicals. The biochemical responses displayed a linear improvement (P<0.001) with increasing prebiotic dosage. The three chosen probiotic isolates paired with JAT powder were individually subjected to 24h incubation using IHM to assess the potential of synbiotic. The results revealed a synbiotic combination of Limosilactobacillus reuteri RM125 (1.5- 3.0x10⁸ cfu/mL) with 10 mg/mL JAT powder as the best combination for neonatal calf feeding.

Keywords: Hindgut microbiota, In vitro hindgut model, Jerusalem artichoke, Lactic acid bacteria Neonatal calves, Synbiotic

*Corresponding author: anjukalaveT2002@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00037.8

Evaluation of Substrate Specific Non-Starch Polysaccharide Enzymes in Commercial Layer Diets Containing Alternate Protein Supplements

S. Parashuramulu*, D. Srinivasa Rao, S.V. Rama Rao, J.V. Ramana and A. Ravi College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati-517502, India

ABSTRACT

Parashuramulu, S., Rao, D.S., Rao, S.V.R., Ramana, J.V. and Ravi, A. 2024. Evaluation of substrate specific non-starch polysaccharide enzymes in commercial layer diets containing alternate protein supplements. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 495-508.

A study was undertaken on 2490 commercial layers to evaluate the possibility of soybean meal (SBM) replacement with alternate protein supplements (APS) in isocaloric diets supplemented with substrate specific NSP enzymes. A corn/SBM diet was prepared as a control and two APS diets were prepared by replacing 44 and 87% of SBM by weight in control diet with cotton seed meal (CSM), rapeseed meal (RSM) and guar meal (GM) at two levels i.e., 5, 2.5 and 3% respectively, in APS1 and 10, 5 and 6%, respectively in APS2. Dietary specific NSP enzymes [Xylanase (X), α-D-glucanase (G), mannanase (M), cellulase (C) and pectinase (P)] combinations, E1 comprising X-700, G-1400, M-1000, C-100 and P-2000 IU/kg for corn/SBM; E2 comprising X- 2100, G-2800, M-1000, C-3000 and P-7000 IU/kg for APS1 and E3 comprising X-40000, G-10000, M-6000, C-1900 and P-10000 IU/kg for APS2 diets were supplemented. The enzymes in E1, E2 and E3 were selected based on soluble sugars in APS and their concentrations were selected based on in vitro and metabolic studies. Egg production, egg mass and feed efficiency were not affected by feeding on corn/SBM and APS1 diets with or without enzyme (E1 and E2) supplementation, but it was significantly reduced (P<0.01) in APS2. However, enzyme (E3) addition to APS2 significantly improved (P<0.01) all three parameters. Feed intake was significantly reduced (P<0.05) in enzymes supplemented corn/SBM diet, while it was comparable in other dietary groups. Egg quality and serum biochemical constituents were not affected among all treatment groups. Highest feed cost per dozen eggs was recorded (P<0.01) for corn/SBM diet and it was significantly reduced (P<0.01) in APS1 and APS2, while lowest (P<0.01) was recorded in enzymes (E3) supplemented APS2. It was concluded that SBM in traditional commercial layer diets can be safely replaced with APS (CSM-10, RSM-5 and GM-6%) up to 87% by supplementing substrate-specific NSP enzymes (X-40000, G-10000, M-6000, C-1900 and P-10000 IU/kg). However, without enzymes, SBM in commercial layer diets can be replaced up to 44% with APS comprising CSM-5%, RSM-2.5% and GM-3%.

Keywords: Cotton seed meal, Guar meal, Layers, Rape seed meal, Substrate specific NSP enzyme

*Corresponding author: spramnutri@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00038.4

Influence of Different Carbon Sources on Growth, Digestive Enzyme Activity and Hematological Profile of GIF Tilapia Reared in Biofloc System

M. Joshna*, B. Ahilan, Cheryl Antony, K. Ravaneshwaran, P. Chidambaram , A. Uma, S. Mahalakshmi and S.S. Lingam Department of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute Tamil Nadu, Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri-601204, India

ABSTRACT

Joshna, M., Ahilan, B., Antony, C., Ravaneshwaran, K., Chidambaram, P., Uma, A., Mahalakshmi, S. and Lingam, S.S. 2024. Influence of different carbon sources on growth, digestive enzyme activity and hematological profile of GIF tilapia reared in biofloc system. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 509-529.

The present study was performed to investigate the effect of different carbon sources on the growth performance and physiology of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIF Tilapia) fingerlings reared in a biofloc-based system. The study used four different carbon sources, viz., jaggery, soy hull pellets, rice starch and molasses, and each was triplicated in a glass aquarium tank of 100 L capacity. The study stocked 10 fingerlings/aquarium with an average body weight of 4.02±0.15 g. Results revealed significantly higher floc volume (59.33±2.08 ml/L) and floc volume index (4.92±0.23 ml/g) in the jaggery-based biofloc system. On the other hand, floc density (0.43±0.03 mg/cm³ ), floc density index (4.31±0.34 g/100 ml) and porosity (97.83±0.15%) were higher in rice starch-based biofloc system. The proximate composition of floc revealed significantly higher protein (36.26±1.51%) in soy hull pelletsbased biofloc system. At the end of the experimental trial, the growth performance of GIFT, reared in different biofloc-based systems, did not exhibit any significant variations. Maximum survival (100%) of GIF Tilapia was observed in the jaggery and soy hull pellets-based biofloc systems. Significantly (P<0.05) higher digestive enzyme activity in terms of protease (0.31±0.01 units mg protein^-1) and amylase (0.04±0.01 units mg protein^-1) were recorded in the jaggery-based biofloc group and lipase activity (0.71±0.03 Units mg protein^-1) in soy hull pellet-based biofloc group. Highest values of white blood cells (46.57±1.65 1000 /mm³), red blood cells (1.05±0.28 million /mm³), hemoglobin (6.58±0.32 g /dl), hematocrit (14.26±0.38 %) and mean corpuscular volume (141.57±2.40 fl) were recorded in soy hullpellet based biofloc system. The present study concluded that jaggery, followed by soy hull pellet are better carbon sources, compared to others, for the rearing of GIF Tilapia fingerlings as they resulted in better growth, hematological profile and digestive enzyme activities.

Keywords: Biofloc, Jaggery, Molasses, Rice starch, Soy hull pellets

*Corresponding author: joshnareddy275@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00039.0

Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Various Levels of Raw and Boiled Nere (Parkia biglobosa, Jacq. Benth) Seeds Meal in Dakar Region, Senegal

S.B. Ayssiwede*, M. Tigana, A.E. Djettin, S. Atchiwassa, M.C. Bonou and A. Missohou Laboratoire d’Alimentation et de Nutrition Animale (LANA)/ Service de zootechnie-Alimentation, Ecole Inter-Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV) de Dakar, BP: 5077 Dakar-Fann Sénégal

ABSTRACT

Ayssiwede, S.B., Tigana, M., Djettin, A.E., Atchiwassa, S., Bonou, M.C. and Missohou, A. 2024. Performances of broiler chickens fed various levels of raw and boiled nere (Parkia biglobosa, Jacq. Benth) seeds meal in dakar region, senegal. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 531-545.

This work was carried out in Dakar’s region (Sangalkam) from November to December 2017 to evaluate the effects of raw and boiled Nere (Parkia biglobosa) seeds meal incorporation in the diets on growth performances, carcass and organ characteristics and economic profit margins in broilers chicken. For this, 295 unsexed Cobb500 broilers of two weeks old were randomly distributed into 5 groups of 59 subjects of similar live weights, corresponding each to 5 experimental diets PB0 (control), PBR₁₀, PBR₂₀, PBB₂₀ and PBB₃₀, containing respectively 0, 10, 20% of raw; 20 and 30% of boiled Nere seeds meal in partial substitution of groundnut cake. The results showed that P. biglobosa seeds meal incorporation up to 20% (raw) or 30% (boiled) in the broilers chicken diets, did not adversely affect their health. It significantly improved live body weights, average daily weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass and organ weights of birds in PBR₁₀, PBR₂₀, PBB₂₀ and PBB₃₀ compared to the control, except the FCR of broilers fed PBB30. Consequently, they have generated the gross margins feed per kg carcass which remained significantly lower than that of the control dietary treatment. It was concluded that P. biglobosa seeds can be incorporated up to 20% raw and 30% if boiled, in the broilers diet without affecting their zootechnical performances. In case of high availability, these seeds could constitute an alternative feed resource for improving broiler feed in Senegal and in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Broilers chicken, Diets, Economic margin, Growth performances, Parkia biglobosa seeds

*Corresponding author: s.ayssiwede@gmail.com; ayissimbos@yahoo.fr

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00040.1

Effect of Tinospora cordifolia, Withania somnifera and Asparagus racemosus Supplementation on Rumen Fermentation Pattern and Substrate Degradation

Sonali Namdeo, Navneet Kaur, Juli Chakma, Narayan Dutta* and S.E. Jadhav Division of Animal Nutrition, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, India

ABSTRACT

Namdeo, S., Kaur, N., Chakma, J., Dutta, N. and Jadhav, S.E. 2024. Effect of tinospora cordifolia, Withania somnifera and Asparagus racemosus supplementation on rumen fermentation pattern and substrate degradation. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 547-557.

This study scrutinized the effect of herbal feed additives viz. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) supplementation on in vitro gas production, rumen fermentation and substrate degradation in cattle inoculum. The in vitro fermentation study was conducted with the roughage-based substrate at four different levels of herbs supplementation at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 % of total dry matter and incubated up to 24h and substrate degradation was estimated. The inclusion of T. cordifolia, W. somnifera and A. racemosus significantly (P<0.01) increased gas production (ml /200 mg substrate) relative to the control. Truly degradable organic matter in the rumen (TDOMR) was found to be significantly (P<0.01) higher in all three herbs-supplemented groups at all levels as compared to CON. However, TDOMR was highest at 1% in T. cordifolia , 2 and 3% in W. somnifera and 3% A. racemosus level. Similarly, microbial biomass production and partitioning factor were also noticeably (P<0.01) higher in all the herbs-supplemented groups than control. The supplementation of herbs did not have any effect (P>0.05) on pH and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) production. The NH₃ -N was significantly (P<0.05) decreased in all the treatment groups as compared to control. It may be concluded that the inclusion of select herbs at 1% levels significantly improved gas production, TDOMR and efficiency of MBP; however, the level of ammonia-N was reduced.

Keywords: Asparagus racemosus, Gas production, Rumen fermentation, Tinospora cordifolia, Withania somnifera

*Corresponding author: dutta65@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00041.8

Effect of Herbal Feed Additives Rich in Tannins on Rumen Fermentation Pattern, Enteric Methane Emission and Performance of Buffalo Calves

P.K. Sidhu, M. Wadhwa, A.S. Singh and M.P.S. Bakshi* Department of Animal Nutrition, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University, Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Sidhu, P.K., Wadhwa, M., Singh, A.S. and Bakshi, M.P.S. 2024. Effect of herbal feed additives rich in tannins on rumen fermentation pattern, enteric methane emission and performance of buffalo calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 559-570.

The effect of tannin rich herbs supplemented to a total mixed ration (TMR) was assessed on the rumen fermentation pattern, enteric methane emission and performance of buffalo calves. Fifteen calves (live body weight 96.5±2.5 kg) divided into three equal groups were fed control TMR or TMR supplemented with Acacia nilotica (Babul) or Areca catechu (Supari) at 2% of DM intake for 180 days. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, while that of enteric methane emission by 3×2 factorial design. The nutrient digestibility, nitrogen retention, volatile fatty acids (VFAs) production; urinary excretion of purine derivatives (PDs), blood profile and average daily gain (ADG) were not affected, thereby indicating that these herbal feed additives (HFAs) had no negative impact on the nutrient utilization. The efficiency of rumen fermentation (E) was improved, while that with which the fermented hexose is converted to methane (E₂) was reduced significantly in animals fed TMR supplemented with A. nilotica as compared to those fed control TMR or that supplemented with A. catechu. The enteric methane emission was reduced (P<0.01) by 38.8 and 42.9% in animals fed TMR supplemented with A. nilotica and A. catechu as compared to the control TMR. It was concluded that supplementing TMR with Acacia nilotica or Areca catechu at 2% of DM intake reduced enteric methane production without affecting the nutrient utilization and performance of buffaloes calves.

Keywords: Blood profile, Buffalo calves, Enteric methane emission, Herbal feed additives, Nutrient utilization, Rumen fermentation pattern

*Corresponding author: bakshimps2@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00042.4

Evaluation of Plant and Meat Based Dog Foods by In-vitro and In-vivo Digestibility Techniques

M. Sachin, H.S. Madhusudhan*, T.M. Prabhu, H.M. Yathish , B.M. Veeregowda , P.C. Suhas, and B. Shylesh Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Hebbal-560024, India

ABSTRACT

Sachin, M., Madhusudhan, H.S., Prabhu, T.M., Yathish, H.M., Veeregowda, B.M., Suhas, P.C. and Shylesh, B. 2024. Evaluation of plant and meat based dog foods by In-vitro and In-vivo digestibility techniques. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 571-580.

A study was conducted to evaluate dog foods using In-vitro and In-vivo digestibility techniques. Four commercially available adult maintenance type canine diets, viz., vegetable (V), chicken and vegetable (CV), meat and vegetable (MV) and meat and rice (MR) based diets, were selected. In-vitro digestibility was achieved by incubating the food samples with enzymes (pepsin, amylase, and pancreatin) to simulate digestion in the stomach and small intestine. The residue was subjected to an in-vitro gas production technique to simulate the hindgut fermentation. The gas production over a period of 24 hours was recorded. Twelve adult mongrel dogs of comparable body weight were selected and divided into four groups equally. A five-day in-vivo digestion trial was carried out at the end of the four-week feeding trial. The chemical composition of all four diets was comparable. In both in-vitro and in-vivo digestibility trials the diet V showed less digestibility of all the nutrients except crude fibre. There was no significant difference in dry matter and organic matter digestibility between in-vitro and in-vivo techniques. However, there was a significant (P≤0.05) difference in the digestibility of crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and nitrogen free extract. Diet V showed the highest fermentation and gas production rate compared to CV, MV, and MR diets. Body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) was observed during feeding trial. Although all experimental diets were maintenance type, the mean average daily gain (g) in BW of 7.92, 8.57, 8.63 and 8.93 for V, CV, MV and MR, respectively, was observed. The BCS of less than an ideal score was observed in all the experimental groups. Higher gas production, faecal score and number of defecations was observed in animals receiving diet V. Therefore, it was concluded that the animal protein-based diets (CV, MV and MR) are better than the plant protein-based diet (V) for feeding of dogs.

Keywords: Dog foods, Digestibility, In-vitro gas production, Meat-based diet, Plant-based diet

*Corresponding author: hsmsgowda@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00043.0

Haemato-Biochemistry, Serum Minerals, Immune Status, and Meat Quality of Goats Fed Diet Supplemented with Sulphate Reducing Bacteria with Sulphur

Sandeep Uniyal, L.C. Chaudhary*, Anju Kala and Neeta Agarwal Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, India

ABSTRACT

Uniyal, S., Chaudhary, L.C., Kala, A. and Agarwal, N. 2024. Haemato-biochemistry, serum minerals, immune status, and meat quality of goats fed diet supplemented with sulphate reducing bacteria with sulphur. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 581-594.

An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of feeding sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB, Streptococcus caviae RM296) as a microbial feed additive, either alone or with sulphur, on haematobiochemistry, serum minerals, immune status and meat quality of goats. Thirty-six 5-6 months old growing male kids (average body weight of 10.08±0.21 kg), were distributed in six groups of six animals each, following a completely randomized design. The six groups were T₁, T₂, T₃, T₄, T₅, and T₆ fed on a basal diet; control (without additive), with SRB (1x10⁶ CFU/ml) at 0.5 ml/kg BW, sulphur at 0.095% DMI (total sulphur in diet 0.28 %), sulphur at 0.095% DMI + SRB at 0.5 ml/kg BW (total sulphur in diet 0.28 %), sulphur at 0.19% DMI (total sulphur in diet 0.38 %), sulphur at 0.19% of DMI + SRB at 0.5 ml/kg BW (total sulphur in diet 0.38 %), respectively. The animals were fed as per the ICAR (2013) feeding standards for 150 days. The basal diet was comprised of a concentrate mixture (21.17% CP) and maize hay (6.23 % CP) in an equal ratio. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in the levels of haemoglobin, PCV, glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, cholesterol, and serum enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), serum minerals (zinc, copper, iron, and manganese), immune response (humoral and cell-mediated), and meat quality (carcass characteristics), yield of wholesale cut, weight of vital organs among the treatment groups. The moisture, protein, fat, and total ash contents in the Longissimus dorsi and Semitendinosus muscles were also similar in all six groups. It is evident from the results that SRB (S. caviae RM296) as a microbial feed additive had no impact on the health and immunity status of goats.

Keywords: Goat, Haemato-biochemistry, Immunity, Meat quality, Serum minerals, Streptococcus caviae

*Corresponding author: lcchaudhary1@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00044.7

Effect of Feeding Raw or Treated Faba Bean (Vicia faba) on Production Performance, Haematobiochemicals, Nutrients Utilization and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens

P.K. Singh*, Chandan Kumar, Kaushalendra Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, Priyanka Kumari and M.P. Vijay Department of Animal Nutrition, Bihar Veterinary College, Bihar Animal Science University, Patna-800014, India

ABSTRACT

Singh, P.K., Kumar, C., Kumar, K., Kumar, S., Kumari, P. and Vijay, M.P. 2024. Effect of feeding raw or treated faba bean (Vicia faba) on production performance, haemato-biochemicals, nutrients utilization and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 595-606.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the diets prepared by replacing 20% soybean with either raw or treated faba bean (Vicia faba) in broiler chickens during a 35-day feeding trial. A total of 180 day-old Cobb 400Y strain broiler chicks were distributed as T₁ (control): standard maize-soybean meal-based basal ration whereas, in T₂, T₃ and T₄, 20% soybean meal of the basal ration was replaced with raw, hot air oven (130°C for 30 minutes) and microwave treated (930W for 30 seconds) faba beans, respectively. Each group had three replicates of 15 chicks following completely randomized design. Growth performance and economic return decreased (P<0.05) due to the inclusion of raw faba bean, whereas the inclusion of microwave oven-treated faba bean enhanced (P<0.05) growth performance and economics and was at par with control. However, the dry matter intake was similar in all the groups, leading to significantly lower FCR in the T₂ group. Nutrient retention, hemato-biochemicals and serum enzymes were similar in all the four groups. The carcass characteristics, including dressing yield, eviscerated yield, blood loss, feather loss, relative organ weights, cut-up parts among different dietary treatments, were similar (P>0.05). The abdominal fat value was higher (P=0.056) in the control as compared to all three treated groups. Dietary treatments did not affect (P>0.05) appearance, flavour, tenderness, juiciness and overall acceptability of meat of broiler chicken. It can be concluded that the replacement of 20% soybean in the basal diet with raw faba bean depressed the growth performance and economics of broiler chicken, whereas, replacement with microwave or hot air oven treated faba bean improved the growth performance and economics without affecting haemato-biochemicals and carcass quality of broiler chickens.

Keywords: Broiler, Carcass, Faba bean, Hot air oven, Microwave, Performance

*Corresponding author: vetpank@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00045.3

Nutrient Utilization and Rumen Fermentation Profile of Goats Fed on Gram Straw (Cicer arietinum) Based Complete Feed Pellets

P.V. Patil*, M.K. Gendley, A.P. Dhok, Meenu Dubey and Vandana Bhagat Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora-491001, India

ABSTRACT

Patil, P.V., Gendley, M.K., Dhok, A.P., Dubey, M. and Bhagat, V. 2024. Nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation profile of goats fed on gram straw (Cicer arietinum) based complete feed pellets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 607-616.

The current trial aimed to find out how providing goats with complete feed pellets based on gram straw (Cicer arietinum) consisting of roughage 50% and concentrate 50% would affect the nutrient utilization, nutrient retention and rumen fermentation profile. Twelve adult goats of identical body weights were allocated into two groups (Control and Treatment), each with six goats, and were raised in stalls. The control group of goats received 500 g/day of concentrate and ad libitum access to Super Napier hay. However, treatment goats were given complete feed pellets made from gram straw with 50- 50 roughage and concentrate. Following a preliminary period of 21 days, a metabolic trial was carried out. Rumen liquor was taken 4 hours after feeding during the study, and its pH, total nitrogen, TVFA, and total protozoan and bacterial counts were evaluated. The goats in the treatment group had significantly higher nutrient digestibility for all nutrients (DM, CF, CP, EE, and NFE) and fibre fractions (ADF, NDF, hemicellulose, and cellulose) than the goats from the control group (P<0.01). Positive N, Ca, and P retention was obtained in both groups. In the treatment goats, the N, Ca, and P retention was more (P<0.01). Additionally, the treatment goats had significantly higher levels of TVFA, total nitrogen, total bacteria, and protozoa in the rumen fluid than those in the control group. In conclusion, stall-fed goats benefitted by the gram straw-based complete feed in pellet form in terms of nutrient retention, rumen fermentation profile, and nutrient utilization.

Keywords: Goats, Gram straw-based complete feed pellets, Nutrient utilization, Rumen fermentation, Super Napier

*Corresponding author: drpv9ann@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00046.X

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Ashwagandha, Selenium and Vitamin E on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Carcass Characteristics and Economics in Broiler Chicken

S.N. Nirmal, S.M. Bhalerao*, A.V. Khanvilkar, V.R. Patodkar, A.S. Kadam, A.Y. Doiphode, A.K. Barate, V.M. Sardar and G.S. Sonawane Department of Animal Nutrition, Krantisinh Nana Patil College of Veterinary Science, Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Shirwal-412801, India

ABSTRACT

Nirmal, S.N., Bhalerao, S.M., Khanvilkar, A.V., Patodkar, V.R., Kadam, A.S., Doiphode, A.Y., Barate, A.K., Sardar, V.M. and Sonawane, G.S. 2024. Effect of dietary supplementation of ashwagandha, selenium and vitamin E on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass characteristics and economics in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 617-626.

An experiment was conducted on 300, day-old commercial broiler chicks (Cobb 430 Yellow) for a period of 42 days. The chicks were distributed randomly into five experimental groups with four replicates having 15 birds each. The group (T₀) was fed as per BIS (2007), whereas treatment groups T₁, T₂, T₃ and T₄ diets were supplemented with ashwagandha 0.5% of the diet, ashwagandha 0.5% plus vitamin E @ 30 mg/kg diet, ashwagandha (powder) 0.5% plus selenium 0.25 mg/kg diet and ashwagandha 0.5% plus 30 mg/kg vitamin E plus 0.25 mg/kg selenium, respectively. The average body weight (g) was significantly higher in T₃ and T₄ groups as compared to T₀ but was similar to T₁ and T₂. The feed intake (g/d) and FCR were significantly lower in T₃ and T₄ groups compared to T₀. The digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and crude protein was significantly higher in all the supplemented groups than T₀. The carcass characteristics were similar in all the groups. The present study observed significantly higher (P<0.05) cumulative feed intake and FCR at higher levels of supplementation as compared to control group.

Keywords: Ashwagandha, Broilers, Economics, Performance, Selenium, Vitamin E

*Corresponding author: sanjaybhaleraoann@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00047.6

Effect of Total Mixed Ration on Intake, Blood Biochemical Profile and Rumen Fermentation in Stallfed Beetal Kids

Priya*, M. Singla, S. Kaswan, R.S. Grewal, N. Kashyap and D.S. Malik Department of Livestock Production Management, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Priya, Singla, M., Kaswan, S., Grewal, R.S., Kashyap, N. and Malik, D.S. 2024. Effect of total mixed ration on intake, blood biochemical profile and rumen fermentation in stall-fed beetal kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 627-643.

In a 120-day study, two types of total mixed ration (TMR, hay based i.e. H-TMR made up of sun-dried available green fodder in the form of hay mixed with a concentrate mixture, and green fodder based i.e. G-TMR consisted of chopped available green fodder blended with concentrate mixture) were compared with conventional (separate forage and concentrate feeding i.e. control) feeding system in terms of effects on dry matter intake (DMI), ruminal fermentation patterns, hematological and blood biochemical parameters in Beetal kids. Twenty-four Beetal kids were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (n = 8) based on sex and body weight as follows: 1) Conventional feeding method as the control group (CON); 2) Hay-based TMR as H-TMR group; 3) Green fodder based TMR as G-TMR group. Most morphometric measurements were identical between the dietary treatments. However, abdominal width and chest width were significantly increased for the H-TMR group followed by G-TMR and CON groups (P<0.05). The rumen fermentation, hematological and serum biochemical indices were found to be comparable (P>0.05) indicating a normal physiological picture. The hemoglobin value (g/dl) was found to be significantly higher for G-TMR (P<0.0). A significant increase (P<0.05) in propionate concentration of total volatile fatty acids (VFA) for the kids fed hay-based TMR was also noticed. However, the relative proportion (%) of isovalerate was found to be significantly (P<0.05) higher for G-TMR group as compared to H-TMR group. The DM intake (g/kg BW) was statistically higher (P<0.01) in green fodder-based TMR group than in the other groups. In conclusion, feeding hay based TMR to grower Beetal kids improved DMI along with significant increase in propionate concentration as compared to those conventional fed. Beetal kids fed with TMRs seemed to perform better without exerting any adverse effects on hematological parameters, blood metabolites, or liver enzymes.

Keywords: Beetal goat, Rumen fermentation, Serum biochemical profile, Stall-fed, Total mixed ration

*Corresponding author: dhattarwalpriya@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00048.2

Effect of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) Herb on Feed Intake, Milk Yield and Composition and Reproductive Performance of Lactating Cows

J.L. Choudhary*, Rashmi Bhinda and J.R. Jat Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur-313001, India

ABSTRACT

Choudhary, J.L., Bhinda, R. and Jat, J.R. 2024. Effect of shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) herb on feed intake, milk yield and composition and reproductive performance of lactating cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 645-656.

A study was conducted on fifteen crossbred cows with milk yield of 7.33 kg and BW of 390 kg divided into three treatment groups viz. T₁ (Control group) fed 0 % Shatavari+10 kg green fodder and ad libitum wheat straw; T₂ group fed Shatavari at 150 mg per kg body weight plus 10 kg green fodder and wheat straw ad libitum and T₃ group fed Shatavari at 200 mg per kg live body weight plus 10 kg green fodder and ad libitum wheat straw for 120 days and concentrate was offered to all as per requirements of lactating cows. Daily DMI intake (per cent of body weight) was significantly higher in the T₃ (3.01) and T₂ (2.91) groups compared to the T₁ (2.42) group. A similar trend was observed in CP, DCP and TDN intake. Milk yield (kg/d) was significantly higher in T₃ (9.40) and T₂ (8.99) than in the T₁ (7.79) group. Similarly, the 4% FCM yield was significantly higher in the T₃ group than in the T₁ group. The fat, protein, SNF and TS in the milk of the T₃ and T₂ groups were significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of the control (T₁) group. Supplementation of Shatavari in the ration of lactating cows resulted in a significant (P<0.05) reduction in the first postpartum oestrus period, service period (days) and service per conception in dairy cows. It can be concluded that supplementation of Shatavari at 150 to 200 mg/ kg body weight in the diet of lactating cows enhanced the milk yield and composition and improved the reproductive performance of lactating crossbred cows.

Keywords: Asparagus, Lactating cows, Milk yield, Shatavari

*Corresponding author: chaudharyjl@yahoo.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00049.9

Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Ram Lambs Fed Concentrate Mixture Containing Varying Levels of Guava Waste Meal

G. Dileep Kumar, K. Raja Kishore*, J.V. Ramana, M. Naveen Swaroop, Ch. Venkata Seshaiah and M. Sairam Department of Animal Nutrition, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University NTR College of Veterinary Science, Gannavarm-521102, India

ABSTRACT

Kumar, G.D., Kishore, K.R., Ramana, J.V., Swaroop, M.N., Seshaiah, C.V. and Sairam, M. 2024. Growth performance and carcass characteristics of ram lambs fed concentrate mixture containing varying levels of guava waste meal. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 657-667.

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding concentrate mixture containing varying levels of guava waste meal (GWM) on growth performance and carcass characteristics in ram lambs. Eighteen ram lambs were divided into three equal groups of six each and were allotted to one of the dietary treatments (T₁, T₂, T₃ ) and fed green fodder viz., super napier and concentrate mixture (20% CP) containing GWM at 0 (T₁), 10 (T₂) and 20% (T₃). The body weight gain and average daily gain were higher (P<0.05) in T₂ compared to other treatments, while the feed cost per kg weight gain decreased (P<0.05) by ‘ 18.48 in T₂ compared to T₁ with non-significant differences between T₁ and T₃. Further, improved (P<0.05) feed efficiency was observed in T₂ with no differences (P>0.05) between T₁ and T₃. Feeding if GWM had no effect (P>0.05) on various carcass parameters, except for dressing percentage on empty body weight. No significant differences were observed in the proportion of wholesale cuts (% carcass weight), yield of visceral organs (% of pre-slaughter weight) and chemical composition (%) of Longissimus dorsi muscle among the different dietary treatments. It was concluded that GWM can be included up to 10 % in the concentrate mixture for improved body weight gain, feed efficiency and economical meat production in ram lambs.

Keywords: Carcass characteristics, Growth performance, Guava waste meal, Ram lambs

*Corresponding author: dr_rajakishore@yahoo.co.in

ANFT MAY 2025

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00018.8

Effect of Protein Levels of Supplementary Feed on Survival and Growth Performance of Hilsa Shad, Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) Larvae under Co-Feeding Condition

D.N. Chattopadhyay*, B.N. Paul, R.N. Mandal, S. Adhikari and A. Hussan Regional Research Centre, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture Rahara, Kolkata-700118, India

ABSTRACT

Chattopadhyay, D.N., Paul, B.N., Mandal, R.N., Adhikari, S. and Hussan, A. 2024. Effect of protein levels of supplementary feed on survival and growth performance of hilsa shad, Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) larvae under co-feeding condition. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 239-254.

Hilsa shad, Tenualosa ilisha, is a commercially important food fish in South Asian countries. Recently, this species has received much attention for its conservation through captive culture due to declining trend in nature. Insufficient seed is the major bottleneck for its captive culture. The objective is to identify a best dietary protein level of hilsa larvae co-fed with planktons for better survival and growth to support its culture. Eight days post hatch hilsa larvae (3.67±0.21 mm/0.36±0.00 mg) were reared for 80 days in fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks at 250 nos./m3 in triplicates and fed with three different formulated diets as FI, F2, and F3 having 35.5, 40.5, and 45.3% crude protein (CP), along with Chlorella sp., Brachionus sp. and mixed zooplanktons. A significantly (P<0.05) higher survival, final body-length, final body-weight, daily body-length gain, daily body-weight gain and SGR in F2 (88.5%, 36.21 mm, 0.43 g, 0.41 mm, 0.01 g, and 8.96% /day) than that in F1 (69.33%, 32.1 mm, 0.31 g, 0.36 mm, 0.004 g, and 8.55% /day) and F3 (40.33%, 30.03 mm, 0.2 g, 0.33 mm, 0.003 g, and 8.02% /day) indicated that co-feeding the larvae with 40.5% dietary CP and plankton was optimum for their best survival and growth. The present findings may be useful for increased production of hilsa seed, which may support its captive culture-a way of their conservation.

Keywords: Co-feeding, Formulated diets, Growth, Hilsa larvae, Survival

*Corresponding author: debchatto2022@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00019.4

Impact of Restricted Followed by Compensatory Feeding on the Performance of Buffalo Calves

R. Bhardwaj, M. Wadhwa, M.P.S. Bakshi* and S.K. Uppal Department of Animal Nutrition Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Bhardwaj, R., Wadhwa, M., Bakshi, M.P.S. and Uppal, S.K. 2024. Impact of restricted followed by compensatory feeding on the performance of buffalo calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 255-268.

The study was planned to assess the effect of restricted feeding followed by compensatory feeding on the performance of buffalo calves. After conditioning, buffalo calves (21; 10-month-old, 100 kg BW) were divided into 2 groups (Gp-I and Gp-II) of 7 and 14 animals each on BW basis and were fed @100 and 75% of NRC for 75 days. The DM and N-intake, total and individual VFA production in rumen, blood glucose, T₃ and T₄, urinary total purine derivatives (PD) were lower (P<0.01), while protein, globulin and creatinine were higher (P<0.01) in Gp-II than Gp-I. The animals in the Gp-II lost (P<0.01) body weight. After 75 days of restricted feeding, the animals in the control Gp-I were continued with the same feeding schedule, but those under restricted feeding (Gp-II) were divided into 2 equal groups and were offered compensatory diet @100% (Gp-IIa) and 125% NRC (Gp-IIb) for next 75 days. The DM intake, digestibility of nutrients, and nitrogen retention were similar in all the groups. The production of total VFAs and acetate in the rumen was higher (P<0.05), but low (P<0.01) levels of propionate, butyrate and that of isobutyrate (P<0.05) were observed in Gp-II. The ruminal total-N, TCA-N and ammoniacal-N in Gp-IIa and Gp-IIb improved (P<0.01) in comparison to those in Gp-I. Blood glucose and serum IGF were higher (P<0.05) in Gp-IIb (125% NRC). The ADG in Gp-IIa and Gp-IIb showed a remarkable recovery and reached close to the ADG in animals under Gp-I. The study conclusively revealed that animals which were on restricted feeding could recoup from the negative effects, during re-alimentation phase.

Keywords: Buffalo calves, Compensatory feeding, Growth, Purine derivatives, Restricted feeding, Rumen metabolites

*Corresponding author: bakshimps2@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00021.1

Effect of Low Protein Diets on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Gramapriya Laying Hens

Arun Kumar Panda*, Biswanath Sahoo and Anil Kumar ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture Bhubaneswar-751003, India

ABSTRACT

Panda, A.K., Sahoo, B. and Kumar, A. 2024. Effect of low protein diets on production performance, egg quality and serum biochemical parameters of Gramapriya laying hens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 269-276.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of low protein diets on production performance, egg quality and serum biochemical parameters of Gramapriya laying hens. A total of 96 Gramapriya laying hens (32 wks) were randomly distributed into four groups with three replicates of 8 birds in each. Diets were formulated with the same level of metabolizable energy but different levels of crude protein (14, 15, 16 and 17%). The ratio of lysine and methionine to CP was kept constant in all the diets. A measured quantity of each diet was fed to one of the four treatments for a period of 12 weeks (32-44 wk) of age. The body weight of laying hens of 14% CP group decrease by 24.28 g. The body weight gain of laying hens increased linearly by increasing the CP content of diet from 15 to 17%. The egg production, egg mass output and feed efficiency improved significantly by increasing dietary CP content from 14 to 15%. Egg weight and egg quality parameters were not influenced due to variation in CP. Total protein concentration in serum of laying hens was lowest in group containing 14% CP. Serum protein and calcium concentrations increased significantly with increasing CP content from 14 to 16%. Increasing the CP content to 16% significantly increased serum uric acid levels. It was concluded that, diet containing 0.74% lysine, 0.32% methionine and 15% CP with 2600 kcal ME/kg diet was found adequate to maintain optimum production performance in Gramapriya laying hens.

Keywords: Egg quality, Gramapriya laying hens, Low protein diets, Production performance, Serum biochemical parameters

*Corresponding author: akpanda59@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00022.8

Effect of Dietary Incorporation of Cotton Seed Cake (Gossypium Sp.) on Milk Production, Constituents, Fatty Acid Profile, Somatic Cell Counts and Reproductive Hormones in Late Lactating Barbari Goats

Ravindra Kumar*, Arun K Verma, P. Tripathi and D.L. Gupta Division of Animal Nutrition management and PT ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom Farah, Mathura-281122, India

ABSTRACT

Kumar, R., Arun K Verma, P. Tripathi and D.L. Gupta 2024. Effect of dietary incorporation of cotton seed cake (Gossypium Sp.) on milk production, constituents, fatty acid profile, somatic cell counts and reproductive hormones in late lactating Barbari goats. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 277- 287.

Feeding cum lactation trial was conducted to study the effect of inclusion of cotton seed cake (CSC) on milk production, constituents, fatty acid profile, somatic cell counts, hematology and reproductive hormones in Barbari goats. Eighteen female Barbari goats (age approx. 3-5 years and mean body weight 36.35±1.33 kg) were divided into three groups (Gr I, Gr II and Gr III) of six each as per completely randomised design (CRD). All the animals were fed with concentrate pellet and gram straw to meet their nutrient requirement. Control group (Gr I) was fed with concentrate pellet having 25 % linseed cake while Gr II and Gr III were fed with concentrate pellet in which linseed cake was replaced with cotton seed cake at 50 and 100% level. Milk production (g/day) and total solids (%), protein (%) and ash (%) were statistically similar in all three groups of lactating goats at 30 and 60 days of experimental feeding. Milk production (g/day) was 561.50, 545.00 and 525.80 in Gr I, Gr II and Gr III respectively. Incorporation of CSC in the ration tended to provide higher mono unsaturated fatty acids. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in blood cell counts and biochemical parameters viz., glucose, total protein, albumin urea, and ALT and AST activities among different groups. The concentration of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone (IU/L), progesterone and estradiol were within normal range and similar among the groups. Present study concluded that cotton seed cake can be incorporated at 25% level in the concentrate mixture of lactating goats without any adverse effect on milk production, constituents and reproductive hormones.

Keywords: Cotton seed cake, Lactating goats, Milk fatty acids, Reproductive hormones

*Corresponding author: ravindra.srivastava@gmail.com; ravindra.kumar@icar.gov.in/p>

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00023.4

Novel Feed Supplement Improved Metabolic Hormones, Antioxidant Activity, Immune Response and Gene Expression in Postpartum Cows

Sandeep K. Chaudhary*, Narayan Dutta, Sunil E. Jadhav, Gyanendra Singh, Sanjay K. Singh and Dharmesh Tewari Centre for Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar–243122, India

ABSTRACT

Chaudhary, S.K., Dutta, N., Jadhav, S.E., Singh, G., Singh, S.K. and Tewari, D. 2024. Novel feed supplement improved metabolic hormones, antioxidant activity, immune response and gene expression in postpartum cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 289-302.

This study was taken up to assess the efficacy of a customized novel feed supplement on circulating concentration of metabolic hormones, antioxidant activity, immune response and expression of immune related cytokines and genes involved in energy metabolism in early postpartum dairy cows. Postpartum crossbred lactating cows (N=12) were equally and randomly allocated to CON (control) and NFS (Novel Feed Supplement) groups. The cattle in CON group were fed on green fodder and wheat straw-based diet with concentrate mixture, whereas, cattle in NFS group were fed according to CON group with additional novel feed supplement @ 0.25% of BW. The feeding trials was continued from 60 days post-partum to 150 days lactation period (total experimental period was 90 days). Circulating concentration of T₃, T₄, GH and IGF-1 hormones were significantly (P<0.05) increased in NFS than CON group. The cows fed NFS diet exhibited significantly (P<0.05) improved in NFS fed cows implicating an improved immune response. The fold expression of LEP gene was higher (P<0.001) and GHRL gene was lower (P<0.001) in NFS than CON groups. Thus, it can be concluded that, dietary inclusion of the novel feed supplement @ 0.25% of BW significantly improved the circulating concentration of metabolic hormones, antioxidant activity, immunity and overall health of lactating crossbred cattle during early lactation period.

Keywords: Cows, Cytokines, Ghrelin, Immunity, Leptin, Negative energy balance

*Corresponding author: sandy6050@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00024.0

Feeding of Graded Levels of Lipid to Gift Juveniles Cultured in Inland Ground Saline Water (Igsw): Changes in Growth, Metabolism and Antioxidant Status

Mritunjoy Paul, Parimal Sardar*, Narottam Prasad Sahu, Prasanta Jana, Ashutosh Dharmendra Deo, Nazeema Shamna, Tincy Varghese and Vijayakumar Sidramappa Mannur ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Kolkata Centre 32, GN Block, Sector-V, Salt Lake City, Kolkata-700091, India

ABSTRACT

Paul, M., Sardar, P., Sahu, N.P., Jana, P., Deo, A.D., Shamna, N., Varghese, T. and Mannur, V.S. 2024. Feeding of graded levels of lipid to gift juveniles cultured in inland ground saline water (IGSW): changes in growth, metabolism and antioxidant status. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 303- 317.

A 60 days experiment was conducted to study the effect of different dietary lipid levels viz., TL₄, TL₆, TL₈, TL₁₀, TL₁₂, TP₁₄ and TL₁₆ on growth, hemato-biochemical, metabolic responses and antioxidative status of GIFT tilapia juveniles reared in inland ground saline water (IGSW) of 15 ppt salinity. In indoor tank rearing system, a random distribution of 315 acclimatized fish (average BW 1.90±0.01g) @15 fish/tank was done in seven groups in triplicates. The results indicated that, the weight gain, metabolic growth rate, FER, ANPU and AST and ALT (hepatic and muscle) activities were increased (P<0.05) with increase in dietary lipid up to 10% and then decreased. Hepatic and muscle LDH activities significantly (P<0.05) decreased linearly with increasing dietary lipid. Significantly (P<0.05) higher SOD and CAT activities in both liver and gill was found in TL₁₀ group. Hepatic MDA content was lowest (P<0.05) in TL₄ and highest in TL₁₆ group. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in liver and muscle MDH and haemato-biochemical parameters in relation to dietary lipid levels. The present findings conclude that 10% dietary lipid is ideal to support growth, nutrient utilisation, metabolic and antioxidative status of GIFT tilapia juveniles reared in dynamic IGSW.

Keywords: Antioxidative enzymes, Dietary lipid, GIFT (Tilapia), Growth, Inland ground saline

*Corresponding author: parimalsardar0001@gmail.com/parimalsardar@cife.edu.in

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00025.7

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Encapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici Probiotics on Growth Performance and Intestinal Histomorphology in Large White Yorkshire Piglets

Kuriakose P. Ajay, Senthil Murugan S.*, Prejit , Elangia N and Biju Chacko Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad-673576, India

ABSTRACT

Kuriakose, P.A., Senthil, M.S., Prejit, Elangia, N. and Chacko, B. 2024. Effect of dietary supplementation of encapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici probiotics on growth performance and intestinal histomorphology in Large White Yorkshire piglets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 319-332.

The current study evaluated the dietary supplementation of encapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum NCIM 2374 (eLpl 2374) and Pediococcus acidilactici NCIM 5721 (ePed 5721) on growth performance and histomorphometric measurements. The survival rate of eLpl 2374 and ePed 5721 after encapsulation did not differ significantly. The in vitro survival rate and efficiency of eLpl 2374 was significantly (P<0.00) better than ePed 5721 in SGJ and SIJ, but was reduced in both the probiotics. Eighteen weaned (6 wk old) male, crossbred Large White Yorkshire (LWY) piglets with mean body weight of 8.77±0.37 kg were randomly distributed in three groups with three replicates with two animals in each replicate. All the animals were fed with basal diet, formulated to meet ICAR (2013) nutrient requirements. The water sprinkled maize powder was allowed for overnight and encapsulated probiotic ePed 5721 (1 ×1011 CFU /mL) and eLpl 2374 (1 ×1011 CFU /mL) was mixed with 100 g of maize powder separately and given to respective groups and control (Contr) group received 100 g of water sprinkled maize powder only. The pigs in eLpl 2374 showed significantly (P<0.00) higher body weight and body weight gain, with reduced feed intake (P<0.01) and improved feed gain ratio (P<0.01) compared to control animals from weaning to grower stage (wk 22), but similar values were recorded from weaning to finisher stage (wk 33). Moreover, pigs in ePed 5721 and control groups showed similar results. Similarly, villus height, crypt depth of duodenum and ileum and goblet cells number were significantly (P<0.01) increased in eLpl 2374 pigs. It may be concluded that supplementation of eLpl 2374 proved to be better choice for improving body weight with better feed gain ratio in pigs upto grower stage.

Keywords: Growth performance, Intestinal histomorphology, Pigs, Probiotics

*Corresponding author: ssenthil2043@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00026.3

Influence of Dietary Phytosome Conjugated Cinnamaldehyde Supplementation on Performance, Immune Status and Gut Health in Broiler Chicken

A.A. Kondhare, M.M. Kadam, D.B. Bhaisare*, S.V. Shinde, S.V. Chopade and M.A. Gole Nagpur Veterinary College, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University Nagpur-440001, India

ABSTRACT

Kondhare, A.A., Kadam, M.M., Bhaisare, D.B., Shinde, S.V., Chopade, S.V. and Gole, M.A. 2024. Influence of dietary phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde supplementation on performance, immune status and gut health in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 333-345.

The present research was designed to assess the influence of dietary supplementation of essential oils (Eos) consisting of 200 g/ton and 100 g/ton plain cinnamaldehyde essential oil and phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde essential oil respectively along with antibiotic growth promoter @ 500 g/ton of feed on growth performance, gut health and immunity of straight run broiler chicken upto 6 weeks of age. A total of 240 day-old broiler chicks (Vencobb 430) were randomly divided into four groups (60 chicks/ group) each with four replicates of 15 chicks in each. The control group received the basal diet, while the other three groups received the basal diet supplemented with 500 g/ton Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate (BMD), 200 g/ton plain cinnamaldehyde essential oil and 100 g/ton phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde essential oil, respectively for 42 days. The phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde essential oil group showed significantly (P<0.001) higher live body weight (LBW), body weight gain (BWG) and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to other groups. The addition of essential oils does not affect the weight of edible parts and dressing percentage of carcass. Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titre against New Castle Disease virus were non-significant on 14, 28, 35 and 42 days of age. Significant difference was observed in villi height and villi height to crypt depth ratio in the antibiotic group. Supplementation of essential oils significantly (P<0.001) changed the caecal microbial count during entire study period. From the present findings, it could be concluded that phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde essential oil (@ 500 g/T) can act better for achieving over all best results than plain cinnamaldehyde.

Keywords: Keywords: Bacitracin methylene disalicylate, Broiler, Essential oil, Growth performance, Phytosome conjugated cinnamaldehyde

*Corresponding author: darshanabhaisare@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00027.X

Effect of Supplementation of Cinnamon Essential Oil on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization, Carcass Traits and Biochemical Profile in Broiler Chicken

Raina Doneria, Meenu Dubey, M.K. Gendley, G.K. Dutta, Rupal Pathak*, M.S. Parmar and Deepti Kiran Barwa Department of Animal Nutrition College of Veterinary Science & A.H., Anjora Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya Durg-491001, India

ABSTRACT

Doneria, R., Dubey, M., Gendley, M.K., Dutta, G.K., Pathak, R., Parmar, M.S. and Barwa, D.K. 2024. Effect of supplementation of cinnamon essential oil on growth performance, nutrient utilization, carcass traits and biochemical profile in broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 347- 358.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of feeding different levels of cinnamon essential oil (CEO) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, carcass traits and biochemical profile in broiler chicken. Day old broiler chicks (n=180) were randomly divided into 6 groups with 3 replicates of 10 chicks in each. Six types of diets (T0-T₅) were formulated, T0 consisted of basal diet without antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) as negative control (NC), T₁ contained basal diet with AGP, T₃ to T₆ contained basal diet with graded levels of CEO (200, 300, 400 and 500 mg/kg) respectively. Significantly (P<0.01) higher weight gain and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) was obtained in birds of group T₄ as compared to other groups during finisher phase. The feed intake was significantly (P<0.01) lower in group T₄ as compared to other dietary groups. The supplementation of CEO @400 mg/kg diet significantly (P<0.05) improved the metabolizability of crude protein. No significant difference was observed in calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) balance among the dietary groups. However, high density lipid (HDL) cholesterol and alanine transaminase (ALT) activity differed significantly among the groups. Significant (P<0.05) difference in defeathered, eviscerated and dressed weight was observed among all the treatment groups. The present study concluded that cinnamon oil can be safely incorporated at the rate of 400 mg/ kg in the diet of broiler chicken as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter.

Keywords: Biochemical, Broiler, Carcass, Cinnamon oil, Growth performance

*Corresponding author: rupal.pathak3@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00028.6

Area Specific Micronutrient Supplementation Augments Udder Health and Milk Production in Peri-Parturient Gir Cows– A Field Oriented Study

Harsh, Ashok Kumar Patil*, R.K. Jain, Naresh Kurechiya and Anchal Keshri Department of Animal Nutrition College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry Mhow-453446, India

ABSTRACT

Harsh, Patil, A.K., Jain, R.K., Kurechiya, N. and Keshri, A. 2024. Area specific micronutrient supplementation augments udder health and milk production in peri-parturient Gir cows-A field oriented study. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 359-371.

Eighteen healthy multiparous advanced pregnant Gir cows, identical in body weights (368.19±2.84 kg), parity, and feeding regime, were selected for the study. Feed offered and residues left of an individual animal were measured and recorded for 7 consecutive days to access the dry matter intake and micronutrients imbalance. A micronutrient supplement was designed to take care of the deficient micronutrients and supplemented to Gir cows (n=9) of treatment group, while (n=9) control animals, were fed as per the existing practices of farmers without additional supplementation. Study was continued for 2 months during advanced pregnancy and 2 months post-calving. Dry matter intake recorded weekly during the whole study remained comparable (P>0.05) between two groups. Udder health monitored fortnightly by Modified California Mastitis test, milk pH and Somatic Cell Count indicated improvement (P<0.05) of micronutrients supplementation. Results revealed that average milk yield was increased (P>0.05) by 12.83% in supplemented group without affecting the chemical composition of milk (Fat, TS, SNF, lactose and milk total protein) in Gir cows. These findings may suggest that supplementation of micronutrient in the ration of periparturient Gir cows not only improved the udder health by reducing the occurrence of mastitis but also increased the milk yield without affecting milk quality.

Keywords: Gir cows, Mastitis, Micronutrient supplement, Milk quality, Milk yield

*Corresponding author: ashokdrpatil@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00029.2

Dietary Supplementation of Ginger, Garlic and Turmeric on the Performance of Broiler Chicken

S. Namdeo*, R.P.S. Baghel, S. Nayak, Ankur Khare and R.P. Pal Animal Nutrition Division,College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry NDVSU, Jabalpur-482001, India

ABSTRACT

Namdeo, S., Baghel, R.P.S., Nayak, S., Khare, A. and Pal, R.P. 2024. Dietary supplementation of ginger, garlic and turmeric on the performance of broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 373-385.

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of ginger, garlic and turmeric alone and in various combinations on performance, nutrient utilization, serum biochemical parameters and economics of broiler production. One hundred thirty-five, day-old Cobb chicks were randomly distributed into 9 experimental groups, each consisting of 3 replicates of 5 chicks each. The standard broiler diets (T₁) were formulated as per commercial chick feed specification of Vencobb 400. Diets T₂, T₃ and T₄ were supplemented with 0.5% each of ginger, garlic and turmeric, respectively. T₅ with 0.25% each of ginger and garlic, T₆ with 0.25% each of turmeric and ginger, T₇ with 0.25% each of turmeric and garlic, T₈ with a combination of ginger, garlic and turmeric at 0.25% each, and T₉ with 0.5% each of ginger and garlic and 0.25% of turmeric. The experiment was conducted for 6 weeks. Results revealed that supplementation of 0.5% garlic to the basal diet of broilers significantly (P<0.05) improved their feed efficiency, nutrient utilization and serum biochemical parameters followed by those fed diet supplemented with combination of 0.25 ginger and 0.25% garlic. Economically, a combination of 0.25 ginger and 0.25% garlic showed the highest gross return per bird, while 0.50% garlic supplementation resulted in the highest profit per bird. In conclusion, 0.50% garlic supplementation was found to be the most economical choice, followed by a combination of 0.25% each of ginger and garlic, for improving broiler production.

Keywords: Economics, Garlic, Ginger, Performance, Turmeric

*Corresponding author: drsonalinamdeo@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00030.3

Analysis of Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in Bovine Milk Samples in Varanasi Region, India

Basant Kumar Bhinchhar, Vinod Kumar Paswan*, Sheela Kharkwal, Satya Prakash Yadav, Arun Pratap Singh, Vishal Kumar and Prajasattak Kanetkar Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University Varanasi-221005, India

ABSTRACT

Bhinchhar, B.K., Paswan, V.K., Kharkwal, S., Yadav, S.P., Singh, A.P., Kumar, V. and Kanetkar, P. 2024. Analysis of organochlorine pesticide residues in bovine milk samples in Varanasi region, India. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 387-403.

Extensive applications of pesticides on crops result in the contamination of feed. Contaminated feed, fodder, and drinking water of livestock lead to adulteration of milk which in turn is the primary cause of substandard nutritional value of the milk produced in India. Bovine milk from different blocks of Varanasi region of Uttar-Pradesh, India has been analysed for organochlorine pesticide (OCP) residues. The study was based on 360 bovine milk samples collected from 4 blocks in 3 seasons viz., summer, rainy and winter. Out of 180 cow milk samples, 68 (37.77%) samples were found to contain OCP residues. Contamination with aldrin residues were found with a total value of 16.11% in cow milk and 25.00% in buffalo milk samples. The mean endosulfan concentration in cow milk and buffalo milk were 1.41 and 1.77 µg/kg, respectively. In cow milk samples the residues of α-HCH, β-HCH, γ-HCH, γ-HCH were 1.8, 4.4, 6.7 and 6.6 µg/kg while in buffalo milk it was observed 5.4, 5.3, 8.9 and 8.6 mg/kg, respectively. Among different DDT isomers, 4,4’ DDE and 2,4’ DDT had the highest prevalence of 37.22 and 37.00% in cow milk samples. The prevalence of residues of 2,4’ DDD, 2,4’ DDT and 4,4’ DDT in buffalo milk was 19.4, 26.1 and 30.0%, respectively. The highest prevalence of OCP residues in buffalo and cow milk was observed in winter followed by summer and rainy seasons successively. The above MRL prevalence of OCP residues was 1.7% (3 out of 180) in cow milk and 6.1% (11 out of 180) in buffalo milk. The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring of pesticide residues in milk and the importance of promoting judicious pesticide use in agriculture to minimize contamination and potential health risks.

Keywords: Bioaccumulation, Maximum Residue Limit (MRL), Organochlorine, Pesticide residues, QuEChERS extraction

*Corresponding author: vkpaswan.vet@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00031.X

Nutritive Values of Some Local Feed Resources and Digestibility of Diets Based on Dried Cashew Apple (Anarcadium occidentale) in Local Breed Pigs in Senegal

S.B. Ayssiwede*, S. Atchiwassa, R.K. N’zi , W. Ossebi , B. Kabore, R. Malou , M. Diop and A. Missohou Laboratory of Animal Feeding and Nutrition (LANA)/Service of Animal Productionand Nutrition;Ecole Inter-Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV) de Dakar; BP: 5077 Dakar-Fann, Senegal

ABSTRACT

Ayssiwede, S.B., Atchiwassa, S., N’zi, R.K., Ossebi, W., Kabore, B., Malou, R., Diop, M. and Missohou, A. 2024. Nutritive values of some local feed resources and digestibility of diets based on dried cashew apple (Anarcadium occidentale) in local breed pigs in Senegal. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 405- 417.

This work carried out from May 2016 to January 2017 in Dakar was to study the nutritive values of local feed resources (19 nos.) from Casamance region and the digestibility of diets based on dried cashew apple pulp (CAP) in local pigs. Six male pigs (21.2±7.5 kg) live body weight (LBW) were divided into 3 treatment groups of 2 pigs viz., CAP₀, CAP₁₀ and CAP₂₀ containing 0, 10 and 20% of CAP. A oneweek adaptation period for the pigs in their individual metabolic cage was observed before the start of the trial. Then they were fed ad-libitum each diet according to a Latin square design. The results showed that the various feed resources used in pig feeding in Casamance are good sources of nutrients. The CAP incorporated up to 20% in the pigs’diet proved to be a substitute of energy, fiber and protein feed, and had no adverse effect on their health, FI, ADG, FCR and digestibility of nutrients except ether extract (EE) which was significantly lower with CAP₂₀ compared to the control diet. It would be useful to conduct a longer study on young pigs to evaluate the effects of incorporation of CAP in their diet on their fattening performances and profitability.

Keywords: Cashew apple pulp, Digestibility, Feed resources, Local breed pigs, Nutritive value

*Corresponding author: s.ayssiwede@gmail.com; orayissimbos@yahoo.fr

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00032.6

Effect of Supplementation of Polyherbal Mixture (Nargrophyt) on Performance, Blood and Carcass Indices of Broiler Chicken

Dheeraj Dwivedi, V.K. Singh, Dharmesh Tewari*, S. Gautam, Nidhi Verma and Prateek Singh Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology Kumarganj, Ayodhya-224229, India

ABSTRACT

Dwivedi, D., Singh, V.K., Tewari, D., Gautam, S., Verma, N. and Singh, P. 2024. Effect of supplementation of polyherbal mixture (Nargrophyt) on performance, blood and carcass indices of broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 419-429.

To investigate the effect of polyherbal mixture (NARGROPHYT) on performance, blood and carcass indices, 250 Vencobb-400 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five groups with five replicates of 10 chicks each. The dietary treatments were basal diet without any supplement (NCON), with antibiotic (PCON), with ‘NARGROPHYT’ @ 0.25% (NGP-L), @ 1.25% (NGP-M) and @ 2.50% (NGP-H) respectively. After six weeks of the feeding, body weight gain was significantly (P<0.05) higher, while feed intake was significantly (P<0.05) lower in NGP-H and PCON group in comparison to NCON and other supplemented groups. The FCR of NGP-H birds was significantly (P<0.05) lower, while EER, PER and PI was significantly (P<0.05) higher among all the groups. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in percent nutrient retention among the treatment groups. The haemoglobin was significantly (P<0.05) higher and serum cholesterol was significantly (P<0.05) lower in NCON and ‘NARGROPHYT’ supplemented groups in comparison to antibiotic supplemented group. The drawn yield of NGP-H and PCON groups was significantly (P<0.05) higher than NCON group. Profit per bird was significantly (P<0.05) higher in PCON birds followed by NGP-H in comparison to NCON birds. It can therefore be concluded that from food safety point of view polyherbal mixture ‘NARGROPHYT’ @ 2.5% can effectively be used as an alternative to AGPs, despite being less economical than antibiotic supplemented feed.

Keywords: Broiler, NARGROPHYT, Performance indices, Polyherbal mixture

*Corresponding author: dharmesh.tewari@rediff.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00033.2

Effect of Plane of Nutrition on the Performance of Crossbred Calves

Swati Sunetha, Anil Kumar, D.P. Tiwari, B.C. Mandal, D.V. Singh, Anand Prakash, Gagandeep Singh and Manish Kr. Singh* Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences GBPUAT, Pantnagar-263145, India

ABSTRACT

Sunetha, S., Kumar, A., Tiwari, D.P., Mandal, B.C., Singh, D.V., Prakash, A., Singh, G. and Singh, M.K. 2024. Effect of plane of nutrition on the performance of crossbred calves. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 431-440.

A feeding trial was carried out for 120 days to determine the effect of the plane of nutrition on crossbred calves performance. Twelve crossbred calves were randomly divided into two groups of six each with similar body weight. Growth study was conducted on the basis of feeding high and low energy ration containing 60% concentrate and 40% sorghum stover in group 1 and 40% concentrate and 60% sorghum stover in group 2. Mean dry matter intake was (P<0.05 /0.01) higher in calves fed high level of concentrate. The average daily intake of total digestible nutrients and digestible crude protein and feed conversion ratio were higher (P<0.05/0.01) in group 1 compared to group 2. A high phenotypic correlation was observed amongst all the body measurements. Body condition score was higher in group 1 as compared to group 2. The results of the present study reveal that higher proportion of concentrate in the complete ration improved nutrient digestibility and higher energy availability possibly resulting in improved growth performance of the crossbred calves. Feeding of the diet comprised of 60% concentrate and 40% roughage would be beneficial in calves/heifers for attaining early maturity.

Keywords: Body condition score, Body measurement, Crossbred calves, Feed intake, Feeding trial

*Corresponding author: drmksingh_1@rediffmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2024.00034.9

Hydroponic Forage for Ruminant Feeding: A Comprehensive Review

M.S. Mahesh*, Sandeep K. Chaudhary, Dharmesh Tewari and Narayan Dutta Livestock Farm Complex, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Banaras Hindu University, Mirzapur-231001, India

ABSTRACT

Mahesh, M.S., Chaudhary, S.K., Tewari, D. and Dutta, N. 2024. Hydroponic forage for ruminant feeding: A comprehensive review. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 24: 441-459.

The technology of growing forage crops without the support of soil, but in an aqueous medium is known as hydroponic forage (HPF). Unlike soil-based traditional cultivation, with HPF, the growth cycle of forage will be shorter (4-10 days), which can ensure round-the-year forage availability either from lowcost or hi-tech HPF devices. In addition, HPF is immune to weather fluctuations and is a climatically resilient agricultural practice. On the nutritional front, while the crude protein content is known to augment in HPF compared with original grain and conventional green forage; energy will be greater than green forage but lower than grain. In this backdrop, the present updated review discusses the zoo-technical attributes such as intake, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility, growth and feed efficiency, lactation, reproduction and health status of ruminants upon feeding varied species of cereal- and legume HPF. Tradeoffs between animal productivity and economic feasibility have been inconsistent in the literature on feeding HPF. Furthermore, the potential merits and pitfalls of HPF vis-à-vis economic delivery of nutrients for practical diet formulation are also highlighted along with the way forward to leverage the benefits of this technology in the context of tropical livestock production systems under changing climatic scenario.

Keywords: Green forage, Hydroponics, Nutritional value, Production performance, Ruminants, Sprouted feed

*Corresponding author: drmaheshmsvet@gmail.com; mahesh.ms@bhu.ac.in

ANFT JANUARY 2025

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00001.8

Effect of Feeding Different Creep Mixtures along with Milk Replacer on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Rumen Fermentation in Pre Weaner Lambs

R.S. Bhatt*, Artabandhu Sahoo, Srobana Sarkar and Arun Kumar ICAR- Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute Avikanagar-304501, India

ABSTRACT

Bhatt, R.S., Sahoo, A., Sarkar, S. and Kumar, A. 2025. Effect of feeding different creep mixtures along with milk replacer on growth performance, nutrient utilization and rumen fermentation in pre weaner lambs. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 1-9.

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding creep mixtures varying in protein and energy concentration on growth and nutrient utilization of lambs. Thirty-nine, 15 day old lambs of Malpura breed having eight male and five females in each group were randomly divided into three groups. All these lambs were fed liquid milk formula at the standardized rate and the ewes were stripped their milk once in the evening before allowing the lambs to suckle. Lambs in control (CM-1) were fed conventional concentrate whereas in test one (CM-2) nine percent soya flakes and in test two (CM-3) twelve percent roasted soybean respectively were added as a replacement of maize. Protein content was higher in CM-2 whereas in CM-3 both protein and energy content were higher than CM-1. Lower intake of concentrate as well as total dry matter intake was observed in roasted soybean added CM-3 however, it resulted in higher (P<0.05) energy intake due to higher (P<0.05) digestibility of organic matter than other two groups. Rumen fermentation parameters at 90 days of age revealed higher (P<0.05) total VFA production along with higher proportion of propionic acid in lambs fed CM-3 creep mixture. Growth performance revealed higher (P<0.05) weight gain and better (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio in lambs fed CM-3 than CM-2 and CM-1 groups. It can be concluded that in pre- weaning lamb rations having 10-12 percent roasted soybean yielding 18-19 percent good quality protein and 4-5 percent ether extract give higher performance and can be recommended in pre weaning ration.

Keywords: Creep mixtures, Lamb ration, Nutrient digestibility, Plane of nutrition, Rumen fermentation

Corresponding author: randhir.bhatt@icar.gov.in

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00002.4

Nutrient Retention of Yellow Corn Hybrids and Biochemical Parameters in Male Sasso Chickens

M.L. Ba*, M.L. Souare, J.A. Hounkpêvi, Benjamin Adjei-Mensah, Kokou Tona and Tchadjobo Tchacondo Regional Center of Excellence of Avian Sciences University of Lomé, Lomé, Togo

ABSTRACT

Ba, M.L., Souare, M.L., Hounkpêvi, J.A., Adjei-Mensah, B., Tona, K. and Tchacondo, T. 2025. Nutrient retention of yellow corn hybrids and biochemical parameters in male sasso chickens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 11-22.

Corn is popular due to its high energy value among cereals. This quality is particularly sensitive and appreciated in poultry feed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional retention of three yellow maize hybrids and biochemical parameters in Sasso chicken to help improve poultry rations in Togo. A completely randomized experimental design with four treatments and 16 replicates, each having one bird housed individually, was used. A total of 64, twelve weeks old (12) male sasso broilers with an average live weight of 1850 g were subjected to in vivo feeding for seven days. Three yellow maize hybrids (K5, K11 and Samaz52) and a local variety (Sotubaka as control) were tested. The nonparametric Kruskall Wallis test was carried out in the R 3.5.1 software environment to assess the effect of corn types on nutrient retention. The results showed that the nutrient retention of organic matter (OM) of the three hybrids was 89.20±2.33% for K5, 88.26±1.49% for Samaz52, 91.37±0.67% for K11, and 83.69±2.03% for the local variety Sotubaka. Crude protein and total ash, respectively 68.32±4.55% and 36.72±1.79% of the K5 hybrid, were better digested by the chickens relative to the other varieties. The Fat of the K11 hybrid (84.37±1.56%) was better used by the birds, while the Sotubaka variety had the most (77.16±4.01%) digestible crude fiber. Post-feeding total serum protein was affected by corn type (P<0.0001), with higher values (45.25 g /L) in chickens fed the K5 hybrid. The K11 hybrid and the Sotubaka variety resulted in the lowest cholesterol levels compared to the K5 and Samaz52 hybrids (P<0.0001). This study shows that K5, K11 and Samaz52 hybrids could be replacements for the local variety of corn in formulating a diet for Sasso chickens.

Keywords: Chicken, Hybrid corn, Nutrient retention

Corresponding author: lamaranaba.1978@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00003.0

Effect of Supplementing Multicomponent Mycotoxin Detoxifying Agent on Performance, Immune Responses, Carcass and Liver Function Variables in Broiler Chicken Challenged with Combined Mycotoxins

Jog Raj, E. Tirupathi Reddy, Hunor Farkas, Marko Vasiljevic, M.V.L.N. Raju, B. Prakash and S.V. Rama Rao* Patent Co DOO, Misicevo, Severno-Backi PAK-456920, Republic of Serbia

ABSTRACT

Raj, J., Reddy, E.T., Farkas, H., Vasiljevic, M., Raju, M.V.L.N., Prakash, B. and Rao, S.V.R. 2025. Effect of supplementing multicomponent mycotoxin detoxifying agent on performance, immune responses, carcass and liver function variables in broiler chicken challenged with combined mycotoxins. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 23-37.

A six-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a multicomponent mycotoxin detoxifying agent (MMDA) to minimize the toxic effects of combined mycotoxins (MT) supplementation in broiler diets. A total of 1584 Vencobb day-old broiler male chicks were assigned to six dietary treatments with 12 replicates of 22 birds per floor pen. Three graded levels of MMDA (0, 1.5, and 3.0 kg/ton) and two concentrations (without and with) of MT blend (aflatoxin 100 ppb, DON 200 ppb, and T-2 1000 ppb) were supplemented to maize-soybean diet in a 3 x 2 factorial manner. On the 43ʳᵈ day, carcass variables (ready-to-cook yields, relative weights of breast meat, abdominal fat) and relative weights of liver, thymus, spleen, and bursa were evaluated. Serum samples were analyzed for biochemical indices and immune responses. Liver, kidney and thigh muscle were analysed for aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2 and M1, T-2, HT-2, T2 Triol, T2 Tetraol, Deoxynivalenol and Deepoxy-deoxynivalenol (DOM1). The results showed that the main effects (MT and MMDA) or their interaction did not affect performance, breast meat, abdominal fat, relative weights of immune organs, and serum protein and triglyceride concentration. The inclusion of MT significantly (P<0.05) reduced the antibody titers against the ND vaccine, increased the liver weight and activities of liver function enzymes (SGOT, SGPT), and decreased the gamma-glutamyl transferase activity and serum albumin concentrations. However, the addition of MMDA to MT contaminated diet significantly reduced the concentrations of liver function enzymes. The concentrations of mycotoxins tested in the tissue were below detectable levels. Based on the results, it was concluded that the addition of broad-spectrum MMDA (at 1.5 kg /ton) to the MT-contaminated feed reduced the negative effects of MT on immune responses and liver function in broilers exposed to combined mycotoxins.

Keywords: Broiler chicken, Immune responses, Liver functions, Mycotoxins, Mycotoxin detoxifying agent, Performance

Corresponding author: svramarao1@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00004.7

Response of Goats to Dietary Replacement of Cottonseed Cake with Wet Distillers Grain with Solubles on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility and Economics

A.B. Waghamare, S.M. Bhalerao*, A.V. Khanvilkar, V.R. Patodkar, A.Y. Doiphode, A.K. Barate, V.M. Sardar and G.S. Sonawane Department of Animal Nutrition Krantisingh Nana Patil College of Veterinary Science, Maharashtra Animal and Fishries Science University, Shirwal-412801, India

ABSTRACT

Waghamare, A.B., Bhalerao, S.M., Khanvilkar, A.V., Patodkar, V.R., Doiphode, A.Y., Barate, A.K., Sardar, V.M. and Sonawane, G.S. 2025. Response of goats to dietary replacement of cottonseed cake with wet distillers grain with solubles on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and economics. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 39-46.

This study was conducted on eighteen growing goats with an average body weight of 10.82±0.45 kg with the objective to evaluate the response of goats to dietary replacement of cottonseed cake (CSC) with wet distillers grain with solubles (WDGS). The goats were randomly divided into three groups with uniform body weight and sex ratio. The concentrate mixture containing CSC was fed to control group (A). In treatment groups (B and C), the CSC was replaced with WDGS at 50% and 100%, respectively, for 90 days on iso-nitrogenous basis. The average fortnightly body weight (g), average daily gain (g), total dry matter intake (g) and feed conversion efficiency did not differ (P<0.05) among the groups. The average digestibility coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre and nitrogen free extractives were significantly higher (Pd<0.05) in treatment groups as compared to the control group. The cost of production per kg weight gain (₹) was 102.00, 99.41 and 91.94 in groups A, B and C, respectively. Therefore, it is concluded that the replacement of CSC in the concentrate mixture with WDGS is economically beneficial for goat rearing

Keywords: Cottonseed cake, Digestibility, Goat, Performance, Wet distillers grains with solubles

Corresponding author: sanjaybhaleraoann@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00005.3

Nutrient Composition of Floating Aquatic Macrophytes and Impact of Supplementing Azolla on Nutrient Utilization in Goat Bucks

M.P.S. Bakshi*, K. Kaur and M. Wadhwa Department of Animal Nutrition Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Bakshi, M.P.S., Kaur, K. and Wadhwa, M. 2025. Nutrient composition of floating aquatic macrophytes and impact of supplementing azolla on nutrient utilization in goat bucks. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 47-55

This study was taken up to assess nutritional worth of floating aquatic macrophytes like Azolla pinnata (family: Azollaceae), Lemna minor (family: Lemnaceae), Spirodela polyrhiza (family: Araceae) and Salvinia molesta (family: Salviniaceae); and evaluated the best one as the goat bucks feed supplement. The DM content was very low in the above macrophytes (3.0 to 9.0%). Azolla had the highest (P<0.01) concentration of CP, water-soluble sugars, reducing sugars and true protein. All the aquatic macrophytes were rich in macro and micro minerals. Salvinia had the highest (P<0.01) concentration of heavy metals like arsenic, lead, chromium, and tin. The lowest concentration of arsenic and lead was observed in spirodela, chromium in azolla and tin in lemna. The concentration of all the tested heavy metals was well below the maximum tolerance limit. The in-vitro gas production studies revealed that the Azolla had the second highest net gas production and lowest methane production potential. Azolla was therefore, supplemented to the TMR fed to goat bucks at 5% on DM basis. The dietary supplementation of azolla improved DM intake, digestibility of nutrients and N-retention in goat bucks. It did not have any adverse impact on the health of animals. It was concluded that the tested floating aquatic macrophytes were rich in CP, macro and micro minerals. Heavy metals were well below the maximum tolerance level. Azolla having an edge over other macrophytes was supplementing to the TMR of goat bucks. The nutrient utilization and N-retention were not affected, except the digestibility of ADF, which was improved significantly in goat bucks.

Keywords: Floating aquatic macrophytes, Goat bucks, Heavy metals, Mineral profile, Nutritional evaluation

*Corresponding author: bakshimps2@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00006.X

Effect of Moringa oleifera Inclusion on Voluntary Feed Intake, Blood Metabolites and Serum Antioxidant Status in Rohilkhandi Kids

N. Kaur, S.D. Wankhede, Narayan Dutta*, S.E. Jadhav and Gyanendra Singh Centre of Advanced Faculty Training in Animal Nutrition Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, India

ABSTRACT

Kaur, N., Wankhede, S.D., Dutta, N., Jadhav, S.E. and Singh, G. 2025. Effect of Moringa oleifera inclusion on voluntary feed intake, blood metabolites and serum antioxidant status in Rohilkhandi kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 57-66

This study scrutinized the effect of dietary supplementation of moringa foliage on the intake, blood metabolites and antioxidant indices in kids. Rohilkhandi male kids (18) of about 6 months old were randomly divided into CON, COT and MOT groups of 6 kids each as per their body weights in a completely randomized design. The male kids in CON (control) group were provided total mixed ration composed of concentrate mixture and wheat straw, whereas in COT and MOT groups kids fed TMRs having 25% of cowpea and moringa foliage, respectively, by replacing wheat straw of CON group. The kids were provided clean and fresh water twice daily. The quantity of offered TMR was adjusted fortnightly after recording the body weight (BW) of each kid. The dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) intake (% BW; g/kgW⁰·⁷⁵) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in MOT and COT groups than CON, however, serum urea level was decreased (P<0.05) in MOT and COT groups relative to CON. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in MOT group as compared to CON; however, COT has intermediate position. The activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly (P<0.01) higher in MOT followed by COT and CON groups. However, lipid peroxidation (LPO) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in CON as compared to MOT and COT groups. Similarly, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in COT and MOT groups relative to CON. Supplementation of moringa foliage as total mixed ration considerably improved feed intake, blood metabolites and antioxidant indices in Rohilkhandi kids

Keywords: Antioxidant indices, Blood metabolites, Kids, Moringa foliage, Supplementation

*Corresponding author: dutta65@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00007.6

Effect of Supplementing Spent Mushroom Paddy Straw on Milk Production and Milk Composition in Cattle

Tanay Ghosh*, Gunaram Saikia, Santanu Tamuly, Lakhyajyoti Borah, Priyanka Konwar, B.D. Sarkar and Meenakshi Kalita College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University Khanapara-781022, India

ABSTRACT

Ghosh, T., Saikia, G., Tamuly, S., Borah, L., Konwar, P., Sarkar, B.D. and Kalita, M. 2025. Effect of supplementing spent mushroom paddy straw on milk production and milk composition in cattle. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 67-73.

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of supplementing spent mushroom (Pleuroyuso streatus) paddy straw (SMPS) on milk production and its composition in lactating cattle. Eighteen healthy lactating crossbred cows of similar production were randomly divided into three homogenous groups i.e. T₀, T₁ and T₂ with six animals in each group. T₀ was control group in which, animals were fed balanced ration. In groups T₁ and T₂ balanced ration comprising of concentrate feed, green fodder and 50 and 100 percent of paddy straw was replaced by SMPS, respectively. No significant difference was observed in terms of average milk production, fat corrected milk, feed intake and feed conversion ratio among groups. The overall average milk fat, milk protein and total solid differed significantly among groups. Significantly (P<0.05) higher milk fat (%) was observed in groups T₀ (4.51±0.07) and T₁ (4.48±0.04) and lowest was observed in group T₂ (4.33±0.08). Significantly (P<0.05) higher milk protein (%) was observed in groups T₁ (3.63±0.05) and T₀ (3.57±0.06) and lowest was observed in group T₂ (3.54±0.06). Significantly (P<0.05) higher milk total solid (%) was observed in groups T₁ (13.85±0.22) and T₀ (13.80±0.13) compared to group T₂ (13.55±0.19). The average milk lactose, milk ash, solid not fat and milk urea nitrogen did not differ significantly among groups. From the results obtained, it could be concluded that SMPS could be used for feeding dairy cattle replacing paddy straw up to 50 % without any adverse effect on milk production and its composition.

Keywords: Lactating cattle, Milk production and milk composition, Spent mushroom paddy straw

*Corresponding author: tanayghosh334@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00008.2

In Vitro Dry Matter, Crude Protein, NDF Degradability and In Vitro Gas Production of Different Crop Residue Based Complete Feed Pellets

P.V. Patil*, M.K. Gendley, A.P. Dhok, Meenu Dubey and Roshan Verulkar Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491001, India

ABSTRACT

Patil, P.V., Gendley, M.K., Dhok, A.P., Dubey, M. and Verulkar, R. 2025. In vitro dry matter, crude protein, NDF degradability and in vitro gas production of different crop residue based complete feed pellets. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 75-88.

In vitro dry matter, crude protein, NDF degradability and in vitro gas production (IVGP) of different crop residue based complete feed pellets were evaluated in this experiment. In total, 16 different types of crop residue-based complete feed pellets were prepared by replacing paddy straw at 50, 75 and 100% with wheat straw, soybean straw, gram straw, arhar straw, and groundnut straw from roughage portion by maintaining 70:30 roughage to concentrate ratio. Each of the 16 different complete feed pellets were subjected to in vitro dry matter degradability and in vitro gas production procedures. Among all of the complete feed pellets gram straw based complete feed pellets had a significantly higher dry matter and crude protein degradability. Significantly higher NDF degradability was observed for arhar straw based complete feed pellets, whereas significantly higher IVGP was recorded for groundnut straw based complete feed pellets. Significantly higher DM, CP, NDF degradability and IVGP were found at 100% replacement level. The significantly higher IVGP was observed at 12 to 24 h of incubation. Among all crop residue based complete feed pellets, sole paddy straw based complete feed pellets had significantly lower DM, CP and NDF degradability and IVGP. Results of the present investigation indicated that the gram straw based complete feed pellets have better degradable dry matter and crude protein. However, groundnut straw based complete feed pellets have more fermentable nutrients.

Keywords: Crop residues, In vitro crude protein degradability, In vitro dry matter degradability, In vitro gas production, In vitro neutral detergent fibre degradability

*Corresponding author: drpv9ann@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00009.9

Growth Performance and Meat Quality Traits of Rabbits Fed Complete Feed Pellets Containing Mulberry and Stylosanthes Forage Compared to Conventional Feeding

R.S. Bhatt*, Srobana Sarkar, Arvind Soni, S.R. Sharma and Arun Kumar ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute Avikanagar-304501, India

ABSTRACT

Bhatt, R.S., Sarkar, S., Soni, A., Sharma, S.R. and Kumar, A. 2025. Growth performance and meat quality traits of rabbits fed complete feed pellets containing mulberry and stylosanthes forage compared to conventional feeding. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 89-107.

Comparative evaluation of complete feed pellets containing 70% mulberry (Morus alba) leaves, and 70% stylosanthes (Stylosanthes hamata) hay was made with conventional feeding on 60 Soviet Chinchilla rabbits weaned at 4 weeks. Weaners were distributed randomly into three equal groups (T₀, T₁, T₂) with similar average weights. Rabbits in T₀ were fed conventionally with ad libitum concentrate pellet and cowpea hay, whereas those in T₁ and T₂ were fed ad libitum complete feed pellets containing 70% mulberry leaves and 70% stylosanthes hay, respectively. The average daily gain was lower, while the feed conversion ratio was higher in T₁ and T₂ groups compared to T₀ (conventional group). The feeding cost/kg weight gain was lower in T₁ (₹ 64.4) and T₂ (₹ 75.1) than conventional (T₀) feeding system (₹ 94.9). Carcass traits revealed lower fat, loin eye area and higher bone per cent in T₁ and T₂ than T₀ group. The meat color showed lower redness (a) and chroma values in T₁ group. The fatty acid profile revealed lower SFA, MUFA and higher PUFA in T₁ and T₂ groups than in T₀. Further, meat from rabbits of T₁ group exhibited higher n-3 fatty acids, ideal n-6/n-3 ratio, higher peroxidizability and lower atherogenic and thrombogenic index values. On storage of nuggets under refrigerated conditions up to 3 weeks, lower TBARS value was recorded in T₂ and T₁ as compared to T₀ group; while redness (a) value was higher in nuggets of T₁ group. It can therefore be concluded that conventional feeding system for rabbits results in higher growth and better FCR, but at a higher cost due to the increased proportion of concentrate pellets. Complete feed pellets, especially those containing 70% mulberry leaves, reduce feeding costs, improve fatty acid profile, and extend the shelf life of meat and nuggets compared to stylosanthes hay feeding. For optimal economic and growth benefits, mulberry leaves should not exceed 70% in complete feed pellets.

Keywords: Carcass attributes, Fatty acid profile, Nuggets quality, Nutrient digestibility, Rabbit

*Corresponding author: bhatt_rs@yahoo.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00010.X

Comparative Efficacy of Mycotoxin Binder and Herbal Mixture on Growth Performance, Nutrients Retention, Haemato-Biochemicals and Immune Competence of Broiler Chicken

Priyanka Kumari, P.K. Singh*, Dharmendra Kumar, Kaushalendra Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, P.V. Mankhair and Aakritee Kumari Department of Animal Nutrition, Bihar Veterinary College Bihar Animal Science University, Patna-800014, India

ABSTRACT

Kumari, P., Singh, P.K., Kumar, D., Kumar, K., Kumar, S., Mankhair, P.V. and Kumari, A. 2025. Comparative efficacy of mycotoxin binder and herbal mixture on growth performance, nutrients retention, haemato-biochemicals and immune competence of broiler chicken. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 109-121.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of synthetic mycotoxin binder mycotoxin binder and herbal mixture in broiler chicken. A total of 200 day-old chicks were procured and randomly allotted using completely randomised design (CRD) to 4 treatment groups (T1-T4) with 5 replicates each having 10 chicks per replicates. All the experimental birds were reared for 35 days following standard and uniform manage mental conditions. Four iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric experimental diets for prestarter (0-7 days), starter (8-21 days) and finisher (22-35 days) were formulated following BIS (2007). T1 group served as control fed with basal diet, experimental diet of T2 group birds contained Aflatoxin B₁ at 70 ppb, T3 group birds were fed with Aflatoxin B₁ at 70 ppb with synthetic mycotoxin binders at 1kg/ton of feed and T4 groups were fed with Aflatoxin B₁ at 70 ppb each with herbal mixer at 1kg/ton of feed. Aflatoxin at 70 ppb (T2) significantly (P<0.05) depressed growth performance, and had adverse effect on hematobiochemical parameters, immunological parameters (antibody titre against the NDV) and nutrient retention. Nutrient retention improved significantly (P<0.05) in T4 as compared to T2 and T3. Growth performance in terms of BWG, FI and FCR improved (P<0.05) due to addition of synthetic mycotoxin binder mycotoxin binder (T3) and herbal mixers (T4), however, response of synthetic mycotoxin binder binders was better as compared to herbal mixers. Haematological parameters (Hb, PCV, and TEC) were higher in T3 as compared to T2 and T4, but hematobiochemical parameters like ALT and AST activity significantly (P<0.05) reduced in T4 as compared to T3. Antibody titre against the NDV was lower in case of herbal mixture in comparison to synthetic mycotoxin binder. It was concluded that supplementation of synthetic mycotoxin binder and herbal mixtures reduced the severity of the aflatoxin B₁ toxicity and improved the growth performance, nutrient retention, haematobiochemical parameters and immunity in broiler chicken.

Keywords: Aflatoxin B₁ , Broiler, Growth, Hameato-biochemical, Immunity, Nutrient retention

*Corresponding author: vetpank@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00011.6

Effect of Feeding Cashew Nut Kernel Meal on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics in Japanese Quails

C.S. Kathyayini, K. Raja Kishore*, D. Srinivas Kumar, B. Sravani and D. Narendranath Department of Animal Nutrition, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University NTR College of Veterinary Science, Gannavarm-521102, India

ABSTRACT

Kathyayini, C.S., Kishore, K.R., Kumar, D.S., Sravani, B. and Narendranath, D. 2025. Effect of feeding cashew nut kernel meal on growth performance and carcass characteristics in Japanese quails. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 123-131.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding ration containing cashew nut kernel meal (CNKM) at 0.0 (T₁ ; Control), 5.0 (T₂), 10.0 (T₃), 15.0 (T₄) and 20% (T₅) levels on growth performance and carcass parameters in Japanese quails. One-hundred-and-fifty-day-old quail chicks were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments containing three replicates of ten chicks each (n=30 chicks/group) and reared for a period of five weeks. All the diets were iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous. The results revealed that the performance of all the experimental groups was similar in terms of feed intake, efficiency and protein efficiency ratio, while higher body weight gain (P<0.01) and performance index (P<0.05) were observed in the T₅ group compared to the control. Further, carcass trait yields were statistically similar among the groups. The feed cost/kg gain (₹) decreased by 1.30, 3.67, 7.21 and 11.5 in T₂ T₃ T₄ and T₅ respectively, as compared to the control. It is concluded that cashew nut kernel meal can be included up to 20% in the quail diet.

Keywords: Carcass, Cashew nut kernel meal, Growth performance, Japanese quails

*Corresponding author: dr_rajakishore@yahoo.co.in

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00012.2

The Effects of Interaction of Iron and Vitamin C on the Growth of Labeo rohita Juveniles

S. Chanda, B.N. Paul*, P. Singh, K. Ghosh and S.S. Giri Regional Research Centre, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture Rahara, Kolkata-700118, India

ABSTRACT

Chanda, S., Paul, B.N., Singh, P., Ghosh, K. and Giri, S.S. 2025. The effects of interaction of iron and vitamin C on the growth of Labeo rohita juveniles. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 133-143.

A 92-day growth trial was conducted to examine the effects of two dietary levels of vitamin C for each of the three levels of iron from ferrous sulphate (25, 50, 45 ppm) on the growth of L. rohita juveniles (average initial weight 52.49±0.73g). There were six treatment groups with different levels of dietary iron and vitamin C viz., TR-1 (25 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 500 mg/kg vitamin); TR-2 (25 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 750 mg/kg vitamin C); TR-3 (50 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 500 mg/kg vitamin C); TR-4 (50 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 750 mg/kg vitamin C); TR-5 (75 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 500 mg/kg vitamin C) and TR-6 (75 mg/kg FeSO₄ and 750 mg/kg vitamin C). The graded levels of iron, with the combination of 500 and 750 ppm of vitamin C, were used to prepare diets fed to six treatment groups and a control (no supplementation) with three replicates each. Fish fed 75 ppm iron and 500 ppm vitamin C had the lowest weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) but the highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) regardless of dietary vitamin C level. The results revealed that the supplementation of basal diet with 500 ppm vitamin C and 50 ppm iron significantly (P<0.05) increased the final body weight, net weight gain (NWG) and specific growth rate (SGR). The activities of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were in the physiological range for fish. The iron content of fish tissue was higher with 500 ppm of vitamin C and 50 ppm of iron combination. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the addition of vitamin C (500 ppm) and iron (50 ppm) to the basal diet of L. rohita juveniles increased the growth and is optimum for the growth of rohu juveniles.

Keywords: Alanine transaminase, Alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate transaminase, Iron, Labeo rohita, Vitamin C

*Corresponding author: bnpaulcifa@gmail.com

ANFT MAY 2025

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00013.9

Drying Kinetics and Physicochemical Properties of Formulated Cat Food Processed using Hot Air and Microwave Drying

Cao Xiaohuang and Nahidul Islam* College of Chemistry and Food Science Yulin Normal University, Yulin-537000, China

ABSTRACT

Xiaohuang, C. and Islam, M.N. 2025. Drying kinetics and physicochemical properties of formulated cat food processed using hot air and microwave drying. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 145-162.

This paper explores the opportunity of different processing methods (hot air drying at 60°C, 80°C, 100°C, and microwave drying using 0.7W/g, 0.9W/g, 1.2W/g) on the overall quality of a novel formulated cat food. We compared the drying rates and drying kinetics of cat food and their effects on the appearance, fat content, protein content, textural quality and color properties of cat food. Hot air drying (60°C) took the highest drying time of 420 min, produced a golden colored product, while microwave drying (1.2 W/g) took 45 min, yielded a light yellow color. Logarithmic and Two Term models best fit the drying profile. Compared to hot air drying, microwave drying at 1.2 W/g had minimal effects on color properties, texture profile, and nutritional content of cat food. The study demonstrates that microwave drying, particularly at higher power levels, significantly reduces drying time and better preserves the nutritional, visual and textural properties of cat food compared to hot air drying.These findings highlight microwave drying as a promising technique for producing high-quality cat food with enhanced attributes.

Keywords: Fat, Hardness, Modelling, Nutrition, Parameter estimation, Pet food, Protein

*Corresponding author: nahidul.islam@gau.edu.bd

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00014.5

Effect of Acacia arabica Bark Extract Supplementation on the Nutrient Utilization and Carcass Quality of Goat Kids

J.S. Hundal, M. Wadhwa and M.P.S. Bakshi* Department of Animal Nutrition Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Hundal, J.S., Wadhwa, M. and Bakshi, M.P.S. 2025. Effect of Acacia arabica bark extract supplementation on the nutrient utilization and carcass quality of goat kids. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 163-176.

This study was taken up to assess the effect of supplementing Acacia arabica bark (Babul chall) dry extract on nutrient utilization, productive performance and meat quality of Beetal goat kids. Eight male Beetal goat kids (5 months old; 14.58±0.58 kg body weight) divided into two equal groups, were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) containing green fodder and concentrate in a 50: 50 ratio on a DM basis or TMR supplemented with A. arabica at 2.0% of DM intake, for 90 days. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Daily DM intake, nutrient utilization and average daily gain (ADG), urinary excretion of purine derivatives, and blood profile were improved (P>0.05) in A. arabica supplemented TMR fed group. Higher (P<0.01) total-N and trichloroacetic acid precipitable nitrogen (TCA-N) concentration was observed in strained rumen contents of three rumen fistulated Beetal goat bucks fed A. arabica supplemented TMR as compared to the control group. Supplementation of TMR with A. arabica improved (P<0.05) the concentration of total and individual volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in the rumen and, energetic efficiency of rumen fermentation improved (P<0.01), while that of hexose to methane was reduced (P<0.01) in A. arabica supplemented TMR in comparison to control TMR. The higher (P<0.01) ready-to-cook (RTC) carcass percentage resulted in higher RTC carcass yield in A. arabica supplemented group. Overall, the weight of most of the primal cuts was improved numerically; however, when expressed as per cent of dressed weight, most of these were improved significantly (P<0.01) in goat kids fed TMR supplemented with A. arabica as compared to those fed a control diet. The present study concluded that the weight of most of the primal cuts can be improved significantly by supplementing the TMR with A. arabica bark at 2% of DM intake in Beetal goat kids.

Keywords: Blood profile, Carcass quality, Goat kids, Herbal feed additives, Nutrient utilization, Purine derivatives, Rumen metabolites, Tannins

*Corresponding author: bakshimps2@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00015.1

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Lauric Acid on Immunity and Gut Morphometry in Commercial Broilers

Bhalsing Jivan, D. Nagalakshmi*, M. Venkateshwarlu and S.V. Rama Rao Department of Animal Nutrition College of Veterinary Science PVNR Telangana Veterinary University, Rajendranagar-500030, India

ABSTRACT

Jivan, B., Nagalakshmi, D., Venkateshwarlu, M. and Rama Rao, S.V. 2025. Effect of dietary supplementation of lauric acid on immunity and gut morphometry in commercial broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 177-186.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary lauric acid (LA) supplementation as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) at graded levels on immunity, gut pH and morphometry in broilers. Three hundred, day-old commercial broiler chicks were randomly allotted to six dietary treatments with 10 replicates of five chicks in each replicate, raised in battery brooders under uniform management for 42 days. The basal diet (BD) consisted of standard corn-soybean meal without an antibiotic growth promoter (negative control). The positive control diet was the BD having 0.035% chlortetracycline as AGP. The remaining four experimental diets were formulated by supplementing lauric acid to BD at a rate of 0.05% (LA-50), 0.075% (LA-75), 0.1% (LA-100) and 0.2% (LA-200), respectively. Blood was collected from one bird per replicate on 35th d to assess the humoral immune response against the ND vaccine. On the 35th day, one bird from each replicate was sacrificed for recording of gut pH and histomorphological studies of the gut. On the 40th day, an inter-digital skin test to phytohaemagglutinin phosphate was done on one randomly selected bird per replicate to assess the cellmediated immune response (CMI). Lauric acid supplementation (0.05-0.2%) increased antibody (log2) titers against the ND vaccine more than those on AGP and BD fed birds, and the CMI response improved with LA supplementation, with the highest (P<0.05) response in LA-75 fed birds. Villi height and crypt depth in the duodenum were highest (P<0.05) in LA-50, followed by LA-75, LA-100 and lowest in BD, AGP and LA-200 groups. Ileal pH was not affected, the pH of the duodenum and jejunum gradually lowered with an increase in the level of LA in diets and a significant reduction (P<0.01) was observed at 0.1% and 0.2% of LA supplementation. Based on the results, it could be concluded that lauric acid can be a replacer of antibiotic growth promoter and its supplementation in diets at 0.05% improved immunity and gut health, while higher dietary levels (0.1-0.2%) had no further beneficial effects on these attributes.

Keywords: Broilers, Gut morphometry, Immunity, Lauric acid

*Corresponding author: dnlakshmi@rediffmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00016.8

Growth Performance of Mecheri Lambs and Economics by Replacing Dietary Protein with Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal

V.A. Chandwade, P. Vasan*, V. Sankar, N. Sri Balaji, J. Muralidharan and P. Vasanthakumar Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, India

ABSTRACT

Chandwade, V.A., Vasan, P., Sankar, V., Sri Balaji, N., Muralidharan, J. and Vasanthakumar, P. 2025. Growth performance of mecheri lambs and economics by replacing dietary protein with Moringa oleifera leaf meal. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 187-195.

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as an alternative to a conventional protein source on the growth performance of Mecheri lambs. Twenty four weaned male lambs of 3 months age (14.52±0.62 kg BW) were randomly assigned to four treatment groups with six in each, viz., T1 (control complete feed), and T2, T3 and T4 complete feeds with MOLM at 3, 6 and 12% on dry matter to replace 5, 10 and 20% of dietary total protein, respectively. During the 120-day trial, the DMI, body weight gain and feed conversion efficiency were similar among all the groups. There was a net extra gain of (₹) 401, 459 and 633 in T2, T3 and T4 groups than in T1. The results revealed that up to 20% feed protein can be replaced with M. oleifera leaf meal to dmake a cheaper diet for Mecheri lamb without affecting animal performance.

Keywords: Complete feed, Cost-economics, Feed conversion efficiency, Moringa oleifera leaf meal

*Corresponding author: drpvasan@yahoo.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00017.4

Response of Feeding Different Levels of Dietary Phosphorus and Supplemental Vitamin D3 on Production Performance, Egg Quality Traits and Serum Biochemical Parameters in Laying Hens

Chandra Deo, Divya, Sai Siva Kumarkatam, A.B. Adgaonkar and Jaydip Rokade* Avian Nutrition and Feed Technology Division, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar-243001, India

ABSTRACT

Deo, C., Divya, Kumarkatam, S.S., Adgaonkar, A.B. and Rokade, J. 2025. Response of feeding different levels of dietary phosphorus and supplemental vitamin D3 on production performance, egg quality traits and serum biochemical parameters in laying hens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 197-208.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary available phosphorus (AP) and vitamin D3 on laying hens’ performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical parameters. The 11-week (25-36 weeks) feeding trial involved two levels of AP (0.40 per cent and 0.30 per cent) and three vitamin D3 levels (1600, 2400, and 3200 IU/kg) in a 2×3 factorial design, with fourteen hens in individual cages receiving mash diets ad libitum. Results indicated that a diet with 0.40% AP significantly (P≤0.05) enhanced the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and net feed efficiency compared to 0.30% AP. Significantly (P≤0.01) higher egg production and net efficiency (P≤0.05) were observed at 1600 IU/kg vitamin D3 compared to the other dietary levels of vitamin D3. A dietary combination of 0.40% AP with 2400 IU/ kg vitamin D3 resulted in significantly higher eggshell percentage and ratio, while 0.40% AP with 1600 IU/kg vitamin D3 improved eggshell thickness. Hens on the 0.40% AP diet exhibited significantly better egg weight, eggshell percentage, ratio, thickness, and yolk index than those on the 0.30% AP diet. At 1600 IU/kg vitamin D3, significantly higher yolk index, eggshell percentage, ratio, and thickness were recorded compared to other vitamin D3 levels. Higher alkaline phosphatase activity was noted in hens fed 0.30% AP compared to those fed 0.40% AP. Overall, 0.40% AP combined with 1600 IU/kg vitamin D3 was optimal for enhancing production performance, egg quality traits, and blood biochemical parameters in white leghorn hens from 25 to 36 weeks old. Over the years, the genetic advancement of commercial layer strains has aimed to enhance their productivity. As a result, ongoing research is essential to update the nutritional needs of these birds to achieve their full production capabilities.

Keywords: Available phosphorus, Egg quality, Layers, Serum biochemical, Vitamin D3

*Corresponding author: jaydeepvet@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00018.0

Screening of Spices for Bioactive Compounds and Their Effect on In Vitro Fermentation Pattern and Methanogenesis from Total Mixed Ration

Chetna Mahajan, M. Wadhwa and M.P.S. Bakshi* Department of Animal Nutrition Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Ludhiana-141004, India

ABSTRACT

Mahajan, C., Wadhwa, M. and Bakshi, M.P.S. 2025. Screening of spices for bioactive compounds and their effect on in vitro fermentation pattern and methanogenesis from total mixed ration. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 209-220.

In vitro gas production studies were conducted to assess the impact of six spices (viz. turmeric, clove, oregano, ajwain, cinnamon and ginger) on the rumen fermentation pattern and methane production. Spices were supplemented at 0, 1, 2 or 3% on DM basis to the total mixed ration (TMR) containing concentrate mixture and oat fodder in a 40:60 ratio on DM basis. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and 4 x 6 factorial design. Screening of spices for bio-active compounds revealed the highest concentration of total phenolics, flavonoids and Vitamin C activity in clove, saponins in turmeric, essential oils in oregano and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity in ajwain, respectively. Irrespective of the level of supplementation, the diet supplemented with cinnamon had the highest (P<0.01) net gas production (NGP) and metabolizable energy (ME). The diet supplemented with turmeric had the highest (P<0.01) digestibility of true OM and NDF, partitioning factor (PF), total VFAs and propionate concentration, acetate to propionate ratio, highest rumen fermentation efficiency and lowest methane production. Irrespective of the nature of spices, as compared to the unsupplemented TMR, the TVFAs and acetate production, fermentation efficiency and VFAs utilization index expressed by Non-Glucogenic/ Glucogenic ratio (NGGR) were improved (P<0.01) at 1% level of supplementation, but beyond this level the differences were non-significant. It was concluded that the digestibility of nutrients, VFA production, rumen fermentation efficiency, and methane mitigation potential can be improved by supplementing the diet with turmeric at 1% on a DM basis.

Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Methane mitigation, Net gas production, Spices

*Corresponding author: bakshimps2@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00019.7

Influence of Milk Thistle on the Production Performance of Broilers

S.S. Gaikwad*, D.N. Desai, A.S. Ranade, M.A. Gole, R.J. Zende, M.P. Sawane, S.D. Jagadale and N.V. Kurkure Department of Poultry Science Mumbai Veterinary College Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Parel-400012, India

ABSTRACT

Gaikwad, S.S., Desai, D.N., Ranade, A.S., Gole, M.A., Zende, R.J., Sawane, M.P., Jagadale, S.D. and Kurkure, N.V. 2025. Influence of milk thistle on the production performance of broilers. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 221-233.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is widely used in poultry production due to its beneficial effects on liver health, immune function, and overall performance. It contains silymarin, a bioactive compound with potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. The present study was carried out to evaluate the influence of milk thistle on the production performance of broilers. Vencobb 430Y broiler birds (n=300) were reared for five weeks. The day-old birds were randomly divided into five equal groups (A, B, C, D and E) of 60 birds each. Each group was further subdivided into six replicates of ten birds each. Group A served as the control, was supplemented with Herbal choline without Milk thistle at 250 g/T feed. Groups B, C, D, and E, were supplemented with the Herbal choline fortified with 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% Milk thistle, respectively, at 250 g/T. This graded inclusion allowed assessment of the dose-dependent influence of Milk thistle on the performance and physiological responses of broilers. The performance parameters like live weight, gain in weight, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio were recorded and evaluated every week. The parameters for serum lipid profile, liver histomorphology and intestinal morphometry were evaluated at the end of the trial. The results at the end of five weeks suggested that the cumulative live weights at the end of five weeks were significantly higher (P≤0.05) in the birds from the treatment groups as compared to the control group. A similar trend was observed in the gain in weight and feed consumption of the birds. These results were reflected in the feed conversion ratio, which was significantly better (P≤0.05) in the birds from all the treatment groups as compared to the birds from control group A. Significant differences (P≤0.05) were reported in liver histomorphology and intestinal morphometry values. However, the serum lipid values reported nonsignificant differences (P≥0.05). The mortality rate reported was well within the standard limits. Thus, inclusion of milk thistle in the diet of broilers significantly improves the growth performance of broilers with better profit margins without any negative effects.

Keywords: Broilers, Growth performance, Herbal choline, Milk thistle, Silymarin

*Corresponding author: sumitgaikwad06@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00020.8

Evaluation of Azolla pinnata as a Protein Source in the Diet of Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) During Fry-to-Fingerling Rearing under Hill Conditions of Meghalaya

Chandan Debnath* Division of Animal and Fisheries Science, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Shillong-793103, India

ABSTRACT

Debnath, C. 2025. Evaluation of Azolla pinnata as a protein source in the diet of silver barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) during fry-to-fingerling rearing under hill conditions of meghalaya. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 235-245.

A 45-day study evaluated Azolla pinnata as a sustainable protein alternative to mustard oil cake in silver barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) fry diets under hill conditions. Conducted at ICAR-Fisheries Research Complex, Meghalaya (950 m altitude), the trial used outdoor concrete tanks (1000 L) from May to June 2023. Seven isonitrogenous diets (30% crude protein) were formulated, replacing mustard oil cake with dried Azolla at 0% (Control), 10%, 20%, 30%, 50%, 80%, and 100%. Fry (initial length: 1.8±0.12 cm; weight: 0.12±0.01 g) were stocked at 200000 ha⁻¹, with triplicate treatments. Feeding rates were adjusted from 10% to 5% of body weight over time. Water quality remained optimal: temperature (22.8–23.4°C), dissolved oxygen (6.0–6.8 mg L⁻¹), pH (7.4-7.7), and alkalinity (142.3-156.8 mg L⁻¹). Growth parameters, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and survival showed no significant differences (P>0.05) up to 50% Azolla inclusion (SGR: 5.28-5.43% day⁻¹; FCR: 1.80-1.89; survival: 90.5-93.2%). Regression analysis indicated an optimal inclusion level of 47.8% (R²=0.92). Higher inclusion levels (80-100%) reduced growth, survival, and economic efficiency. This research establishes that dried A. pinnata can successfully substitute up to 50% of mustard oil cake in silver barb fry diets while maintaining comparable growth performance, offering aquaculture practitioners in hill regions a sustainable and locally available protein source.

Keywords: Alternative protein sources, Azolla pinnata, Barbonymus gonionotus, Hill aquaculture, Sustainable aquafeed

*Corresponding author: chandannath23@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00021.4

Effect of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal on the Production Performance and Health Status of Rhode Island Red Hens

D.G. Vaghamashi*, D.D. Garg, G.P. Sabapara, J.A. Chavda, D.T. Fefar, S.N. Ghodasara, N.K. Ribadiya and V.K. Karangiya Livestock Farm Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh-362001, India

ABSTRACT

Vaghamashi, D.G., Garg, D.D., Sabapara, G.P., Chavda, J.A., Fefar, D.T., Ghodasara, S.N., Ribadiya, N.K. and Karangiya, V.K. 2025. Effect of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on the production performance and health status of rhode island red hens. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 247-255.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) on production performance, egg quality traits and health status of Rhode Island Red (RIR) layers. One hundred and eighty, 24-week-old RIR layer birds were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments, each having three replicates containing 15 birds per replicate. The treatments were T₁ (Control: Basal diet); T₂ : 1% MOLM in basal diet; T₃ : 3% MOLM in basal diet; T₄ : 5% MOLM in basal diet. The results revealed that average daily feed intake per bird (g/day) was lower (P<0.05) for hens supplemented with MOLM, with no effect on feed conversion ratio. The average hen-day egg production (%) and hen-housed egg production (%) of the experiment were higher (P<0.05) in T₃ and T₄ groups as compared to T₁. In addition, average egg weight was lower (P<0.05) in T₄ than in all other groups. Shell thickness was higher (P<0.05) in T₃ and T₄ than in T₂ and T₁ . However, egg length, egg width, shape index and shell weight were not affected by dietary treatments. The overall mean of albumen height, albumen width, albumen index, yolk width, yolk weight, Haugh unit and yolk colour score were improved (P<0.05) for MOLM supplemented groups than the control group. Except for triglycerides, all serum biochemical parameters were not affected by the addition of MOLM. Based on these findings, it was concluded that dietary inclusion of MOLM for RIR hens beneficially improves their performance and health status.

Keywords: Egg production, Haugh unit, Health status, Moringa leaf meal, Rhode Island Red

*Corresponding author: dgvaghamashi@kamdhenuuni.edu.in

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00022.0

Effect of Malic Acid Supplementation on Feed Intake, Milk Yield, Milk Quality and Udder Health in Cows

Anshika Tiwari, A.K. Patil*, Naresh Kurechiya, Anchal Keshri and P. Dodwa Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Mhow-453446, India

ABSTRACT

Tiwari, A., Patil, A.K., Kurechiya, N., Keshri, A. and Dodwa, P. 2025. Effect of malic acid supplementation on feed intake, milk yield, milk quality and udder health in cows. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 257-263.

This study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation of malic acid on the milk yield, milk quality and udder health in indigenous dairy cows up to 90 days of lactation. Twelve multiparous lactating cows at the early stage of lactation were selected and randomly allotted to two similar groups (n=6) on the basis of body weight and milk yield. In addition to the basal diet, cows in group T1 were fed malic acid at 30 g/animal/d. The results indicated that the overall mean body weight, body condition score, and average dry matter intake did not differ between the groups. The average milk yield, milk composition, as well as pH and somatic cell count, were similar in both groups. The mastitis incidence was 11.9% in the supplemented group compared to 21.4% in the control group, highlighting the role of malic acid in promoting udder health. Under the circumstances of the present experiment, it may be concluded that malic acid supplementation improves udder health in dairy cows.

Keywords: Dairy cow, Malic acid, Milk yield, Somatic cell count, Udder health

*Corresponding author: ashokdrpatil@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00023.7

Effect of Pre-partum Strategic Supplementations on the Performance of Buffaloes and Their Calves: A Review

B.K. Ojha*, Abhilasha Singh, Kumar Govil, J.S. Rajoriya and A.K. Singh College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University Kuthulia, Rewa- 486001, India

ABSTRACT

Ojha, B.K., Singh, A., Kumar, G., Rajoriya, J.S. and Singh, A.K. 2025. Effect of pre-partum strategic supplementations on the performance of buffaloes and their calves: a review. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 265-278.

Feeding during last trimester of gestation is very critical. One of the greatest challenges during the transition period is meeting the nutrient demands of the buffalo. In late gestation, the demands of the pregnant uterus are high, but the demands associated with early lactation are much greater. Requirements for pregnancy represent nutrients necessary to support both growth and maintenance of foetus, placenta, uterus and mammary gland. During this transition phase, the dry matter intake of buffaloes decreased, making it a challenging task to fulfil the animal’s nutritional needs. The pre-partum feeding management of buffaloes plays a vital role in the subsequent milk production and reproduction. The strategic supplementation of nutrients as per the physical and physiological needs of the animal may be beneficial. Diet should be formulated with proper supplementation of nutrients to achieve improved postpartum production and reproduction performance. Strategic supplementation of critical nutrients like energy, protein and minerals can help buffaloes to sustain their production and reproduction performance. So, this paper reviews the effect of pre-partum strategic supplementation on the performance of buffaloes and their calves.

Keywords: Buffalo, Calves, Pre-Partum, Strategic, Supplementation

*Corresponding author: drbrijesh.ojha@gmail.com

DOI: 10.5958/0974-181X.2025.00024.3

A Review on Vitex negundo and Its Role as an Additive for Livestock and Poultry

Sheizal Minhas* and Arun Sharma Department of Animal Nutrition, Dr GC Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur-176062, India

ABSTRACT

Minhas, S. and Sharma, A. 2025. A review on Vitex negundo and its role as an additive for livestock and poultry. Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, 25: 279-295.

There has been a steady rise in the consumption of poultry meat in India. Many countries have banned the use of antibiotics for growth promotion in poultry. Herbs stand out as a promising alternative. Chaste tree (Vitex negundo) is one of the herbs being explored for its role in improving animal health and productivity, especially in broilers. It has a widespread occurrence in the world and is also commonly found in India. The plant has been used in ethnoveterinary practices for many years. This review gathers information about antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anthelminthic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and insecticidal properties of the Vitex negundo plant. The properties are due to the presence of various phytochemicals in the plant. The review also highlights its effect as an additive on performance in poultry, especially broilers and livestock. With further well-designed, species-specific studies to standardize dosage, form, and long-term safety, Vitex negundo could be effectively utilized in poultry and livestock, offering a promising solution as a growth promoter, supporting animal health and productivity.

Keywords: Broilers, Herbs, Livestock, Poultry, Vitex negundo

*Corresponding author: sheizal.minhas18@gmail.com