Vol. 9, Issue 4, Part J (2024)

Author(s): Ayyappan K

Abstract: The present study was conducted to assess the effect of varying level of protein present in the Total Mixed Ration (TMR) containing maize (Zea mays) cob as roughage source to replace the paddy straw. Eighteen cross bred calves of about 6 to 8 months of age with body weight ranging from 58 to 62 kg were divided into three groups of six each in completely randomized design. Two level of Crude protein (12% and 15%) and 60% TDN of ten diets were prepared using maize cobs at the level of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% replacement of paddy straw. In vitro rumen fermentation study showed significantly (p<0.01) higher total gas (50.66 ml), in vitro dry matter (52.93%) and organic matter degradability (55.27%) in crude protein 15% level than other rations. Sixty days growth trial was conducted in growing cross bred calves and they were fed with paddy straw based diet as a control (C) group and maize cob based diets containing two level of crude protein 12% (T₁) and 15% (T₂) as a treatment groups. Digestion trial was conducted for seven days during the experiment. The digestibility (%) of DM, OM, CP, EE, CF and NFE were significantly (p<0.01) higher in CP 15% diet than control and CP 12% diets. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in the initial body weight of the animals. The average daily body weight gain (g/d) and FCR (kg DMI/ kg gain) were significantly (p<0.05) higher in CP 15% diet (498; 7.19) than other groups. It can be concluded that CP 15% diet containing maize cob as roughage in total mixed ration did not affect feed intake and nutrient digestibility and improved the body weight gain in growing calves.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2024.v9.i4j.1616