Evaluating Neem, Moringa and coconut oil in calf diets: Productivity gains with enteric methane abatement
Author(s): TR Bhosale, KD Rathod, SR Munnarwar, SD Wagh and AT Lokhande
Abstract: This study assessed how growing crossbred calves' growth performance, nutrient utilization, and enteric methane abatement were affected by the phytochemical-rich feed additives Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf powder, Moringa oleifera leaf powder, and coconut oil. Twenty calves (6-12 months) were divided into four groups at random (N=5/treatment) and fed four different diets for 120 days: coconut oil at 2% of DMI (T3), Neem leaf powder at 2% of DMI (T1), Moringa leaf powder at 2% of DMI (T2), and control (T0). A standard concentration and seasonal green/dry fodders were incorporated in diets that complied with ICAR (2013) guidelines. A 7-day digestibility trial was carried out after 120 days, and Ellis et al. (2007) were used to estimate methane emissions from intake. At days 30, 60, and 120, blood biochemical indicators (glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, and A:G) were evaluated; modified Sheather's sugar flotation was used to evaluate fecal parasitology. Without having a negative impact on digestibility, moringa dramatically increased average daily gain and DMI. While coconut oil shown methane-lowering patterns characteristic of lipid supplementation, both Moringa and Neem decreased the estimated methane output in comparison to the control. Neem had an anthelmintic effect by lowering the number of fecal eggs. Better growth was accompanied by slight improvements in serum biochemistry, which stayed within physiological ranges. A sustainable way to increase calf productivity while reducing enteric methane is to use phytochemical additives, especially Moringa at 2% DMI. Methane reductions should be verified by actual measurement, and inclusion rates should be optimized in future work.
