Feedlot performance of Sudanese desert lambs fed with mash or pelleted diet of varying energy levels

AbstractThis experiment was conducted using 18 Sudan desert ram lambs (22±5.7kg) to examine the effects of feeding with diets of different energy levels and physical forms on feedlot performance. These lambs were randomly divided into three feed groups of six animals each in a completely randomized design (CRD). Following an acclimatization period of three weeks, three experimental diets were offered, each for one group. High Energy Pellets (HEP) and High Energy Mash (HEM) diets (10.50MJME/kg DM) of a pelleted and mash form, respectively and Low Energy Diets (LEP) was a pelleted and low energy diet (8.5MJME/kg DM).The experiment continued for all diets to an average 40kg live weight lamb. Results revealed lower Dry Matter Intake (DMI) (P>0.001), improved Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) (P<0.01) and higher Average daily gain (ADG) (P<0.01) for the high energy groups compared to the low energy diet group. No significant (P>0.05) differences were observed due to pelleting between the two higher energy groups. No significant (P>0.05) differences were observed among treatment groups in the Metabolizable Energy (ME) required to put a unit of body weight gain

Nutritive Evaluation of Some Browse Trees Fruits (Seed and Pods) as Dry Season Supplement for Livestock in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands of Sudan

High nutritive value for livestock is an essential pre-requisite for successful adoption of forage species. Without high quality, farmers may not achieve the economic animal responses they require to justify their investment. On the other hand, in areas where feed resources are grossly inadequate, or other uses are equally important, farmers may accept a more modest contribution from browse, especially if the species is indigenous and does not require specific introduction and management. In evaluating forage species, it is important to obtain information on crude protein content, digestibility and forage intake. These values usually determine the amount of energy that can be obtained by animals. In individual situations, high ash or oil content may also affect quality. In the present study ,nine forage tree species were evaluated for their nutritional value in terms of nutrient composition namely ,crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), starch, fat and ash content, in addition to mineral concentration . Results obtained showed adequate amount of protein and variable mineral levels, available for livestock during dry periods in arid and semi- arid lands of Sudan