Effect of diets containing graded levels of groundnut haulms on Dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility and Nitrogen balance of Friesian x Bunaji Bulls

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of feeding concentrate diets containing varying levels of groundnut haulms on dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility and nutrient balance in Friesian x Bunaji bulls. The feed consisted of four concentrate mixed diets formulated to contain on average 14.45- 14.65% crude protein. Groundnut haulms (GH) in the concentrate diets were on nitrogen basis at 0, 25, 50 and 75% levels with control diet having 0% inclusion of GH. Sixteen bulls aged 12-18months were divided into four each and were randomly allotted to the four treatment diets in a completely randomized design for metabolic trial. During trial, the bulls were housed in metabolic crates and fed Gamba hay adlib and the basal or particular test concentrate mixture at 40% of estimated DM intake. Chemical composition and energy contents of the diets were determined. Dry matter intake (DMI) and organic matter intake (OMI) were also determined. The CP value averaged 14.45±0.44 - 14.65±1.22% for the four experimental diets. The metabolizable energy content expressed in Kcal/kg of diets decreased with increase in GH level from 0-75% (3166-1752 kcal/kg). There was no significant (P>0.05) difference on voluntary DMI and OMI. The digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose and ash were significantly (P<0.05) higher at 75% level of groundnut haulms. CF and ADF digestibility were significantly influenced (P<0.05) when groundnut haulms level reached 25%. Conversely, the digestibility of NFE did not differ (P>0.05) across treatments. Nitrogen balance were similar (P>0.05) among animals fed concentrate mixtures. Nitrogen balance expressed in percent was slightly higher at 75% level of groundnut haulms. It is concluded that inclusion of GH in concentrate diets of crossed bulls up to 75% can improve nutrient digestibility and the percent Nitrogen balance.