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ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF FEEDING MAIZE STOVER BASED COMPLETE RATIONS WITH DIFFERENT ROUGHAGE TO CONCENTRATE RATIO ON PERFORMANCE IN NELLORE X DECCANI RAM LAMBS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-02) VENKATESHWARLU, V; VENKATESHWARLU, M(MAJOR); RAMANA REDDY, Y; HARI KRISHA, ChABSTRACT : An experiment was conducted for 120 days to investigate the effect of feeding maize (Zea mays) stover based complete rations (mash form) at MS70 (maize stover 70% + concentrate 30%), MS60 (maize stover 60% + concentrate 40%) and MS50 (maize stover 50% + concentrate 50%) ratios to find out the suitable ratio of maize stover and concentrate for optimum growth, production, nutrient utilization and carcass characteristics in growing Nellore X Deccani ram lambs. A significant (P<0.05) difference in the ADG was noticed in ram lambs fed three experimental complete rations. There was 44.43 and 17.06 per cent higher gain in ram lambs fed MS50 ration in comparison to those fed MS70 (P<0.05) and MS60 (P>0.05) rations, respectively. The FCR was better (P>0.05) by 11.72 and 17.39 per cent, respectively with MS60 and MS70 rations in comparison to MS50 ration. The cost ()/kg live weight gain was comparable among the three rations but was numerically higher in ram lambs fed ration MS50 followed by MS60 and MS70 rations. No significant difference was observed among the three experimental complete rations in the digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CP and NFE. The EE digestibility in MS60 (P>0.05) and MS50 (P<0.05) was higher by 4.77 and 8.30 per cent, respectively in comparison to MS70 ration. The CF digestibility in MS60 (P>0.05) and MS50 (P<0.05) rations was higher by 12.18 and 22.13 per cent, respectively in comparison to MS70 ration. The apparent digestibility coefficients of NDF, ADF and cellulose were comparable (P>0.05) among the three complete rations and the digestibility of hemicellulose was significantly (P<0.05) different among the rations. The per cent DCP was significantly (P<0.05) higher in MS50 than MS60 and MS70 rations. Whereas, the per cent TDN was either significantly (P<0.05) or non-significantly (P>0.05) higher in MS50 ration than MS60 and MS70 rations. The N balance and N absorbed (g/d) were significantly lower in lambs fed MS60 and MS70 rations than those fed MS50 ration. The N balance was linearly increased with increased level of concentrate. Among all the rations, the nitrogen balance was significantly (P<0.05) higher in MS50 ration, but there was no significant difference between MS60 and MS70 rations. The daily DCP and TDN intake (g/d) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in ram lambs fed MS50 ration in comparison to those fed MS60 and MS70 rations. The DCP intake ( g/kg w0.75) was significantly (P<0.05) different among the ram lambs fed MS70, MS60 and MS50 rations, the values (g/d or g/kg w0.75) being higher in lambs fed MS50 ration than those offered MS60 and MS70 rations. The intake of DCP (g/d or g/kg w0.75) was not significantly different between the lambs fed MS60 and MS70 rations. The TDN intake (g/d) was also significantly (P<0.05) different among the lambs fed MS70, MS60 and MS50 rations and the intake was significantly higher in the lambs fed MS50 ration followed by lambs fed MS60 and MS70 rations. However, TDN intake was not significantly different between lambs fed MS60 and MS70 complete rations. The live body weight and empty body weight was significantly (P<0.05) different among the experimental ram lambs fed three complete rations and was lower in lambs fed MS70 ration compared to those fed MS60 and MS50 rations. The hot carcass weight was significantly (P<0.05) different among the ram lambs fed experimental complete rations. However, no difference was observed in the animals fed MS60 and MS50 complete rations. There was no significant difference in dressing percentage either on live weight or empty body weight basis. The proportion of lean (%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in MS50 complete ration than MS60 and MS70 rations, but was comparable between MS60 and MS70 complete rations. No significant variation could be seen in bone and fat (%) among the experimental rations. Increased (P>0.05) trend in bone meat ratio in carcasses was observed as the level of concentrate increased in the ration of experimental ram lambs. The moisture, protein and ash contents of meat were not affected and there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in fat (%) as the level of concentrate increased in maize stover based complete rations with different roughage to concentrate ratio. Based on the results of present study, it is concluded that maize stover, a potential cereal crop residue hitherto unused can be incorporated as roughage component in complete rations (mash form) at 50-60 per cent for obtaining optimum growth with better feed efficiency in growing Nellore X Deccani ram lambs. Varying levels of stover and concentrate in complete rations did not affect the digestibilities of nutrients barring fat and fibre in growing ram lambs. Level of inclusion of maize stover in complete rations has no effect on dressing percentage either on live weight or empty body weight basis.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON SUPPLEMENTATION OF YEAST CULTURE (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) TO CROP RESIDUE BASED COMPLETE RATIONS IN GRADED MURRAH BUFFALO BULLS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI – 517 502. (A.P) INDIA, 2013-02) RAJ KIRAN, REYYA; Srinivas Kumar, D(MAJOR); Raghava Rao, E; Narendra Nath, DABSTRACT: In a 4 x 4 LSD, four rumen fistulated graded Murrah buffalo bulls (Avg. BW 330.7 ± 30.63 kg) were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments viz. Maize stover based complete ration (T1), Maize stover based complete ration supplemented with live yeast culture (T2), Jowar stover based complete ration (T3) and Jowar stover based complete ration supplemented with live yeast culture (T4) to study the effect on in sacco nutrient degradabilities, nutrient utilization, balances and rumen fermentation pattern.In sacco study revealed that the effective degradability of DM, CP, NDF and ADF were higher (P<0.01) in Maize stover based complete ration (T1) compared to Jowar stover based complete ration (T2). Further, supplementation of live yeast culture to either Maize stover (T2) or Jowar stover (T4) based complete ration has significantly increased (P<0.01) the nutrient degradabilities compared to un-supplemented respective crop residue based complete ration.The rumen fermentation studies with fistulated buffalo bulls revealed that rumen pH, TVFA concentration and N fractions viz. NH3-N, Total – N, TCA insoluble N, residual nitrogen and food and protozoal N peaked 4 h post feeding. Further, the rumen pH, TVFA and N fractions observed in the present study indicated that rumen fermentation was better in buffalo bulls fed Maize stover based complete ration supplemented with live yeast culture (T2) compared to other dietary treatments.The digestibility (%) of DM, OM, CP, EE, CF, NDF, ADF, hemi- cellulose, cellulose (P<0.01) and NFE (P<0.05) were higher in T2 when compared to other treatments. All the buffalo bulls were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. The DMI expressed as kg/d or as % BW was similar among the different dietary treatments. The DCP and TDN content expressed as % in the diet consumed or kg/d was significantly higher (P<0.01) in Maize stover based complete ration supplemented with live yeast culture (T2) compared to other treatments. The DE and ME intakes were higher (P<0.01) in T2 as compared to either T1, T3 or T4. The cost of Maize and Jowar stover based complete rations supplemented with and without live yeast culture was 6.36, 8.16, 6.41 and 8.21 in T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively.Based on the present study, it is concluded that both Maize and Jowar stover can be used in complete rations for graded Murrah buffalo bulls without any adverse effect. Further, it is concluded that Maize stover based complete ration supplemented with live yeast culture (T2) performed better in buffalo bulls as evidenced by higher plane of nutrition when compared to other treatments.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF GRADED CONCENTRATION OF ORGANIC ZINC (ZINC GLYCINATE) ON PERFORMANCE, ANTIOXIDANTS STATUS AND IMMUNE RESPONSES IN COMMERCIAL BROILERS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-08) SRIDHAR, K; NAGALAKSHMI, D (Major); SRINIVASA RAO, D; KISHAN KUMAR, MABSTRACT : An experiment was conducted with an aim to study effect of graded concentrations of organic zinc (zinc glycinate, Zn-gly) on performance, antioxidants status and immune responses in commercial broilers. One hundred and twenty, day old commercial broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 24 replicates with 5 chicks in each. The birds were raised in battery brooders under uniform management. A corn-soybean meal basal diet (BD) was prepared for starter and finisher broiler chicks to meet the nutritional requirements, as recommended by NRC (1994) except Zn. Experimental diets were viz., BD with 40 ppm Zn supplementation from ZnSO4 (inorganic) and BD with as Zn-gly (organic) at 30, 20 and 10 ppm. Each diet was allotted to 6 replicates at random and fed ad libitum from 1 to 42 d of age. Body weights, feed intake and feed conversion ratio was measured at weekly intervals. Blood was collected from two birds from each replicate at 35 days of age for estimation of haematological, biochemical constituents and antioxidant enzyme activity. Serum was collected from two birds of each replicate after ten days of post vaccination against Newcastle disease (ND)to assess the humoral immune response against the antigen. On 40th day, the cell mediated immune response was studied by intra dermal inoculation of 100 μg phytohemagglutinin-P (PHA-P) into the toe. At the end the experiment two birds from the each replicate was selected randomly and slaughtered to study the carcass traits and Zn deposition in organs. Metabolic trial of three days duration was conducted on two birds of each replicate after from 43 to 45 d of age to study the effect of Zn-gly on nutrient utilization. Reducing organic Zn from 30 to 10 ppm did not affect the growth, feed intake, nutrient retention and carcass traits (dressing percentage, organ weight, breast yield and abdominal fat) in broiler chicks, which were comparable to those fed 40 ppm inorganic Zn. However, FCR was improved with 30 ppm organic compared to other dietary treatments. Similarly, serum total protein, albumin and glucose concentrations and haematological constituents were not affected by the source or level of Zn supplementation. The alkaline phosphatase activity and globulin concentration increased (P<0.05), while serum cholesterol, glucose and albumin:globulin ratio decreased (P<0.05) in groups fed 30 ppm organic Zn compared to other groups. Lipid peroxidation (nmol MDA/mg prtien) assessed in haemolysate and TBARS concentration in liver, indicative of stress was higher (P≤0.05) in broiler chicks fed on diet supplemented with 10 ppm organic Zn and reduced with increasing organic Zn up to 30 ppm. The antioxidant enzyme activities such as glutathione peroxidase (units/mg protein) and superoxide dismutase (units/mg protein) were higher (P<0.05) in broilers fed 30 ppm organic Zn. However, the activities of these enzymes and MDA levels were intermediate at 20 and 40 ppm Zn from Zn-gly and ZnSO4, respectively. Protein carbonyl concentration and reduced glutathione content in liver and glutathione reductase enzyme activity in haemolysate did not differ due to the Zn concentration in diet. The humoral immune (P<0.05) response against ND vaccine and cell mediated immune (P< 0.01) response were highest at 30 ppm organic Zn compared to those fed diets containing 40 ppm inorganic Zn. The humoral immune response to ND vaccine in 10 and 20 ppm organic Zn was similar to those fed 40 ppm inorganic Zn. Histological examination of skin revealed more number of epithelial cell layers and higher collagen content with 30 ppm organic Zn supplementation compared to other dietary treatments and with 10 ppm Zn-gly supplementation, the skin had fewer epithelial cell layers with less collagen. The concentration of Zn in serum, kidney and pancreas was higher (P<0.05) in broilers fed on 30 ppm organic Zn, while in liver and tibia bone, the mineral concentration was comparable to those fed diet containing 40 ppm supplemental inorganic Zn. Based on the results, it is concluded that dietary Zn concentration can be reduced to 10 ppm when supplemented as Zn glycinate without affecting growth performance. However, replacement of 40 ppm inorganic Zn with 30 ppm organic Zn significantly improved feed efficiency, reduced lipid peroxidation and increased the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and immune responses in broilers compared to those fed 40 ppm Zn as zinc sulphate.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION ON PERFORMANCE OF LAYERS IN POST PEAK PERIOD(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-11) RAVI KUMAR, NARE; RAMANA, J V ( Major); DEVASENA, B; SHAKILA, SABSTRACT : The present study was carried out with a view to investigate the production performance of layers fed with probiotic supplemented diets at different levels 0 (T1), 50 (T2), 100 (T3) and 150 g (T4) per ton of basal diets during post peak production (47 to 58 weeks of age). The basal diet was formulated with commonly available feed ingredients like maize, soybean meal, sunflower meal, de-oiled rice bran, fish meal as per the specifications of BIS, (1992) suitable for Indian conditions. The chemical composition (%) of the basal diet was 90.0 (DM), 18.09 (CP), 2.82 (EE), 7.65 (CF), 55.22 (NFE), 17.22 (TA) and 3.81 (AIA). The calculated ME content of the basal diet was 2654 Kcal/Kg. One hundred and eighty Single Comb White Leghorn layers were used in the experiment and divided into four dietary treatments with three replicates of fifteen birds each. During the experimental period feed intake, feed efficiency, egg production, egg quality traits and body weights were recorded in three periods of 28 days each (47 to 50, 51 to 54 and 55 to 58 weeks). Serum parameters like total serum proteins and serum cholesterol levels were recorded at the start and at the end of the experiment. Relative economics were calculated at the end of the experiment. There was no significant difference observed in feed intake (g) during overall experimental laying period (47-58 weeks) and feed intake ranged from 118.53(T4) to 120.18 g (T1). There was no significant difference in feed efficiency (kg feed consumed for dozen eggs) during 47-58 weeks of age. Better feed efficiency (kg feed consumed for dozen eggs) was observed in T2, T3 and T4 groups (1.68 Kg) over T1 (1.69 Kg). Similarly non-significant differences were observed in birds fed with experimental diets with regard to feed efficiency expressed as Kg feed consumed for Kg egg produced. There was no significant difference among treatment groups with regard to percent hen-day egg production during overall laying period (47-58 weeks). Higher percent hen-day egg production was observed in T2 group (85.21) and lower value was observed in T1 (84.47) group birds. During overall laying period higher egg weight was recorded in T1 group (54.09 g) and lower egg weight was observed in T4 (53.54 g), but there was no statistical difference observed among the treatment groups. Egg mass (Kg) did not show any significant difference during the overall laying period. Numerically higher egg mass (kg) was recorded in T2 group (19.34) and lower egg mass was observed in T4 (18.92 Kg) group. The probiotic supplementation did not show any significant difference in haugh unit, albumen index and yolk index during the experimental period. Shell thickness (mm) showed significant (P≤0.05) difference in all three periods of experimental period in probiotic supplemented group over control. The mean shell thickness (mm) was 0.337, 0.347, 0.343 and 0.337 respectively in T1, T2, T3 and T4. The total serum protein (g/dl) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups were 6.71, 6.73, 6.73 and 6.61, respectively in birds at the start of experiment. At the end of the experiment the total serum protein (g/dl) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 were 6.71, 6.27, 6.91 and 6.69 respectively. The total protein was reduced by 7.33 % in control (T1) but increased in T2, T3 and T4 by 2.60, 1.19 and 2.58 % respectively. There was no significant difference observed among the treatment groups. At the start of the experiment serum cholesterol (mg/dl) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups were 134.47, 137.98, 132.43 and 130.81, respectively. At the end of the experiment serum cholesterol (mg/dl) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups were 128.83, 138.76, 129.26 and 122.67 respectively. The serum cholesterol increased by 0.56% in control (T1) but reduced in T2, T3 and T4 by 2.39, 6.22 and 8.82% respectively. During 47-58 weeks of age significantly (P≤0.05) higher body weights (g) were observed in T1 (1296) and lower body weight was observed in T4 (1234) group. There was no significant difference in feed consumption and income over feed cost per 12 eggs produced among different treatments. Feed cost/12eggs (`) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 were 43.10, 42.87, 42.91 and 42.94 respectively. Income over feed cost/12 eggs (`) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 were 4.91, 5.13, 5.09 and 5.06 respectively. Percent improvement in income over the control (T1) was T2 (4.51), T3 (3.83) and T4 (3.14). There was no mortality observed in all the groups during the experimental period and birds did not show any illness on probiotic supplementation. Better egg parameters, relative economics, reduced cholesterol contents and improved relative economics over control suggest that 50g of probiotic supplementation to one ton of layer diet is beneficial without any adverse effects during post peak production. The inclusion of probiotics can replace the usage of antibiotics in poultry feedsThesisItem Open Access Evaluation of complete rations containing Palm Kernel Meal (Elaeis guineensis) and Shea Nut Meal (Vitellaria paradoxa) in Sheep and Goats(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-09) PULLAIAH, K.V.R; DEVASENA, B (Major); RAMANA, J V; SHAKILA, SABSTRACT : An attempt has been made in the present study to investigate the effect of inclusion of palm kernel meal (PKM) and sheanut meal (SNM) by replacing the DORB in complete rations of sheep and goats. The nutritive value, plane of nutrition, nutrient digestibility and urinary purine derivatives excretion and efficiency of microbial protein synthesis were studied. The PKM contained 93.0, 95.0, 14.2, 34.6, 1.1, 45.1, 5.0 and 1.6% of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE, NFE, TA and AIA, respectively and the cell wall constituents (%) were 73.6, 55.9, 17.6, 25.4 and 29.0 for NDF, ADF, HC, cellulose and lignin, respectively. The GE value of PKM was 4.46 K.cal/g DM. The IVDMD and IVOMD values of PKM were 54.33% and 55.39, respectively. The SNM contained 90.0, 90.0, 15.5, 5.6, 1.4, 67.5, 10.0 and 3.6% of DM, OM, CP, EE, NFE, TA and AIA, respectively and cell wall constituents (%) were 60.6, 49.9, 10.6, 9.0 and 37.3 for NDF, ADF, HC, cellulose and lignin respectively. The GE value of the SNM was 4.44 K.cal/g DM. The IVDMD and IVOMD (%) values were 18.81 and 25.99, respectively. Four isonitrogenous complete rations (CR) were prepared with chaffed red gram bhoosa as the roughage component. The rations were made isonitrogenous by adjusting the level of concentrate ingredient levels in the complete rations, while keeping roughage constant. The CR-1 contained DORB at 20% level. It was replaced by PKM and SNM at in CR-2 and CR-3, respectively. Whereas in CR-4, DORB was replaced with PKM and SNM. All rations contained 5% molasses and 1% mineral mixture. The CP content of the complete rations ranged from 13.2 to 13.7%. The CF content of the complete rations was 33.7 (CR-1), 37.2 (CR-2), 30.6 (CR-3) and 33.0% (CR-4). The highest NDF content was observed in CR-2 (65.9), whereas the lowest was observed in CR-3 (57.4). The ADF content (%) of the complete rations ranged from 42.2 - 49.4%. The GE value of the complete rations were found to be isocaloric (4.33 - 4.34 K.cal/g DM). The IVDMD (%) values of complete rations as observed were highest (63.09) in CR-2, whereas the lowest was observed in CR-3 (56.35) as compared to other rations. The IVOMD (%) value of the complete rations was 61.62 (CR-1), followed by 63.14 (CR-2), 56.40 (CR-3) and 59.48 (CR-4). In sheep the CP digestibility was higher (P<0.001) in CR-2 and CR-1 as compared to CR-4 and CR-3. Whereas CF and cellulose digestibilities were highest (P<0.05) in CR-3 as compared to other three rations. The EE digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) higher in CR-3 and CR-4 as compared to other rations. The NDF and ADF digestibilities showed no significant but higher value in CR-4, as compared to other rations. In goats the CP digestibility was higher (P>0.05) in CR-2 and CR-1, followed by CR-4 and CR-3. The CF digestibility was highest (P<0.001) in CR-3 and lowest was observed in goats, which received CR-2 ration. The EE digestibility in goats was higher (P<0.05) in CR-4 as well as CR-3 as compared to other rations. The NDF and ADF digestibility values were highest (P<0.05) in CR-2, whereas lowest in CR-1 as compared to other rations. The DM consumption expressed as g/d, as %B.wt. and as g/KgW0.75 was higher (P>0.05) in sheep fed CR-1 as compared to other three rations. The DCP intake as g/KgW0.75 was more (P>0.05) in sheep fed CR-1, followed by CR-4, CR-2 and CR-3. The highest (P>0.05) TDN intake (g/KgW0.75) was observed in CR-4 when compared to other three rations. The DM consumption expressed as g/d, as %B.wt. and as g/KgW0.75 were higher (P>0.05) in goats fed CR-4 as compared to other three rations. The DCP intake as g/KgW0.75 was more (P>0.05) in goats fed CR-1, followed by CR-2, CR-4 and CR-3. The highest (P>0.05) TDN intake as g/KgW0.75 was observed in CR-4 when compared to other three rations. In sheep „N‟ retention expressed as g/d) or as g/KgW0.75/d was higher (P>0.05) in CR-1 as compared to other three rations. Whereas the „N‟ retention expressed as % absorbed was higher (P>0.05) in CR-4, followed by CR-1, CR-3 and CR-2. The „N‟ retention expressed as g/d and g/KgW0.75/d was higher (P>0.05) in goats fed CR-2 as compared to other rations. The „N‟ retention expressed as % absorbed was higher (P>0.05) in goats fed CR-2, followed by CR-1, CR-3 and CR-4. The total purine derivatives excretion (mmol/d) was higher (P>0.05) in sheep fed CR-3 as compared to other rations. Microbial nitrogen synthesis expressed as g/DOMI and g/DOMR was higher in sheep fed CR-3, followed by CR-2, CR-1 and CR-4. The total purine derivatives excretion (mmol/d) was higher (P>0.05) in goats fed CR-1 (7.46) as compared to other three rations. Microbial nitrogen synthesis expressed as g/Kg DOMI and g/Kg DOMR was higher but not significant in goats fed CR-1, followed by CR-2, CR-4 and CR-3. The results of the present study revealed that palm kernel meal and sheanut meal can be incorporated in the complete rations of sheep and goats upto 20% level replacing DORB on weight by weight basis.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF FEEDING TOTAL MIXED RATION CONTAINING DETOXIFIED KARANJ (Pongamia pinnata) CAKE OR NEEM SEED (Azadirachta indica) CAKE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF LACTATING CROSSBRED COWS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-03) RAJ, D N; RAMANA, J V ( Major); Suryanarayana, M.V.A.N; RAVINDRA REDDY, YABSTRACT : The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of feeding total mixed rations containing detoxified Karanj (Pongamia pinnata) cake and Neem seed (Azadirachta indica) cake on the performance of lactating crossbred cows. About 18 crossbred cows with mean body weight of 334.56±12.76 kg and average milk yield of 5.67±0.29 kg/day were used in the trial. The animals were randomly divided into three groups(T1,T2 and T3) of six animals each in a completely randomized design. Three iso-nitrogenous total mixed rations (TMRs)T1, T2 and T3 were formulated with 60:40 roughage to concentrate ratio. Dry maize fodder was chaffed, ground and mixed in the TMRs using chaffer cum grinder. The control ration (T1) was prepared by incorporating dry maize fodder (60%), Soybean meal (9.6%), Urea (0.3%), mineral mixture (0.6%), Salt (0.3%) and molasses (10%). The T2 and T3 were prepared by replacing the fifty percent protein content of Soybean meal with Neem seed cake and Karanj cake respectively. The TMRs were made iso-nitrogenous by altering the proportions of deoiled rice bran and maize grain. All the rations were iso-nitrogenous with crude protein % of 12.32 (T1), 12.16 (T2) and 12.06 (T3). A 90 day lactation trial was carried out by feeding the animals with TMRs (T1, T2 and T3). The initial and final body weights of the animals were recorded which revealed that there was numerical increase in body weight in all the three groups indicating that the complete feeds could able to meet the nutrient requirements of the animals. After 60 days of experimental feeding a digestion trial of 6 days duration was conducted. The DMI as % BW was 2.53% (T1), 2.77% (T2) and 2.61% (T3). The DMI was well within the range specified by ICAR 1998.This also indicates that addition of Neem seed cake and Karanj cake in complete diets did not affect the palatability and DMI. The DCP and TDN intakes (kg/day) were 0.68, 5.20; 0.72, 5.57; and 0.66, 5.24 for T1, T2 and T3 indicating that the values were well above the requirements given by ICAR 1998. The dry matter digestibility co-efficients for T1, T2 and T3 were 69.03, 67.75 and 68.79 respectively. The CP and EE digestibility co-efficients for T1, T2 and T3 were 64.21, 73.78; 59.88, 75.07 and 60.12, 75.24 respectively with no significant difference. The blood was collected at the start of experiment and at the end of experiment and analysed for blood parameters. There was no significant difference (P>0.5) among different treatment groups with regard to total serum protein concentration. The total protein (g/dl) content of the blood was high at the end of the experiment when compared to initial body weights of the animals showing positive nutrition indicating that the complete feeds could able to meet the nutrient requirements of the animals. The Urea concentration was found to be the same in all the three groups both at the start and end of the trial and reduced significantly over a period of 90 days which is indicative of better protein utilization. The serum enzymes AST, LDH, ALP, ALT and LDH were found to be within the normal range indicating no deleterious effect of inclusion of Neem Seed Cake and Karanj cake. The serum cortisol concentration got reduced in all the treatments at the end of the experiment when compared to the start of the experiment indicating that the animals in all the treatments were not in pain or stress. The IGF-I concentrations increased in all the treatments during the course of the experiment which indicate that the animals in all the treatments were in a good nutritional status, good energy balance and body condition score. The milk yield was recorded every fortnight and the milk parameters were studied. The average milk yield and 4% FCM per day during the 90 day lactation trial revealed that total mixed rations containing Neem Seed cake showed significantly higher milk yield compared to T1( control) and T3 (Karanj cake supplementation). Even though all the three rations were iso-nitrogenous the inclusion of Neem seed cake showed better conversion efficiency into milk yield without showing any adverse effect.The average fat yield (g/day) in T1, T2 and T3 were 297.99, 332.60 and 357.52 respectively. The Neem seed cake based TMR showed better milk yield, fat yield, SNF and Total solids than in T1 and T3. There was no significant difference among the treatments with regard to milk protein and density. The total milk production per animal for 90 days trial was found to be more in T2 (672.51 kg) than T1 (581.49) and T3 (531.47kg). The dry matter required per production of 1 kg 4% FCM was less in T2 when compared to T1 and T3. The results obtained in the present investigation suggest that the addition of Neem Seed cake and Karanj cake at 50% replacement of protein content of Soybean meal in complete diets did not show any adverse effect on the animals. Both detoxified Neem Seed Cake and detoxified Karanj Cake can be alternative protein sources and addition of them at higher doses needs to be explored.ThesisItem Open Access MICROBIAL PROTEIN SUPPLY AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF RAM LAMBS FED GROUNDNUT HAULMS BASED COMPLETE RATIONS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF RUMEN DEGRADABLE CRUDE PROTEIN(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY , TIRUPATI – 517502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2013-02) VINOD KUMAR, K; RAVI, A; Alexander, G; Ramana, J VABSTRACT : An attempt was made in the present study to arrive at the optimum RDN g/kg digestible organic matter in dry matter (DOMD) or g/kg digestible organic matter fermented in rumen (DOMR) on groundnut haulms (GNH) based rations for growing ram lambs. Four rations, R1 to R4 were formulated such that the ration R1 contained groundnut haulms + molasses while rations R2 to R4 contained groundnut haulms: concentrates (60:40) such that the rations contained varying levels of RDN with comparable levels of digestible organic matter. The calculated RDN (g/kg) was 8.92, 8.42, 10.18 and 12.05 in R1 to R4, respectively while the DOMD (g/kg) was 585.44, 589.23, 589.66 and 583.61, respectively. The GNH and complete rations were analyzed for chemical composition and fibre factions and were also evaluated for in vitro DM and OM digestibility while the RDN content of the complete rations was estimated using RUSITEC. Further, in a completely randomized design, the rations were evaluated using 6 growing ram lambs in a growth trial of 90 days duration. Mid way through the growth trial, four animals from the respective treatments were shifted to metabolism cages for evaluating the rations for nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, microbial protein synthesis and plane of nutrition. The digestible energy content of the rations was also estimated using PARR bomb calorimeter. The groundnut haulms contained 93.26, 82.18, 11.9, 3.27, 35.75, 17.82 and 31.26 % DM, OM, CP, EE, CF, TA and NFE respectively. The NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin and silica content were 54.88, 35.82, 19.06, 24.84, 7.18 and 3.80 %, respectively. The CP (%) of the complete rations R1 to R4 was 11.35, 10.40, 12.72 and 14.20, respectively while the CF, EE, TA, NDF, ADF, cellulose and lignin content of rations R2 to R4 was lower than in R1. The IVDMD and IVOMD of complete rations were significantly (P < 0.01) higher in R2 to R4 than in R1. The RDN (%) content estimated by RUSITEC was significantly different (P < 0.01) and was in the order of R4 > R3 >R1 > R2. The excretion of the purine derivatives allantoin, uric acid and total purine derivatives was not significantly (P>0.05) different among the treatments, whereas the hypoxanthine+xanthine excretion was higher (P<0.01) in R4 than in other rations. The microbial nitrogen synthesized (MNS g/d) was 5.06, 6.23, 5.47 and 5.91 in rations R1 to R4, respectively was not significant among the treatments. The microbial efficiency (MN g/ kg DOMI) in ram lambs fed R1 to R4 was 9.74, 9.29, 9.99 and 9.89, respectively and there was no significant difference among the treatments. The nitrogen capture efficiency (NCE) of ram lambs fed on complete ration R2 was significantly higher (P<0.05) than in other rations and the values were 0.46, 0.63, 0.37 and 0.33 in R1 to R4, respectively. The purine nitrogen index (PNI) was R1 (0.19), R2 (0.17), R3 (0.12) and R4 (0.09) and was not significantly different among treatment. The digestibility of DM, OM, CP, ADF and Cellulose was not significantly different among treatments while the NDF digestibility was higher (P<0.01) in lambs fed R2 than in other treatments. The nitrogen intake (g/d), N voided in urine (g/d) and total N voided (g/d) was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in R3 or R4 than in R1 and R2 while the nitrogen retention was not significantly different among the rations. The DCP (%) was significantly higher (P<0.01) in R3 or R4 than in R1 and R2 and the values were 5.22 (R1), 5.53 (R2), 7.02 (R3) and 8.43 (R4). The DE (kcal/kg DM) of complete ration R1 to R4 was 2043.61, 2210.67, 2130.45 and 2240.02, respectively and was not significantly different. The DMI g/d was in the increasing order of R2 (1232), R4 (1119), R3 (1038) and R1 (1031) and as percent body weight it ranged from 4.24 to 4.68 and was not significantly different. The plane of nutrition of the ram lambs satisfied the ICAR (1998) requirements for growing lambs. The average daily gain (g) in R2 (112.36), R3 (99.94), R4 (117.44) was higher (P<0.01) than in ram lambs fed on R1 (70.51). The FCR (g DM/g gain) was poor (P<0.01) in R1 than in R2, R3 or R4 fed lambs and the values were 13.48, 10.24, 9.70 and 8.35, respectively. The results of the study indicated that RDN level of 18.70 g/kg DOMD or 23.14 g/kg DOMR (R2) was optimum for efficient microbial protein synthesis in groundnut haulms based complete rations for ram lambs and R2 was better than other rations due to less loss of nitrogen through urine, better digestibility of nutrients, higher ADG and better FCR.ThesisItem Open Access A STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF EXOGENOUS FIBROLYTIC ENZYMES ON RUMINAL FERMENTATION AND DIGESTIBILITY OF TOTAL MIXED RATIONS FED TO BUFFALO BULLS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI – 517 502. (A.P) INDIA, 2013-11) RAJAMMA, KUNDETI; Srinivas Kumar, D(MAJOR); Raghava Rao, E; Narendra Nath, DABSTRACT : In 4 x 4 LSD, four fistulated graded Murrah buffalo bulls (Av.B.W. 361.43 ± 29.41 kg) are randomly allotted to four dietary treatments viz. maize stover based TMR with R: C ratio of 60: 40 (T1), T1 supplemented with EFE @ 15 g/animal/day (T2), maize stover based TMR containing R: C in 70: 30 ratio (T3) and T3 supplemented with EFE @ 15 g/animal/day (T4) were evaluated for their effect on in vitro digestibility, in sacco degradability, rumen fermentation pattern, mineral balances and nutrient utilization in buffalo bulls. The in vitro digestibility (%) of DM, CP, NDF and ADF were higher (P<0.01) in TMR with R: C ratio of 60: 40 (T1) when compared to that with 70: 30 (T3). Further, supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of R: C ratio increased the in vitro digestibility (%) of DM, CP, NDF and ADF. In sacco study revealed that the effective degradabilities of DM, CP, NDF and ADF were higher (P<0.01) in TMR with R: C ratio of 60: 40 (T1) when compared to that with 70: 30 (T3). Further, the % effective degradability of DM, CP, NDF and ADF increased (P<0.01) with the supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of R: C ratio. Rumen fermentation studies conducted in fistulated buffalo bulls revealed that rumen pH values were highest at 0 h and declined to minimum 4 h post feeding while TVFA, NH3-N, and N fractions reached peak at 4 h post feeding and later followed a decreasing trend in all the treatments. The present study indicated that rumen pH was lower (P<0.01) while the concentration of TVFA, NH3-N and N fractions were higher (P<0.01) in T1 when compared to T3. Further, supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of R: C ratio decreased (P<0.01) rumen pH and increased (P<0.01) the concentrations of TVFA, NH3-N and N fractions in buffalo bulls. The digestibility coefficients (%) of DM, OM, CP, EE, NFE, NDF, ADF, hemi-cellulose, cellulose (P>0.05) and CF (P<0.01) were higher in T1 when compared to T3. Further, supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of R: C ratio increased (P<0.01) the digestibility of CP, EE and CF while there was no effect on the digestibilities of other nutrients. All the buffalo bulls were in positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance. The DMI expressed as kg/d or as % BW was similar among the different dietary treatments. The DCP content expressed as % in the diet consumed or kg/d was significantly higher (P<0.01) in buffalo bulls fed T1 compared to those fed T3. Further, supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of R: C ratio increased (P<0.01) the DCP content expressed as % in the diet consumed or kg/d. However, the TDN content expressed as % in the diet consumed or kg/d was not affected either by the R: C ratio or by supplementation of EFE in the TMR. Furthermore, the DM, DCP, TDN, ME intakes per kg W0.75 were similar among the dietary treatments. Similarly, the DCP: ME ratio was comparable among the four dietary treatments. Based on the present study, it is concluded that maize stover can be incorporated in TMRs with R: C ratio of either 60: 40 or 70: 30 and can be fed to buffalo bulls without any adverse effects. Further, in vitro and in sacco studies conducted indicated that supplementation of EFE in TMRs with R: C ratio of either 60: 40 or 70: 30 resulted in improved digestibility of nutrients. Similarly, in vivo studies conducted in buffalo bulls revealed improved rumen fermentation pattern and digestibility of CP, EE and CF with supplementation of EFE in TMRs irrespective of the R: C ratio.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF DIETARY INCLUSION OF SUN DRIED AZOLLA (Azolla pinnata) WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION ON PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAIL(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI – 517 502. (A.P) INDIA, 2013-10) ANIL, PARASELLI; RAGHAVA RAO, E (Major); SRINIVAS KUMAR, D; Narendra Nath, DABSTRACT: The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of inclusion of sun dried azolla (Azolla pinnata) with or without enzyme supplementation on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, serum biochemical profile and nutrient utilization of Japanese quails. One hundred and eighty, day old Japanese quail chicks distributed randomly to six dietary groups each with three replicates of ten quails were offered a basal diet containing 24% CP and 2800 kcal/kg ME. Sun dried azolla (SDA) was included in the basal diet at 0, 5 and 10% level without (T1, T3 and T5) and with (T2, T4 and T6) enzyme supplementation. All the rations were made iso-caloric and iso- nitrogenous. The SDA contained 23.2% CP (on DMB), and 12.62% CF. Results indicated that the body weight gain and feed efficiency decreased (P<0.05) while feed intake increased (P<0.05) with increased level of SDA from 0 to 10% in the diet. Inclusion of SDA with or without enzyme supplementation in the diet of quails has no affect on serum total protein, albumin and globulin content. The serum glucose and serum total cholesterol levels decreased (P<0.05) while the serum triglyceride levels increased (P<0.05) with increased levels of SDA inclusion in the diet from 0 to 10%. Further, enzyme supplementation has increased (P<0.05) the serum triglyceride concentration in birds compared to those fed without enzyme. The HDL and LDL cholesterol values decreased (P<0.05) while VLDL cholesterol values increased (P<0.05) with increased level of inclusion of SDA from 0 to 10 % in the diet. Enzyme supplementation has no affect on the concentration of HDL cholesterol while it increased (P<0.05) the level of LDL and VLDL cholesterol in serum. Inclusion of azolla at different levels in the diet of quails with or without enzyme supplementation had no affect on serum calcium and phosphorous content. The digestibility of CP, CF, NFE, NDF, ADF, hemi-cellulose and cellulose decreased (P<0.05) with increased level of SDA inclusion from 0 to 10% in the diet. Enzyme supplementation in the diet has no effect on the digestibility of proximate constituents and cell wall constituents. The per cent nitrogen utilization decreased (P<0.05) with increase of SDA inclusion in the diet from 0 to 10% while there was no affect on calcium and phosphorous utilization. Inclusion of azolla with and without enzyme supplementation in quail diets has no effect on carcass yield (g), ready to cook yield (g) and on per cent weight of heart, liver, gizzard and giblet. The feed cost /kg gain was reduced by 2.23 and 3.78 in birds fed on diets containing 5 and 10% SDA than diets without SDA inclusion. However, enzyme supplementation has not affected the feed cost /kg gain. The present study indicated that SDA can be included up to 5 % level in quail diets as an unconventional feed supplement to reduce cost of production without any effect on production performance.