Abstract :

T

he study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding graded levels of dried Acacia saligna leaves (ALH) on the performance response and some blood parameters of pregnant Barki ewes during late pregnancy. Ten ewes aged 3-5 years old at the last third of pregnancy in each group (38.0±1.2 kg body weight) were fed with 0, 20, 40 and 60% of ALH as berseem hay replacement in a completely randomize design for 75 days. The results showed non-significant differences in daily DM intake and digestibility coefficients for DM, OM, CP, EE, NFE and cellulose. Diets of 40% and 60% ALH showed higher (P<0.05) CF digestibility comparing to 20% ALH and control diets. The highest (P<0.05) NB was recorded for ewes fed 60% followed by 40% ALH. Pregnant ewes fed 60% ALH diet recorded the highest (P<0.05) body weight gain (Kg) and daily gain (g/day) and the lowest (P<0.05) weight loss at lambing. Birth weight of lambs were not significantly affected. Blood urea concentrations were decreased (P<0.05) with increased percentage of ALH inclusion instead of berseem hay. The results of this study revealed that inclusion of dried Acacia saligna leaves up to 60% instead of dietary berseem hay could be best for improving nutrient utilization and ewe’s performance during late pregnancy stage.

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