Evaluation and Utilization of Rumen Content for Fattening of Nili- Ravi Male Calves

A metabolic trial was conducted at Buffalo Research Institute, Pattoki, in which 25 male buffalo calves were fed the diets having total mixed ration (100%TMR) (Tc), 70%TMR with 30% silage1 (T1), 70% TMR plus 30% silage2 (T2), 70%TMR with 30% silage3 (T3), and70% TMR plus 30% silage4 (T4). The data thus obtained was statistically analyzed using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Among the treatments containing ensiled rumen contents without molasses, feed efficiency was significantly (P<0.05) more efficient than those silages which were ensiled along with molasses. However, the DM intake was significantly (P<0.05) higher in control group and silage treated with molasses and urea. When means were compared there were significant differences among all treatments for DM intake and feed efficiency. Comparatively efficient TMR (1&3) are those which formulated with those silages (silage1&3) which do not contain molasses. TMR1 is the most economical and the best efficient TMR which is formulated with silage1 (containing just rumen content and wheat straw 50:50 without any treatment of urea and molasses). Even TMR formulated with silage1 is more efficient than control TMR and it also economical as compare to control TMR. It was concluded that rumen contents could replace 50% of conventional TMR without any adverse effects on health of buffalo calves.