Effect of Processing on the Utilization of Sorghum Straw in Sheep Rations

Adult Deccani rams were fed on rations consisting differently processed sorghum straw viz. chopped (R₁), water soaked (R₂), ground (R₃) and pelleted (R₄) In a 4x4 Latin Square design. DM consumption was higher (P<0.01) with R, and R₄ as compared to R₁ and R₃. Pelleting of the straw increased nutrients digestibility than other processing methods. The digestion coefficients of DM, CF and NFE were higher (P<0.01) on R than on R, R and Rr Similar pattern was recorded for intakes of DM, DCP and TDN. Nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balances were positive on all rations. These results indicated that pelleting of mash rations improved the palatability, digestibility and availability of nutrients.