Feed Intake, Utilization and Growth of Camels Maintained on all Roughage or Complete Ration

Voluntary nutrient intake and mineral utilization was compared in two groups of camel calves (3.0 years, 340–390 kg b.wt.) given mixed ration (MR) consisting of groundnut haulms, khejri (75:25) leaves and complete ration (CR) consisting of groundnut haulms, dry khejri leaves, wheat straw and concentrate in the ratio of 32:25:30:13. The average daily gain and feed/efficiency ratio were 318,432 g and 22.41,16.76 in MR and CR respectively in 92 days feeding trial. The DM! and apparent digestibility of OM, CP and EE were higher (P<0.05) in CR group than in MR. The DCP and TDN intake of group MR and CR were 3.45, 46.33 g and 5.37, 48.59 g/kg W0.⁷⁵/d respectively; DCPintake being ssgnificantly higher in CR group. The absorption of Na, Ca, P and Mg were also higher (P<0.05) in CR. Serum biochemical and electrolyte profile were similar between 2 groups. It is concluded that feeding of complete ration improved nutrient intake, digestibility and mineral absorption in camel calves although higher cost of feeding was involved.