Influence of Leucaena Leaf Meal (LLM) Feeding on Growth and Thyroid Hormonal Profile of Goat Kids

Sixteen crossbred kids (Sannen x Alpine x Beetal) or similar age and body weight were divided into four equal groups using randomized block design. Leucaena Leaf Meal was incorporated at 0, 25, 50 and 75 per cent levels in concentrate mixture of groups I to IV, respectively, thereby replacing groundnut meal partly or completely from the diets. Lucerne was fed ad libitum along with concentrate to meet the protein and energy requirements during 180 d experimental period. Body weights and jugular blood samples were taken from the kids twice amonth. The mimosine intake through LLM increased with increasing proportions of concentrate in goat kids and the average values were 0.11, 0.22 and 0.39 g/kg body weight/day in Groups II to IV, respectively. Feeding of LLM upto75 per cent in concentrate did not influence the body weight significantly as compared to control diet. The plasma T, level was not influenced by inclusion of different levels of LLM in concentrate mixture. Plasma T^ level in groups III and IV Was higher (P<0.01) than either group I or II. It was concluded that groundnut meal can be safely replaced by using LLM in concentrate mixture of kids without adverse effects on the general health, live weight gain and thyroid function.