Effect of Graded Levels of Phalaris minor Seeds on the Nutrient Utilization in Buffaloes

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Phalaris minor (Gulli danda) seeds on nutrient utilization in buffaloes. Male Murrah buffaloes (20; 421.4±9.40 kg BW) divided into 5 equal groups were offered isonitrogenous and isocaloric concentrate mixtures containing 0, 30, 40, 50, and 60 per cent P. minor seeds. The concentrate mixtures were supplemented with naturally fermented urea wheat straw (FWS) in 40:60 ratio. Simultaneously, each diet was fed to 3-rumen fistulated male buffaloes to assess the effect of P. minor seeds on the biochemical changes in the rumen. The incorporation ofP. minor upto 60% in the concentrate mixture did not have any adverse effect on DM intake, palatability, digestibility of DM, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, rumen pH and TVFA concentration. However, the digestibility of OM and cellulose, NPN-content in SRL and ME availability were depressed (P<0.05) beyond 50% level of incorporation. The serum proteins, albumin, globulin, uric acid and cholesterol level were not affected by feedingP. minor. The blood glucose, urea and triglyceride concentration was higher (P<0.05) in P. minor fed group as compared to control. It was concluded that P. minor seeds could be safely incorporated in the concentrate mixture upto 50% level without any deleterious effect on nutrient utilization or health of buffaloes. Moreover, keeping in view the cost of cereal grains especially wheat vs P. minor seeds (Rs.1200/Q vs Rs.800/Q), the feeding of animals can be economized by incorporatingP. minor seeds in the diet.