Evaluation of Red Gram and Bengal Gram Straw Based Pelleted Complete Diets in Goats

A study was conducted to evaluate red gram and Bengal gram straw based pelleted complete feed. Twenty four Bidri goats (3–4 months old), distributed to four groups consisting three males and three females each, were fed with complete diets containing crude protein and total digestible nutrients of 15.46 and 60.57 (A); 15.58 and 60.37 (B); 17.75 and 65.43 (C) and 17.76 and 65.78 (D) per cent, respectively. Twenty four weeks feeding trial revealed non-significant difference in body weight gain among different groups, however with significantly (P<0.01) higher dry matter intake/100kg body weight in groups C and D. The variation for digestibility of proximate principles and TDN, DCP and ME intake were non-significant among the groups. Forage fiber fractions were well utilized in groups C and D. All the four groups showed positive nutrient balances. Significantly (P<0.01) lower production of total VFAs in groups A and C was observed. Diets C and D were found to be economical because of higher cost benefit ratio. It can be concluded that complete diet C (17.75% CP and 65.43% TDN) and D (17.67% CP and 65.78% TDN) with 50:50 concentrate to roughage ratio can be used for economic chevon production.