Feed Intake and Nutrient Utilization in Bhadawari Buffaloes Fed Sorghum, Grass and Stylosanthes Hays

Eighteen lactating Bhadawari buffaloes (mean body weight 379.1± 13.27 kg, milk yield 3.97±0.41kg) were distributed in 3 dietary groups of 6 animals each and offered sorghum (G₁), grass (G₂) and stylosanthes hay (G₃), respectively; along with 3 kg wheat straw and 2 kg concentrate mixture. DMI from sorghum hay (G₁) was (P<0.05) higher than other hays but total as DMI (% body weight) was comparable among the groups and ranged from 2.66 to 2.78. CP digestibility was (P<0.05) higher in G₃ (55.92) than G₁ (47.16) than G₂ (37.37%). NDF, ADF, cellulose and hemicellulose digestibility differed (P<0.05) across the dietary groups. Total N intake was (P<0.05) higher in G₃ (174.05) followed by G₁ (111.20) and G₂ (105.73 g/day). Nitrogen balance was highest (P<0.05) in G₃ (73.58) than G₁ (38.75) and G₂ (22.68 g/day). The DCP and TDN contents were significantly (P<0.05) higher in G₃ (5.89 and 63.75) than G₁ (3.12 and 58.10) and G₂ (2.42 and 57.97%), respectively. Results indicated that stylosanthes hay diet had higher CP, NDF and ADF digestibility and supplied more nutrients (DCP and TDN) to animals.