Effect of Supplementation of Probiotics in Paddy Straw Based Complete Ration on Performance and Economics of Feeding in Lambs

Twelve male Corriedale lambs (3–4 months old) were divided in 2 groups of 6 lambs each to study the effect of addition of probiotics in paddy straw based complete feeds on growth and nutrient utilisation. A complete feed was prepared using paddy straw and concentrate mixture in 50: 50 ratio. In probiotics group, probiotics (Saccharomyces cerevisiae 2×10¹⁰ cfu/g + Lactobacillus acidophilus 6×10⁹ cfu/g) was given @ 3% of dietary DM. The values for DMI, gain in body weight, body length, chest girth, feed conversion ratio, digestibility of nutrients (DM, OM, CP, CF, NFE, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose and cellulose), balances of N, Ca and P, contents of DCP, TDN, DE and ME in the ratiom were higher (P<0.01) in probiotics supplemented group compared to control one. The feed cost per kg live weight gain was lower (P<0.01) in probiotics supplemented group. Hence, probiotocs supplementation @ 3% in the rations of lambs improved DM intake, growth, nutrient utilisation and economics of feeding.