Effect of paddy straw particle size on carcass characteristics of lambs fed complete diets

Effect of particle size of paddy straw based complete diets on carcass characteristics of lambs were assessed. Ground paddy straw of 8, 12 and 16 mm particle size was incorporated (35%) in three complete diets 8PS, 12PS and 16PS, respectively which were compared with a conventional diet (concentrate mixture and roughage fed separately). Thirty-two growing Deccani lambs (3–5 months of age) were randomly divided into four equal groups of eight and fed one of the four diets for 180 days. Dressing percentage was higher (P<0.01) on complete diet 8PS (54.48) followed by 16PS (52.66) and 12PS (49.51), compared to conventional diet (46.49). The bone meat ratio and non-edible edible ratios of the carcass from lambs fed complete diet 8PS were higher than those fed complete diets 16PS and 12PS. The moisture, fat and ash content of Longissimus dorsi muscle of carcass of lambs fed either of the complete diet were similar to that of conventional diet fed lambs, while the protein content was higher (P<0.01) in complete diet 8PS. There was no significant (P<0.05) difference among four groups with respect to any of wholesale cuts. The cost of feed per kg edible meat was higher (Rs.89.15) in conventional diet fed lambs as compared to complete diets. Among the complete diets the cost of feed (Rs) per kg edible meat was lower (P<0.01) in 8PS diet (65.10) fed to lambs followed by 16PS (71.18) and 12PS (81.26). The result of this study indicated that ground paddy straw incorporated in complete diets improved the carcass characteristics compared to conventional diet. Among the complete diets, the diet containing 8mm ground paddy straw was better for obtaining higher dressing percentage and edible meat with reduced cost of production in lambs.