Effect of fibrolytic enzyme supplementation on growth performance and nutrient utilization in Surti goat kids fed legume straw-based diet

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of exogenous fibrolytic enzyme (EFE) supplementation on growth and nutrient utilization in Surti goat kids for a period of 90 days. Eighteen kids (4 to 5 months of age, 7.41±0.61 body weight) were allotted to three treatments (6 each), as control (T1) and supplemented (T2 and T3). The kids were fed roughages comprising green Napier hybrid and dry legume straws (Pigeon pea, Cajanus cajan) with required amount of concentrate to fulfil the nutrient requirements. Supplementation of EFE was carried out in T2 and T3 @ 1.0 lakh and 1.5 lakh IU each of cellulase and xylanase per kg dry matter intake per animal per day, respectively. Nutrient intake was comparable; however the nutrient digestibilities of nutrients and fibre fractions were improved (p<0.05) on enzyme supplementation. Nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus was positively balanced; however levels were similar (p>0.05) among the treatments. Total body weight gain, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio was significantly (p<0.05) improved in T2 and T3. Increase (p<0.01) in the concentrations of total volatile fatty acids, total N and trichloroacetic acid precipitable nitrogen was observed on enzyme supplementation. Blood biochemical characters showed an increase in glucose and total protein values with decrease in serum urea level in T2 and T3, while triglycerides and cholesterol were comparable. Daily feed cost was higher (p<0.05) on supplementation but economic efficiency (Rs./kg gain) was not affected. Thus, it was concluded that supplementation of EFE improved the digestibility of nutrients, growth and feed conversion ratio without affecting feed intake and economics of feeding.