Effect of replacement of maize grain with broken rice and sorghum grain in complete feed of Nellore rams

A study was conducted to assess the effect of replacement of maize with broken rice and sorghum grains on nutrient intake, rumen fermentation and mineral balance in rams. Three complete feeds were formulated using maize grain (CFMG), broken rice (CFBR) and sorghum (CFSG) along with sorghum stover as roughage in 50:50 (C:R). Eighteen Nellore rams were randomly divided into 3 groups of 6 each and fed CFMG, CFBR and CFSG, respectively for 90 days as per maintenance requirements. Dry matter, organic matter and crude protein digestibility were significantly higher (P<0.01) in CFSG (61.55 ±0.13, 62.92 ±0.34 and 68.26±1.07%) while, ether extract digestibility was higher in CFMG (65.80±0.24%). Dry matter intake (g/d) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in CFSG (767.45±6.52g/d) followed by CFBR (744.60±17.27g/d) and CFMG (724.59±6.50g/d). Digestible crude protein (DCP) intake was significantly (P<0.01) higher in CFSG (60.01±1.20g/d). Nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balances were similar among the groups. Significantly (P<0.05) higher ammonia nitrogen and lower total volatile fatty acids were observed in CFMG (32.87±0.18 mg/dl and 7.19±0.05 mmol/100ml) than CFBG (31.63±0.19 mg/dl and 7.66±0.05 mmol/100ml) and CFSG (31.88±0.38mg/dl and 7.74±0.05 mmol/100ml). Body weight gains of rams in 90 days period in CFMG, CFBG and CFSG were 3.22, 4.01 and 4.34 kg respectively and significantly higher in CFSG than control and the other two treatments. It was concluded that broken rice or sorghum can be used as suitable substitute for maize grain in the complete feed of rams.