Effect of different levels of azolla (Azolla pinnata) incorporation in pelleted complete feed on growth performance of camel calves

Fifteen healthy camel calves of nearly similar age (2–2 ½ year), body weight and uniform conformation were selected and distributed randomly into three treatments viz., T₁ (control), T₂ (2% Azolla incorporation), T₃ (4% Azolla incorporation). All the pelleted complete feeds formulated for various treatment groups were prepared iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric with concentrate to roughage ratio 60: 40 with Azolla incorporation. Feeding trial was carried out for period of 60 days. There was no significant difference in DM Intake and digestibility of nutrients. Average body weight and body weight gain were similar in different treatment groups. The average daily live gain (ADG) was significantly (P≤0.05) higher in the treatment group than in control group. It could be concluded that non conventional feed resource i.e. Azolla can be utilised successfully in the feeding of camel calves by blending with other reliable ingredients in the form of pelleted complete feed. Feeding of Azolla to camel calves improve growth performance and feed conversion efficiency without affecting the feed intake and nutrient digestibility.