Graded levels of jowar straw and groundnut haulms as the sole feed in gir bullocks

Castrated Gir bullocks (6; 4.5±0.4 yr old of 276.7±13.6 kg BW) were offered Jowar straw and groundnut haulms mixed either in 100:0 (JS100) 80:20 (JS80), 70:30 (JS70) or 60:40 (JS60) in a switch over design for 30 days as sole feed. The DMI (kg/day) improved (P<0.05) linearity with the increase in level of GH in the diet, percent DMI however was not affected. Similar trend was observed in DCP and TDN intakes. Nutrient digestibility improved (P<0.01) in JS60and JS70 groups compared to sole feeding of Jowar straw or JS80 supplementation with groundnut haulms. Experimental animals were under negative N, P and Ca balances in JS100 and JS80 groups and balances were positive in JS70 and JS60 groups. However, the cost of feeding/d was higher (P<0.01) under JS70and JS60 groups. Body weight gain/loss (kg) was: -5.33 (JS100), -2.3 (JS80), 3.3 (JS70) and 10.3 (JS60) significantly (P<0.01) different among different treatment groups. Overall results indicated that Jowar straw fortified with 30 or 40% of groundnut haulms as sole feed will maintain bullocks.