Impact of intensive nutrition and management on growth performances of dorset nilagiri crossbreds lambs (DORNI) Kumar R. Anil1,*, Krishnakumar S.2, Thavasiappan V.2 Sheep Breeding Research Station, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS)Sandynallah, The Nilgiris - 643237 (Tamil Nadu) 1Professor/Head Sheep Breeding Research Station, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS)Sandynallah, The Nilgiris - 643237 (Tamil Nadu) 2Assistant Professor Sheep Breeding Research Station, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS)Sandynallah, The Nilgiris - 643237 (Tamil Nadu) *Corresponding author. E-mail: ootyanilmini@gmail.com
Online Published on 20 April, 2022. Abstract Suitability of Dorset Nilagiri crossbred lambs for intensive system of management was evaluated. Thirty-six (36) Dorset Nilagiri crossbred lambs were randomly allotted to two groups of 18 lambs (9 ram and ewe lambs) each with group A under intensive and group B under semi intensive system of management. Lambs under intensive and semi intensive system of management were provided with 200 and 150 grams concentrate per day per animal from three to six months, 300 and 200 grams per day per animal from six to 12 months respectively. The Hogget, nine months and yearling weight (17.10±0.59, 23.99±0.68 and 27.83±0.63 vs. 14.51±0.59, 18.36±0.68 and 20.60±0.63 kg) were significantly higher (P<0.01) in group A lambs. Lambs from group A, had significantly (P<0.01) higher overall body weight gain and ADG (15.99±0.36 kg and 59.31±1.30 g) than lambs from group B (9.25±0.36 kg and 34.17±1.30 g). Among the three stages, the ADG highest during 6–9 months in Group A ewe lambs (87.17±4.76 g). Significant reduction in ADG was observed during 9–12 months. Wool yield was significantly higher in group A lambs. Top Keywords Dorset Nilagiri, Growth rate, Intensive management, Lamb, Nutrition. Top |