Productive Performance of Barki Ewes Fed Mixtures of Salt Tolerant Plants With Protected Fat or Yeast Under Desert Conditions

Abstract

Thirty Barki ewes were randomly distributed into three equal groups to investigate the impact of feeding a mixture of salt tolerant plants (MSTP) with addition the protected fat (PF) or yeast (Y) on productive performance of Barki ewes. Ewes were fed one of the following experimental rations: Group1: Berseem hay (BH) + (CFM) without any feed additives as a control, Group 2 and 3: A mixture of salt tolerant plants (MSTP) composed of 50% Atriplex nummularia and 50 % Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) + CFM with 30 gm protected fat or five gm yeast/h/d, respectively. The results in the palatability trial showed that rations contained MSHP recorded lower feed intake values than the control group (BH). Values of dry matter intakes indicated insignificant differences among groups. Water metabolism criteria demonstrate that, the tested feed additives (PF or Y) had no effect on daily water utilization. Ruminal pH and some blood measurements were within physiological and healthy ranges. Body weight of ewes in the present study were in the normal range of Barki ewes under similar conditions. Results of milk yield showed insignificant differences among groups. Lambs performance (Birth and weaning weights) didn't exhibit any significant difference among different experimental groups. The better feed conversion as Kg DM intake/L milk yield was recorded for ewes maintained on (MSTP+PF) in comparison with BH group. Economic efficiency of experimental rations was almost similar among groups.