EFFECT OF FEEDING UREA-RICE STRAW PRODUCT (USP) ON THE GROWTH OF BUFFALO CALVES

The urea-straw product (USP) prepared in bulk replaced 0, 20, 40 and 60% GNC (w/w) in the isonitrogenous concentrate mixtures. A comparative growth trial of 150 days was conducted on 20 male buffalo calves (8-10 months old) divided into 4 equal groups. The daily dry-matter intake, digestibility of nutrients, N-retention and ME availability were comparable in the control and USP groups. The average daily live-weight gain decreased (nonsignificant) with the increasing level of USP in the ration. The best feed conversion ratio, energy and crude protein intake/kg gain at USP were also economical. The metabolism and growth studies revealed that USP can replace GNC up to 40% in the ration of ruminants efficiently and economically.