Relative effect of feeding urea supplemented and ammoniated wheat straw of different particle size on the passage rate, particle break down rate and digestibility in sheep

摘要

Effect of feeding urea-supplemented wheat straw (3 in), ammoniated wheat straw (3 in) and ammoniated wheat straw (1/4 in mesh size) on the digestibility, passage rate and particle break down rate was studied in 9 sheep, in 2 periods, divided equallyinto 3 groups. Passage rate and particle breakdown rate were estimated using Yb- and Er-labelled cell wall as marker, respectively. While digestibility of DM and organic matter was higher in sheep fed ammoniated 3-in wheat straw, passage rate and particle break down rate were higher in groups fed ammoniated wheat straw of 1/4-in mesh size. It is concluded that feeding 3% ammoniated 3-in wheat straw is nutritionally beneficial for sheep.