Growth Performance and Feed Conversion Efficiency of Crossbred Heifers

Abstract

Theexperiment was conducted to investigate the growth performance and feed conversion efficiency of crossbred heifer at different age level in Government Dairy Farm in Bogra, Bangladesh. Twelve female crossbred heifers were equally distributed (n=3) into four groups [Group A: (7±2 months), B: (12±2 months), C: (15±2 months) and D: (20±2 months)] according to age and fed concentrate mix, rice straw and Napier grass at the rate of 2% of live weight. Napier grass and rice straw were offered at the ratio of 1:1. The concentrate mixture was provided at the rate of 1% of their body weight. It was found that dry matter content was higher in concentrate mix and rice straw and lower in Napier grass. Organic matter content was higher in Napier grass than that of concentrate and rice straw. Crude fiber concentration was higher in rice straw than that of concentrate and Napier grass. Intake of dry matter and organic matter differed significantly among the treatment groups. Crude protein intake was higher in C group heifer than other groups. Intake of crude fiber was higher in C group followed by B, D and A group. The final live weight was higher in D group than C, B and A group. Unit feed dry matter intake was higher with the advancement of age, being lowest in younger group. The heifers of D group showed higher value of feed conversion efficiency followed by C, B and A group respectively and concluded 20 ± 2 months of heifer is more economical than the other ages.