Effect of partial substitution of a commercial concentrate feed mixture crude protein by hydroponic barley fodder in diets of APRI rabbits on : 2-growth performance, slaughter and carcass traits, meat composition and economic efficiency

الملخص EN

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of partial substitution of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) diet by hydroponic sprouted barley grains in diets of growing APRI rabbits on their productive performance and carcass traits.

A total number of 40 male weaned rabbits at 6 weeks of age, were used in four tested groups (10 rabbits each) during feeding period from 6 to 12 weeks of age.

Rabbits in the 1st group were fed concentrate feed mixture (CFM) served as control (D1).

While, in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th groups, 20, 40 and 60 % of CFM-Crude protein (CP) was replaced by hydroponic barley grains (HB-CP) and will be referred to as D2, D3 and D4 diets, respectively.

The main results indicated that group fed D1had the highest significant values (P < 0.05) of average total and daily gain, relative growth rate (%), performance index, compared with those fed HB diets.

The lowest significant values for previous parameter (P < 0.05) were recorded for D4.

The percentage of dressing, liver, lung and the relative weight of intestine did not significantly differ among tested groups.

Feeding HB diets caused improving in CP content and reducing EE content of rabbit meat, compared with control group.

The highest value of economic efficiency of feeding (%) (E.E.F) was recoded in D1 followed by D3 then D2, while the lowest value was recorded in D4.