Journal of Biology and Nature

An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of system of rearing (pasture-fed vs. stall-fed) on the growth performance in Tellicherry crossbred goats. A six-month feeding trial was carried out in Livestock Farm Complex, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai-51. Eighteen goats between the age of 6-8 months were randomly divided into two groups (pasture fed and stall fed). Pasture fed goats were allowed to graze in cultivated pasture for 7 hours per day, whereas stall fed goats fed with ad libitum hybrid Napier grass and concentrate feed fed at rate of 1.5% of body weight. Nutritive value of cultivated pasture, hybrid Napier grass and concentrate feed were analyzed. Body weight of the goats was recorded fortnightly. Feed intake and Feed conversion ratio was recorded and calculated respectively. Blood parameters at the end of the trial were analyzed. The results indicated that stall fed group goats had significantly (P<0.05) higher final body weight and weight gain when compare to pasture fed goats. Significantly (P<0.05) higher dry matter intake noticed in stall fed group. The Stall-fed group goats had significantly higher (P<0.05) RBC, HGB and PCV/HCT levels when compare to pasture fed goats. Haematological improvements link to balanced minerals in formulated feeds. Cost per kg live weight gain was higher in stall fed goats. Based on the present findings, quality pasture plays a major role in economic and sustainable goat production. Hence, pasture system of goat rearing may be recommended for Tellicherry crossbred goats.