Growth, nutrient utilization and serum profile in camel calves as affected by dietary protein levels

Effect of three dietary protein lev els on the nutrient utilization, growth performance and serum profile of camel calves was studied for 367 days. Fourteen healthy male camel calves of Bikaneri, Kutchchi and Jaisalmeri breeds (age 15 months; 291.00±7.64 kg b. wt.) were randomly allotted to 3 groups, 5 calves each in group I and II and 4 in group III and fed isocaloric feed blocks containing 9.50, 12.00 and 14.50% CP. The dry matter intake (DMI) was 1.48+0.09, 1.55±0.02 and 1.38±0.05 Kg/100 Kg Bh in groups I, II and III, respectively. Digestibility of DM, OM, EE, and CF did not vary significantly among the groups. CP digestibility increased (P<0.05) from group I to groups II and III due to higher dietary protein level. NFE digestibility was decreased (P<0.01) from group I to groups II and III due to change in ratio of energy and protein in the diet. Daily DCP intake/kg W0.75 was similar in groups II and III but significantly (P<0.05) higher than in group I, however, TDN intake was statistically similar among the groups. The average growth rates in groups I, II and III were 0.349±0.02, 0.381±0.02, and 0.392±0.01 kg/d, respectively. Feed conversion efficiency (kg DM intake/kg body weight gain) was highest in group III (15.35) followed by group II (15.76) and lowest in group I (16.80), however, variation among groups was not significant. Serum GPT, glucose, total glycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, calcium and phosphorus levels did not vary among the groups, however, variations for GOT and chlorides level were significant (P<0.05). It is concluded that camel calves fed on diet containing 14.04% CP and 63.43% TDN exhibited better growth rate and feed conversion efficiency.