Influence of feeding urea ammoniated sugarcane bagasse pith on growth performance and nutrient utilization in crossbred bulls

Adult 12 crossbred bulls of about 17–18 months of age and 242.0 ± 5.25 kg mean body wt. were randomly divided into 2 groups of 6 each following RBD. In group 1 animals were fed a complete ration consisting of 50% wheat straw and 50% concentrate feed were formulated. In group 2 wheat straw was completely replaced by urea ammoniated sugarcane bagasse pith. Both complete feeds were iso-nitrogenous. Experimental feeding was continued for 120 days including a 6-day metabolic trial. Dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) intake was similar in both groups, while digestibility of DM and OM was significantly higher in group 1 as compared to group 2. Intake of crude protein was also similar in groups 1 and 2. Total nitrogen intake and balances was similar in groups 1 and 2. Ca intake (g/day) was higher in group 1 as compared to group 2, balance of Ca was found positive and significantly similar in group 1 and 2, respectively. Intake of DCP and TDN was comparable in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Total dry matter intake (kg) during the entire experimental period of 120 days showed significantly different between 2 groups. Average daily gain (g) was significantly higher in group 1 as compared to group 2. It is concluded that wheat straw can be replaced by urea ammoniated sugarcane bagasse pith in the complete diet of crossbred bulls as source of dry roughage