EFFECT OF REPLACEMENT OF CONCENTRATE MIXTURE BY MULBERRY LEAVES (Morus indica var. suzanpur) ON NUTRIENT UTILIZATION IN GOATS

Mulberry leaves were analyzed for chemical composition, in vitro dry matter and organic matter digestibilities (IVDMD and IVOMD). Best results were obtained at 75% replacement of concentrate by mulberry leaves in IVDMD and IVOMD. Twelve healthy local adult male goats (13 +/- 1 month age) were divided into two comparable groups on the basis of their body weight in a completely randomized design. The control group was fed mixed ration (concentrate: wheat straw in 40: 60 ratio) whereas in experimental group 75% concentrate mixture was replaced by mulberry leaves. There was no significant difference in dry matter, organic matter from concentrate and wheat straw intake between the two groups. The digestibility of various nutrients was statistically unaffected by the two dietary treatments, except ether extract, nitrogen free extract (lower) and acid detergent fiber digestibility (higher) in treatment group. There was positive balance of nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus in goats of both the groups. It is concluded that mulberry leaves can replace 75% concentrate mixture on wheat straw based diet in adult goats without any adverse effect on nutrient intake, digestibility of nutrients.