Corn-based or high linoleic acid flushing increases productivity of Morada Nova and Brazilian Somalis ewes

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare the corn-based (FLU), high linoleic acid flushings(LAF), and a control treatment (un-supplemented, CON); two genetic groups: Morada Nova (MN) and Brazilian Somalis (BS), on the productive and reproductive performance of ewes and their lambs. A total of 156 non-pregnant ewes were supplemented three weeks before and after the breeding season. Supplementation with either FLU or LAF increased ewe body condition score (BCS) at the beginning of the breeding season and at lambing compared to CON. The BS ewes had greater body weights at the supplementation end, and BCS both at the supplementation start, and at lambing compared to MN. Similarly, ewes with three lambs per birth had greater BCS at the beginning of supplementation. They also had greater weights at the beginning of the breeding season and at lambing. Both FLU and LAF increased total lamb weight from 56 to 105 days of age compared to CON. The BS ewes had decreased prolificity and produced lower total weight of lambs at lambing, but greater 84 and 105 days after birth compared to MN. Total lamb weight at birth was greater for ewes that lambed three, followed by two and then one lamb per birth. In conclusion, the high linoleic acid and high corn supplementation increase body condition score of ewes form breeding season to lambing and enhance lamb performance after 56 days of age. Although Morada Nova ewes increased prolificacy, their lambs were lighter after they reached 84 days of age.