Effect of feeding compressed complete feed block with or without deoiled mahua seed cake on methane production and energy utilization in crossbred calves

Abstract

This experiment was conducted to study the effect of feeding compressed complete feed block (CCFB) containing 5% de-oiled mahua seed cake (DMSC) on methane production and energy utilization in crossbred calves. Twelve male growing crossbred calves were randomly distributed into two groups of six each. The animals of control group were fed CCFB without DMSC, whereas, those in treatment group were fed CCFB containing 5% DMSC. Average daily dry matter intake (DMI) was similar between the groups. Total methane production and relative methane production (l/kg DMI and l/kg DMD) was lower in treatment group as compared to control group. Total energy intake, energy lost in faeces, urine, methane and heat production were similar between the groups. Thus, it can be concluded that the feeding of CCFB containing 5% DMSC can reduce the in vivo methane production in crossbred cattle without any adverse impact on energy utilization.