Influence of the Type of Energy Supplementation (date stones vs Barley) on Fattening Performances and Carcass Characteristics of Fattening Berber Lambs

Abstract

When local resources are available, their promotion in the feed of growing animals may reduce production costs and secure the fattening system. However, maintaining zootechnical performances remains a precondition. An experiment was carried out on four groups of ten lambs. Each animal received isoproteinic rations containing date stones as substitutes for barley grains in variable proportions at the rate of 0, 15, 30 and 45% of the dry matter. The rations were distributed ad libitum by adjusting the quantities offered. The diet had a significant effect on weight performances (P < 0.01) and daily feed intake (P < 0.001). The mean daily weight gains increased and consumption indices decreased with the rate of date stone incorporation. The diet effect was also significant for the carcass yield, but not for the fat cover (P > 0.05). Date stones can entirely substitute barley grains in rations of fattening sheep without affecting its performances.