Reproductive and Productive Efficiency of Baladi Goats Fed on Azolla pinnata as an Alternative Source of Ration Protein in South Sinai, Egypt

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of feeding Azolla pinnata as source of ration protein on reproductive and productive performance as well as blood biochemical parameters of Baladi goat under South Sinai conditions, Egypt. A total number of 45 healthy Baladi goats, with an average weight of 28.65 ± 1.35 kg, were randomly assigned to three experimental groups. The 1st group served as control (G1); does fed on ration contain soya bean as a source of ration protein. The 2nd group (G2); does fed on the same ration with the Azolla pinnata replaced by 50 % soya bean. While the 3rd group (G3); does fed on the same ration, with the Azolla pinnata replaced by 100 % soya bean. Results indicated that no significant differences among groups in conception and kidding rates which recorded 100 % in control and G3 and 93.3 % in G2. Number of kids born alive recorded 22, 19 and 21 kids, while number of kids weaned recorded 20, 17 and 20 kids. Mortality rate significantly decreased in G3. Weaning weight and daily gain were significantly increased in Azolla pinnata groups than control group. Also, milk yield was significantly higher in G3 (787 g/d) followed by G2 (734 g/d), while control group recorded 665 g/d. Except total protein and albumin, blood biochemical parameter didn’t affected by
different type of ration protein. Immunoglobulin IgA was significantly higher in control and G2 as compared to G3 with values being 0.031, 0.033 and 0.029 ng/dl, respectively. While, IgM was significantly higher in G3 compared to control and G2 with values being 0.034, 0.030 and 0.029 ng/dl, respectively. From these findings, it could be concluded that incorporating Azolla pinnata into the diets
of Baladi goats can enhance reproductive performance, milk production and composition and blood biochemical parameters without any adverse effects.