Abstract:
The Scientific Agricultural Research Center in Salamiyah conducted a study in 2019 to evaluate the economic benefits of incorporating Nile flower silage into the diet of Awassi lambs. The experiment involved Awassi lambs aged 5-6 months, with an average weight of 43.1±2.26 kg, randomly divided into four groups, each consisting of 4 males. The trial spanned 75 days, with a 15-day introductory period. Different percentages of Nile flower silage substitution (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%) were applied. Results revealed that integrating Nile flower silage into the diet of Awassi lambs led to a reduction of feeding costs by 5.3% in the fourth treatment (75% WHS), while maintaining a weight gain rate of 10.62 kg. The third and second treatments also showed reduced feeding costs by 3.5% and 1.8%, respectively, compared to the control group. The third treatment exhibited the lowest cost per kilogram of live weight produced during the 60-day experimental period, amounting to 2982 SYP per kilogram, translating to a 9.8% decrease in meat production costs compared to the control group. Consequently, the study suggests incorporating Nile flower silage into lamb diets up to 75% to improve economic indicators and overall herd health.
Keywords: Nile flower silage, Awassi lambs, economic indicators.
Full paper in Arabic: PDF