Suitable feeding systems for fat lamb production

Author: J. Reyneke
Year: 1971
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Page: 49 - 53

The development of efficient rations for fat lamb production was investigated using a variety of succulent feeds. Forty Dohne Merino were divided annually for three years immediately after parturition into four groups of ten. Group 1 received maize silage. Group 2 Japanese radish, Group 3 green wheat pasture and Group 4 concentrates as the main ingredient in their rations. There was no statistically significant difference in the weaning weight of lambs but there was a highly significant different (P<0,01) in carcass weight, those of Groups I and 3 being heavier than Groups 2 and 4. Cheap succulent feeds such as Japanese radish and maize silage can therefore be utilized without reducing productivity. It is difficult to improve on the economic return from efficiently utilized winter wheat grazing e.g. two hours grazing per ewe and lamb per day.

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