Comparison of microbial protein synthesis and nutrient digestibilityof Medicago sativa and Prangos pabularia hay in sheep

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare feed intake, nutrients digestibility, protein fractions entering into the duodenum, and ruminal fermentation parameters of sheep fed Medicago sativa (alfalfa) and Prangos pabularia, locally called kerkol hays. In the study three ruminally and duodenally cannulated Morkaraman sheep were used. It was carried out as two periods within a 2x3 crossover experimental design. Daily intake of crude protein (CP) was higher (P less than 0.05) in sheep fed alfalfa than those fed kerkol hay. Digestibility of NDF and ADF were lower (P less than 0.05) in sheep fed alfalfa hay than those fed kerkol hay (P less than 0.05). The percentage of protein escaping ruminal degradation was higher (P less than 0.05) in sheep fed kerkol hay (30.73%) than those fed alfalfa hay (15.05%). Ruminal fermentation parameters were similar between groups, except ruminal NH3-N concentration. It is concluded that kerkol hay can be used as forage for sheep feeding.