The Effects of soaked pearl millet on the growth performance of rabbit weaners at Henderson Research Station in Mazowe
- Author
- Frost, Sharmaine
- Title
- The Effects of soaked pearl millet on the growth performance of rabbit weaners at Henderson Research Station in Mazowe
- Abstract
- This study evaluated the effects of pearl millet ( Pennisetum glaucum) in diets on the growth performance of rabbit weaners, with specific emphasis on feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency.Data was collected over a 6 week trial and analyzed for average daily feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency. A total of 20 weaned rabbits were randomly assigned to dietary treatments, Mixed diet (T1), Millet based diet (T2), and control ( Maize based) (T3) varying levels of soaked pearl millet, replacing convectional energy sources.The soaking process aimed to reduce anti-nutritional and improve nutrient availability.Results indicated that rabbits fed diets containing Millet based diet (70% soaked pearl millet) showed improved weight gain, feed intake , and feed conversion efficiency compared to the control group. Feed intake was not adversely affected , suggesting good palatability and acceptability of the diets. These findings highlight the potential of soaked pearl millet as a viable alternative energy source in rabbit weaner nutrition, contributing to cost-effective and sustainable rabbit production.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Rabbit production
- Weaner nutrition
- Supervisor
- Mr T.N.C Mangwiro
- Item sets
- Department of Animal Sciences
