Thirty growing Ossimi lambs averaged 25 kg body weight, 9 months old were
divided into 5 groups of 6 in each and allotted randomly to 5 tested rations. The
animals in first group (control, R1) received concentrates mixture plus wheat straw.
The second (R2) and the third (R3) rations contained discarded barley grains to cover
25 and 50%, respectively, of concentrates crude protein (CP) plus wheat straw. While,
the fourth (R4) and the fifth (RS) rations contained radicel to cover 25 and 50%,
respectively, of concentrates CP plus wheat straw. EEO and CFO were significantly increased and OMO was decreased when
sheep fed R1. However, OMO, CPO and NFEO did not change between the pervious
ration and control. There were no significant differences between lambs fed control
ration or those fed rations contained discarded barley grains in daily gain and growth
rate. However, total OMI was the lowest for discarded barley grains rations. Lambs
fed rations contained discarded barley grains and radicel had the highest rumen
TVFA's. However, ruminal NH3-N and pH were not significantly changed. Creatinine
and ALT (Alanine aminotransferase) were significantly increased for sheep fed rations
contained radicel. However, there were no significant differences among control ration
and the pervious rations in blood total protein, albumin, globulin and AST (Aspartate
aminotransferase). The lowest feeding cost and the highest profit have been recorded
for sheep fed rations contained discarded barley grains, especially for that fed R2. It
was concluded that inclusion of discarded barley grains in sheep rations, to cover
25% of concentrates CP is recommended regarding nutrient digestibilities,
performance and economic efficiency.