One hundred and twenty growing Merino lambs were used in six
comparative feeding trials to evaluate the effect of two types (high energy or high
protein) end levels ( 2.5. :3 and 3.5%) of concentrate feed mixture (CFM) in rations on
their growth performance. carcass quality and some rumen and blood parameters.
Rice straw was used ad tib for atl groups. Six digestion trials were carried out to
determine the feeding value of the experimental rations. Results indicated thai.
digestion coefficients, nutritive value. blood protein and glucose and some of rumen
parameters were significantly higher for CFM2 ration than CFM1. But the value of
dally gain and dressing percentage were not influenced by two type of CFM. On the
other hand. increasing the level of CFM in rations did significantly affect digestibility of
all nutrients. feeding values. blood protein and glucose. daily gain and dressing
percentage. This study suggests that Merino finishing mala lambs is successful way for red meat
production particularly under Egyptian envtronmental conditions. II could also be
concluded that. the increase In level of CFM in rations gave higher total gain, daily
gain. dressing percentage, and lower cost to give one Kg gain or meal with merino
lambs.