Evaluation of urea molasses multi-nutrient blocks enriched with area specific mineral mixture in buffaloes

Abstract

To assess the effect of supplementary feeding of urea-molasses multi-nutrient block (UMMB) enriched with area specific mineral mixture on productive and reproductive traits of buffaloes, a study was undertaken in the intermediate zone of Rajouri district in Jammu region. Buffaloes (12; age group 3–8 years) of which 11 were in anoestrus were selected and allowed to lick a UMMB @ 400–600 g daily for 30 days during February and March. Blood samples were analyzed for hemato-biochemical parameters, macro and trace elements and hormonal status (T3, T4 and progesterone) at the beginning and after completion of trial. A significant increase in the total plasma protein and albumin level were observed with no significant effect on Hb, PCV, glucose, BUN, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, plasma inorganic iodine (PII) and manganese. Observations on all closely monitored buffaloes revealed an average increase of 46.66% in fodder intake, 51.70% in milk yield and 13.88% in milk fat following UMMB supplementation. Moreover, none of the anoestrus buffaloes came in heat during the study period however, after 30–45 days of completion of trial 72.72% (9/11) of the buffaloes came in heat and conceived to first impregnation, which, normally show estrus from August-October. It was concluded that UMMB being a good source of energy, protein and minerals improved milk yield, milk fat, dry matter intake, general health status and reproductive performance of buffaloes.