Performance and Nutrient Digestibility of Acha Grains (Digitaria iburua ) as Replacement for Maize in the Diet of Female Grower Rabbits

Abstract

Feed cost represents 60 - 80% of the total cost of rabbit production.  Twenty seven (27) female grower rabbits of mixed breeds aged 10 weeks with weight range of 853.33g to 866.67g were used for this study. The animals were divided on weight equalisation into three treatment groups consisting of three inclusion levels of acha grains (0%, 50%, 100%). Data were collected on growth performance and nutrient digestibility. This study was conducted for a period of 70 days. Data were subjected to one way analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. Female grower rabbits fed 50% acha grain had higher (p<0.05) final weight gain (1800.00g). Female grower rabbits fed 50% acha grains had higher (p<0.05) crude fibre (67.35%) and dry matter digestibilities (76.33%). It can be concluded that replacement of maize with acha grains at 50% inclusion level can improve the performance and nutrient digestibility of female grower rabbits.

Keywords: Acha grain, maize, grower rabbits.