Evaluation of Different Feeding Options for Yearling Arsi Bulls to Attain Export Market Weight

Abstract

The study was conducted on station at Agricultural Research Center on Arsi bulls. Twenty four bulls were purchased from the surrounding area. The study objectives were to evaluate and indentify the most economical feeding options for yearling Arsi bulls for them to attain export market weight demand and evaluate the carcass characteristics. Three feeding treatments were evaluated during the feeding period and eight bulls randomly assigned to each of the three treatments. The result of the fattening trial revealed that there is no significant difference in final body weight and carcass characteristics among the bulls received the dietary rations. Furthermore, the study indicated that the yearling Arsi bulls fed on the three dietary rations did not attain export market weight in 238 days of feeding. Therefore, their growth performance should be further evaluated with other feeding options to know their fattening potential. Partial budget analysis of the bulls was not significant difference among the treatments, any of the feeding options can be used depending on availability of the ingredients in the area.

Keywords: Yearling Arsi bulls, Market body weight, Carcass characteristic

DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/9-14-01

Publication date:July 31^st 2019