Corncob biochar supplementation improves nutrient digestibility, fattening performance and carcass characteristics of fattening sheep

Abstract

Background: Corncob is a cheap source for biochar in developing countries. No studies reported on use of biochar as sheep fattening supplement. Objectives:The goal of this study is to determine the effect of corncob biochar supplementation on growth performance and carcass characteristics of sheep.Methods: Twenty-four Horro yearling rams (18.6 ± 0.938 kg live weight) were randomly distributed to four groups, control (300 g/day concentrate + local hay ad libitum), BC1.5 (control +1.5 g/day biochar), BC3 (control +3 g/day biochar) and BC4.5 (control +4.5/day biochar). The experimental concentrate consisted of 200 g/day wheat bran and 100 g/day Noug cake. The study consisted of a growth trial of 111 days followed by a digestibility trial of 10 days. Carcass characteristics for all rams were recorded at the end of the trial.Results: Dry matter intake, crude protein intake, dry matter digestibility and acid detergent fibre digestibility of BC1.5 were significantly higher than the control.Corncob biochar supplementation significantly improved daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the rams. Supplementation sheep with corncob biochar improved significantly dressing percentage, hindquarters weight, forequarters weight, ribs weight, brisket weigh and rib eye muscle area. There was a significant effect of the dietary treatment on weight of internal organs; however, they were all within the normal range of sheep. Conclusions:Corncob biochar supplementation would be recommended at a level of 1.5 g/day to improve growth performance and carcass characteristics of sheep.