Productivity of the Tsigai sheep breed under different feeding regimens

Abstract

In the present study, the influence of levels of feeding on the formation and development of economic and commercial traits of Tsigai breed was studied in the conditions of the southern steppe of Ukraine. The research was conducted on purebred sheep from birth to 14 months of age. For this purpose, 2 groups of 3.5-4 years old ewes of the first class were selected with 40 heads in each class. It was established that poor feeding of ewes (experimental diet and below standard nutritional levels) and their offspring at the early stage of ontogenesis had a negative effect on the formation and growth of productive qualities of lambs, means of live weight and wool productivity indicators. Qualitative and quantitative indicators of wool was better in ewes obtained from mothers of the control group (received a balanced diet in accordance with the standard of feeding). Advantage in length of wool in 12 months age was 29.3%, shearing of unwashed wool (26.7%), washed (26.5%), strength of wool at 4 months of age (10.5%), and in the 14th month aged was 5%. The improvement in housing and nutrition conditions in the control group proved that the counts were better and this had a very positive effect on the productivity of the sheep. In conclusion, full-fledged feeding of ewes of the Tsigai breed ensured good development of offspring at all stages of ontogenesis and contributed to the birth of healthy, viable lambs that are capable of high productivity. Any declines in nutrients of Tsigai sheep breed (from standards of commercial formula) can cause considerable deficiency in productivity of animal.