Different reproductive performances of young Garut rams are affected by long-term feeding regimen ratio

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effect of different feeding regimens in a long-term period on the reproductive performance of young Garut rams. Thirty individuals with an average body weight of 20.12 kg were randomly assigned to two groups. The CF group received 70% concentrate and 30% Pennisetum purpureum, while the FT group was provided with 70% Pennisetum purpureum and 30% tofu waste. The treatments were isoprotein and isoenergy. Rams were fed the same diet consistently starting from weaning age at 2 months. Semen and blood samples were collected at the age of puberty, around 9-10 months old. The results showed that different feeding regimens did not affect the total dry matter intake of young rams or their final body weight. Blood glucose was similar for both groups. Feeding CF resulted in a significantly higher (P < 0.05) blood cholesterol. Sperm viability and intact plasm membrane were highest (P < 0.05) in the CF group compared to the FT group. Semen volume and testosterone were higher (P < 0.05) in the group fed FT compared to the CF group. In conclusion, high concentrates have implications for better sperm membrane and survival, while a higher proportion of forage with tofu waste increases semen volume which is associated with more frozen semen production.