Growth performance of goat fed ration with different levels and modes of preparations of Tiger grass (Phragmites vulgaris)

Ration containing 100% Tiger grass (Phragmites vulgaris), and 50% Fresh Tiger grass and 50% Fresh Napier grass combination gave positive effects on growth performance and economy of production of non-descript goat (P˂0.5). However, fresh preparation is preferred by the goats over air-dry preparation and gives higher weight gain and consequently higher income. Analysis of variance shows significant differences among levels in total weight gain, feed consumption and gross profit margin. Insignificant differences were observed however, on total dry matter intake, in terms of percentage in body weight and feed conversion ratio. Significant differences were observed in the modes of preparation for all the parameters studied. Interactions between levels and preparations were not comparable in all parameters except for total dry matter intake and dry matter intake as percentage of body weight. Tiger grass increases the growth performance of non-descript goats. The use of Tiger grass as roughage for goat is economically viable. The best growth performance was attained by the goats fed with 50:50 Fresh Tiger grass and Fresh Napier grass combination but the same is comparable with 100% Fresh Napier grass.