Effects of Two Different Rangelands on the Live Weight Development of Lambs
X. International Congress on Domestic Animal Breeding, Genetics and Husbandry, Muğla, Türkiye, 22 - 24 Eylül 2026, ss.5-10, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
- Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Tam Metin Bildiri
- Basıldığı Şehir: Muğla
- Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.5-10
- Atatürk Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study aimed to compare
the live weight development of lambs grazing on two rangelands differing in
soil and forage characteristics. A total of 40 lambs with similar initial live
weights were divided into two groups of 20 and grazed for 90 days. Live weights
were recorded at the beginning, middle, and end of the grazing period. Soil
samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total
nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, and texture. Forage
samples collected at the same periods were analyzed for dry matter, crude
protein, and crude ash. Live weight data were evaluated using a
repeated-measures mixed model.
Initial live weights were
similar between Rangeland 1 and Rangeland 2 (24.18±0.49 vs. 24.06±0.52 kg;
P=0.864). Mid-period weights were 31.94±0.58 and 30.61±0.61 kg, respectively
(P=0.121), whereas final live weight was higher in Rangeland 1 (40.62±0.71 vs.
36.84±0.74 kg; P<0.001). Rangeland, time, and rangeland × time interaction
significantly affected live weight (P=0.018, P<0.001, and P=0.003,
respectively). Rangeland 1 had higher soil organic matter, total nitrogen,
available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium. Its forage also had higher
crude protein content (14.38% vs. 11.62%; P<0.001), while dry matter and
crude ash contents showed smaller differences.
The results indicated that the
more favorable soil fertility and forage protein content of Rangeland 1 were
associated with greater final live weight in lambs.