Abstract

Feed intake and weight gain of West African dwarf (WAD) goats consuming Rhizopustreated sawdust were determined. 27 WAD goats in a 3 x 3 Latin square design with a 196 day period consumed normal diet with 20% untreated sawdust (Treatment 1, control), while Treatments 2 and 3 contained fungus treated sawdust at 20 and 25%, respectively. Crude protein, crude fibre and ether extract consumed increased (P < 0.05) by the addition of the fungus treated sawdust for Treatment 3. In contrast, the lignin intake was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in Treatments 2 and 3. The weight gain of the experimental animals was highest in Treatment 3. In conclusion, fungus treated sawdust-based diet for growing WAD goats may improve performance as a result of increasing feed intake and live weight gain.

Key words: Rhizopus oligosporus, feed intake, weight gain, solid state fermentation