Ankara Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi

Abstract

Alfalfa protein was reconstituted for milk protein in milL.
replacer formulations atfive levels (0)25) 50) 75 and 100 %). One growth
and one digestibiliry trial were performed at each level. Three Holstein male
calves) 3 to 5 dqys of age were .used in each trial. The calves were red only liquid
milk replacers for five weeks in digestibiliry trials. Total fecal and urine
w!lections were made in thefourth week. In growth trials) in addition to the liquid
diets) the calves receivedfree rifchoice alfalfa hayand a calf starter. The caliJes
were weaned in the fifth week and the experiments were terminated at the end of
the eighth week.
The average daily gains of the calves in the firstfive weeks period were:
220) 216) 187) 180 and 134 gfor the digestıon trials (P < 0.05) (ınd 519,
450) 506) 329 and 377 g for the growth triClls at 0)25) 50,75 and ıno %
substitution levels) re~pectioely. Post-weanirıg gains were similar for the tril/ls '
and the levels.
Appartnt dıy matter) nitrogen and energy digestibilities decreased as the
protein substitutioTt levels were increased (P < 0.0 i). The average ıalues oj
nitrogen retention decreased (P < 0'05) in the same directian. The meall nitrogen
digestibiliry values were 85) 78) 77) 67 and 60 % in the above order. Thl'
association between substitution [eve! and average daily gaill is [irıear and the
average daily gain decreased 1.99 g tor every i % increase in AP substitution.