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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Booneville, Arkansas » Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #261064
Title: Sunn hemp with chicory or pearl millet to minimize gastrointestinal nematode infection in weaned goats

Author
item Burke, Joan
item MOSJIDIS, J - Auburn University
item MILLER, J - Louisiana State University

Submitted to: American Society of Animal Science Southern Section Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/2010
Publication Date: 2/5/2011
Citation: Burke, J.M., Mosjidis, J.A., Miller, J.E. 2011. Sunn hemp with chicory or pearl millet to minimize gastrointestinal nematode infection in weaned goats. American Society of Animal Science Southern Section Meeting. 89(Suppl.3).

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Predominantly grass forage systems are typically used throughout the southeastern U.S., but are inadequate for nutritional needs of growing goats, and encourage problems with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN). Browse predominant forages would be preferable, but are not always available. Selection of high quality protein forages is desirable by goats. The objective of this experiment was to examine tolerance to GIN and growth of kids grazing mixed forage systems. Weaned Spanish kids (136 ± 1.6 d of age) of mixed gender were randomly assigned to graze a mix of 1) sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) and chicory (Cichorium intybus L.; SC), 2) sunn hemp and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum; SP), or 3) chicory and pearl millet (CP; n = 15/treatment). Kids were dewormed if FAMACHA score = 4 (1 g copper oxide wire particles; COWP) or 5 (moxidectin). A pooled fecal sample was collected and initially Haemonchus contortus was the predominant GIN (63%). Fecal egg counts (FEC) and blood packed cell volume (PCV) were determined every 14 d between D 0 (first day of grazing treatment) and 84, and BW every 28 d. Data were analyzed using the mixed models procedure of SAS with a repeated statement for date; forage treatment and interactions were included in the model. FEC were log transformed. The mean number of dewormings was 0.53, 0.47, and 0.93 ± 0.22 for SC, SP, and CP groups, respectively (P = 0.28). FEC were similar among forage groups (P = 0.58) and ranged from 3469 eggs/g on D 0 to 5867 eggs/g on D 84. PCV tended to be greater in the SC group compared to others on D 70 and 84 (forage x day, P = 0.06). BW was similar among forage groups and ranged from 17.3 to 22.1 ± 0.5 kg between D0 and 84 (P = 0.71). In summary, compared with previous experiments in which kids grazed grass pastures, GIN control was good initially, likely associated with good forage quality, but declined by D 84.