Assessing the growth performance of livestock under two-layer livestock farming in rainfed farming system

Abstract

System of housing plays a crucial role in small ruminant production. Rearing of ram lambs for fattening is a common practice in scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh. The usual method of rearing is extensive system and provision of night shelter with mud floor. Accumulation of ammonia resulted respiratory problems in ram lambs affecting growth rate. Elevated floor system has many advantages to eliminate the existing problems with intensive feeding. Rearing of poultry and ram lambs under one shelter with a concept of two-layer livestock system was developed. The present study was conducted to assess the growth performance of ram lambs and Aseel poultry under different systems. Higher body weight gain of Ram lambs and poultry was observed under two-layer system compared to traditional system.