The effect of Conocarpus lancifolius silage on blood characteristics and mineral in the blood serum of calves and an economic return

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Conocarpus lancifolius silage on the mineral
elements and blood features in calves' serum, as well as the financial benefits. The study included 12
Friesian calves purchased from the local markets of Dhi Qar/Shatrah Governorate at the age of 6-8
months, with an average weight of 109.33 kg. Calves were randomly divided into three treatments (4
calves per treatment). The treatments were the control (50% concentrate: 50% alfalfa hay), treatment two
50% concentrate: 25% alfalfa hay: 25% conocarpus silage, and the third treatment 50% concentrate:50%
conocarpus silage. The feeding period was 105 days including 15 days of adaptation. The results showed
that there were no significant differences in blood characteristics (RBC, PCV, and hemoglobin) in all
conocarpus silage addition treatments compared to the control group. There were no significant
differences in the average concentration of serum calcium and phosphorus among the experimental
treatments. However, there were significant differences (P≤ 0.05) in the sodium concentration of the
control and the third treatment (144.33, 139.68) mmol/L, respectively, compared with the second
treatment, (136.00 mmol/L). The net profits from using conocarpus silage was 393, 533, and 593
thousand Iraqi dinars for the control and the addition of 25% and 50% of the silage, respectively. Adding
silage led to an increase in profits equal to 1.5 times the profits generated from control with no negative
impact on animal health.