Body weight, scrotal parameters and semen characteristic of Kano Brown Buck Kids fed Pluerotus ostreatus solid state fermented sugarcane scrapings

The study evaluated the effect of substitution of Pleurotus ostreatus biodegraded sugarcane scrapings (BSS) for corn bran on the growth performance and reproductive potential of Kano Brown bucks. Twenty-one healthy buck kids (6 – 7 months of age, with an average initial BW of 9.44 ± 0.39 kg) were stratified into three treatments and fed: (1) a total mixed diet containing no BSS (0% BSS; control), (2) the control diet containing 15% BSS substituting 50% corn bran and (3) the control diet containing 30% BSS substituting 100% corn bran on dry matter basis (DM) for 12 weeks in a completely and fully randomized design. Intakes of DM, crude protein and organic matter, and sperm concentration varied in the order: 15% BSS > 0% BSS >30% BSS (p<0.05). Final BW, semen volume, initial fructose, scrotal length (SL) and scrotal circumference (SC) were greater in 15% BSS diet than 0 and 30% BSS diets. Semen pH and color, sperm progressive motility, viability and abnormalities, and live spermatozoa were not affected by diets. Whereas testosterone level was greater in 0 and 15% BSS diets, libido was lower in 30% BSS diet. Final BW was positively correlated with SC (p=0.030; r = 0.510) and SL (p = 0.048; r = 0.472). It was concluded that up to 30% biodegraded sugarcane scrapings can be used in a complete diet for bucks without negatively impacting final body weight and semen quality, though 15% BSS was more impactful and recommended.