Effect of postbiotic supplementation on growth rate and hematological profile in Barela dromedary calves (Camelus dromedarius) under semi-intensive management system

Abstract Camels play a crucial role in contributing food security and economy in arid and semi-arid regions, having historically sustained nomadic and pastoral communities for centuries. Among camel breeds, Barela dromedary holds potential for enhanced productivity under improved management. This study investigated the effects of postbiotic supplementation and concentrated feeding on growth rate and blood profile of Barela camel calves in semi intensive system. Twelve healthy camel calves aged 1–2 years were selected and randomly divided into four groups with similar average body weights (929.84–977.37 kg) having group average as 929.84, 936.94, 977.37, 969 kg, respectively. Group 1 (G1) served as a control and was allowed 8 h of daily grazing without supplementation and Group 2 (G2) received 2 kg concentrate feed per animal along with 8 h grazing. Group 3 (G3) received 2 kg concentrate feed per animal plus 6 g of Yeast Culture Metabolites (YCM), a postbiotics and Group 4 (G4) received 2 kg concentrate with 15 g of YCM. All groups grazed for 8 h daily and had access to clean water twice a day. The trial lasted for over 45 days, including 15-day adaptation phase. The significantly higher average daily weight gain was observed in G2 (259.25 ± 13.28 g), G3 (261.85 ± 13.28 g) and G4 (274.07 ± 13.28 g) compared to G1 (80.73 ± 13.28 g). Hematological parameters hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells (WBC) and biochemical markers showed marked improvement in supplemented groups, indicating enhanced immune and metabolic state of calves. The combined use of postbiotics and concentrate feed substantially improved growth and health indicators in Barela camel calves. The study provides a valuable foundation for future research in optimizing camel husbandry practices.