Effect of Sorghum Haylage Plant Supplemented with Concentrates on Growth Performance, Sensory Evaluation and Meat Quality of West African Dwarf Bucks

This study evaluates the chemical composition of sorghum haylage and its supplementation with concentrates and the impact on the growth performance and meat quality of West African Dwarf bucks. Sorghum haylage, known for its high fiber content, was compared with protein and energy-dense concen trate supplements. Chemical analysis revealed that the crude protein content in concentrates (21%) was significantly higher than in sorghum haylage (7.8%), supporting enhanced growth and muscle develop ment. The fiber content was substantially greater in haylage (35.2%), which could limit digestibility and nutrient absorption. Concentrates had a higher ether extract content (5.0%) compared to haylage (2.3%), providing a more concentrated energy source essential for optimal growth and reproductive performance. The study found that bucks fed with a diet supplemented with 30% concentrate (T2) exhibited superior growth rates, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency, with an average weight gain of 0.35 kg/week and a feed gain ratio (FGR) of 7.83. Meat quality also improved, with bucks on the T2 diet showing the lowest final meat pH (5.67), lower cooking losses, and higher tenderness. Sensory evaluation revealed higher scores for juiciness, flavor intensity, and overall acceptability in the T2 group. These findings suggest that moderate supplementation of sorghum haylage with concentrates significantly enhances growth performance and meat quality in West African Dwarf bucks, optimizing both nutrient intake and feed efficiency. The study recommends that a balanced diet with 30-50% concentrate supplementation provides the best results for improving growth and meat quality in small ruminants.