Effect of natural Bentonite, processed Bentonite , and Clinoptilolite-rich tuff on the growth, feed efficiency & carcass traits of male calves

The effects of various mineral additives Clinoptilolite (CL),natural Bentonite (SB) and processed Bentonite 1(PSB) on feedlot performance and rumen fermentation parameters (pH, ammonia nitrogen) were studied in this experiment.31 Holstein male calves (BW = 237.95 ± 6 Kg and 210 ± 20 days age) were divided to 7, 8,8 and 8 calves per ration and assigned to one of the four rations that the levels of energy and protein were equal but different in mineral additives .Additives were PSB (ration 1) SB (ration 2) CL (ration 3) and grinned plastic (ration 4). Calves were adapted to TMR rations for 25 days followed by 165 days individually feeding. Average daily gain of calves received 1-4 rations were 1310.10, 1200.62, 1294.13 and 1064.38 gr/day, respectively; and difference were significant (P<0.01). There were not significant differences between carcass traits and feed conversion for calves consumed four rations. On the basis of this results , PSB and CL can be recommended to use in rations of fattening calves.