[Effect of different types of rations on the coefficients of digestibility in ewe lambs]

Two groups of lambs (aged 2 weeks to 12 months and equalized in terms of age, breed, and liveweight) were given rations, differing in type as follows: the first group obtained concentrates which predominated in the ration (a 'concentrate' group), and the second one obtained mainly roughage in the ration (a 'hay' group). After the completion of one year of age three animals of each group were surgically treated so as to form duodenal anastomoses. Then the fistulated animals were used in balance and physiologic experiments. In one experiment each group was given the same (in structure) ration up to the age of one year. In a second experiment the rations of the groups were interchanged. It was found that the total coefficients of digestibility of the feed stuffs depended on the ration type, and the coefficients of digestibility with the dry matter, organic matter, crude proteins and fats, and mineral matter proved higher in the group that was given mainly concentrates.