Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

Fifteen local male rabbits (6-8 weeks old) were allocated into three nutritional groups. The first group fed standard ration, 5 and 10% of the Nigella Sativa Meal (NSM) were added to the concentrated rations of the 2nd and 3rd groups replacing 36 and 72% of the soybean meal (SBM) protein respectively. The feeding period lasted for eight weeks. Feed consumption and body weight gain were recorded weekly. At the end of feeding period, all rabbits were slaughtered and carcass traits were studied. No significant differences were found in total body weight gain and feed conversion rate (475, 502, 478 gm) and (4.8, 4.8, 4.9 kg ration/1 kg wt. gain). Feed cost per 1 kg body gain declined 16% in the 3rd group, which cost 2294 ID, compared with the 1st group (2717) and the 2nd group (2561 ID). No significant differences in all carcass traits were found. Substituting 72% of SBM protein by NSM protein in rabbit ration showed no negative effects on all productive parameters and carcass traits.