Comparison of growth and feed efficiency of steers fed barley and triticale diets

Abstract

Steers fed triticale adapted to the diet more slowly than those fed barley, resulting in reduced overall feed intake (9.4 vs. 10.5 kg d−1, P = 0.08) and average daily gain (ADG) (1.3 vs. 1.5 kg d−1, P = 0.08). No difference was detected in feed:gain ratio (7.1 vs. 6.8, P = 0.65). The reduced ADG in the triticale-fed steers may be due to reduced feed intake and the longer time required to adapt. Key words: Barley, triticale, steers, intake, performance, growth