Agro Byproduct Feedstuff as a Substitute for Conventional Feed for Rabbits in Trinidad, West Indies

Abstract This research aimed to compare the digestibility of conventional pelleted feed (Diet 1) and an agriculture by-product feed (Diet 2) made from local agricultural by products (cocoa husk shells, coconut seed meal, Moruga hill rice hulls, Moruga hill rice bran and rejected powdered beans) in 12 cross bred New Zealand rabbits reared in the humid tropical environment. The study found significant differences (p<0.05) in nutritive components between the two diets in terms of crude protein (Diet 1:150.8 g/kg vs Diet 2:113.4 g/kg), organic matter (Diet 1: 915.9 g/kg vs Diet 2: 910.8 g/kg), and ether extract (Diet 1: 2.04 g/kg vs Diet 2: 1.05 g/kg). Additionally, it was found that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in digestibility of crude protein (Diet 1:767.4g/kg vs Diet 2: 913.1 g/kg), organic matter (Diet 1: 918.9g/kg vs Diet 2: 843.6g/kg), and dry matter (Diet 1: 865.9 g/kg vs Diet 2: 793.3 g/kg). Overall, these findings suggest that Diet 2 may be a more digestible alternative to conventional pelleted feeds for rabbit with respect to crude protein, and further research may be needed to explore its potential as a viable feed source for rabbits. The findings suggest that the by-product feed can be a valuable alternative to conventional pelleted feed in rabbit production, providing cost savings and potential environmental benefits.