Evaluación del forraje verde hidropónico de cebada (Hordeum vulgare) y concentrado sobre los índices productivos en etapas de crecimiento y engorde en cuyes (Cavia porcellus)

Abstract

The study evaluated the effects of different proportions of hydroponic barley green fodder (FVHC) and feed concentrate in the feeding of guinea pigs in the growth and fattening stages. The treatments were distributed in five groups: 100% FVHC + 0% feed concentrate (T0), 75% FVHC + 25% feed concentrate (T1), 50% FVHC + 50% feed concentrate (T2), 25% FVHC + 75% feed concentrate (T3) and 0% FVHC + 100% feed concentrate (T4). The results showed that T2 (50% FVHC + 50% feed concentrate) was the most balanced and effective as it obtained significant weight gain and adequate feed conversion in the growth and fattening stage. On the contrary, T0 (100% FVHC + 0% feed concentrate) and T4 (0% FVHC + 100% feed concentrate) had limitations in which the former obtained higher feed intake and higher feed conversion, demonstrating that it was not sufficient to satisfy the guinea pig's nutritional requirements. On the other hand, T4 presented lower feed efficiency throughout the study because the insufficient amount of fiber negatively affected its performance. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of a mixed diet to ensure optimal performance and welfare of the guinea pigs.