Effect of Incorporation of the Spineless Opuntia ficus Indica in Diets on Biochemical Parameters and its Impact on the Average Weight of Ewes During the Maintenance

Abstract

3 Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of the cladodes of Opuntia ficus indica in different maintenance diets for ewes on some biochemical parameters and its impact on the average daily weight. The experiment was conducted: in cross breed ewes on 16 ewes, divided into 4 groups: Diet 1 (control) barley straw + barley grain. Diet 2: (Straw + Opuntia), Diet 3: (Straw + Opuntia + field beans). Diet 4: (Opuntia), by comparing them. Total pectin's of Opuntia represent 34% of the residue parietal which15% of parietal low methylated pectins. The results (in g / l) of the triglycerides regimes, 2, 3 and 4, before and after incorporation of the cladodes, have varied from 0.59±0.03 to 0.08±0.01 and from 0.63±0.02 to 0.06±0.09 and 0.6±0.04 to 0.08±0.01 respectively. A slight increase in the level of uremia has been noticed in 3 regimes from 0.31± 0.03 to 0.33±0.02. The results in weight (g) of the diets 1, 2 and 3 showed a weight gain of 75±22, 26 ±7.2 and 93 ±19 g, respectively. A mean weight loss of about 83 ±13.2 g was given for the diet 4. The incorporation of the cladodes of Opuntia in food has satisfied the energy requirements of ewes, its use as a dietary supplement is recommended in dry areas. It showed the regulatory effect on blood glucose and hypolipidemic both in humans and animals.