Comparative evaluation of an artisanal feed supplement and four commercial feeds on the productive efficiency of growing guinea pigs

Meza-Rojas E.; Rodríguez-Vargas A.; Hermitaño-Osorio F.; Aquino-Tacza A.; Garcia-Olarte E. · Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru (2024) · DOI: 10.15381/rivep.v35i4.28780

Resumen

The aim of this study was to evaluate the productive performance of growing guinea pigs, fed with green alfalfa forage and an artisanal supplement widely spread in the Mantaro Valley, Peru, made from wheat byproduct, whole yellow corn and soy cake in the base ratio of 3:2:1, compared to four commercial feeds, in terms of weight gain (BWG), feed conversion (FC), carcass yield (CY), and economic merit. In total, 60 male and female red-line guinea pigs, 18 ± 3 days old and weighing 318 ± 35 g, were used. They were distributed in five metal cages with four levels each. A randomized Complete Block Design was used considering sex as a block. The effect achieved by the artisanal supplement on BWG, FC and CY were similar to that achieved by two commercial products, but superior to the other two; however, it showed a better economic return in terms of unit profit margin and relative profitability due to the lower food cost recorded. It is concluded that the artisanal formulation is appropriate to be used in the fattening of guinea pigs due to its easy preparation and effectiveness in achieving an adequate productive response and greater economic remuneration.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión; Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú