# Growth performance, feeding behavior, serum biochemical, and meat quality traits of Karayaka lambs fed pastures consisting of different relative forage quality

## TL;DR

This study shows that Karayaka lambs grazing on pastures with a relative forage quality of 121.4 had the best growth and meat quality compared to other forage qualities.

## Contribution

The study reveals that botanical composition, not just forage quality index, significantly affects lamb growth and forage preference.

## Key findings

- Lambs grazing on 121RFQ pastures had the highest growth rate and feed conversion ratio.
- Grazing history influenced forage preference, with lambs preferring previously grazed forages.
- Meat quality and serum triglycerides varied significantly with different forage quality groups.

## Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of pastures differing in relative forage quality (RFQ) on the growth, behavior, and meat quality of Karayaka lambs. Thirty-six male lambs (3-month-old and weighing 22.8 ± 0.14 kg) were assigned to four RFQ groups (n = 9) in a randomized complete block design. Lambs grazed for 60 days on pastures with RFQ indices of 89.3 (89RFQ), 105.2 (105RFQ), 121.4 (121RFQ), and 147.0 (147RFQ), each characterized by a distinct botanical composition. Growth and dry matter intake (DMI) were monitored every 10 days, while water intake was recorded daily. At the end of the trial, feeding behavior was assessed using a preference test, and serum biochemistry and meat quality were analyzed. The 121RFQ group showed a higher growth rate than the 105RFQ and 147RFQ groups (p < 0.05. DMI was highest at 121RFQ and lowest at 147RFQ (p < 0.05). The 121RFQ and 89RFQ lambs had better feed conversion ratios than 105RFQ (p < 0.05). The 105RFQ lambs consumed more water than the 121RFQ and 147RFQ lambs (p < 0.05). Grazing history influenced behavior: lambs preferred forages they had previously grazed (p < 0.05). The b* value of longissimus dorsi was higher in 121RFQ than in 147RFQ (p < 0.05). The 89RFQ and 105RFQ groups had higher meat fat and serum triglycerides, respectively (p < 0.05). In conclusion, although a higher RFQ was expected to maximize performance, 121RFQ yielded the best growth, indicating that botanical composition is a critical factor alongside quality index. Furthermore, grazing history significantly determines forage selection.