Replacing Elephant Grass with Hydroponic Maize Fodder Improves Friesian Holstein Dairy Calves’ Growth Performance

This study investigated the potential of hydroponic fodder as a strategic forage starter to support the post-weaning growth of Friesian Holstein (FH) dairy calves. Providing an appropriate forage starter during this stage is critical to stimulate rumen development, enhance nutrient absorption, and ensure a smooth dietary adaptation. However, forages may lack the digestibility and nutrient density required to meet the metabolic demands of young calves. The study employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three treatments and three replicates each: three calves fed elephant grass (EG), three calves fed maize fodder (MF), and three calves fed sorghum fodder (SF). Evaluated parameters included feed composition, In Vitro digestibility, growth performance, hematological indices, and physiological responses. Hydroponic fodder significantly improved crude protein content and acid detergent lignin digestibility (P<0.05). Highly significant enhancements (P<0.01) were observed in ash, gross energy, ADF, NDF, ADL, cellulose, and overall digestibility, indicating superior nutritional quality. Calves fed hydroponic fodder also showed increased average daily gain and digestible crude protein intake (P<0.05), without adverse effects on hematological or physiological parameters. The MF showed higher ADG than EG and SF. This study highlights MF hydroponics as a promising substitute for elephant grass as a forage starter, providing nutritional benefits for Friesian Holstein dairy calves without causing health issues; with hematological and physiological values remaining within the normal range.

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