Effects of Cocoa Pod Fermented by Phanerochaete chrysosporium with the Addition of Mn2+ on the Performance of the Javanese Thin-Tailed Sheep

Abstract

Background and Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of cocoa pod fermented by Phanerochaete chrysosporium with the addition of 600 μg Mn²⁺ g^–1 substrate on the performance of the Javanese thin-tailed sheep. Materials and Methods: Twelve Javanese thin-tailed sheep with body weights of 15-17 kg were put into individual cages that were equipped with feed and drink containers. The study used a completely randomized design in a unidirectional pattern, with three treatments and four replications. The treatments involved the use of cocoa pod fermented by Phanerochaete chrysosporium with the addition 600 μg Mn²⁺ g^–1 substrate as thin-tailed sheep feed. The treatments were T1 = 40% concentrate+60% forage, T2 = 40% concentrate +42% forage +18% fermented cocoa pod and T3 = 40% concentrate +18% forage +42% fermented cocoa pod. Rations were prepared for a crude protein determination of 12%. Observed variables included dry matter intake, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio. Results: The results showed that feeding Javanese thin-tailed sheep cocoa pod fermented by Phanerochaete chrysosporium with the addition of 600 Mn²⁺ g^–1 substrate produced the highest DM, OM and CP consumption with a composition of 40% concentrate +18% grass +42% fermented cocoa pod, at 1030.85±1.30, 672.26±0.89 and 123.80±0.99 g head^–1 day^–1, respectively (p<0.05). The highest DM, OM and CP in vivo digestibility was obtained with 40% concentrate +18% grass +42% fermented cocoa pod (67.69±0.50%, 66.33±0.54% and 60.05±0.66%, respectively). The highest average daily gain (145.46±1.05 g head^–1 day^–1) was obtained with 40% concentrate +18% grass +42% fermented cocoa pod. The lowest feed conversion ratio (7.39±0.08) was obtained with 40% concentrate +18% grass +42% fermented cocoa pod (p<0.05). Conclusion: It can be concluded that cocoa pod fermented by Phanerochaete chrysosporium with the addition of 600 μg Mn²⁺ g^–1 substrate can be used to substitute for up to 42% of dietary composition for Javanese thin-tailed sheep.