Growth rate of various indigenous breed fed on Shandar Wanda at livestock research and development station Surezai Peshawar.

In the absence of any typical beef breed of cattle and buffaloes in Pakistan, the present study was conducted to exploit the potential of beef production of indigenous breeds fed on Shandar Wanda. A total of 43 calves contained 8 cross bred calves, 7 Dhani calves, 6 Lohani, 6 Sahiwal, 6 Bhagnari and 10 Nili Ravi buffalo calves were selected and purchased from local market for this trail. The calves were fed on Shandar Wanda and weekly growth rate was recorded. Sahiwal calves showed highest daily weight gain 0.47 kg/day. During first period (1-7 week) and in 2 nd period (8-14 week) of experiment the highest body weight (BW) was found in Nili Ravi buffalo calves (112.9 kg and 133.7 kg, respectively). During 3 rd period of experiment (15-21 Week) the highest body weight was found in Sahiwal calves i.e. 149.25 kg. The final BW in 3 rd period of experiment ranged from 108 kg in Lohani breed calves to 149.25 kg in Sahiwal breed calves. The time period effect on growth rate was significant (P<0.01). It is concluded from the present study that the Sahiwal breed of cattle and Nili Ravi buffalo have a potential of beef production on special fed ration.