Chewing dynamics of Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus) maintained under semi-intensive and intensive management systems in Ladakh, India

The present study was conducted in mid October 2019 to compare the chewing dynamics and nutritional analysis of feed, fodder and concentrate fed to Bactrian camel raised under semi-intensive and intensive management systems in Leh and Nubra valley, Ladakh. Number of chews per bolus was significantly (P<0.01) higher in camels reared for tourist activities under semi-intensive managementsystem, consuming high fiber diet in comparison to animals raised under intensive management system and fed diet with lower fiber content. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), the major browse species available for camel in Ladakh appeared to have high nutritional value in terms of organic matter, crude fiber and crude protein than Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) hay. From the present study, it can be concluded that management system and fiber content of the diet have significant effect on chewing dynamics inBactrian camel.