Productive performance of growing tricross rabbits considering two commercial feeds

Some Brazilian studies have evaluated crossbred rabbits from two breeds, however, there is no research on the performance of rabbits descended from three breeds (tricross), especially involving the Botucatu (BOT) genetic group. Another important aspect to consider is that rabbit feeds produced in Brazil have different qualities and often do not meet the species nutritional requirements. The objective of the study was to evaluate the productive performance of tricross rabbits that received two commercial feeds. On day 35, forty tricross (½ BOT, ¼ NZW, ¼ CAL) rabbits were randomly assigned to cages (2 rabbits/cage). A completely randomized design was considered, with two treatments based on commercial feeds (COM1 and COM2) of different qualities and 10 replications per treatment. The productive performance (body weight at 35, 55 and 75 d, and feed intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion from 35 to 55, 55 to 75 and 35 to 75 d) was evaluated. The COM1 contributed to heavier rabbits at 55 and 75 d and better feed conversion rate. Also, the COM1 provided better daily weight gain from 35 to 55 d and 35 to 75 d. In conclusion, considering the Brazilian conditions, tricross rabbits show appropriate productive performance, which will depend too of the quality of the commercial feed chosen by the rabbit breeder.