[Studies of the energy and crude protein requirements of young fattening geese. 1. Influence of varying energy and crude protein levels in the feed on fattening performance parameters].

In 5 trials using a total of 5367 geese (Deutsche Legagans male X White Italian Goose female), the influence of varying energy and crude protein levels in the feed on fattening performance was studied. After a uniform 4-week starter period (1st to 28th days of life) rations with conventional components were fed, their energy and crude protein levels ranging from 500 to 620 energetic feed equivalents (poultry) and 140 to 180 g CP, respectively. Subsequently, a test under commercial conditions was made to compare the optimal variant found (530 energetic feed equivalents-poultry/175 g CP) with a high-energy feed (620 energetic feed equivalents/175 g CP). As the energy concentration of the feed increased the live weight was not found to rise but slightly. At all energy levels under study, increasing crude protein from 140 to 180 g/5g resulted in higher gains. Feed expenditure was found to decrease as the energy concentration of the rations went up. High energy expenditure did not produce but slightly higher weight gains. Fattening beyond 56 days resulted in considerably higher energy expenditure.