GIANT PANDA DIETS FED IN 5 CHINESE FACILITIES - AN ASSESSMENT

Information on diets fed to captive giant pandas in five Chinese facilities (Beijing Zoo, Chengdu Zoo, China Conservation and Research Center, Fuzhou Zoo, and the Xian Zoo for the Giant Panda) in which pandas have successfully reproduced was compiled from publications and/or personal communications. Each facility feeds a steamed grain mixture comprising 13-56% of the diet on an as-fed basis, animal products (milk, eggs, and/or meat; 8-25% of the diet), and bamboo (17-82% of the diet). Seasonally available fruits and/or vegetables are sometimes included (0-29% of the diet). Typically, bamboo is offered throughout the day in small increments, while the remaining diet (concentrate portion) is fed in two meals. Despite the variety of ingredients in the concentrate recipes among institutions, there was remarkable similarity in nutrient composition: 55-65% water, 13-19% crude protein (CP), 2.5-4.0% crude fat (CF), and 2-5% ash (Ca, 0.2-0.9%; P, 0.4-0.8%) (all nutrients except water expressed on a dry matter (DM) basis). Calculated digestible energy content averaged about 3.3 kcal/kg DM. With the addition of animal products, bamboo, and produce, total diet composition averaged 51% water and, on a DM basis, 12% CP, 5.0% CF, 20-57% NDF (fiber), 0.5% Ca, 0.4% P, and 50-150 mg/kg vitamin E. These specifications are similar to nutrient requirements established for domestic canids and would appear adequate to meet the (as yet unestablished) requirements of the giant panda in captivity. Formulations for mineral and vitamin supplements to balance concentrate portions of these basic diets are included. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.