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Vol. 9, Issue 2, Part A (2024)

Assessment and utilization of tree and shrub forages as livestock feed in Kenya: A review

Author(s): Ondiek JO
Abstract: The nutritive value of indigenous multipurpose trees and shrubs is reviewed. The ten local Kenyan MPTS contain appreciable crude protein (112-321 gkg-1 DM) total extractable phenolics (4.5- 52.3 gkg-1 DM), total extractable tannins (0.6–38.5 g/kg DM) and major and microelements. Although tannins may impair nutrient utilization, they contribute to bypass protein and ameliorate rumen methane production. The ranking of these tree forages reveals different scenarios depending on the criteria but preferred species are indicative of superiority of some of them. The highly ranked based on increasing nutritive value are: (Maerua Angolensis> Zizyphus mucronata > Acacia Senegal> Acacia mellifera >Balanites aegyptiaca) but palatability showed a different order: A. tortilis> M. angolensis> B. aegyptiaca> Z. mucronata> Albizia coriaria > and Z. mucronata. M. angolensis and Z.mucronata were comparable in intake (358 to 638 gDM/day) and rumen NH3-N (9.3-13.7mg100ml-1, and ADG (gd-1) between 9.4 to 39.8 g/d. The nutrient digestibility, NH3-N and ADGs improved with supplementation. It is concluded that M. angolensis and Z. mucronata can be supplemented alone to improve weight gains of ruminants.
Pages: 31-39  |  165 Views  26 Downloads


International Journal of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry
How to cite this article:
Ondiek JO. Assessment and utilization of tree and shrub forages as livestock feed in Kenya: A review. Int J Vet Sci Anim Husbandry 2024;9(2):31-39.
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International Journal of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry