Proximate analysis and in-vitro gas production of predominant forages in Afe Babalola University rangeland as feed resources for ruminant production

Abstract

In Nigeria, the major feed resource for ruminant production is the natural grazeland. However, most forage found on such lands cannot absolutely support ruminant production. Therefore, there is need to ascertain the nutritive values of predominant forages in Afe Babalola University before setting up a ruminant farm. Wet season forages: grasses, legumes, forbes and tresses were sampled and analysed for proximate composition and in-vitro gas production using standard techniques. It was found that crude protein ranged between 12.2 and 27.3% in Terminalia catappa and Leucaena leucocephala respectively. The ash content varied from 6.0-22.0% in Andropogon gayanus and Asclepias Syriaca respectively. Crude fibre of the forages was between 12.5 and 28.0% in L. leucocephala and Centrosema pubescens respectively. Gas production was measured for 24hrs at 3hr intervals. At mid-fermentation, gas production ranged between 4.0 and 13.3ml/200mgDM (T. catappa and A. Syriaca respectively). While at termination, it was from 9.0 - 22.67ml/200mgDM in T. catappa and A. Syriaca respectively. Significant differences (