Agronomic Potential and Nutritive Value of Promising \u3ci\u3eLeucaena\u3c/i\u3e Species in the Yucatan Peninsula

Abstract

Two experiments were carried out in order to evaluate the agronomic potential, the nutritive value and the tolerance to psyllid (Heteropsilla cubana) of nine Leucaena species. A randomized block design with four repetitions was used. There were significant (P\u3c 0.01) differences on dry matter production (i.e. leaf and twigs yield ). L. collinsii showed the most promising result, which could be related to its high psyllid tolerance. In a second experiment, the preference indices of Leucaena species was assessed with sixteen male pelibuey sheep in a cafeteria trial. There were significant (P\u3c 0.0001) differences among Leucaena species. L. esculenta paniculata was the species most preferred . There was no relationship between chemical composition (i.e. ADF, NDF, and polyphenols) and preference and psyllid tolerance

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