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International Journal of Agricultural Research

Year: 2010 | Volume: 5 | Issue: 8 | Page No.: 576-581
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Authors

I.A. Amata

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Research Article

Nutritive Value of the Leaves of Myrianthus arboreus: A Browse Plant

I.A. Amata
The young leaves of Myrianthus arboreus plant (2n = 28), are popularly consumed in West Africa as vegetable soup. In Delta and Edo States of Nigeria, the leaves are rated amongst the most popular indigenous vegetables. In the livestock industry in Nigeria browse plants are becoming and integral part of livestock feeds due to their high nutrient profile, seasonal availability and affordability. In this study, the fresh leaves of Myrianthus arboreus were analyzed to determine the nutritive value. Parameters measured include the proximate composition, amino acid profile, mineral composition, metabolizable energy and the presence of some anti-nutritional factors. Data obtained showed a crude protein content of 18.74% DW, a value which is comparable to some common Nigerian vegetables. Crude fiber content was 11.6% DW, which is also within the range of reported values for some other Nigerian vegetables. The ash content was high 16.4% DW which is an indication of high mineral content. The ether extract (13.1% DW) is also within the range of some edible Nigerian leaves and metabolizable energy values of 1333.4 kcal kg¯1 is an indication of it=s suitability as an energy provider in the diets of livestock. Nine amino acids were analyzed, two of which were sulfur containing amino acids and were found in varying proportions. The anti-nutritional factors analyzed include: alkaloids, 640 mg/100 g, tannins, 4750 mg/100 g, saponins, 1860 mg/100 g, trypsin inhibitors 341.2 mg/100 g, phytic acid 25 mg/100 g, mycotoxins, 0.006 mg/100 g, oxalate, 15 mg/100 g and phenol, 1.12%. Ranges detected were within acceptable limits.
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