Utilization of Moringa oleifera Fodder Combinations with Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium Fodders by West African Dwarf Goats

Research Article

**Utilization of Moringa oleifera Fodder Combinations with Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium Fodders by West African Dwarf Goats**

V.O. Asaolu, R.T. Binuomote, J.A. Akinlade, O.S. Oyelami and K.O. Kolapo

Unlike Leucaena (LEU) and Gliricidia (GLI) fodders and in spite of its globally acclaimed nutritive values, Moringa (MO) fodder is yet to receive adequate research attention in Nigeria as a protein supplement for ruminants. The nutritional synergies between equal but separate combinations of MO with LEU and GLI fodders, respectively, relative to a sole MO fodder were evaluated with West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Three male WAD goats, weighing 10±1 kg, were used in a feed intake and nutrient digestibility study consisting of three experimental periods of 24 days each. Three experimental diets; 50 MO:50 LEU, 50 MO:50 GLI and 100 MO were investigated using a 3*3 Latin Square within a complete randomized design. Performance indices were Dry Matter Intake (DMI), nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilization and Relative Feed Value (RFVs). DMI and nutrient digestibility values were high with no (p>0.05) diet effects. Nitrogen in the three diets was well utilized. It was however better (p<0.05) utilized in 100 MO with minimal losses in faeces (5.47%) and urine (14.15%), leading to better nitrogen balance and retention. RFVs were generally high but significantly (p<0.05) highest for 100 MO. Based on the RFVs, 50 MO:50 LEU and 50 MO:50 GLI fodder combinations appeared promising as protein supplements for WAD goats, with a better prospect of utilization of 50 MO:50 GLI based on nitrogen utilization. The fodder combination will also allow for an optimal utilization of the available moringa fodder as its availability is still limited in Nigeria.

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How to cite this article

V.O. Asaolu, R.T. Binuomote, J.A. Akinlade, O.S. Oyelami and K.O. Kolapo, 2011. Utilization of Moringa oleifera Fodder Combinations with Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium Fodders by West African Dwarf Goats. International Journal of Agricultural Research, 6: 607-619.

DOI: 10.3923/ijar.2011.607.619

URL: https://scialert.net/abstract/?doi=ijar.2011.607.619

Comments

Joel Oke Reply

23 September, 2011

Moringa oleifera is coming to limelight at least in the southwestern Nigeria for its medicinal properties. It is interesting to know that it is been consumed as vegetable for quite some time now in the North.
All the same, literature has it that moringa is very rich in vitamins, minerals and other micro-nutrients. It is a tree that develops rapidly with good root system. So, moringa holds a good prospect as a tree for agroforestry, animal feeds, medicinal extracts and food supplements for man. It also has the potential of introducing nitrogen into the soil as a legume and thereby revitalize marginal lands. Its production will ameliorate the problem of climate change.
Therefore, this publication of Ashaolu, V. O. et al is a vital addition to literature on the usefulness of moringa.

Dr. Vincent Olajide Asaolu

27 September, 2011

Many thanks Joel Oke. Your comments and compliments are appreciated.

Badmus samuel . O Reply

28 June, 2015

Dr.ashaolu has really made us know more usefulness of moringa oleifera and i am really happy to know more. May the good Lord continue to help in your further researches.

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Authors

V.O. Asaolu

R.T. Binuomote

J.A. Akinlade

O.S. Oyelami

K.O. Kolapo

Keywords