ABSTRACT

A study was conducted to determine the nutrient composition of selected locally available browse and grass plants commonly utilized by goats in Lungwena Extension Planning Area (EPA), Mangochi district, southern Malawi. A total of seventeen browse and grass samples were collected and subjected to proximate analysis to determine their chemical composition. Fiber components, Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) and Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), were also analyzed. Crude Protein (CP) content in the browse ranged from as high as 25% in Mucuna stans to 13% in Friesodielsia obovata. CP values for browse were considered adequate to furnish animal requirements. Browse contained low to medium NDF and ADF values, 29% to 64% and 20% to 43%, respectively. The Crude Fiber (CF) ranged from 6% in Ipomea batatas to 21% in Ficus capensis. Appreciable values in ether extract (EE) were obtained that ranged from 0.33% in I.batatas to 8% in Cajanus cajan. CP values for grasses ranged from 8% in Hyparrhenia sp to 9% in Mbunga. NDF values were between 45% and 65% and were regarded medium to high. Higher CF values were obtained between 16% in Mbunga and 26% in Imperata cylindirica. Season was determined as significantly affecting chemical composition (p<0.05) with better values recorded in the rainy than the dry season. There was observed a general decline in nutritive quality of the grasses in the dry season, albeit, browse plants remained relatively of good quality thereby capable of providing a vital feeding resource. Consequently, farmers are advised to prioritize on feeding browse to goats due to its superior quality so that the requirements of animals are met.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION AND JUSTIFICATION

METHODS

RESULTS

DISCUSSION

CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

APPENDIX