Potential uses of local feed resources for ruminants

Trop Anim Health Prod. 2009 Oct;41(7):1035-49. doi: 10.1007/s11250-008-9270-y. Epub 2008 Nov 19.

Abstract

Energy and protein sources are of prime importance for ruminants as they stimulate microorganisms in the rumen and enhance the productive functions of the animals. Cassava roots in the form of dry cassava chips or pellets as energy sources and dried cassava leaves and cassava hay as protein sources have been used successfully in ruminant rations. These uses of cassava could provide year-round feed which results in a high yield and good quality of milk and contribute to a more lucrative dairy and beef cattle enterprise, especially for small-holder dairy farming systems. There are many other available feed resources in the tropics of potential use in ruminant feeding and particularly in the development of food-feed-systems that are not only beneficial for human and animals but also for the environment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Agriculture / methods*
  • Amino Acids / analysis
  • Animal Feed*
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Animals
  • Anthelmintics / chemistry
  • Dairying / methods*
  • Manihot / chemistry*
  • Proanthocyanidins / chemistry
  • Ruminants / parasitology
  • Ruminants / physiology*
  • Tropical Climate

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Anthelmintics
  • Proanthocyanidins