Production of dry matter and nutritional value of tropical forage shrub species in a biodiverse system

Abstract

Objective: To estimate dry matter production, chemical composition, and ruminal degradation kinetics of dry matter of Guazuma ulmifolia and Gliricidia sepium.

Design/methodology/approach: The study was conducted at the Germplasm Bank of the Campo Experimental Rosario Izapa del INIFAP. Dry matter production per plant and per hectare, chemical composition, in situ degradability of dry matter and ruminal degradation parameters of dry matter were estimated for Guazuma ulmifolia and Gliricidia sepium.

Results: Crude protein content in both species was greater than 19% at 30, 45, and 60 days of regrowth. The in situ degradability of dry matter at 45 days of regrowth was higher in G. sepium at all incubation times. Dry matter production per plant and per hectare was higher in G. ulmifolia at all three regrowth times.

Limitations on study/implications: Data and sampling were collected after manual defoliation; evaluation is required after defoliation due to grazing.

Findings/conclusions: G. ulmifolia and G. sepium have nutritional and productive characteristics suitable for inclusion in biodiversified forage production systems. G. ulmifolia can be defoliated as early as 45 days after regrowth, while G. sepium requires 60 days.