Effect of inclusion of subabul tree fodder on the physical properties and nutritive value of maize silage

Abstract

Subabul ( Leucaena leucocephala ), a leguminous tree fodder having protein levels between 27 percent to 34 percent and its adaptability to tropical climates, plays a crucial role by providing sustainable nutrition for cattle, goats, and other livestock, especially during tough environmental periods such as droughts. A study was conducted to evaluate the physical characteristics and nutritive value of maize silage with different levels of subabul tree fodder (0, 10, 20 and 30 percent). After six weeks of ensiling, the maize-subabul mixed silage was opened and examined for physical characteristics and nutritional values. All combinations of silage were yellowish-green in colour with a sweet aroma and pH ranging from 3.79 to 4.33 with no signs of fungal growth. Three to seven percent decrease in dry matter content was observed in the respective silage samples of all the treatment groups. The silages were analysed for their crude protein, ether extract and total ash contents. The protein content was significantly ( p <0.05) increased in treatments with a higher percentage of subabul fodder. In both fresh fodder and silage, the CP content was significantly ( p <0.05) higher in the M+S (70+30) group. The EE content was significantly ( p <0.05) increased for all the treatment groups and the TA content was significantly ( p <0.05) decreased for all groups except M+S (70+30) group after ensiling. The study demonstrates that silages prepared using legume tree fodder have desirable physical characteristics and nutritional values and high-quality protein-rich silages can be prepared using legume fodders up to 30 percent level of inclusion.