The phytochemical, proximate and mineral contents of cassava leaves and nutritive values of associated arthropod pests

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is the most important staple food crops grown in Nigeria. This study determined the phytochemical, proximate and mineral contents of cassava leaves and nutritive value of associated arthropod pests. Phytochemicals, proximate, mineral and vitamin contents of samples were analyzed using the method of Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Results showed high amounts of crude protein, crude fat, moisture content, carbohydrate and mineral content in all arthropod insects examined. The highest quantity of Ca (1152.84±0.67 mg/100g) was obtained in ABF4 followed by ABF5 (1148.72±1.09 mg/kg). The lowest phenol content of 0.10±0.00 ppm was obtained in the cassava branch. The leaf recorded the highest phenol value of 0.74±0.01 ppm. Alkaloid had the highest value of 3.51±2.45ppm in Manihot esculenta branch. The highest crude protein and crude fat values of 3.41±0.13 % and 4.83±0.02 % were obtained in ABF5. Vitamin C was found in very high quantities compared to the other types of vitamins examined in this work. The highest Vitamin C content of 34.930±0.136 mg/100g was obtained. Cassava leaves and the arthropod pests are good sources of nutrients. Cassava leaves could also be used as an antimicrobial agent.