Indian Journal of Animal Sciences (Jul 2024)

Effects of supplementing Leucaena pallida based multi-nutrient block on feed intake and body weight performance of goats fed poor-quality forage in semi-arid Tanzania during dry season

  • S O KUWI,
  • D F KAMWANGIRE,
  • B KASIBA,
  • L V KATABAZI,
  • O J LYAHAMA,
  • G F FUPI,
  • J A KAJUNA,
  • J R MGALULA,
  • B G TOGO,
  • W G MUNISI,
  • E A MOTO

DOI
https://doi.org/10.56093/ijans.v94i7.146750
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 94, no. 7

Abstract

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The study examined how three types of multi-nutrient blocks (urea-based multi-nutrient block, sunflower seedcake-based multi-nutrient block and Leucaena pallida leaf meal-based multi-nutrient block) affected the feed intake and growth performance of goats. While the dry matter intake of the basal diet remained unaffected by the multi-nutrient block supplements, the total feed intake was notably higher in the supplemented groups. Leucaena pallida-based multi-nutrient block had the highest intake while sunflower seedcake-based multi-nutrient block had the lowest. The preference for Leucaena pallida-based multi-nutrient block over sunflower seedcake-based multi- nutrient may be due to the appealing aroma and texture of Leucaena pallida. Leucaena pallida-based block supplementation reduced weight loss compared to the non- supplemented group. Overall, multi-nutrient blocks with Leucaena pallida could be a beneficial supplement for feeding growing goats during the dry season.

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