Identification and Nutritional Value Assessment of the Major Browse Species in Chilega District, North Gondar

3 Abstract: The study was conducted in Chilga district of North Gondar Zone of the Amhara National Regional State to identify the major browse species, their importance as feed for livestock and their potential estimated biomass yield, their chemical composition, in vitro digestibility and in sacco degradability of the major browse species. During the study period 20 browse species were identified; - out of which twelve were selected based on their abundance in the district, preference by livestock, ease of browsing and additional uses other than livestock feed. According to the respondents, nearly all the domesticated ruminants in the survey area consumed browse species. Browses were utilized in both wet and dry seasons. Some browse species shed leaves early, while others retained leaves late into the dry season. Leaves, pods, twigs and flowers were the plant parts utilized by livestock. However, leaves were the most preferred part. The browse species were found on grazing land, crop land, in home compounds or grown as boundary plant species between farm lands. The farmers did not give great attention to the fodder value of the browse species and so do not manage them well. Significant difference (P<0.05) in potential biomass yield was observed among browse species. There is a wide variation in CP, NDF, ADF, ADL and ash contents. The IVDMD value varied ranging from 21.16 to71.07. There was a significant difference (P< 0.05) in DM and CP in sacco degradability among browse species. The result showed that there was relatively better digestibility and CP composition in browse species such as Helinus mystacium, Blecarcites aegyptica and Ficus thonningii, implying that, these browse species could be used to improve animal performance through improving the nutritive value of low quality feed resources.