EVALUATION OF THE NUTRIENTS CONTENTS OF SELECTED PRESERVED FORAGES IN THE DERIVED SAVANNA ZONE

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the nutrient contents of selected forages based on adequate forage methods of preservation. Forages used in the studies were Andropogon tectonim, Cenchrus ciliaris, Panicum maximum and Imperata cylindrica. Representative samples collected from each experimental zone were preserved in the laboratory with different methods. The samples were analyzed for their proximate forage chemical contents. Baled hay and ensilage influence forage attributes particularly in forages were selected to be suitable methods of conservation of forage for dry season feeding based on proximate composition of the feed. Panicum marinunt and Cenchrus ciliaris were also found to be very rich in CP (9.0 and 9.2) respectively when conserved. Seasonal variation, method of forage conservation and stage of maturity were suggested to be major factors that affect DM and nutrient contents of forages.