Issues Associated With the Existence of Ficus Microcarpa in Compound Farms and Bushes at Nnobi, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Historically in southeastern Nigeria, smallholder farmers plant trees in compound farms for more than one purpose. Ficus microcarpa, a popular fodder plant was studied to elucidate the issues associated with its existence in compound farms at Nnobi in Anambra state, Southeastern Nigeria. Primary data generated from the survey of 45 small-ruminant farmers at the location were used to determine the origin, reasons for planting, agronomic characteristics, and the dynamics of its use as a fodder plant by the farmers. The proximate composition of its leaf meal was also determined. Majority of the trees (97.78%) were planted by either the grandparents (44.44%) or parents (28.89%) of the farmers, thus, 75.56% of the trees have existed for 31 – 51 years and above. The trees were planted exclusively for ruminant browsing (100.00%) and other purposes such as shed (64.44%) and medicine (24.44%) among others. The tree is propagated vegetatively (93.33%), and does not require much agronomic care. About 1 to 2 stands (68.89%) were found per household. They produced fodder mostly during the rainy season (86.66%), and were harvested as the occasion demanded. All the farmers fed the fodder to small ruminants, while 31.11% fed it to large ruminants. The fodder yielded mean crude protein content of 12.56±1.01%, ether extract (2.13±0.49%), crude fiber (26.30±3.19%) and total ash (13.85±0.98%) among other proximate contents. Further studies on the socioeconomic and phytochemical characteristics of F. microcarpa are needed in order to elucidate its other beneficial attributes that make it a browse plant of promise in Nigeria.