UTILIZATION OF BITTER LEAF (VERNONIA AMYGDALINA) MEAL AS FEED FOR WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) GOATS

Abstract

This study determined the utilization and the optimum level of offer of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) meal (BLM) to West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed graded levels of bitter leaf meal. In a 20-week trial, twenty four West African Dwarf (WAD) goats of both sexes, 5-7 months old, were randomly allotted to four treatments of graded levels of BLM (0% BLM (Control diet), 15% BLM, 30% BLM and 45% BLM diets) in a completely randomized design to determine the utilization of bitter leaf meal as feed for West African Dwarf goats. The diets served as supplements to a basal ration of Panicum maximum. Two digestibility trials were carried out. Data obtained were statistically analyzed with the General Linear Model and significant means were separated using the Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The digestible ether extract intake and digestible organic matter of goats on 0% BLM were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the values obtained for goats on bitter leaf meal diets. The average daily weight gain (g/day) for goats on 0% BML was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of others. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in the percentage mortality of the goats fed experimental diets. The percentage mortality of goats on 30% and 45% BLM were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of others. It was concluded that bitter leaf meal can be included in the diets of (WAD) goats up to 15% without any deleterious effect.