Abstract
Despite a population of over 1.1 million camels in Pakistan, the sector remains neglected, leaving camel farmers in a cycle of poverty. Balochistan province holds the largest share (41%) of these animals. This study investigated the nutritional value of rangeland plants preferred by the Makurani camel in its native habitats of Lasbela and Makran. In this context, Makurani camels preferred plant species were collected, stored and later identified by botanical experts. The sample collection was carried out in two regions i.e., Lasbela (representing forest-like grazing) and Makran (representing desert landscape). Samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), ash, and fiber contents (NDF and ADF) using standard laboratory procedures. Results showed that in the Lasbela region, Makurani camels primarily preferred Salvadora persica (Jaar), while in Makran, Prosopis cineraria (Kahoor) was the most preferred rangeland plant species. Ziziphus (Ber) was common to both regions. Nutritional analysis showed that crude protein ranged from 11.76% to 18.16% in Lasbela and 10.19% to 17.11% in Makran. Ash content was found maximum in Salvadora species (up to 33.29%), indicating high mineral potential. Fibre content was highest in Capparus decidua, which contained the highest fiber levels (NDF 50.98%, ADF 43.16%). The study reveals that the Makran region suffers from sparse vegetation and poorer plant health compared to Lasbela. This study recommends adaptation of rotational grazing and providing supplementary feeding, particularly in the nutrient-scarce Makran region, to optimize camel production and health.
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