Chemical Composition and Grazing Preference of Rangelands Plants by Small Ruminants of Surab District Balochistan, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31580/watttx30Keywords:
Chemical composition, Palatability, Rangeland plants, Small ruminant, UtilizationAbstract
Small ruminants, such as sheep and goats, primarily obtain their feed from rangelands. Therefore, understanding the chemical composition of rangeland forages and the grazing preferences of these animals is essential for effective livestock production. This study aimed to determine the chemical composition and grazing preferences of rangeland plant species by small ruminants in three areas (Giddar, Marap, and Dasht) of the Surab region, Balochistan. A baseline survey was conducted, and forage samples (n = 15) were collected for chemical analysis of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), starch, and ash. The most preferred plant species were Peganum harmala, Gallaniam afghanica, Gentiana kurro, Nepeta juncea, Artemisia scoparia, and Cousinia stcoksi. Among the 15 species identified, approximately 40% and 47% were rated as highly and moderately palatable, respectively. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in nutrient content were observed among the rangeland plants. Crude protein content ranged from 5.27% to 12.6%. The Surab region contains highly preferred forage species that can supply essential nutrients including crude protein and crude fiber to grazing sheep and goats in the area.
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