Dehydrated Desmodium, Kikuyu Grass, Ramie, and Banana Leaf Forages as Supplements of Protein, Riboflavin, and Carotenoids in Chick Rations

Abstract

IF A successful poultry industry is to be developed in countries of the American Tropics, local vegetable sources of protein, riboflavin, and vitamin A activity must be exploited. Forages grow rapidly in the Tropics; and several promise to contribute large quantities of nutrients essential for adequate poultry rations.Desmodium, Desmodium intortum, has been shown to be equal to a United States alfalfa meal in baby chick rations (Squibb et al., 1950) and is found throughout the American Tropics as well as in the southern United States.Kikuyu grass, Pennisetum clandestinum, grows well at most altitudes in Central America. It has been found to be an excellent supplement to corn and sesame oil meal for swine on dry lot (Squibb et al., 1951). As a pasture, according to unpublished data by Squibb, it also maintains high serum levels of riboflavin, vitamin A, and carotenoid levels in laying hens.Another plant that …