Evaluation of Biomass Production, Nutrient Content and Digestibility of Asystasia gangetica as an Alternative Forage under Palm Plantation

Abstract

ntegrated farming systems through the inclusion of forage into the plantation area can increase the forage supply for ruminants. The aim of the research was to evaluate biomass production, nutrient, mineral content, and digestibilityof A. gangeticaunder different light intensity in palm plantation areas. The research was conducted under randomized complete block designbased on three different light intensity on each block. Data were analyzed statistically with R i386 3.6.1 using the Analysis of Variance Test (ANOVA), and Duncan Test was applied to determine the level of significant difference. The research showed A. gangetica cultivation influenced the soil properties under palm plantations. A gangetica grew well until light intensity 14.39% whichindicated by average biomass production on the first harvest time reached 78.58 g/plant. The light intensity decreasestriggered an increase inA. gangeticadry matter percentage,ash content and crude protein. The light intensityunaffectedthe concentration of minerals Ca, P, Mg,and forage digestibility, on the other side the dry matter digestibility on the second harvest time decreased due to the soil properties influences.The research concluded that biomass production, nutrient, mineral content,and digestibility of A. gangeticaunder palm plantation areawere affected by light intensity, soil properties,and harvest time.