Identification and evaluation of agro-ecological variation in dry matter yield and nutritional values of local grasses used as livestock feed in Adola Reedde, Guji Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT A study was conducted in Adola Reedde to identify major grass species and evaluate their chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, and dry matter yield. Sixty key informants taken from the sampled kebele of three agro-climates were interviewed to identify common grasses in their vernacular name. Relative feed value and dry matter digestibility were computed using neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre contents. Spearman's rank correlation was used to examine relationships between laboratory results and farmers' perception of grass quality. Fifteen grass species were identified and ranked by farmers according to the species' preferences for cattle. Crude protein values ranged from 56.5 g/kg DM for lowland to 113 g/kg DM for highland agro-climate. overall mean of neutral detergent fibre was 662 g/kg DM, and in vitro dry matter digestibility and relative feed value were 446.5 g/kg DM and 60.97%, respectively. Total dry matter yield and dry matter of individual grass species were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in highland than in low land agro-climate. Dry matter yield across agro-climate ranged from 92.47 ± 0.04 g m−2-119.41 ± 0.07 g m−2 for highland and lowland agro-climate, respectively. Generally, study highlights the potential of herbaceous species to support livestock production if the grassland is properly rehabilitated and managed.