Nutrient composition and in-vitro digestibility of cactus pear cladodes (Opuntia rastrera) at different localities of northeast Mexico

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to determine the nutritional content and in-vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDMD) of Opuntia rastrera at four locations in the northern state of Coahuila, Mexico. Three representative samples of cladodes of O. rastrera were obtained in each of four rural areas of Arteaga, General Cepeda, Ramos Arizpe and Saltillo. A bromatological analysis of samples was carried out. Acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber were also determined. IVDMD was determined at different times of incubation (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h), using the ANKOM DAISY digestor. The data were analyzed with a completely randomized design with four treatments and three repetitions. The results indicate that there were no differences (P>0.05) among locations in dry matter content (9.90-11.19%), organic matter (66.21-75.92%), crude protein (4.31-5.37%) and ether extract (1.66-1.80%); however differences (P>0.05) were found in crude fiber (17.87-25.79%), acid detergent fiber (33.87-46.02%), neutral detergent fiber (55.44-71.39%), ash (19.16-28.61%), nitrogen-free extract (21.96-44.72%) and IVDMD (42.74-69.42%) of O. rastrera. This seems to reflect factors such as age of the plants, period in which the samples were taken, soil type, and site of collection. According to the results, it is widely recommended to use this species for animal feeding, since O. rastrera plants have a similar nutritional composition as well as good value in terms of digestibility, plus it provides important amounts of water and fiber. It is important to note that Opuntia plants do not cover nutritional requirements of animals, so its use should be implemented with some other feeds or components, especially protein, which each producer adjusts economically and in terms of availability to obtain better results in terms of animal production.