Yield and intake of Bt-cotton crop residues compared to non Bt-cotton crop residues in Gezira state of Sudan

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate and estimate the yield of cotton crop residues (CCR) and to quantify the botanical composition of Bt and non Bt-cotton crop residues as also to obtain the intakes from the potentially available dry matter (PADM) from both types of CCR. The experiment was conducted in two localities (South Gezira and Um-Algura) in Gezira state, Sudan. While one animal herd was grazed on Bt-CCR in South Gezira locality, the other herd was grazed on non Bt-CCR in Um-Algura locality. The herds were selected as per the animal owner cooperation. CCR yield was estimated randomly by selecting different number of square meters by throwing the rope (14 times) each week and making the square meter by the rope itself. Week zero represents the period before introduction of animal herd to graze on Bt-CCR. From each square meter, cotton residues were cut at 10 cm above the earth level. The components of the crop residues were separated into leaves, bolls and tender branches and then weighed freshly and again after drying in an oven at 105oC for 24 hours. The results revealed significant differences in PADM for intake, daily dry matter (DM) intake, crude protein in PADM, daily protein intake, and percent parts in the intake. Also, CCR from Bt-cotton was higher in total leaves and tender branches. Grazing of Bt-CCR may be recommended whenever its safety is proved.