Feeding value of Acacia tortilis pods in goats

Abstract

Fresh Acacia tortilis pods were mixed with low quality native grass hay to form 5 rations - T 1 (100% hay), T 2 (25% pods + 75% hay), T 3 (50% hay + 50% pods), T 4 (75% pods + 25% hay) and T 3 (100% pods). Male goat groups (3 in each group) were fed these rations. Performance of goats improved with increase in pods inclusion up to 75%. T 1 animals lost weight and showed high morbidity. Acacia pods inclusion up to 75% in diets improved nutrition value of range livestock diets.