Comparative Feeding Value of Halophyte as Alternative Animal Feed for Small Ruminants in Eritrea

Abstract

Totally 160 sheep and goats were used in 84 feeding trial days to compare the feeding value of halophyte as alternative animal feed with locally available. In this study, three feed types, i.e. halophyte (H), sorghum husk (SH) and shishay (S)-locally manufactured commercial feed-were used to formulate the ration of the four treatments (i.e. Tr. 1 Tr. 2 Tr. 3 and Tr. 4): Tr. 1 (100% H), Tr. 2 (70% SH and 30% H), Tr. 3 (70% SH and 30% S) and Tr. 4 (100% SH). Feed composition analysis for each treatment, and using SAS procedures statistical analysis of body weight gain (BWG) and dry matter intake (DMI) were carried out for each species and feed conversion rate (FCR) and average daily gain (ADG) were calculated. The results of sheep showed a significant difference ( p < 0.05) among all treatments except between Tr. 2 and Tr. 3 for BW; and Tr. 1 was significantly different from Tr. 2 and Tr. 4 for DMI. However, these results were no different for goats among all treatments, with the exception DMI of Tr. 4. Therefore, the present study indicated that the inclusion of halophyte (up to 30%) in the diet can substitute the 30% S, which is expensive and readily unavailable, as alternative animal feed for small ruminants to fill the gap of feed shortage and non-availability in Eritrea. However, further study is necessary to see the impact of halophyte on milk production, fertility, meat quality and its economical use as animal feed.