Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.

org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Intake and Growth Performance of West African Dwarf Goats

Fed Moringa oleifera, Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena
leucocephala Dried Leaves as Supplements to Cassava Peels
Vincent Asaolu1*, Rachael Binuomote2, Jelili Akinlade2, Olusola Aderinola2, Oyeniyi Oyelami2

1
Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso,
Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
*
E-mail of the corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract
An 84-day feeding trial was employed to investigate dried leaves of Moringa oleifera (MOR), Leucaena
leucocephala (LEU) and Gliricidia sepium (GLI) as supplements to cassava peels by 16 growing West African
Dwarf goats, with a mixed concentrate (MC) of groundnut cake and wheal offals (50:50) as the reference
supplement. Feed intakes, weight gain, feed conversion (FCR) and protein efficiency ratios (PER) were
monitored. Crude protein contents of the browse leaves were high and ranged from 21.64 to 28.86 % for GLI
and LEU respectively. Dry matter intakes ranged from 3.55 to 4.12 % of body weights for animals on gliricidia
leaf and mixed concentrates supplements respectively. MOR supplementation resulted in an average weight gain
of 20.83 g/animal/day, comparable (P<0.05) to the value of 21.43 g/animal/day for the MC supplementation.
Feed and protein were however more efficiently utilized by animals on the MOR supplement, with FCR and
PER values of 14.94 and 1.87 which were both significantly (P>0.05) lower than the corresponding values of
16.54 and 2.74 for animals on the MC supplement. The high potentials of MOR for replacing expensive
concentrates as supplements to a wide array of fibrous crop residues, as represented by cassava peels, were
demonstrated by the results of this study.
Keywords: WAD goats, concentrate feeding, cassava peels, Moringa oleifera, Gliricidia sepium, Leucaena
leucocephala
1. Introduction
Livestock plays a very important role as an integral part of farming and rural life in developing countries;
providing food and the critical cash reserve and income for many farmers who grow crops essentially for
subsistence purposes (Preston & Leng1987). In the rural areas where most of the resource-poor farmers in Africa
live, goats play an important socio-economic role (Anaeto et al., 2009), and form an integral part of the cultural
life system of Nigeria’s peasantry (Ajala, 2004). Goats are multipurpose animals producing meat, milk, skin and
hairs (French, 1970). However, out of these products, meat is the major form in which goats are consumed in
Nigeria (Alikwe et al., 2011). Goat meat is widely accepted and consumed in Nigeria because there is no taboo
against it (Peacock, 1996). The demand for goat meat is very high especially in rural areas where it often
commands higher market price than beef (Odeyinka, 2000). The meat from goat is preferable to those from other
animal species because of its flavour, tenderness and palatability (Idiong & Orok, 2008). They are indispensable
in marriage and religious rites (Gefu et al., 1994) and are an insurance against crop failure (Mattewman, 1980).
In southern Nigeria, goats are a ready source of family income and a good medium to establish friendship or
restore peace in a community (Idiong & Udom, 2011). The West African Dwarf (WAD) goat is a predominantly
indigenous breed found in southern Nigeria (Odeyinka, 2000).

Small ruminants suffer scarcity of feed supply and pasture quality in the humid region of West Africa, especially
during the dry season when the natural vegetation is of poor nutritive value (Aye, 2007). Specifically for goat
production in Nigeria, Ahamefule & Elendu (2010) identified feed shortage as a major constraint. Native
rangelands produce the cheapest source of nutrients for goats, and for a greater part of the year, grasslands do not
supply sufficient nutrients to stock for greater productivity (Ndlovu, 1992). The goats also subsist on household
wastes and crop residues (Odeyinka, 2000). Cassava peel is an important by-product available from the
76
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

processing of cassava (Manihot esculentus) root for food uses and starch, and has been used in feeding various
classes of livestock (Akinfala & Tewe, 2004). During the dry season, the native rangelands and crop residues
available for ruminants after crop harvest are usually fibrous and devoid of most essential nutrients including
proteins, energy, minerals and vitamins which are required for increased rumen microbial fermentation and
improved performance of the host animal (Osuji et al; 1995) resulting in weight losses, low birth weights,
lowered resistance to disease, and reduced animal performance (Onwuka et al., 1989). In response to these
challenges, the usual practice has been to supplement livestock diets with protein rich ingredients such as
groundnut cake (GNC), soybean meal (SBM) and cotton seed cake (CSC). Concentrate mixtures including cereal
grains, cereal bran and oil seed meals have resulted in increased intake in intensive production systems, and such
strategies have been the subject of several excellent reviews, including that of Bangani et al. (2002).
Unfortunately, these supplements are often not fed due to their unavailability and their high costs (Nouala et al.,
2006; Olomola et al., 2008). A cheaper alternative of enhancing utilization of low quality grass is by
supplementation with the foliages of high nitrogen multipurpose trees (Norton 1994; Abdulrazak et al., 1997).
Browse plants with high nutritive values have been successfully fed to small ruminants in alley farming systems
(Fasae & Alokan, 2006). Studies have shown that multipurpose trees can be used as cheap protein supplements
which can improve voluntary intake, digestibility and general performance of animals fed low quality feeds
(Kakengi et al., 2001). The leaves of Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium plants have been widely
reported (Shelton & Brewbaker, 1994; Asaolu & Odeyinka, 2006; Yousuf et al., 2007) as valuable forage
supplements to ruminants consuming low-protein diets. The two leguminous browse plants have been introduced
to, and popular among rural goat owners and keepers in southern Nigeria (Odeyinka, 2000).
Leucaena leucocephala is a relatively fast-growing tree in the production of forage (Szyszka et al., 1983).
Reynolds & Atta-Krah (2006) reported that the browse plant has the ability of being available all year round
because of its drought resistance, persistence, vigorous growth and re-growth and palatability. Leucaeana
leucocephala is a tree legume noted for its high nutritive value for ruminant production (Babayemi & Bamikole,
2006), being high in proteins, vitamins and minerals (Odeyinka, 2001). Its amino acid pattern is comparable with
that of soya bean and fish meal (Ter Meulen et al., 1979) and other animal feed sources available in developing
nations (Kale, 1987). Leucaena leucocephala leaves have been found to play a valuable role in providing
supplemental nitrogen to goats fed maize residues under the village system of management (Fasae et al., 2011).
It is readily available in smallholder settlements in south west Nigeria (Fasae et al., 2011), although it has its
origins in Central America and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico (Brewbaker et al., 1985). Gliricidia sepium is a
tropical tree legume, which grows abundantly in the southern part of Nigeria (Amate & Bratte, 2008), although
native to Central and South America (Smith & van Houtert, 1987). This leguminous tree produces a high quality
fodder and is a potential substitute of other feed resources (Adejumo, 1991; Abdulrazak et al., 1997). It is a
resource that can be mechanically harvested, with production levels of up to 150 metric tons of green
matter/ha/yr (Adejumo, 1991). Previous records (Gohl, 1981; Asaolu & Odeyinka, 2006) have shown that the
leaves contain as much as 20 – 30% CP and about 15% CF. The plant grows vigorously, is drought-resistant and
persistent, has good re-growth potentials, and so can be used to provide feed all-year round (Atta-Krah &
Sumberg, 1986). Gliricidia sepium has been described as a suitable feed for ruminants which they can consume
in large quantities without deleterious effects on animal performance (Bawala et al., 2006). It presents nutrient
levels which are superior to minimum critical levels required for ruminants, and is comparable to other shrubs
considered as having a high fodder quality (Smith & van Houtert, 1987).

The use of Leucaena leucocephala is however reportedly (Baumer, 1992) hampered by its susceptibility to
psyllid (Heterospana cubana) attack, causing considerable reduction in fodder yields, particularly during the dry
season. Gliricidia sepium is also limited by its low acceptability and higher contents of toxic compounds and
odour (Norton, 1994). Lowry (1990) observed that animals often refuse gliricidia leaf on the basis of smell and
even reject it without tasting it. This led him to conclude that the problem lies with volatile compounds released
from the leaf surface. Apart from volatile compounds, the low palatability may be related to other deleterious
factors such as tannins, essential oils or other aromatic compounds which are frequently present in many tree
leaves (Kumar and Vaithiyanathan, 1990).
Moringa oleifera Lam (syns. Moringa pterygosperm, family Moringaceae), a non-leguminous multi-purpose tree,
is one of the fastest growing trees in the world, with high crude protein in the leaves (> 20 %) (Makkar & Becker,
1996). Moringa is native to sub-Himalayan regions of India and is now naturalized in many countries in Africa,
Arabia, Southeast Asia, Caribbean Islands and South America (Ramachandran et al., 1980). It offers a good
77
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

alternative source of protein to humans and ruminants wherever they thrive (Nouala et al., 2006). Its leaves and
green fresh pods are used as vegetables by humans and are rich in carotene and ascorbic acid with a good profile
of amino acids, vitamins A, B and C, Ca, Fe and P (Makkar & Becker 1996). Laboratory analysis (Makkar &
Becker 1997; Asaolu, 2009) showed negligible amounts of tannins (1 to23 g/kg) in all fractions of the Moringa
oleifera plant and high levels of sulphur-containing amino acids. There has been an increasing interest in the use
of moringa as a protein source for livestock (Makkar & Becker, 1997; Sarwatt et al., 2004; Asaolu et al., 2009;
2010). Sarwatt et al. (2004) reported that moringa foliages are a potential inexpensive protein source for
livestock feeding. The advantages of using moringa as a protein resource are numerous, and include the fact that
it is a perennial plant that can be harvested several times in one growing season and also has the potential to
reduce feed cost. Moringa can easily be established in the field, has good coppicing ability, as well as good
potential for forage production. It can reach 12 m in height at maturity, yielding up to 120 tonnes/ha/yr when
planted very densely for use as forage (Makkar & Becker, 1997). Additionally, it is not affected by ant serious
diseases in its native or introduced ranges (Parrotta, 2005).
In an earlier nutrient utilization study with WAD goats (Asaolu et al., 2011), high and comparable nutrient
digestibility, nitrogen utilization and predicted relative feed values were reported for the forages of Moringa
oleifera, Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium. This follow-up study was conducted to investigate the
effects of supplementing a basal diet of cassava peels with dried forages of Moringa oleifera (MO), Leucaena
leucocephala (LEU) and Gliricidia sepium (GLI) on the performance of WAD goats. Performance indices were
voluntary dry matter intake, crude protein intake and growth rate.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1 Experimental Site
The experiment was carried out at the Small Ruminant Unit of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
Teaching and Research Farm, Ogbomoso. The area is located at 80 10’ North latitude and 400 10’ East
longitudes with annual rainfall of 1270 to 2030 mm, which occurs in 7-10 months with a peak between July and
September of the year. The temperature of the area ranges between 280C to 330C, with humidity of about 74%
all year round except in January when the dry wind blows from the North (Olaniyi, 2006).
2.2 Experimental feeds procurement and processing
MOR, LEU and GLI leaves were harvested from existing plantations at the Teaching and Research Farm after a
cut-back period of 60 days in March 2010; the peak of the dry season. The leaves of each of the three browses
were pooled together separately and air-dried to constant moisture levels, and thereafter bagged separately for
later use and chemical analysis. Fresh cassava peels were collected from a “gaari” processing plant at Iluju, a
town located within 20 km radius of Ogbomoso. The peels were dried to a constant moisture level at the Small
Ruminant Unit of Teaching and Research Farm and bagged for subsequent use and chemical analysis. Wheat
offals (WO) and groundnut cake (GNC) were purchased from a reputable commercial feed store in Ogbomoso,
and sampled for chemical analysis.
2.3 Animals, experimental design and management
Sixteen (16) growing West African Dwarf goats (8 males and 8 females), weighing 7.5±0.2kg, were purchased
from some local small ruminant markets in Ogbomoso. The goats were quarantined for a period of three weeks
prior to the commencement of the study. During this period, oxytetracycline and a multivitamin preparation were
administered at the rate of 1ml per 10kg body weight through intramuscular route for prophylactic treatment.
Ivermectin was also administered subcutaneously at the rate of 0.2ml per 10kg body weight against external and
internal parasites. The animals were group-fed ad lib on cassava peels, and offered mixed supplements of
Moringa oleifera, Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala leaves between 08.00 and 09.30 hours daily.
After the quarantine period, the animals were grouped into four of four goats each, and balanced for weight and
sex. The animals were thereafter moved into pens measuring 1.20m 2 (1.5 by 0.8m), and equipped with feeding
and watering facilities, before being allotted to four treatments in an 84-day feed intake and growth study using a
randomized complete block design. The 84-day study was preceded by a 14-day adaptation period. Animals in
Group 1 were placed on the control diet, which consisted of a basal component of cassava peels offered ad
libitum, and a mixed concentrate supplement of GNC and WO in equal proportion offered at 250 g/animal/day.
Animals in Groups 2 to 4 were placed on the three experimental diets; consisting of the same basal component,
but supplemented with dried leaves of Moringa oleifera, Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala leaves
78
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

respectively, also offered at 250 g/animal/day. The animals were provided with free access to mineral-salt licks
and clean fresh water daily throughout the duration of the experiment. Cassava peels were offered in two equal
installments; in the morning (around 09.30 hours) and in the afternoon (around 15.00 hours) to ensure
availability at all times. The supplements were offered between 08.00 and 09.30hrs before the basal diet. Feed
offers and refusals were weighed every day before daily morning feeding. The basal component of the diet
(cassava peels) was adjusted so that 10% more of the previous day’s intake was offered daily. Animals were
weighed at the commencement of the experiment and subsequently weekly before morning feeding.
2.4 Chemical analyses
Experimental feed samples were collected weekly in the course of the study. At the end of the study, they were
separately re-dried to constant weights, and subsequently analyzed for the proximate contents using the standard
methods of AOAC (2000). The ADF and NDF components were determined by the methods of Van Soest et al.
(1991). Metabolizable energy values were predicted from the equations of Abate & Meyer (1997) for tropical
forages and concentrates; ME (MJ kg−1 DM) = 20.27 − 0.1431CF − 0.1110NFE − 0.2200ASH; R2 = 0.25, P <
0.0001 and ME (MJ kg−1 DM) = 5.34 − 0.1365CF + 0.6926NFE − 0.0152NFE2 + 0.0001NFE3; R2 = 0.45, P <
0.0001 respectively.
2.5 Statistical analyses
The data that were generated on the performance indices were subjected to Analysis of Variance using the
General Linear Model procedures of SAS (SAS, 2001). Significant differences between means were compared
using the Duncan New Multiple Range test (DNMRT) of the same package.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1 Experimental diet compositions and nutrient compositions of experimental feedstuffs
The compositions of the experimental diets are as shown in Table 1 while Table 2 shows the nutrient
compositions of the experimental feedstuffs. Cassava peels could be taken to represent the array of low-protein
and low-energy crop residues often available in this part of the world for ruminants after crop harvest, especially
during the dry season; while GNC is generally regarded as a safe feed for all classes of livestock with high CP
and predicted ME values in addition to low ADF content (Table 2). Wheat offals, arguably the most important
cereal offal in Nigeria, also supplies both protein and energy (Table 2). The cassava peels used in this study
contained 3.28 % crude protein and 1.72 % EE, with a predicted ME of only 5.73 MJ/kg DM. The ADF value
of 52.00 % was on the high side (Table 2). These values fell within earlier reported ranges (Tewe, 1987; Asaolu
& Odeyinka, 2006). Norton (1994) observed that feeds containing less than 8 % CP could not provide the
ammonia levels required by rumen microbes for optimum activity, while Yousuf et al. (2007) opined that
relatively high ADF but low ether extract and crude protein contents were suggestive of low nutritional quality.
The nutrient contents of all the experimental supplements (Table 2) were in agreement with earlier reported
values (Asaolu & Odeyinka, 2006; Asaolu et al., 2010; Eniolorunda, 2011). The CP contents were much higher
than the 8 % level required for optimum rumen microbial activity (Norton, 1994). They also exceeded the range
of 11.00 to 13.00 % known to be capable of supplying adequate protein for maintenance and moderate growth in
goats (NRC, 1981). Ranjahan (2004) reported that if a growing animal is provided with insufficient protein, the
efficiency with which it utilizes metabolizable energy would probably be altered. The ADF and NDF contents of
the forages (Table 2) were low to moderate when compared with low quality roughages which ruminants
effectively degrade (Okoli et al., 2003). As was observed for the mixed concentrate supplement (50GNC:50WO),
the predicted ME values of the three experimental fodders were also high (Table 2), and compared favourably with
a reported value of 10.00 MJ/kg DM for alfalfa forage at the pre-bloom stage (Close & Menke, 1986). Eniolorunda
(2011) considered forage nutrient compositions similar to those obtained in this study as suggestive of their
suitability for fodder use. Browse plants have been reported to have high CP of high digestibility, and are also high
in vitamins and minerals (Osakwe, 2003; Asaolu et al., 2011) In a nutrient utilization study with WAD goats
(Asaolu et al., 2011), high and comparable nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilization and predicted relative feed
values were reported for the forages of Moringa oleifera, Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium, thus
making them potentially valuable supplements for goats maintained on poor-quality agro-industrial by-products
and crop residues.
3.2 Animal performance indices

79
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

All the experimental animals had adequate total DMI (g/animal/day) with values ranging from 288.48 to 354.49
for animals on GLI and MC supplementations respectively (Table 3). These values were comparable to the range
(291.55 – 313.42 g/animal/day) reported for WAD goats fed cassava peels-cassava leaf meal based diets
(Ukanwoko et al., 2009). When expressed as percentages of body weights, the afore-mentioned values
respectively represented 3.55 and 4.12 (Table 3); which fell within recommended dry matter intake levels for small
ruminants (NRC, 1985). In absolute terms (g/animal/day), significant (P<0.05) differences were observed in DMI
across all the treatments with the highest intake level recorded for animals on the MC supplement and the least
intake recorded for animals on GLI supplementation. When expressed relative to metabolic body weight and as a
percentage of body weight, significant (P<0.05) differences were still obtained. However, while the intake of
animals on the MC concentrate was still significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of animals on the other
supplements followed by that of animals on MOR, no significant (P>0.05) differences were found in the intake
levels of animals on GLI and LEU supplements. The DMI (gkg-0.75) ranged between 59.98 and 70.59 for animals
on GLI and MC supplements respectively. Mba et al. (1982) had reported a DMI of 54.81 gkg-0.75 for WAD goats
maintained on Gliricidia sepium plus concentrate on a 1:1 ratio while Asaolu et al. (2010) reported DMI values
ranging from 54.60 to 59.60 gkg-0.75 for WAD goats on groundnut hay basal diets, and offered moringa and
bamboo foliages as supplements. The observed trends were most probably dictated by the intake pattern of the
supplements by the animals as observed also in Table 3, which followed the same trend as observed for total DMI
in absolute terms. The supplements were not consumed to the same extent. The MC supplement was consumed in
the highest (P<0.05) amount, followed by MOR, LEU and GLI in that order. The intake pattern of the supplements
could be a reflection of the relative acceptability and palatability of these supplements. Masafu (2006) described
feed intake as a measure of diet appreciation, selection and consumption by an animal. For many tree leaves,
palatability has been related the contents of volatile compounds, tannins, essential oils, or other aromatic
compounds, which are frequently present in many tree leaves (Kumar & Vaithiyanathan, 1990). The least DMI
was observed for animals on GLI supplement (Table 3). Lowry (1990) suggested that the real constraint to
gliricidia feed value for ruminants lies in its palatability. The DMI pattern, as was observed in this study, could
also have been due to the CPI levels (Table 3). Significantly (P>0.05) higher CPI was observed for animals on the
MC supplement while comparable levels (P<0.05) were observed for animals on MOR and LEU supplements.
Mtenga & Shoo (1990) reported a positive correlation between crude protein intake and dry matter intake. The
crude protein intakes were seemingly reflections of the CP contents of the supplements (Table 2) and their
corresponding DMI levels (Table 3). The mixed concentrate supplementation resulted in the highest dietary
protein availability, hence, the highest CPI. Similar observations had been earlier reported (Fasae et al., 2005;
Arigbede, 2007).
Goats on the reference supplement (MC) and MOR gained similarly (P<0.05) in body weights, but each at a faster
(P>0.05) rate than LEU and GLI supplements. The goats on the GLI supplement had the least rate of growth. These
observations did not however translate to significant differences in the final live-weights of the animals (Table 3),
probably as a result of the duration (84 days) of the study. It is most likely that the differences would be brought to
statistical levels in a longer term study. The average daily weight gains (ADGs) ranged from 14.88 to 21.43
g/animal/day for animals on GLI and MC supplements respectively. The growth rates were lower than the range
(23.33 – 28.57 g/animal/day) that was reported by Odeyinka (2001) for WAD goats fed leucaena and gliricidia
leaves. They were also lower than the range (46.00 – 56.00 g/animal/day) that was reported by Babayemi et al.
(2006) for WAD fed Panicum maximum-based diets supplemented with lablab, leucaena and gliricidia foliages.
The growth rates were however higher than the range of 6.8 – 17.0 g/animal/day (yet to be published data from one
of our studies) obtained for intestinal nematode-infested WAD goats maintained on a basal diet of groundnut hay
with moringa and bamboo (Oxytenanthera abyssinica) leaves as supplements. The observed differences in growth
rates with earlier studies could have been due to differences in the basal components of the diets, voluntary dry
matter intake, efficiency of feed utilization and the physiological state of the animals. The higher growth rates of
the animals on the MC and MOR supplements in this study could be ascribed to their more efficient utilization by
the animals as indicated by their lower feed conversion ratios (FCRs; Table 3). Animals on the MOR supplement
were even more efficient in converting feed to weight gain than those on the MC supplement. Earlier similar
observations (Tripathi et al., 2006) between growth and feed conversion efficiencies of growing lambs fed
varying levels of tree leaves and concentrates were attributed to the influence of better nutrient density and
quality of nutrients available for utilization. The relative advantage of MOR over the MC supplement could
furthermore be detected in the protein efficiency ratios (PERs; Table 3), probably attributable to the better quality
of MOR protein for ruminant nutrition. The crude protein of MOR (Moringa oleifera) has been reported (Becker,
1995) to be of better quality for ruminants because of its high content of by-pass protein (47% versus 30% and
80
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

41% for Gliricidia sepium (GLI) and Leucaena leucocephala (LEU) respectively). Higher proportions of by-pass
protein have been reported to result in faster weight gains in livestock (McNeill et al., 1998).
4. Conclusions
The dried leaves of Moringa oleifera, Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala resulted in adequate dry
matter intakes when used as supplements to a basal diet of cassava peels for growing WAD goats. The crude
protein and predicted metabolizable energy contents of the browse leaves were adequate to compensate for the
corresponding acknowledged deficiencies in cassava peels as animal feeds. Average animal weight gain on the
moringa supplement was comparable to that on the mixed concentrate supplement, with the gliricidia supplement
producing the least weight gain. The obtained feed conversion and protein efficiency ratios however showed that
the moringa supplement was even better utilized than the mixed concentrate by growing WAD goats. The high
potentials of moringa leaf for replacing expensive concentrates as supplements to basal diets of a wide array of
low-protein and low-energy crop residues, as represented by cassava peels, have been demonstrated by the
results of this study.

81
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

References
Abate, A. L. & Meyer, M. (1997). Prediction of the useful energy in tropical feeds from proximate composition
and in vivo derived energetic contents. 1. Metabolisable energy. Small Ruminant Research, 25(1): 51 – 59.
Abdulrazak, S. A., Muinga, R M., Thorpe W. & Ørskov, E. R. (1997). Supplementation with Gliricidia sepium
and Leucaena leucocephala on voluntary food intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation and live-weight of
cross-bred steers offered Zea mays stover. Livestock Production Science, 49: 53 - 62
Adejumo, J. O. (1991). Effect of length and girth of vegetative planting material upon forage yield and quality of
Gliricidia sepium. Tropical Agriculture, 68: 63 – 65.
Ahamefule, F. O. & Elendu, C. (2010). Intake and digestibility of West African Dwarf bucks fed cassava
leaf-maize offal based diets. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances 9(3): 535 – 539.
Ajala, M. K. (2004). Household decision-making in the production of small ruminants in Giwa Local
Government Area of Kaduna State of Nigeria. In: Proceedings of the 29thAnnual Conference of the Nigerian
Society for Animal Production, Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, Nigeria, pp 309 – 402.
Akinfala, E.O. & Tewe, O.O. (2004). Supplement effects of feed additives on the utilization of whole cassava
plant meal by growing pigs in the tropics. LRRD 16 (10): 1-6.
Alikwe, P. C. N., Faremi, A. Y., Fajemisin, A. N. & Akinsoyinu, A. O. (2011). Performances and nitrogen
utilization of West African Dwarf goats fed soybean and dried poultry waste- based concentrates as supplements
to cynodon nlemfuensis basal diet. Journal of Applied Sciences in Environmental Sanitation, 6 (2): 191 – 189.
Amata, I.A. & Bratte, L. (2008). The Effect of Partial Replacement of Soybean Meal with Gliricidia Leaf Meal
on the Performance and Organ Weights of Weaner Rabbits in the Tropics. Asian Journal of Animal and
Veterinary Advances, 3: 169-173.
Anaeto, M., Tayo, G. O., Chioma, G. O., Ajao, A. O. & Peters, T. A. (2009). Health and nutrition practices
among smallholder sheep and goat farmers in Ogun State. Livestock Research for Rural Development, 21 (11).
AOAC (2000). Association of Official Analytical Chemists: Official Methods of Analysis. 6th Edition.
Washington DC, USA.
Arigbede, O. M. (2007). Performance of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed Panicum maximum basal diet
with different sources of protein supplements. ASSET SERIES A, 7 (1): 79 – 85.
Asaolu, V. O. (2009). Evaluation of Moringa oleifera LAM and Oxytenanthera abyssinica (A. RICH) MUNRO
as protein supplements and natural dewormers for West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. PhD (Animal Science)
Thesis. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Asaolu, V. O. & Odeyinka, S. M. (2006). Performance of West African Dwarf sheep fed cassava peel-based
diets. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 33: 230 - 238
Asaolu, V. O., Binuomote, R. T., Akinlade, J. A., Oyelami, O. S. & Kolapo, K. O. (2011). Utilization of Moringa
oleifera fodder combinations with Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium fodders by West African Dwarf
goats. International Journal of Agricultural Research 6 (8): 607 – 619.
Asaolu, V. O., Odeyinka, S. M., Akinbamijo, O. O. & Sodeinde, F. G. (2010). Effects of moringa and bamboo
leaves on groundnut hay utilization by West African Dwarf goats. Livestock Research for Rural Development.
Volume 22, Article #12 http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd22/1/asao22102.htm
Asaolu, V. O., Odeyinka, S. M., Akinbamijo, O. O., Babayemi, O. J. & Hoffmann, E. (2009). Preliminary
evaluation of Moringa oleifera and Oxytenanthera abyssinica (bamboo) leaves as supplements for ruminants.
Bulletin for Animal Health and Production in Africa, 57: 349 – 360.
Attakrah, A. N. & Sumberg, J. E. (1988). Studies with Gliricidia sepium for crop-livestock production systems
in West Africa. Agroforestry Systems, 6: 97 – 118
Aye, P. A. (2007). Production of multinutrient blocks for ruminants and alcohol from the waste products of
Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium leaves using local technologies. PhD thesis. Federal University of
Technology, Akure, Nigeria.
Babayemi, O. J. & Bamikole, M. A. (2006). Nutritive value of Tephrosia candida seed in West African Dwarf
goats. Journal of Central European Agriculture 7(4): 731 – 738.
http://www.agr.hr/jcea/issues/jcea7-4/pdf/jcea74-18.pdf
82
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Babayemi, O. J., Ajayi, F. T., Taiwo, A. A., Bamikole, M. A. & Fajimi, A. K. (2006). Performance of West
African Dwarf goats fed Panicum maximum and concentrate diets supplemented with Lablab (Lablab purpureus),
Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) and Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium) foliages. Nigerian Journal of
AnimalProduction, 33 (1): 102 – 111.
Bangani, N. M., Botha, J. A., Muller, C. J. C. & Cruywagen, C. W. (2000). The production performance of
lactating Jersey cows receiving varying levels of Lucerne hay and oat silage as roughage sources. South
African Journal of Animal Science: 30 (Supplement 1
http://ajol.info/index.php/sajas/article/viewFile/3886/11692
Baumer, M. (1992). Trees as browse to support animal nutrition. In: Legume trees and fodder trees as protein
sources for livestock. FAO Animal Production and Health Paper No. 102 (Edited by A. W. Speedy and P.L.
Pugliese), pp 1- 10.
Bawala, T. O., Isah, O. A. & Akinsoyinu, A. O. (2006). Studies on milk mineral composition of lactating West
African Dwarf goats. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 5 (10): 805 – 809.
Becker, K. (1995). Studies on utilization of Moringa oleifera leaves as animal feed. Institute for Animal
Production in the Tropics and Subtropics, Volume 480, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, pp 15.
Brewbaker, J. L., Hedge, N., Hutton, E. M., Jones, R. J., Lowry, J. B., Moog, F. & van den Beldt. (1985).
Leucaena – Forage Production and Use. NFTA, Hawaii, 39pp.
Close, W. & Menke, H. K. (1986). Selected Topics in Animal Nutrition: A Manual. Institute for Animal
Production, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
Eniolorunda, O. O. (2011). Evaluation of biscuit waste meal and Leucaena leucocephala leaf hay as sources of
protein and energy for fattening “yankassa” rams. African Journal of Food Science, 52 (2): 57 – 62.
Fasae, O. S., Adesope, A. I. & Ojo, V. O. A. (2011). The effect of leucaena leaf meal supplementation to maize
residues on village goat performance. Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 2: 1276 – 1282.
http://www.biosciences.elewa.org/JAPS
Fasae, O. A. & Alokan, J. A. (2006). Growth performance of weaner Yankasa sheep fed varying levels of
Leucaena leucocephala leaf residues. ASSES SERIES A 6(2): 323-328.
Fasae, O. A., Alokan J. A. & Onibi, G. E. (2005). Feed intakes of Yankassa sheep fed varying levels of
Leucaena leucocephala leaf residues. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 32 (1): 88 – 93.
French, M. H. (1970). Observations on the goat. FAO Agricultural Studies 80. FAO (Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations), Rome, Italy, 204 pp.
Gefu, J. O., Adu, I. F., Alawa, B. I. & Magaji, S. O. (1994). Characteristics of smallholder sheep and goat
management practices in South East Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 21: 127 – 135.
Gohl, B. (1981). Tropical feeds: feed information summaries and nutritive values In: FAO Animal Production
and Health Series (FAO), no. 12 / FAO, Rome (Italy). Animal Production and Health Div.; International
Foundation for Science, Stockholm (Sweden), 544 p.
Idiong, N. B. & Udom, G. N. (2011). Sex influence on performance of West African Dwarf goats. Electronic
Journal of Environmental, Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 10(6): 2350 – 355.
Idiong, N. B. & Orok, E. J. (2008). Acceptability of some fodder plants by West African Dwarf goats. Journal of
Agriculture, Technology, Business and Applied Sciences, 1 (1): 33 – 37.
Kakengi, A. M., Shem, M. N., Mtengeti, E. P. & Otsyina, R. (2007). Leucaena leucocephala leaf meal as
supplement to diet of grazing dairy cattle in semi-arid Western Tanzania. Agroforestry Systems, 52: 78 – 82.
Kale, A. U. (1987). Nutritive value of Leucaena leucocephala (subabul). Doctoral thesis, University of
Bombay.
Kumar, R. & Vaithiyanathan, S. (1990). Occurrence, nutritional significance and effects on animal productivity
of tannin in tree leaves. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 30: 21 – 38.
Lowry, J. B. (1990). Toxic factors and problems: Methods of alleviating them in animals. In: C. Devendra (Ed.)
Shrub and Tree Fodders for Farm Animals. Proceedings of a Workshop in Densapar, Indonesia, 24 – 29
July, 1989, pp 76 – 88.

83
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Makkar, H. P. S. & Becker, K. (1996). Nutritional value and antinutritional components of whole and ethanol
extracted Moringa oleifera leaves. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 63: 211 – 228.
Makkar, H. P. S. & Becker, K. (1997). Nutrients and antiquality factors in different morphological parts of
Moringa oleifera tree. Journal of Agricultural Science, 128: 311 – 312.
Masafu, M. M. (2006). The evaluation of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) DE WIT: A renewable protein
supplement for low quality forages. PhD Thesis, University of South Africa.
Mattewman, R. W. (1980). Small ruminant production in the humid tropical zone of southern Nigeria. Tropical
Animal Health and Production, 234 - 242
Mba, A. U., Manigu, S. A. & Awah, A. A. (1981). Influence of concentrate supplement with browse plant
(Gliricidia sepium) on nutrient utilization and growth of West African Dwarf (Fouta Djallon) kids. Nigerian
Journal of Animal Production 9 (2): 63 – 73.
McNeill, D. M., Osborne, N., Komlong, M. & Naukervis, D. (1998). Condensed tannins in the genus leucaena
and their nutritional significance for ruminants. In: H. M. Shelton, R. C. Gutteridge, B. F. Mullen and R. A. Bray
(Eds.) Leucaena – Adaptation, quality and Farming Systems. Proceedings of a workshop held in Hanoi, Vietnam,
1 – 4 February, 1998, 204 – 214.
Mtega, L. & Shoo, R. (1990). Growth rate, feed intake and feed utilization of Small East African goats
supplemented with Leucaena leucocephala. Small Ruminant Research, 3: 9 – 18.
Ndlovu, L. R. (1992). Complementarity of forages in ruminant digestion: Theoretical considerations. In: Stares, J.
E., Said, A. N. and Ketagile, J. A. (Eds.) The complementarity of feed resources in Animal Production in Africa.
Proceedings of the Joint Feed Resources Network, Gaborone, Botswana, 4 – 8 March, 1991, pp 17 – 23.
Norton, B. W. (1994). The Nutritive Value of Tree Legumes. In: Forage Tree Legumes in Tropical Agriculture,
Gutteridge, R. C. and H. M. Shelton (Eds.) CAB International, UK, pp: 177 – 191.
Nouala, F. S., Akinbamijo, O. O., Adewumi, A., Hoffmann, E., Muetzel, S. & Becker, K. (2006). The influence
of Moringa oleifera leaves as substitute to conventional concentrate on the in vitro gas production and
digestibility of groundnut hay. Livestock Research for Rural Development 18 (9). Retrieved on February 26 2007
from http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd18/9/noua18121.htm
NRC (1981). National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Goats: Angora, Dairy and Meat in
Temperate and Tropical Countries. National Academies Press, Washington D. C., USA, ISBN-
13:9780309031851, pp: 91
NRC (1985). National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Sheep (6th Edition). National Academies
Press, Washington D. C.
Odeyinka, S. M. (2001). Effects of feeding varying levels of Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium on
the intake and digestibility of West African Dwarf goats. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 28 (1): 61 – 65
Odeyinka, S. M. (2000). Feeding behaviour and diet selection by West African Dwarf goats. Arch. Tierz.,
Dummerstorf 43 (1): 57 – 61.
Okoli, I. C., Anunobi, M. O., Obua, B. E. & Enemuo, V. (2003). Studies on selected browses of South Eastern
Nigeria with particular reference to their proximate and some endogenous anti-nutritional constituents. Livestock
Research for Rural Development, Volume 15, Number 9.
Olaniyi, J. O. (2006). Influence of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers on seed yield and quality of egusi melon
(Citrullus lanatus) Thunb in Ogbomoso, southwestern Nigeria. PhD Thesis, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
Olomola, O. O., Babayemi, O. J. & Akinsoyinu, A. O. (2008). Performance characteristics and nutrient
utilization of pregnant West African Dwarf gosts fed groundnut cake, urea and rumen epithelia wastes in cassava
flour and citrus pulp-based diets. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 8 (1): 61- 67.
Onwuka, C. F. I., Akinsoyinu, A. O. & Tewe, O. O. (1989). Feed value of some Nigerian browse species:
Chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of leaves. East African Agriculture and Forestry Journal, 54:
157 – 163.
Osakwe, I. I. (2006). Effects of Leucaena leucocephala supplementation to basal hay on energy and protein
metabolism in West African Dwarf sheep. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 33 (1): 94 – 101.

84
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Osuji, P.O., Fernandez-Rivera, S. & Odenyo, A. (1995). Improving fibre utilization and protein supply in
animals fed poor-quality roughages: ILRI Nutrition Research and Plans. In: Rumen Ecology Research Planning
(eds. Wallace, R.J. and Lahlou-Kassi, A.). Proceedings of a workshop held at ILRI, Addis Ababa, pp 1 – 22.
Parrotta, J, A. (2005). Moringa oleifera (monograph 111-114 in the enzyclopeadia de Holzgewachse
(encyclopedia of wood plants) Ecomed valag Germany.
Peacock, C. (1996). Improving goat production in the tropics. A Manual for Development Workers. An
Oxfarm/FARM Africa Publication (UK and Ireland), pp. 1-20
Poppi, D. P. & McLennan, S. R. (1995). Protein and energy utilization by ruminants at pasture. Journal of
Animal Science, 73: 278 – 290.
Preston, T.R. & Leng, R. A. (1987. Matching ruminant livestock production systems with available resources in
the tropics and sub-tropics. Penambul Books, Armidale, Australia, pp 245. Available at:
http://www.utafoundation.org/P&L/preston&leng.htm
Ramachandran, C., Peter, K. V. & Gopalakrishnan, P. K. (1980). Drumstick (Moringa oleifera): A multipurpose
Indian vegetable. Econ. Bot., 34: 276 – 283.
Ranjahan, S. K. (2004). Animal Nutrition in the Tropics. Published by Vikas Publishing House, PVT, LMD. 5th
Edition, pp 36 – 37.
Reynolds, L. & Atta-Krah, A. W. (2006). Alley farming with livestock. Paper presented at the International
Workshop on Alley Farming for Sub-humid Region of Tropical Africa, IITA, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Sarwatt, S. V., Milang'ha, M. S., Lekule, F. P. & Madalla, N. (2004). Moringa oleifera and cottonseed cake as
supplements for smallholder dairy cows fed Napier grass Livestock Research for Rural Development. Volume 16
Article # 38. Retrieved June 2006 from http://www.cipav.org.co/lrrd/lrrd16/6/sarw16038.htm
SAS (1998). SAS User’s Guide Statisyics. SAS Inc. Cary, North Carolina, 1998 Edition.
Shelton, H. M. & Brewbaker, J. L. (1994). Leucaena leucocephala - the most widely used forage tree legume. In:
Forage tree legumes in Tropical Agriculture. (Editors: Gutteridge, R. C., Shelton, H. M.). PP.15-30. CAB
International, Wallingford, U.K.
http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPC/doc/Publicat/Gutt-shel/x5556e06.htm#2.1%20leucaena%20leucocephala%2
0%20%20the%20most%20widely%20used%20forage%20tree%20legume
Smith O. B. & van Houtert, M. J. (1987). The feeding value of Gliricidia sepium. World Animal Review (Rome),
62: 57 – 68
Szyszka, M., Termeulen, U. & El-Harith, E. A. (1983). The possibilities of safe application of leucaena in the
diets production livestock. Leucaena Research Reports, 4: 13 – 14.
Ter Meulen, U., Struck, S., Schulke, E. & El-Harith, E. A. (1979). A review on the nutritive value and toxic
aspects of Leucaena leucocephala. Tropical Animal Production, 4:113-26.
Tewe, O. O. (1987). Cassava peels utilization in poultry diets. In: Root crops and the African food crisis.
IDRC-258e Canada, pp 150-153.
Tripathi, M. K., Karim, S., Chaturvedi, O. H. & Singh, V. K. (2006). Effect of ad libitum tree leaves feeding
with varying levels of concentrate on intake, microbial protein yield and growth of lambs. Livestock Research
for Rural Development. Volume 18, Article #179. Retrieved November 22, 2011, from
http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd18/12/trip18179.htm
Ukanwoko, A. I., Ahamefule, F. O. & Ukachukwu, S. N. (2009). Nutrient intake and digestibility of West
African Dwarf bucks fed cassava peel-cassava leaf meal based diets in South Eastern Nigeria. Pakistan
Journal of Nutrition, 8 (7): 983 – 987.
Van Soest, P. J., Robertson, J. B. & Lewis, B. A. (1991). Methods for dietary fibre, neutral detergent fibre and
non-starch polysaccharides in relation to animal nutrition. Journal of Dairy Science, 74: 3579 – 3583.
Yousuf, M. B., Belewu, M. A., Gbadamosi, H. A. & Ogundun, N. I. (2007). Replacing cottonseed cake with
cassava leaf meal in corn bran-based diet fed to goats. Bulgarian Journal of Animal Science.

85
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Table 1: Compositions of the experimental diets fed to WAD goats (as fed, and on daily basis)
Ration components
Experimental diets
1 2 3 4
Basal component
Cassava peels ……….….………….Ad libitum…………..……………….
Supplements
Mixed concentrate mixture (50GNC:50WO) 250g
Dried Moringa oleifera leaves 250g
Dried Gliricidia sepium leaves 250g
Dried Leucaena leucocephala leaves 250g

86
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Table 2: Nutrient and mineral compositions of experimental fodders, cassava peels, concentrate ingredients and
mixture fed to West African Dwarf goats.
Nutrients (g/100g)
Fodders/cassava peels/concentrate ingredients/mixed concentrate
CPL GNC WO *MC MOR GLI LEU
(50GNC:50WO)
DM 85.70 93.50 90.00 91.75 95.57 95.86 94.38
% of DM
CP 3.28 48.04 17.38 32.71 26.74 21.64 28.86
EE 1.72 8.32 4.28 6.30 8.06 4.55 5.67
CF 17.18 7.51 9.37 8.44 11.03 10.70 12.16
NDF 28.47 37.10 39.99 38.55 26.35 29.60 29.21
ADF 52.00 16.41 14.16 15.51 32.40 34.50 34.80
OM 80.81 86.67 83.77 85.22 89.83 91.54 92.54
NFE 70.78 23.32 59.40 41.36 39.57 49.49 59.67
Predicted parameter
ME (MJ/kg DM) 5.73 13.47 12.53 13.00 12.10 11.38 10.27
MOR = Moringa oleifera, LEU = Leucaena leucocephala, GLI = Gliricidia sepium, CPL = Cassava peels, MC =
Mixed concentrate, GNC = Groundnut cake, WO = Wheat offals
*
Values were computed for the mixed concentrate

87
Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol 2, No.10, 2012

Table 3: Intake and growth indices of WAD goats offered supplements of dried Moringa oleifera, Leucaena
leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium forages to a basal diet of cassava peels.
Item P-value SEM
Experimental diets
1(MC) 2 (MOR) 3(GLI) 4(LEU)
Dry matter intake (DMI)
Cassava peels 194.56a 188.30b 187.85b 182.61c 6.02E-06 1.16
a b d c
Supplements 159.93 122.95 100.63 117.03 1.39E-12 5.62
a b d c
Total DMI; g/animal/day 354.49 311.25 288.48 299.64 2.1E-12 6.49
-0.75 a b c c
Total DMI; gkg 70.59 63.13 59.98 61.03 5.6E-08 1.10
a b c c
Total DMI (% of BW) 4.12 3.72 3.55 3.59 3.62E-09 0.06
*
Crude protein intake
(CPI); g/animal/day
Cassava peels 6.38a 6.18b 6.16b 5.99c 6.52E-08 0.04
a b c b
Supplements 52.31 32.88 21.78 33.77 1.02E-08 2.89
a b c b
Total CPI; g/animal/day 58.69 39.05 27.94 39.76 1.35E-09 2.89
Growth performance
Initial live-weight (kg) 7.70 7.50 7.50 7.70 0.309552 0.05
Final live-weight (kg) 9.50 9.25 8.75 9.00 0.482952 0.17
a a c b
ADG (g/animal/day) 21.43 20.83 14.88 15.48 6.42E-12 0.78
b c a a
FCR 16.54 14.94 19.39 19.36 1.17E-05 0.53
a b b a
PER 2.74 1.87 1.88 2.57 1.05E-13 0.10
abc
Means in the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05), ADG = Average Daily Gain,
FCR = Feed Conversion Ratio = Weight of feed/goat net-weight gain , PER = Protein Efficiency Ratio = Goat
net-weight gain/crude protein intake.
*
Values computed from DMI figures (Table 3) and the corresponding crude protein values (Table 2)

88