NUTRIENT AND ANTI-NUTRIENT ASSAY OF ENSILED YAM PEELS AND MANGO LEAVES AT DIFFERENT DURATIONS FOR RUMINANT PRODUCTION.

This study evaluated the potential of ensiled yam peel and mango leaves as a sustainable feed resource for ruminant livestock. Five treatment groups with varying proportions of yam peel and mango leaves (100% YP, 75% YP + 25% ML, 50% YP + 50% ML, 25% YP + 75% ML, 100% ML) were ensiled for 21 and 28 days. The ensiled materials were analyzed for physical characteristics (texture, odor, color, pH, temperature), proximate composition (crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract, ash, dry matter), mineral content (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper), and anti-nutritional factors (tannins, saponins, phytates, oxalates). Results indicated that ensiling improved the physical properties of both materials, with all treatment groups exhibiting a firm texture, pleasant odor, and stable pH. The 100% ML treatment group showed the highest crude protein content (18.40%), while the 25% YP + 75% ML group had the highest ash content (8.69%). All treatment groups had acceptable levels of anti-nutritional factors. This study demonstrates the potential of ensiled yam peel and mango leaves as a viable feed resource for ruminants, particularly in regions with limited access to conventional feedstuffs. Further research is recommended to evaluate the digestibility and long-term impact on animal performance.