BIO-NUTRIENT ASSAY OF ENSILED CASSAVA PEELS AND MANGO LEAVES AT DIFFERENT DURATIONS FOR RUMINANT PRODUCTION

This study explored the effects of treatment variations and ensiling duration on the proximate composition, mineral content, anti-nutritional factors (ANFs), and fiber composition of cassava peels and mango leaves used as silage. Significant variations in the proximate composition were observed across treatments, particularly in moisture content and crude protein (CP). Treatment T4, which had the highest moisture content (38.73%), also exhibited the best balance of CP and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFE), suggesting an optimal combination for ruminant feeding. Notably, the crude protein levels were higher in the 21-day treatments, with T4 showing an ideal balance for enhanced protein content. The moisture content variation affected microbial activity and fermentation quality, influencing feed intake and digestion. Crude fiber (CF) increased with higher mango leaf inclusion, with T5 (27.38%) showing the highest CF, while the ether extract (fat content) peaked in T4 at 2.05%, improving energy density. The mineral composition was positively influenced by mango leaf inclusion, with T5 demonstrating the highest calcium and phosphorus levels, crucial for bone development and metabolic functions. In contrast, potassium content decreased with higher mango leaf proportions. Anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) like tannins and cyanides showed significant variation across treatments, with higher tannin content in T5 and higher cyanide levels in T2. Ensiling duration significantly influenced ANF reduction, with 28 days leading to decreased tannins, oxalates, and cyanide, as microbial fermentation effectively broke down these compounds. Fiber components such as ADF and lignin increased at 28 days, slightly reducing digestibility but promoting rumen health. The interaction between treatment and duration highlighted that treatments like T3 and T4 at 28 days were most effective at reducing ANFs, while also promoting mineral retention and improving nutrient availability. These results emphasize the potential of optimizing silage composition and fermentation conditions for improved ruminant nutrition.