Influence of Graded Levels of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal on Performance, Apparent Nutrient Digestibility and Economics of Production of West African Dwarf (WAD) Ewes

Abstract

A-90 day study was carried out to determine the growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility and economics of production of incorporating Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) in the diets of ewes. Twenty-four WAD ewes of about 10-12 months in age, averaging 12.4+0.23kg in weight, were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments (A, B, C and D) containing 0, 5, 10 and 15% MOLM inclusion levels respectively. The animals were randomly divided into four treatment groups of six ewes each and assigned the diets in a completely randomised design. Each animal was housed individually in cement floored pens provided with feeding and drinking troughs. The ewes were fed on 3% body weight on dry matter basis in addition to basal forage (Panicum maximum). Results showed that average daily feed intake and average daily dry matter intake increased significantly (p<0.05). Average daily weight gain differed significantly (P<0.05). FCR was best (p<0.05) for ewes fed diet C and D. Cost benefit ratio showed that the rate of returns increased as the MOLM level in the diet increased. Gross profit was higher (p<0.05) for animal in fed diet C and D. Dry matter, crude protein and crude fibre digestibilities were significantly (p<0.05) better among the treatment groups. Incorporation of MOLM in WAD sheep diets generally enhanced intakes, body weight gain, cost benefit ratio, gross profit and nutrient digestibility and hence could be included in sheep diets up to 15% without any adverse effect on intakes, weight gain, cost benefit ratio and digestibility.