Evaluation of Some Top Fodder Foliage in Kashmir Valley

Predominantly available tree and shrub foliage (10 species) in Jammu and Kashmir State were analyzed for chemical composition and degradability. The study revealed thatAlianthus altissimas, Elaeagnus angustifolic, Morus multicaulis, Robinia pseudoacacia and Salix viminalis were highly nutritious having more than 17% CP. CF of most of the species was less than 20%. Wide variation was observed in cellulose (9.22–32.3%) and hemicellulose (10.1–19.41%) content in the analyzed foliages. The total tannin content was less than 1% exceptCeltis austrilis and Elaegnus angustifolic. Predicted DM intake by sheep ranged from 2.6 to 3.8% of body weight except Malus sylvestrus, Celtis austrills and Aesculus indica. The 72h DM degradability ranged from 52.1 to 89.8%. It was concluded that foliage ofAilanthus altissima, Elaeagnus angustifolic, Morus multicaulis, Populus deltoids, Robinia pseudoacacia, Salix viminalis and Ulmus wallichianawere highly nutritious and could be fed to animals, while those of Aesculus indica, Celtis austrilis and Malus sylvestrus had low nutritional value and acceptability.