A Comparative Analysis of Silver Leaf Desmodium and Mexican Sunflower as Economically Viable Protein Sources for Ruminant Animals

Abstract With the rapidly growth in global population and rising demand for animal-based foods, the livestock sector faces increasing pressure to provide adequate and sustainable sources of high-quality nutrients particularly with high-quality protein sources. Conventional protein-rich feedstuffs often remain costly and inaccessible to many smallholder livestock producers necessitating the exploration of alternative locally available and economically viable options. This study aimed to assess and compare the nutritional content of two promising plant species; Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) and Silver Leaf Desmodium (Desmodium uncinatum) as potential and readily available protein sources for livestock. Comparative research was employed involving sampling of the plant materials and subsequent laboratory analyses to determine their protein, fiber, ash and moisture content. The findings revealed significant differences between the two plants regarding their nutritional compositions. Mexican Sunflower exhibited a higher crude protein content of 28.05% surpassing some conventional protein sources like corn distillers' grains and cottonseed meal. This high protein level suggests its potential as a valuable concentrate or protein supplement in ruminant diets. In contrast, Silver Leaf Desmodium had a lower crude protein content of 18.54% comparable to alfalfa hay a common high-protein forage. Interestingly, Silver Leaf Desmodium displayed a remarkably high crude fiber content of 24.28% exceeding typical levels for legumes and making it a suitable fiber source for ruminants. On the other hand, Mexican Sunflower had a lower fiber content of 6.56% indicating the need for supplementation with other high-fiber ingredients to achieve balanced rations. Regarding ash content, an indicator of mineral composition, Mexican Sunflower exhibited higher levels ranging from 12.66% to 14.7% suggesting potentially higher mineral concentrations than Silver Leaf Desmodium (6.9-7% ash). However, a detailed analysis of specific mineral profiles and bioavailability is recommended for accurate assessment. The plants studied had high moisture content (82.30% to 83.1%) challenging storage and preservation. The study also noted the economic and environmental benefits of using these plants as ruminant feed potentially reducing costs for farmers and aiding nitrogen fixation.