Chemical Composition of Some Tropical Foliage Species and Their Intake and Digestibility by Goats (Report‪)‬

INTRODUCTION Foliages from trees and shrubs have traditionally been used as feed for goats in tropical countries due to the content of crude protein (CP) and the availability during the dry season. Some reports show that, for example, foliage from Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and Erythrina (Erythrina variegata) are good protein sources and has a high intake potential for goats (Mui et al., 2001; Aregheore and Perera, 2004; Van et al., 2005). Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) and Mango (Mangifera indica) have been less researched but the leaves can be used as a feed and have been found to contain from 186 to 204 g CP/kg dry matter (DM) (Ajayi et al., 2005; Kouch et al., 2005). Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill) is known to be preferred by goats but there is little research available. According to Reich (1991), fresh Jujube leaves contain a saponin and Nath et al. (1996) reported that Jujube leaves are a rich source of protein and minerals with 140 g CP, 28 g Ca and 1.4 g P/kg DM. Fig (Ficus racemosa) is not well known as a feed but is a commonly available tree in tropical areas.