Chemical composition and in-vitro dry matter degradability of Eragrostis curvula grass hay supplemented with Raphanus sativus

Abstract

In developing countries, smallholder livestock farmers face significant challenges due to inadequate feed availability and poor-quality forage. This study investigated the potential of fodder radish (Raphanus sativus) as a protein supplement for low-quality grass hay. Specifically, it examined the effects of supplementing Eragrostis curvula hay with R. sativus hay on its chemical composition and in vitro dry matter degradability (IVDMD). Four levels (0%, 15%, 30%, and 35%) of R. sativus were included in E. curvula grass hay. Increasing levels of R. sativus linearly reduced dry matter (93.62–91.18%), organic matter (96.15–92.25%), neutral detergent fibre (77.78–58.64%), acid detergent fibre (44.00–33.12%), cellulose (36.56–25.54%), hemicellulose (33.78–25.52%), and total carbohydrates (90.96–78.82%). Ash (3.85–7.75%), ether extract (0.41–1.61%), and crude protein (4.78–12.50%) linearly increased with R. sativus inclusion. Total digestible nutrients (49.31–57.49%), digestible energy (2.61–2.97%), and dry matter degradability (54.62–63.10%) improved with increasing R. sativus levels. Macro and micro-mineral levels also increased significantly throughout the supplementation range. Results conclusively showed that R. sativus inclusion improved nutritive value and enhanced IVDMD. Though this study demonstrates promising results, future in-vivo research is needed to assess feed intake, growth performance, and potential enteric methane emission comprehensively.