Document Type
Honors Thesis
Major
Animal and Veterinary Science, Biology
Advisor(s)
Sue Ishaq
Committee Members
Edward Bernard, Samantha Jones, Pauline Kamath, David Marcinkowski
Graduation Year
May 2022
Publication Date
Spring 2022
Abstract
Leaf silage has been historically used as ruminant feed, with multiple positive attributes such as being a secure, preserved feed source that is relatively accessible. However, the digestibility, nutritive value, and potential anti-nutritive factors are not well researched or known. The goal of this review is to examine recent literature on leaf silage and its potential advantages and practical limits of being utilized as livestock feed. The scope of this study was limited to willow (Salix spp.), acacia (Acacia spp.), mulberry (Morus alba and Broussonetia papyrifera), and drumstick leaf silage (Moringa oleifera), due to the relatively scarce amount of research available on the use of tree leaf silage in livestock. Each leaf species offers silage of different nutritive value, and the addition of inoculants can significantly change the quality of a leaf silage. More research is needed to fully understand the use of leaf silage in livestock nutrition, especially when comparing different leaf species and their value as silages.
Recommended Citation
Chin, Jade, "The Potential Use of Tree Leaf Silage For Livestock Nutrition, Including Willow, Drumstick, Mulberry, and Acadia Species" (2022). Honors College. 719.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/honors/719