Authors : M. Todaro , A. Sinacori , G. Marinaro , M.L. Alicata and P. Giaccone
Abstract: Mulberry (Morus latifolia L.) leaves and green tops were utilised to study the palatability and the digestibility in two sheep feeding trials. In trial 1 mulberry palatability was determined by cafeteria test, that studies the animal preferences in a short period of time without the interference of post-ingestive factors. Mulberry leaves were tested in respect to vetch hay and oat concentrate; results showed that mulberry leaves were significantly preferred to other feeds. In trial 2 an in vivo digestibility was carried out on 4 rams equipped with the bags for the faeces collection, housed in individual box and fed ad libitum. Results showed that mulberry leaves and green tops were more digestible (OM: 78.19%; CP: 79.19%: NDF: 77.77%; Cellulose: 88.32%) and with high nutrient value (NEL: 1.61 Mcal kg 1 DM, INRA method; NEL3m: 1.73 Mcal kg 1 DM, NRC method).
M. Todaro , A. Sinacori , G. Marinaro , M.L. Alicata and P. Giaccone , 2007. Palatability and In vivo Digestibility of Mulberry Leaves (Morus latifolia CV. Kokusou 21) in Sheep Feeding . Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 6: 509-512.