The Scope and Potentials of Fodder Trees and Shrubs in Agroforestry

Abstract

Fodder shrubs and trees (browse) play a significant role both in farming systems, where they are protected as fallow species, and in livestock production. The importance of browse increases with increasing aridity and is generally most essential in the dry seasons, when most other feed resources depreciate in quality and quantity. Generally, trees occupy a significant niche in the farming systems and overall way of life in animal production. Fodder trees and shrubs in Nigerian rangelands are classified into two groups: leguminous and non-leguminous. The leguminous trees and shrubs are often higher in crude protein and other nutrients and play a vital role as dietary supplements of low quality grasses in dry seasons. Livestock depend largely on browse for their dietary protein. Browse intake increases total dry matter intake, increases crude protein intake, and improves the digestibility of low-quality forages. The effect of browse feeding on livestock is shown in increased survivability (i.e., lower mortalities, especially over the dry season) and increased productivity. The processing and conservation of fodder trees and shrubs is increasingly being recognized and explored, while the cultivation is minimal and insignificant. The role and importance of fodder trees and shrubs for livestock production, their nutritional quality and factors which limit their use in livestock production are reviewed. The need for increased cultivation and integration of fodder trees (especially leguminous fodder trees and shrubs) into local farming systems through agroforestry is imperative in order to promote livestock production and also the support of rural livelihoods. It is also important to increased research support for the efficient cultivation, management, processing and use of fodder shrubs and trees for improved livestock production in Nigeria.