Nutritional attributes of hay from native arboreal Fabaceae of the Caatinga
Forage Conservation; Minerals; Libidibia ferrea; Peltophorum dubium
Forage production in the Brazilian Semi-arid region faces challenges due to low water availability and seasonal variations. In this context, native forage species from the Caatinga, such as Fabaceae, can represent a viable alternative for ruminant feeding, especially when preserved as hay. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical-bromatological composition of five native Fabaceae species from the Caatinga (Anadenanthera colubrina - angico, Poincianella bracteosa - catingueira, Peltophorum dubium - canafístula, Bauhinia cheilantha - mororó, and Libidibia ferrea - pau-ferro), both in natura and as hay. The experiment was conducted in two experimental areas in the Northeastern Semi-arid region. A randomized block design was used, with four replications. Samples were manually collected and subjected to sun-drying haymaking, followed by analyses of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ether extract (EE), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Additionally, carbohydrate and protein fractionation and the determination of macro and microminerals were performed. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA), and means were compared using Tukey’s test at a 5% probability level, using SAS software. The results showed significant differences among species regarding DM, CP, and fiber contents. Peltophorum dubium stood out for its higher CP content and better digestibility, while Bauhinia cheilantha presented high levels of NDF and ADF, affecting its ruminal degradation rate. It is concluded that native Fabaceae species from the Caatinga have great forage potential and can be used in ruminant feeding, especially as hay, providing a nutritional alternative during periods of scarcity.