Seasonal variation in nutritive value and chemical composition of fodder tree leaves in Kondagaon district, Chhattisgarh

Abstract

The present study, entitled “Seasonal Variation in Nutritive Value and Chemical Composition of Fodder Tree Leaves in Kondagaon District, Chhattisgarh,” was conducted to evaluate the influence of seasonal changes on the nutritional quality of important fodder tree species. The investigation focused on determining the crude protein (CP), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) contents of the leaves of seven commonly used fodder tree species are Terminalia tomentosa, Pterocarpus marsupium, Cleistanthus collinus, Ficus racemosa, Gmelina arborea, Ficus virens, and Shorea robusta across three seasons: winter, summer, and rainy. Results revealed significant seasonal and species-wise variations in nutrient composition. Crude protein content was highest during the rainy season (14.87%) and lowest during summer (14.75%). Among species, Pterocarpus marsupium exhibited the highest average CP content (16.52%), followed by Shorea robusta (15.94%), while Terminalia tomentosa recorded the lowest (13.35%). The CP values observed were also comparable to those of Morus alba (~20%) and higher than Mediterranean evergreen species such as Arbutus unedo (~9.9%), indicating good nutritive potential. Calcium content varied significantly with season and species, being highest in summer (3.66%) and lowest in winter (3.46%). Shorea robusta showed the maximum mean Ca content (4.36%), followed by Pterocarpus marsupium (4.08%), while Cleistanthus collinus had the lowest (2.98%). Magnesium content followed a similar trend, with the highest mean value recorded during winter (2.90%) and the lowest during summer (2.15%). Shorea robusta and Gmelina arborea recorded the highest Mg levels (2.84%), whereas Terminalia tomentosa showed the lowest (1.99%). Overall, the study indicates that the fodder tree species in Kondagaon District maintain moderate to high levels of crude protein and essential minerals across seasons. Pterocarpus marsupium and Shorea robusta emerged as superior species, demonstrating high nutritive potential and seasonal stability, making them valuable resources for sustainable livestock feeding systems in the region.