NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION OF QUINOA (CHENOPODIUM QUINOA WILLD) CROP AS UNCONVENTIONAL FORAGE RESOURCE IN FEEDING RUMINANTS

Twenty lactating Ossimi ewes were randomly distributed according to weight and their average milk yield into 4 groups, (5 each). One group fed berseem hay (BH) (Triforum alxanderinum); the second fed, quinoa (QH);  third corn silage(CS), while fourth was  fed silage (QS). All groups offered similar amounts of barley grains (500 g/h/d) as concentrate feed, or ad lib. Results showed that characteristics at opening time good. Fiber fractions (%) NDF, ADF, ADL, hemicellulose cellulose higher for followed by silages, recorded lowest values. Digestion coefficient DM, OM, CP nutritive values (TDN% DCP%) (P<0.05) rations compared with quinoa. Nitrogen intake (NI), retention (NR) (NR), percentage N-intake significantly different in favor hay; 4% fat corrected (FCM) protein yields rations, It concluded can be cultivated during forage scarcity drought affected regions, well an infertile lands. And from nutritional point view, are valid substitutions medium quality roughages feeding ruminants.