Seasonal dynamics on nutritive value, chemical estimates and in vitro dry matter degradability of some woody species found in rangelands of South Africa

Abstract Unlocking browse species in semi-arid regions can be a key to improving the livestock productivity. The research was conducted assess variation chemical composition and vitro dry matter degradability as influenced by seasonal (summer winter) changes. Leaves from ten randomly selected browsable trees sixteen ( Vachellia karroo , Senegalia nigrescens nilotica Balanites maughamii Berchemia discolor, zeyheri Bridelia mollis Combretum collinum imberbe Dalbergia melanoxylon Dichrostachys cinerea Grewia monticola occidentalis Melia azedarach Ormocarpum kirkii Ziziphus mucronata ) were harvested before defoliation site two seasons dried at room temperature then ground for analysis. Two-way analysis used analyse ruminal degradability. (343.7 g/kg DM) had highest p < 0.0001) CP content summer. In winter, B. (210.3 0.05) crude protein content. (2.90 Mcal/kg) metabolizable energy value mollis, maughamii, C. collinum, imberbe, O. kirkii, S. nigrescens, V. nilotica, G. same > (DMD) 48 values across seasons. both seasons, most of these have potential supplement low quality natural grasses because they go beyond minimum requirement coherent amounts fibre concentration. There is need bioactive compounds found amelioration also maximize browsing species.