Fodder Trees and Shrubs in Arid and Semi-arid Livestock Production Systems

Arid and semi-arid lands constitute a large proportion of available agricultural and rangeland in the world. These lands are characterised by low and unreliable rainfall, low land productivity, and low socioeconomic status of the inhabitants. Livestock plays a very significant role in their economies. Leguminous trees and shrubs, which dominate the natural rangelands, are often higher in crude protein and other nutrients and play a vital role as dietary supplements to the low quality grasses in the dry seasons. In addition to the fodder potential, the role of tree legumes in the sustainability of agricultural and pastoral production systems is increasingly being recognised and explored. This role and importance of legume trees for livestock production, their nutritional quality and factors which limit their use in livestock production are reviewed. Fodder tree and shrub integration into agricultural and pasture production systems is emphasised. Identified constraints to effective use are highlighted and the needs for increased research and development are discussed.