Value of processed saltbush and acacia shrubs as sheep fodders under the arid conditions of Egypt

摘要: Abstract Succulent parts of Acacia saligna and Atriplex nummularia (saltbush) were both offered to twenty-four adult male sheep in three forms: fresh, or processed by air-drying ensiling evaluate feeding value utilization under arid conditions. The study lasted 45 days with metabolism trials. Fresh saltbush diet attained higher crude protein, fiber ash contents than fresh acacia diet. Processing shrubs did not markedly change the ether extract but such changes noticeable saltbush. Voluntary intake, digestibilities nutrients N retention considerably affected diets. Maximum voluntary dry matter intakes achieved fed ensiled (70.4 56.2 g/kgW 0.75 /day, respectively). Saltbush intake was superior that equivalent Dry matter, extract, nitrogen-free neutral detergent efficiently utilized digested given shrubs. most nutritious diets silage which provided sufficient (TDN DCP) meet energy protein requirements for maintenance sheep. other diets, air-dried require supplementation concentrates provide a ration.