Introducción al estudio de la composición química y parámetros nutricionales del Olmo (Ulmus pumila, L.) para su potencial uso en la alimentación del ganado caprino

Abstract

The elm is a plant species widely distributed in the temperate region of Argentina. Although some producers often make use of this exotic plant as a forage resource for feeding goats, there is little information available on its main parameters and nutritional values. For this reason, samples were taken from different parts of the plant, consumed by goats (leaves and bark), for chemical analysis in the laboratory according to the methodology proposed by McLeod and Minson in 1976. Although the results obtained are preliminary, It is a possible forage resource with values ​​related to protein content (Crude Protein) of 18.2% and 14.21%, energy values ​​(Metabolic Energy) of 2.47 Mcal.EM/kgMS, for the leaf sample and 2.30 Mcal .EM/kgMS for the bark and Digestibility of 68.6% and 63.8% respectively. Other nutritional parameters such as Ash, Dry Matter (DM), Acid Detergent Fiber (FDA) were also analyzed, which yielded results that indicate that the elm could be a good quality forage resource for use in goat farming. Finally, due to the limited information available on the use of the elm as a source of food for goats, it is necessary to continue with research that provides more information.