Seasonal Variation of the Nutrient Contents of Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach

Abstract

The research was conducted to find out the feeding potential of Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach, commonly found in Mediterranean climate dominated areas and also have an important place in rangeland livestock farming as well as in erosion of these areas. The study was carried out in Yıldız Koyu of Gökçeada Island in 2013. The nutrient contents of plant were determined seasonally (winter, summer, spring and fall) as well as in different organs (stalk and leaf) of the plant. Total of 10 plants were taken during each sampling period. Only the crude protein and ADF contents of plant leaf had found statistically important in terms of season, but there were not any significant importance in respect to other characteristics of the plant. The leaf and stalk ratios were changed between 37.57% (fall)–42.38% (winter) and 57.62% (winter)–62.49% (fall), respectively. Highest leaf/stalk ratio (0.74) has been observed in winter while the least (0.60) in fall. Average crude protein (6.39%), ash (9.66%) and fat (6.33–7.60%) of leaves were found more as compared to the crude protein (3.81%), ash (4.95%) and fat (4.37–5.80%) of stalk. On the other hand, NDF (36.19–43.41%), ADF (22.31–27.54%) and ADL (9.50–13.35%) of leaves were found less as compared to stalks. Consequently, Sarcopoterium spinosum has an importance in terms of soil protection and shrub formation into the degraded parts of Mediterranean flora, also found as a feed source for animals. However, supplementary feed should be given to the animals grazing in these areas for overcoming their poor performances.