Kigelia Africana Fruit and Leaf Meals: Chemical Compositions and Effect on Growth Performance of Rabbits

Abstract

Kigelia africana fruit (KAF) and leaf (KAL) meals were investigated, and subsequently on 108 (8 weeks old) rabbits in a feeding trial that lasted for 12 weeks. The experiment was conducted at the University of Ilorin Teaching and Research Farm, where all management practices were strictly adhered. The rabbits were randomly allotted to nine (9) treatment groups in a factorial 2x4 plus control design. Levels of KAL and KAF were independently fed at 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% inclusions. Data were collected on growth parameters during this period. Some chemical analyses of KAF and KAL were also investigated. The chemical analysis revealed that ash (18.90%), glucose (17.83mg/g), Calcium (214.15ppm), Phosphorus (7.33ppm) and Zinc (21.59ppm) were significantly (p<0.05) higher in the fruit than in the leaf. The results of feeding KAF and KAL on the growth performance of rabbit shows that the daily weight gain (28.54g) and final weight (2397.25g) were higher (p<0.05) in rabbit Jed KAF. Rabbits on 15% inclusion levels of KAF and KAL had the best daily weight gain (30.39g and 29.20g), final weight (2578.75g and 2452.50g) and feed conversion ratio (5.52 and 5.39). It can be concluded that KAF and KAL are both rich in nutrients; however, fruits are richer in some selected minerals. It can be included in rabbit diets up to 15% for optimal performance.