Morphological and Chemical Characterization of a Variety of Medicago (Triad) in Flowering Stage and in Vivo Digestibility of its Hay

Alane F, Bouzidi A, Chabaca R,

Abstract

Nutrient value of sustainable Medicago imported in Algeria, used of dual-purpose green and hay in feeding ruminants. Chemical composition of Medicago in budding stage gives a weak ash content, varying between 6,547 and 7,011% DM. Content in TNM found at the triad of this stage varies between 15,34% MS to 20,75% DM. As for fibers contents NDF it is of 44%. Analysis of parameters variance studied of the three sections show a difference very highly significant (P < 0.0001) except for DM and MM. The Principal Components Analysis (PCA) shows that diameter of stems is opposing to phosphorus and lignin quantity. The two last parameters have contributed to locate the first section in this axe. Germination density (number of plant /m²), yield in dry and in green and average height of stems locate the second section in the same axis. The DWC of OM and of hay Medicago TNM at budding stage is relatively weak for nitrogen, respectively of 69% and 55.5%. Different tests on the same fodder according to years and regions of harvest are necessary in order to have weaker and more accurate averages values.