Gliricidia sepium as a Potential Replacement for Cottonseed Cake as a Source of Protein: Effects on Serum, Rumen Metabolites and Nutrient Digestibility of Young Bunaji Bulls

This study evaluated the potential of Gliricidia sepium foliage as a protein source to replace cottonseed cake (CSC) in the diets of young Bunaji bulls, with emphasis on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation characteristics and serum metabolites. Animals were allocated to four dietary treatments in which G. sepium replaced CSC at 0, 25, 50 and 75% levels. The basal diet was Brachiaria decumbens hay, while concentrates were offered at 2% of body weight. Blood samples were collected at the start, mid-point and end of the 44 day feeding trial to determine packed cell volume (PCV), total protein (TP) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Rumen pH, ammonia nitrogen and total volatile fatty acids were measured before and after feeding. Metabolic study was conducted at the end of the feeding period. Results showed that PCV, TP and BUN were within normal physiological ranges. Rumen fermentation characteristics were comparable across treatments. Nutrient digestibility was generally unaffected, except for crude fibre, while all diets resulted in positive nitrogen balance, with higher nitrogen retention at 50% inclusion levels. In conclusion, Gliricidia sepium foliage can effectively replace cottonseed cake up to 50 % in diets of Bunaji bulls without compromising health status, rumen function or nutrient utilization.