Cassava Forage (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Ruminant Feed Nutritional Value at Altitudes in the West Java

Abstract

Cassava leaves as a source of high protein for ruminants and high potential was necessary to be explored as a feed. The cassava leaves was suitable for farmers because its availability was quite a lot, especially during cassava harvest. The purpose of this study was to determine the content of cassava leaf substances grown at various altitudes in the West Java. The study was conducted from May to June, 2016. Determination of area (village) was based on the number of cattle in the area. The sampling was done in stages (multistage sampling) to get secondary data. Selected villages were taken six times sample on each height (low, medium and high). The variables measured in this study were dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, calcium, phosphorus and TDN (Total Digestible Nutrient) derived from cassava leaf. The method used was experimental with Completed randomized design (CRD). The results showed that the content of dry matter, crude fiber and phosphorus in the highlands was greater than the medium and low plains. Crude Protein, Calcium and TDN showed the same value at various altitudes. Crude fats in the highlands and medium produce were the same but were higher than in the lowlands.