<i>In Vitro</i> Assessment of Carob (<i>Ceratonia siliqua</i> L.) as a Sustainable Energy Source in Dairy Ration

Abstract Carob ( Ceratonia siliqua L.) has emerged as a promising energy source for dairy rations, owing to its high carbohydrate content (48–89%). However, the presence of tannins may pose challenges by potentially inhibiting nutrient availability, necessitating careful adjustments in feed formulation. Despite its potential, research on carob’s application in tropical dairy rations remains limited. This study investigates the effects of carob on rumen fermentation and digestibility in dairy cattle, employing a randomized block design (RBD) with five treatments and four replications for rumen fluid collection. The treatments were as follows: R1 (6% cassava waste), R2 (6% molasses), R3 (3% carob powder + 3% cassava waste), R4 (3% carob powder + 3% molasses), and R5 (6% carob powder). Key parameters measured were rumen pH, ammonia (NH 3 ) levels, volatile fatty acids (VFA), rumen bacterial and protozoan populations, as well as dry matter digestibility (DMD) and organic matter digestibility (OMD). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by Duncan’s multiple range test. The results indicated that carob inclusion up to 6% (R5) significantly increased total VFA and bacterial populations. However, there were no significant effects on rumen pH, NH 3 levels, protozoa populations, DMD, and OMD. Carob inclusion demonstrated similar results to molasses and cassava waste across most parameters, with the exception of higher VFA levels and bacterial growth, indicating that carob can serve as a viable alternative to traditional energy sources in dairy cattle rations.