Nutrient-rich or anti-nutritional challenge? Evaluating Senna spectabilis (DC.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby for sustainable animal feed production

This study investigated the nutritional composition and anti-nutritional factors of Senna spectabilis as a potential fodder for animal feed. Key parameters such as crude protein, crude fiber, dry matter, digestibility and anti-nutritional factors like phenols, tannins, saponins and nitrates were analyzed from the five formulations named from SS1 to SS5. The results showed significant variations across the species in terms of digestibility and energy content, with formulations SS1 and SS4 demonstrating superior digestibility and higher Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN). On the other hand, formulation SS5 exhibited higher crude fiber content and lower digestibility, making it less efficient as a feed source. Anti-nutritional factors such as saponins and nitrates were found to be highest in formulation SS1, which could affect feed intake and livestock health if present in excessive amounts. The study also noted moderate levels of tannins and phenols in several species, which could impact nutrient absorption for animals. Additionally, concentrate feed mixtures were considered in comparison to fodder-based feeds for their influence on livestock growth and performance. These findings suggest that careful selection of feed ingredients, considering both nutritional and anti-nutritional parameters, is essential for optimizing livestock nutrition. Formulations with lower levels of anti-nutritional compounds like SS2, offer more sustainable feed options, while further research is required to understand the effects of these compounds on livestock health and performance.