An Evaluation of <i>Panicum Maximum</i>, Gamal Leaves Feeding and Supplementation of Gamal Multi-nutrient Block in Goats

Abstract The use and optimization of local feed resources, such as forage and agricultural waste, which are available, non-competitive, and sustainable, is a key strategy to reduce dependence on imported feed and achieve national meat self-sufficiency. Forages like Panicum maximum and Gamal are available throughout the year in large quantities. By providing Gamal Multinutrient Blocks (GMB) along with these forages, it is expected that the quality of goat feed will improve. This study aims to find the best goat feed formula to ensure productivity, which will help increase the availability of animal-based food. The objectives of this research are to assess the impact of feeding Panicum maximum, Gamal , and GMB on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, and blood mineral levels in goats. Rations were given as follows: R0 = 100% P. maximum + GMB, R1 = 80% P. maximum + 20% Gamal leaves + 300 g GMB, R2 = 70% P. maximum + 30% gamal leaves + 300 g GMB and R3 = 60% P. maximum + 40% gamal leaves + 300 g GMB. All variables were analyzed using Completely Randomized Design with five treatments and three replications, and further analyzed with covariance analysis (ANOVA). If differences were found between treatments, post hoc analysis was done with Duncan’s multiple range test. In this study, we observed consumption of rations, weight gain and blood mineral status. ANOVA test found that feeding of P. maximum , gamal leaves and GMB supplementation significantly affect (p&lt;0.01) dry matter intake (DMI). In post hoc analysis, R3 treatment significantly different (p&lt;0.01) compared to other treatments (R0, R1 and R2). Additionally, treatment R2 was significantly greater (P &lt; 0.05) than treatment R1, while treatment R1 also significantly exceeded treatment R0 (P &lt; 0.01). The highest level of DMI was observed in the R3 treatment group. ANOVA test showed that feeding of P. maximum , gamal leaves and GMB supplementation significantly affect (p&lt;0.05) weight gain. R3 treatment was significantly different (p&lt;0.01) from other treatments (R0, R1 and R2). Meanwhile, R2 treatment was significantly different (p&lt;0.05) from R1 treatment. R1 treatment was significantly different (p&lt;0.01) from R0 treatment. All treatments significantly (p&lt;0.05) affect blood metabolic status of the goats. This study concluded that feeding goats 60% Panicum maximum , 40% Gamal , and 300 g GMB produces the best results, with a daily weight gain of 110.18 g per goat.