Evaluation of selected Vetch (Vicia L.) species for their chemical compositions under rain-fed condition in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

This study was designed to investigate the forage quality of five vetch species under rain-fed conditions at Dessie Zuria District, South Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications at three locations. The collected data were analyzed using SAS Software and means comparison was made using the Tukey method. The results revealed that there were significant differences between species for Crude Protein (CP), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), ash content, Organic Matter (OM), Total Digestible Nutrient (TDN), Dry Matter Intake (DMI), Relative Feed Value (RFV), Digestible Dry Matter (DDM) (P < 0.05). The highest CP was obtained in V. dasycarpa and V. kohak. The highest TDN, RFV, ash content, and DDM were recorded for V. dasycarpa. There were significant differences between locations for ADL, ADF, ash content, DMI, RFV (P < 0.05). The highest ADL, hemicellulose, and ADF were recorded for Adey experimental site and the highest ash content and DMI were recorded in Gelisha and Tebasite locations, respectively. In comparison between locations, the higher values of all traits were obtained in Gelisha, due to its higher soil organic matter contents. In comparison between the species of V. dasycarpa. was recommended for cultivation in Dessie Zuria district.