Effects of protein supplementation on the consumption of salt cedar in goats.
Abstract
Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb.) has encroached upon many Texas riparian
and floodplain areas, causing decreases in water quality and plant/animal diversity.
The objectives of this study were to determine if (1) goats would increase
consumption of salt cedar, and (2) if protein supplementation improved salt cedar
intake. Goats (n=20) were randomly selected and divided into 2 separate treatments.
Treatment 1 was supplemented daily with a 37% crude protein ration and Treatment
2 (control group) was not supplemented. All treatments were given a basal ration of
alfalfa (2.5% BW) and offered salt cedar. Salt cedar intake increased (P<0.05) on a
daily basis in both treatments. Protein supplementation did not affect salt cedar
intake. Alfalfa intake was similar between treatments. Both treatments gained
weight during the study. Collectively, the results of this study suggest that goats will
readily consume salt cedar, and protein supplementation has little apparent effect on
salt cedar intake.