Chemical composition and its relationship to in vitro dry matter digestibility of several tannin-containing trees and shrub leaves

Abstract

The nutritive values of leaves from a shrub and 5 trees, Glycrrhiza glabra L, Arbutus andrachne, Carpinus betilus, Juniperus communis, Quercus libari L and Pistacia lentiscus L were evaluated based on their chemical composition and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Crude protein (CP) content ranged from 5.74 to 12.6% with Glycrrhiza glabra L showing the highest value. Cell wall contents were high in all the leaves. The total condensed tannin content ranged from 4.34 to 20.3% with Juniperus communis and Carpinus betilus having the highest value. The IVDMD values ranged from 41.7 to 52.8%. The NDF, ADF, ADL, TCT and SCT contents of leaves were negatively related, and CP positively related, with IVDMD. It was concluded that Glycrrhiza glabra L and Quercus libari L may have a potential nutritive value for ruminant animals.