Nutritive value of alligator weed [Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb.] and its possible utility as a fodder in India.

摘要

Samples of alligator weed (A. philoxeroides) from in and around Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, were analysed for their nutritive value. Moisture was less in terrestrial (85.20+or-0.35%) than aquatic form (91.18+or-0.50%). Moisture percentage was higher in stems than in leaves. Crude protein content increased with decrease in crude fibre content. Crude protein and crude fibre was 15 and 16%, respectively. Upon analysis, it is concluded that this weed is also a good source of proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium and other nutritional requirements, making it a suitable green fodder substitute for animals..