A study on effects of bamboo leaves for livestock production in Bangladesh

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the potential of Bambusa vulgaris bamboo leaves as an affordable and sustainable source of animal feed for livestock in Bangladesh. Two groups of livestock (6 cattle, 9 sheep, and 10 goats) were used in the controlled experiment for the study: one group had a conventional diet, while the other received an additional 10% of their feed from bamboo leaves. Parameters like production measurements, health indicators, nutritional analysis, and economic viability were evaluated over a period of 01 month. According to the findings, bamboo leaves contain a high amount of crude protein—roughly 9.5%—as well as important amounts of digestible dry matter (17.92%), crude fiber (26.78%), and minerals. Goats and sheep in the experimental group gained weight at a rate of 08-10% more than that of the control group, but overall health was enhanced and gastrointestinal disorders were less common in these animals. Moreover, it was found that bamboo leaves were an inexpensive substitute for feed, providing financial gains due to increased milk yield and weight gain. The addition of bamboo leaves to cattle diets offers various benefits, such as better nutrition, better health outcomes, and sustainability, despite difficulties associated with their high fiber content and variable nutritional quality. This study highlights the benefits of using bamboo leaves as a practical addition to cattle feeding plans, supporting more environmentally friendly farming methods in the area.