Studies on the Utilization of Forage and the Digestion of Cellulose and Hemicellulose by Pigs

Abstract

Utilization by pigs of brassicas (Shimofusa turnip leaves and cabbage leaves), legumes (alfalfa and Ladino clover) and grasses (orchard-tall fescue mixture and Italian rye grass) and the digestibilities of cellulose and hemicellulose were studied using a total of 28 head of 76-88kg pigs. 1. The dry matter of all forages except orchard-tall fescue mixture was rich in protein (15-26%). The percentages of total digestible nutrients were higher (over 50%) in cabbage leaves, Shimofusa turnip leaves and Ladino clover than in the other three forages. 2. The cell wall contents were high in the grass and alfalfa, and were low in Ladino clover and the brassicas. 3. The cellulose contents were higher than the hemicellulose contents in all forages. Cellulose in the brassicas and Ladino clover was easily digestible. 4. Digestibility of hemicellulose was higher than that of cellulose for all forages. 5. Shimofusa turnip leaves, cabbage leaves and Ladino clover are useful forages for the pig. Early cut alfalfa may also be useful. Grasses with high cell wall content have limited usefulness.