Potential value of tedera (B. bituminosa) as high protein resource for poultry feed

Abstract

Bituminaria bituminosa (C.H. Stirt.) is a drought tolerant legume that grows spontaneously in subtropical areas: Canary Islands (Spain) and in North African and Mediterranean regions, traditionally used as forage for ruminants. The aim of this research was to investigate the potential of B. bituminosa as a high protein resource for poultry feed by means of feed intake, growth, feed conversion rate (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and the influence of B. bituminosa feed form (fresh green and dried) on the preference by chicks. B. bituminosa showed higher crude protein content (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and gross energy than commercial feed. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) for the commercial feed group (control group) was higher than ADFI of the B. bituminosa group (experimental group). However, both groups had no significant differences in total crude protein intake, total NDF intake, average daily gain (ADG), FCR, and PER. The poultry’s preference for fresh green B. bituminosa was higher than for dry B. bituminosa. Our results suggest that B. bituminosa (tedera) could be an alternative feedstuff in tropical countries or where protein sources are scarce and costly.