In vitro Digestibility of Megathyrsus maximus Interplanted with Turmeric and/or Ginger at Varying Cutting Ages and Planting Years

Abstract

This study investigated the in vitro digestibility of Megathyrsus maximus interplanted with turmeric and/or ginger at varying cutting ages and planting years. The experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, using a factorial arrangement in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replicates. Four treatments were evaluated: Megathyrsus maximus alone (T1), Megathyrsus maximus interplanted with ginger (T2), Megathyrsus maximus interplanted with turmeric (T3), and Megathyrsus maximus interplanted with both ginger and turmeric (T4). Gas production (CH₄ and CO₂) was measured over 24 hours. Results showed significant differences (P < 0.05) among treatments. Megathyrsus maximus alone produced the highest CH₄, while interplanting with ginger recorded the lowest. Megathyrsus maximus interplanted with Turmeric enhanced CO₂ production, whereas cutting age effects were not significant. Planting year influenced emissions, with 2022 recording the highest levels. These findings suggest that interplanting medicinal plants with Megathyrsus maximus can modulate ruminal fermentation and contribute to sustainable livestock production.