SUSAN J.L.E. LELOUP and L.'t MANNETJE

Agricultural University, Department of Agronomy, Wageningen, The Netherlands

Abstract

Monthly dry matter (DM) yields, DM concentrations, and N, P, crude fibre and ash concentrations of the DM of browse material of 19 woody species from rangelands in southern Mali were measured and analysed to determine factors controlling palatability. During the late dry season, when browse consumption is significant, most material showed highest N and P levels with highest values found amongst the more palatable species. Hence, a positive relationship between palatability and nutritive value of browse is indicated. The more palatable species often showed relatively low DM yields during this period, reflecting a stronger deciduousness. No relationship was found between palatability and the other studied parameters. More systematic research on nutritive value of various woody species during the late dry season is warranted for the evaluation of rangelands in semi-arid and subhumid regions. Such studies could identify species of interest for cultivation and/or protection. Deciduousness of the woody species may be an indicator for monitoring of rangeland condition. Some suggestions have been made for the management of browse material.