Legume Leaves in Improving the Quality of Feed Silage Ruminants: Advantages, Challenges and Strategies

Abstract

Feed is an essential element in animal husbandry, and silage is increasingly becoming the top choice in providing quality feed to ruminants. In this context, an overview of the use of legume leaves in improving the quality of silage attracts attention for its potential in increasing the nutritional value of feed. The purpose of this review was to explore the advantages, challenges, and strategies associated with the use of legume leaves in silage for ruminants. Leguminosae, with its ability to nitrogen fixation, offers a major advantage in the provision of protein and another significant role of improving silage qualities. However, challenges such as diversity of legume species, proper silage management, how to procure it efficiently and toxicity are factors to consider. Necessary strategies include selection of suitable varieties, increased cultivation of legumes, and application of effective silage conservation technologies and addressing risks. The implication of this review is that the use of legume leaves in silage has enormous potential to improve ruminant feed quality, which in turn can increase livestock productivity. In the livestock industry, this can lead to improved production efficiency and animal welfare. While in the context of research, this broadens horizons about innovative feed strategies. The conclusions and recommendations of this review affirm the importance of further research in this area as well as the need to develop policies that support the use of legume leaves in silage to strengthen the sustainability and production efficiency of ruminant animals.