Fodder potential of Lana (Haloxylon salicornicum ) in hot arid region

Abstract

Optimum and sustainable utilization of indigenous arid shrubs play an important role as source of variety of economic products besides their ecological role. Among arid shrubs, Haloxylon salicornicum (Moq.) Bunge ex Boiss. locally called as Lana is an important shrub of western Rajasthan. It remains green during the lean period and resists grazing by animals. Its fruiting tops are traditionally harvested at fruiting stage and utilized as animal feed by mixing with other local feeds. Results of the feeding trial conducted have shown that conventional concentrate can be replaced by 25 and 50% with Lana seeds with perianth in the ration of cattle and goats. The present study aimed at drawing attention on the potential of this arid shrub focusing mainly on its potential as browse shrub and to supply nutritious feed to livestock in hot arid region.