Biomass yield and chemical composition of Morus alba L. at different harvest intervals and cutting heights in southern Mexico

José Rodríguez-Tuz, José Escobedo-Mex, Kati Medina-Dzul, Angel Piñeiro-Vázquez, Fernando Casanova-Lugo, Militza Escobedo-Cruz, Armando Escobedo-Cabrera

Abstract


Background: The use of Morus alba L. forage can improve the productive parameters of ruminants in periods of forage scarcity, due to its high biomass yield and crude protein content, which surpass those of tropical grasses that typically contain high fiber concentrations compared to this tree species. Objective: To evaluate the effect of three harvest intervals (30, 60 and 90 days) and three cutting heights (50, 75 and 100 cm) on the biomass yield and chemical composition of M. alba. Methodology: The yields of leaves, tender stems, mature stems, edible material, and total biomass were evaluated. Additionally, the contents of organic matter (OM), ash, acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and crude protein (CP) in leaves and tender stems of M. alba were analyzed at different harvest intervals and cutting heights during the rainy and dry seasons. The data were subjected to an analysis of variance for a completely randomized design with a 3 × 3 factorial structure. Results: The harvest interval significantly affected the evaluated yield variables. Biomass yield was higher when harvested every 90 days compared to 30- and 60-day intervals. Regarding the chemical composition of leaves and tender stems, it was observed that the harvest interval affected it the most. The interaction between both factors influenced the contents of organic matter (OM), ash, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in the leaves, with high contents observed at 90-day intervals and a cutting height of 75 cm. Implications. These findings are important for the management and optimal use of this forage species in animal feed and can contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable livestock systems. Conclusion: The yield and chemical composition of M. alba are more affected by the harvest interval than by height and interaction. Therefore, it is essential to consider this factor in its management to develop more efficient and sustainable livestock systems.

Keywords


fodder banks; mulberry tree; multipurpose tree; nutritional value.

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URN: http://www.revista.ccba.uady.mx/urn:ISSN:1870-0462-tsaes.v28i3.58100

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.56369/tsaes.5810

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Copyright (c) 2025 José Rodríguez-Tuz, José Escobedo-Mex, Kati Medina-Dzul, Angel Piñeiro-Vázquez, Fernando Casanova-Lugo, Militza Escobedo-Cruz, Armando Escobedo-Cabrera

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