Knowledge and adoption of Wild sunflower Tithonia diversifolia as sustainable feed resource in Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Alleviating feed cost in animal production through the introduction of non-conventional feedstuffs can favourably supplement protein and energy sources which currently plays the dual roles of feeding man and his livestock. Wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) is one of the new foliages which qualify as cheap feed resource in many African countries. Therefore, this study was conducted to ascertain knowledge and adoption of wild sunflower as feed resource in the area. The study was conducted in Ibarapa East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. The area is located between latitude 70.151 N and 70.551 N and longitude 30E and 30.301E. A sample of 150 small ruminant farmers was purposively selected. The main instruments used for data collection was questionnaire. The outcome of the level of awareness and adoption of sunflower plant parts indicated that majority (67%) of the respondents were aware while about 50% of the respondents will be willing to adopt the leaf parts as feed resource. Further studies were therefore suggested to be carried out on sustainable availability, multiplication and the best processing methods that will enhance optimal utilization of sunflower plant parts vis-à-vis evaluating its actual feeding value.

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