Potentials of Neem Tree in Small Ruminant Feed in Nigeria

Ruminant production which consists of sheep and goat is very prominent among Nigeria farmers and has been contributing immensely to animal agriculture which accounts for a significant portion of the national gross domestic product (GDP). It provides income, employment, power, organic manure, security in form of food etc. However, the productivity of these animals has been hampered by challenges among which is shortage of feed both in quantity and quality. The seasonal fluctuation in the supply of legumes and grasses has contributed greatly to the shortages. The use of non-conventional feed sources has been proved by researchers to be of help in bridging the gap between supply and demands of the feeding stuff during periods of scarcity. This book then presents the inherent potentials in neem tree (the leaf meal and seed/kernel cake) at boosting feed supply to small ruminants in Nigeria and some tropical environments.