In the heart of Ethiopia, a groundbreaking study led by Wondimagegne Bekele, from the Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, is challenging conventional wisdom about livestock feed and methane emissions. The research, published in ‘Frontiers in Veterinary Science’, focuses on the impact of locally sourced feedstuffs on the performance and methane emissions of Menz sheep, a breed indigenous to the region.
The study, which spanned 90 days, tested four different diets: a control feed and three test feeds made from dried leaves of Acacia nilotica, Ziziphus spina-christi, and brewery spent grains (BSG). The results were striking. Sheep fed the test diets, particularly those containing Ziziphus, showed significantly higher dry matter intake and weight gain compared to the control group. “The Ziziphus group demonstrated superior performance in weight change, final body weight, and average daily gain,” Bekele noted, highlighting the potential of these local feedstuffs to enhance livestock productivity.
But the benefits didn’t stop at improved feed efficiency. The study also revealed a significant reduction in methane emissions. Using both modeling and a Laser Methane Detector (LMD), the researchers found that the test feeds led to lower methane production and yield. The Ziziphus group, for instance, emitted just 220 and 265.3 grams of CH4 per kg of average daily gain, compared to the control group’s 808.7 and 825.3 grams. “This study indicates that LMD could yield biologically plausible data for sheep,” Bekele said, underscoring the potential of this technology in monitoring and mitigating methane emissions.
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector. Livestock, particularly ruminants, are significant contributors to global methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. By identifying feedstuffs that not only enhance animal performance but also reduce methane output, this study opens doors to more sustainable and efficient livestock farming practices. As the world grapples with climate change, such innovations could play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of the livestock industry.
The study also underscores the importance of local and sustainable feed sources. Acacia nilotica and Ziziphus spina-christi, rich in condensed tannins, are not only effective in reducing methane emissions but also promote weight gain and feed efficiency. This could be a game-changer for regions like Ethiopia, where access to high-quality feed is often limited.
Looking ahead, this research could shape future developments in the field of agritech and livestock management. The use of locally available feedstuffs and advanced technologies like LMD could become standard practices, driving a more sustainable and efficient livestock industry. As Bekele’s work continues to gain traction, it serves as a beacon of innovation, demonstrating how science and technology can converge to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.