Effect of condensed tannins in Dorycnium rectum on its nutritive value and on the development of sheep parasite larvae

Abstract

Sheep and laboratory trials have been undertaken to evaluate the potential value of Dorycnium rectum (Erect Dorycnium) for controlling gastrointestinal parasites. This perennial shrub grows to 3-4 m and can be cut or used as a browse forage. The leaves contain condensed tannin (CT) at about 20% of the dry matter (DM). Sheep were fed D. rectum to determine its digestibility and the effects of CT upon digestion. DM digestibility was 59.6% and increased to 63.6% (P