Nutritional Benefits of Native Plants in Arid Regions
Author Information
Author(s): Pérez-Reverón Raquel, Perdomo-González Adolfo, de la Roza-Delgado Begoña, Rodríguez Covadonga, Pérez-Pérez José A., Díaz-Peña Francisco J.
Primary Institution: University of La Laguna
Hypothesis
Evaluating nutritional qualities can serve as a tool to select the best single or combined candidate species from the native flora for potential cultivation in the arid and semi-arid zones of the Canary Archipelago.
Conclusion
Native and endemic plant species from arid environments like Fuerteventura Island have nutritional profiles capable of meeting the dietary requirements of livestock, making them viable forage options.
Supporting Evidence
- The evaluated native species pool could serve as alternative feed for ruminants during forage shortages.
- Most of the species had a similar or slightly lower nutritional value compared to conventional forages such as alfalfa.
- High levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids were found in all species.
Takeaway
This study shows that local plants can be good food for animals, especially in dry places where regular food is hard to find.
Methodology
The study evaluated the nutritional quality of twelve native and endemic plant species categorized into legumes, grasses, and a mixed group, cultivated under controlled conditions.
Limitations
The study is limited to evaluating plant specimens under controlled conditions, and future research should focus on studying these species in field conditions.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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