A vagem de algaroba (Prosopis juliflora) na nutrição de bovinos leiteiros: um levantamento bibliográfico

Abstract

Dairy farmers in the semi-arid region of Brazil face limitations caused by typical drought periods, making it necessary to use feed resources adapted to local conditions. In this context, the objective was to conduct a literature review on the use of mesquite pods (Prosopis juliflora) in dairy cattle nutrition, analyzing their bromatological composition, digestibility, toxicity, and influence on productive performance. This study was characterized as a qualitative bibliographic research with a systematized descriptive approach, in which the results obtained from the literature were subjected to content analysis, categorized, and discussed. The searches were carried out in the SciELO, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and CAPES Periodicals Portal databases, selecting 40 publications after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, which were organized into the thematic axes: bromatological composition, digestibility, toxicity, and influence on productive performance. The results demonstrated that mesquite pods have nutritional characteristics compatible with energy concentrate feeds, highlighting its high dry matter and carbohydrate content. Regarding digestibility, the analyzed studies indicated that the inclusion of mesquite pods in ruminant diets does not compromise nutrient digestibility. In relation to productive performance, it was found that its use did not negatively affect milk yield and composition, suggesting potential for partial replacement of energy ingredients commonly used in dairy cow feed. However, results indicate that excessive and prolonged consumption of mesquite pods can lead to ruminant poisoning, highlighting the need for proper management and the determination of safe inclusion levels. It is concluded that the pods of Prosopis juliflora are a viable alternative for feeding dairy cattle in the semi-arid region of Brazil, requiring their conscious and sustainable use. Further research is needed to determine more precise inclusion levels as well as safe exposure periods.