Effects of Tithonia Diversifolia Extract as a Feed Additive on Digestibility and Performance of Hair Lambs

The study examined the effects of Tithonia diversifolia extract (TDE) as a feed additive on 28 male crossbred hair lambs. It found that 10 g/day of TDE improved the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and altered ruminal fermentation by reducing the acetate to propionate ratio. However, these benefits did not lead to better growth performance due to reduced dry matter intake. TDE was safe for liver function and improved protein metabolism, as indicated by lower blood urea nitrogen levels. While TDE showed potential in enhancing ruminal fermentation, its impact on growth performance was limited, and it cannot be recommended as a replacement for monensin in finishing diets.