The Role of Leucaena in Cattle Fattening and Breeding Production Systems in Eastern Indonesia

In West Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, a survey revealed that smallholder cattle farmers using leucaena as feed were able to maintain larger herds (9.1 head/household) compared to those using traditional feeds (6.1 head/household). Leucaena was primarily used for fattening cattle, with strategic use during dry seasons and specific reproductive stages. Farmers in rainfed areas and transmigrant Balinese farmers planted more leucaena and raised more fattening bulls than their counterparts. However, 74% of leucaena-using farmers observed symptoms of leucaena toxicity, such as hair loss and salivation, while only 5% reported reproductive failures in breeding cows. Non-leucaena users also reported illnesses potentially related to plant toxicities. The study concluded that leucaena is predominantly used for fattening rather than breeding, and while it enhances productivity and income, its suitability for breeding cows remains uncertain.