Abstract:
Ethiopia is recognized for its substantial livestock population; however, the productivity of this
sector remains low. This is largely attributed to several factors, with feed quality and quantity
being significant contributors to the issue. The challenges include inadequate access to quality
feed, seasonal variability in feed availability, and high prices of feed ingredients, which
collectively hinder effective livestock production. The present study was conducted with the
objectives of (1) evaluating eleven oat genotypes in four different environments to identify
high-biomass-yield genotypes in selected parts of Ethiopia; (2) exploring the fermentation
characteristics and nutritional value of A. sativa genotypes ensiled sole or in combination with
P. purpureum 16791; and (3)evaluating the effect of feeding different Avena sativa (AS)
varieties in the form of hay to yearling Bonga sheep on feed intake, weight gain, carcass
characteristics and economic feasibility
