NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF THALIA DEALBATA IN BANKA DAM IN THE TOLON DISTRICT OF THE NORTHERN REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

The nutritional composition of Thalia dealbata from Banka dam in the Tolon district of the Northern Region of Ghana was evaluated to determine; crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, ash, nitrogen free extract and some minerals. Samples prepared from leaves, stalk and seeds were subjected to proximate analyses. The crude protein levels were as follows: 5.23 % in the stalk, 16.06 % in the leaves and 15.22 % in the seeds. Crude fibre was as follows: 21.29 % in the stalk, 18.74 %in the leaves and 30.17 % in the seeds. Ash content was 12.30 % in the leaves, 12.25 % in the stalk and in the seed 11.99 %. Ether extract was 1.88 % in the leaves, 1.77 % in the seed, and 1.46 % in the stalk. Nitrogen free extract was 60.09 % in the stalk, 40.64 % and 55 % in the seed. Calcium, zinc and iron were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the leaves; copper and phosphorus in the seed and potassium and sodium in the stalk. The higher levels of nitrogen free extract in Thalia dealbata suggest that jt can be used as an energy feed source for livestock and fish, however, the high crude fibre levels may be a limitation to its utilization as feed for most monogastrics especially fish. Thalia dealbata is a rich source of major minerals especially potassium and sodium, it could be added as a feed ingredient to supplement mineral deficient diets. In subsequent studies, a palatability test could be carried out to ascertain the acceptability of the plant, Thalia dealbata, to various domestic animals.