Nutritive value of selected grasses in North Sumatra, Indonesia

The nutritive values of seven native grass species collected in North Sumatra, Indonesia, during dry and rainy seasons were evaluated. The chemical composition, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), in vitro crude protein digestibility (IVCPD), macro mineral concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, in vitro gas production profile and metabolizable energy (ME) content of the grasses varied greatly among species and seasons. The crude protein content ranged from 6.6 (Andropogon gayanus) to 16.2% dry matter (Cynodon plectostachyus) in the rainy season, with a significant (P