Toll Free Helpline (India): 1800 1234 070

Rest of World: +91-9810852116

Free Publication Certificate

Vol. 10, Special Issue 10 (2021)

Edible spineless cactus (Opuntia spp.): As alternative forage for animals in scarcity

Author(s):
SF Nipane, SR Lende, RI. Hatzade, PP Nimje and BL Mundhe
Abstract:
The spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) stays green even in the summer and can be used as a source of food during times of famine. It does not require well-drained soil and is more tolerant to salinity. Cactus may yield 20-200 tonnes of dry matter per hectare per year. Animals may find cactus to be a valuable supply of water, especially during the dry season. Water, sugar, ash, and vitamins A and C are abundant in cactus cladodes, but crude protein and fiber are few. They have a high Ca: P ratio and are extremely tasty. Spineless cactus can be utilized as an alternative green fodder for cattle, especially small ruminants, and can withstand extreme drought conditions with year-round availability, which is critical in light of climate change. Spineless cactus has spawned a plethora of cultivars and clones.
Pages: 421-424  |  478 Views  240 Downloads
How to cite this article:
SF Nipane, SR Lende, RI. Hatzade, PP Nimje and BL Mundhe. Edible spineless cactus (Opuntia spp.): As alternative forage for animals in scarcity. The Pharma Innovation Journal. 2021; 10(10S): 421-424.

Call for book chapter