Multivariate analysis in the feeding management characterization of small ruminants in the Bahian semi-arid

Abstract

Goat and sheep farming has socioeconomic and cultural importance in Northeastern Brazil, especially for family farming, both because of the adaptability of these animals and the generation of income. Therefore, the objective was to characterize the feeding management of small ruminants raised in a microregion of Western Bahia. There were registered 34 farms that raised goats and sheep, with a herd ranging from 10 to 100 heads. Using Ward's method, three homogeneous groups of small ruminant producers were formed, based on cluster analysis according to the practices carried out by the breeders. Data was collected on forage species and their form of conservation and supplementation. It was observed that the forages most used in animal feed management are elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum), andropogon grass (Andropogon gayanus), and forage cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica and Nopalea cochenillifera). The main concentrated ingredients are maize disintegrated with straw and cob (MDSC) and cassava residue. About 99.0% of goats and sheep farmers do not carry out forage conservation, with ensiling being the most adopted method about haymaking. The pasture is composed of native species of the Caatinga such as 'maniçoba' (Manihot pseudoglaziovii), 'jurema preta' (Mimosa tenuiflora), and 'rama de bezerro' (Pityrocarpa moniliformis). The use of common salt (NaCl) instead of supplementation with complete mineral salt and the absence of balanced diets were observed. It is concluded that the feeding management of small ruminants in a micro-region of Bahian semi-arid is based on native Caatinga pasture, in the absence of mineral supplementation and forage conservation.