Evaluation of Adaptation, Biomass Production, and Nutritive Value of Napier Grass Across Different Agro-Ecologies in the Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

A study was conducted to evaluate the agronomic performance and nutritional quality of three Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) varieties, 16819, 16984, & 16791, under irrigated conditions at Fafan, Dolo Ado, and Godey agricultural research centers in the Somali Regional State, Ethiopia. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications, considering variety and location as factors. Data on growth, yield, and nutritive value were analyzed using ANOVA through the General Linear Model (GLM) procedure in SAS (2009). Results showed highly significant (P<0.001) effects of variety, location, and their interaction on plant height, tiller number, internode length, and dry matter yield. Variety 16791 produced the tallest plants (215.9 cm) and the highest dry matter yield (23.9 t/ha), followed by 16984 (17.9 t/ha), while 16819 had the shortest plants (163.1 cm) and the lowest yield (14.6 t/ha). The highest number of tillers was observed in 16984 (16.46), with 16819 showing the fewest (14.54). Internode length ranged from 14.7 to 16.5 cm, with 16791 exhibiting the longest and 16984 the shortest. Nutritionally, 16791 had the highest dry matter content (93.06%) and crude protein (10.1%), along with the lowest acid detergent fiber (ADF) at 47.6%. In contrast, 16819 recorded the highest ash content (19.5%) and lowest dry matter (91.8%), while 16984 had the highest neutral detergent fiber (NDF) at 86.6% but the lowest crude protein (7.3%). Overall, varieties 16791 and 16984 showed superior performance in yield and nutritional quality. Variety 16791 is recommended for Fafan and similar agro-ecologies, while 16984 is better adapted to Godey and Dolo Ado conditions. Further research is needed to assess the chemical composition in detail, evaluate animal response, and study seasonal performance to ensure long-term adaptability and productivity.