Mangifera indica

Mango

Large spreading tree that is native to tropical Asia but cultivated in most tropical countries. The round or oval fruit is somewhat flattened and can weigh up to 0.5 kg. The flesh of good fruit has a pleasant aromatic flavour, but inferior varieties have a turpentine flavour and can be rather fibrous. In the centre is the large fibrous flat seed containing a kernel.

The kernels constitute about 15% of the weight of the fruit and may well be used for livestock. Ruminants can tolerate concentrates with up to 50% mango kernels without adverse effects. The kernels are fairly rich in tannins, which progressively lead to reduced growth rates and less efficient feed utilization when included in diets for pigs and poultry.

The fruits are relished by both cattle and pigs. Gluts can be preserved in the following way. Mangoes that are not fully mature are sliced and ensiled in pits 1.5 m3 dug in the ground and lined with large leaves. One percent salt should be added. The pits are tightly covered with leaves and soil. The silage can be used for off-season pig feeding.

					As % of dry matter
				DM	CP	CF	Ash	EE	NFE	Ca	P	Ref
Fruit pulp, early
vegetative, Nigeria				17.7	35.0	2.8	1.8	0.3	60.1	0.21	0.10	374
Fruit pulp, mature,
Nigeria				17.3	5.6	2.3	2.2	0.5	89.4			"
Kernels, India				50.0	8.5	2.8	5.4	8.9	74.4			253
Silage, Mali				16.0	5.0	16.6	9.2	6.2	63.0	0.18	0.09	537
							Digestibility (%)
					Animal		CP	CF	EE	NFE	ME	Ref
Kernel					Oxen		72.1	0.0	56.3	70.6	2.56	253