Abstract 166

Tawata,-S; Hongo,-F; Sunagawa,-K; Kawashima,-Y; Yaga,-S

Dep. Agric. Chem., Univ. Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-01, Japan.

Science-Bulletin-of-theCollege-of-Agriculture,University-o -the-Ryukyus,-Okinawa. 1986, No.33, 87-93; 16 ref.

Mimosine, a chemical present in Leucaena leucocephala, and its degradation product 3-hydroxy-4(1H)-pyridone (DHP) are both toxic when ingested by herbivores, and their inactivation or reduction would enhance the use of the plant as livestock fodder. Mimosine, although insoluble in distilled water, is soluble in ionic solutions. Leaves of L. leucocephala were leached in 0-100% seawater and various acidic and basic solutions for 24 h at 25øC. Rate of mimosine extraction depended on reagent concn.; the most effective was 0.05 N CH3COONa, which extracted 95%. No loss of important nutrients was observed. The method is simple, also removes DHP and is applicable for both small farmers and commercial use.