Purslane: A Potential Forage for Small Ruminants

Authors: MORALES, MARIO - MOUNTAIN STATE UNIVERSITY; Foster, Joyce

Submitted to: Proceedings of the Annual Appalachian Opportunities Symposium
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/5/2007
Publication Date: 12/31/2007
Citation: Morales, M.R., Foster, J.G. 2007. Purslane: A Potential Forage for Small Ruminants. In: Morales, M. R. and Foster, J. G. editors. Proceedings of the Fifth Appalachian Opportunities Symposium, March 10, 2007, Beckley, West Virginia. p. 25-30.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Sustainable small ruminant production on small-acreage farms in Appalachia depends upon use of various plant resources to meet nutritional and health requirements of animals and provide meat products that satisfy consumer desires and expectations. While traditional forage species can supply nutrients needed by livestock, plants not typically included in pastures may be beneficial because they contain constituents that have medicinal value or enhance meat quality and shelf life. One such non-traditional plant species is purslane, which has high levels of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids and produces numerous seeds with potential to control gastrointestinal worms and provide immune system support. Purslane also contains oxalates, which are anitquality factors. Our research is focused on identifying germplasm with a dense, erect canopy and low oxalate content and defining plant management strategies that minimize oxalate concentrations in the herbage. A wild accession we acquired at a Mexican ethnic market in Lafayette, Indiana, had one of the lowest oxalic acid concentrations among accessions assayed, produced a dense canopy 15 to 25 cm high, and was the most tolerant of stem black rot disease. These preliminary data support further efforts to improve the forage potential of purslane. Success will enable small ruminant producers to take advantage of nutrients and beneficial secondary metabolites in the plant.