Investigation of the usability of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) cultivars for feed purpose in Hungary

Abstract Nowadays, one of the major challenges in the field of agricultural production is an increasing demand for protein in farm animal husbandry. The main source of protein today is still soybean meal, but there is an urgent need to involve alternative protein sources and assess areas of application. Leaf and fruit of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) could be a possible source of protein, therefore the main composition of different varieties was examined. Black locust is the most widespread tree species in Hungary occupying approximately 24% of the forested land (465,000 ha) and providing 25% of the annual timber output of the country. The mean wood volume of all black locust forests is 125 m³/ha, with a mean volume of 190 m³/ha at the final cutting age (31 years on average). Black locust foliage could be an important, complementary feed, as it plays the role of rumen filler and during grazing, animals can access other useful plants among the trees. Foliage samples were collected from individuals of black locust cultivars, and subsequent content analyses were carried out. With the help of satellite images, photosynthetic activity and health conditions were investigated in the experimental areas using vegetation and moisture indices on the basis of content values and digestibility studies.