DOI: 10.36347/sjavs.2017.v04i03.004

Pages: 109-113

Range inventory was conducted in six locations in the western part of North Kordofan State with the objective of studying range attributes in general and density, frequency and composition of some flora species pointed out causing phytobezoars in sheep. The line transect method was used for this purpose. The data was analyzed via analysis of variance and Duncan multiple range tests were applies to detect difference among means of attributes measured. Correlation between Ipomoea species and incidence of phytobezoars in sheep diagnosed on the surveyed sites was calculated. The results indicated varied plant species composition, frequency of species and density. Highly stocked sites had high frequency and density of unpalatable species especially Ipomea eriocarpus. High density of Merrimia emarginata was recorded on sites heavily stocked and overgrazed. Strong correlation was found between percent incidence of phytobezoars diagnosed in flocks and M. emarginata density and frequency. It was concluded that Merrimia emarginata could possibly be the cause of the incidence of phytobezoars in sheep concomitant with views perceived by the herders and it was recommended that feeding trials be conducted for confirmation. More studies were also recommended to elucidate possibility of other species in imitating formation of the phytobezoars in sheep and other livestock species in the area.