Seasonal variation in concentrations of fiber, crude protein, and phenolic compounds in leaves of red alder (Alnus rubra): Nutritional implications for cervids

Journal of Chemical Ecology
By: , and 

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Abstract

We sought to determine whether changes in chemical composition could be a factor in increased utilization of red alder (Alnus rubra) by the two cervids, the Columbian black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) and Roosevelt elk (Cervus elaphus roosevelti), during the fall in parts of the Douglas fir region of the Pacific Northwest. We found that concentrations and astringency of phenolic compounds decreased from spring through fall, while crude protein content remained high. We conclude that red alder leaves provide a significant source of digestible protein for cervids during fall, when availability of nutrients in most forage species is generally declining.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Seasonal variation in concentrations of fiber, crude protein, and phenolic compounds in leaves of red alder (Alnus rubra): Nutritional implications for cervids
Series title Journal of Chemical Ecology
DOI 10.1023/A:1005462100010
Volume 26
Issue 1
Year Published 2000
Language English
Publisher Springer
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description 9 p.
First page 293
Last page 301
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