Abstract
A cost-benefit model of the grazing behaviour of large generalist herbivores on temperate grassland swards is presented. We consider the energetic benefits in terms of the net energy retention curve, and the energetic costs due to the increased search time that may accompany a more selective diet. Parameters are fitted and solutions generated for the case of sheep grazing temperature pastures comprising ryegrass and clover. The model provides a hypothesis that, in many swards, the upper limit on total daily intake may be the result of a behavioural adaptation rather than any physiological or morphological constraint. The model also helps to clarify the concepts of diet preference and optimal diets among grazing herbivores
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
