Availability and seasonal dynamics of feed sources for Ladakhi cattle breed in the cold arid region of Ladakh and future scope under increasing growing degree days

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study investigates the nutritional status and feed resources for indigenous Ladakhi cattle in Ladakh’s cold arid region amid changing climate scenarios. It evaluates seasonal dry matter (DM) consumption, crude protein (CP) intake, and total digestible nutrient intake, revealing the cattle’s resilience to extreme conditions. Key findings show a 46.93% deficiency in DM during winter, indicating significant feed scarcity. CP deficiency averages 33.04% in summer, improving to 26.23% in winter with Lucerne hay. The study highlights regional differences, with Diskit showing higher feed intake due to its extensive agricultural area, surpassing Panamic and Chuchot by over 50% in DM intake during both summer and winter. These findings emphasize the need for innovative agricultural and feed preservation methods to enhance livestock sustainability in Ladakh. The results have important implications for policy and adaptive strategies to support livestock-dependent communities amid global climate changes.