Abstract

Forages are essential for the successful operation of animal production systems. This is more relevant to ruminants which are heavily dependant upon forages for their health and production in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. While forages are an economical source of nutrients for animal production, they also help conserve the soil integrity, water supply and air quality. Although the role of these forages for animal production could vary depending upon the regional preferences for the animal and forage species, climate and resources, their importance in the success of ruminant production is acknowledged. However with the increasing global human population and urbanisation, the sustainability of forage based animal production systems is sometimes questioned due to the interrelationship between animal production and the environment. It is therefore vital to examine the suitability of these systems for their place in the future to supply quality food which is safe for human consumption and available at a competitive price to the growing human population. Grassland and forage crops are recognised for their contribution to the environment, recreation and efficiency of meat and milk production,. To maintain sustainability, it is crucial that such farming systems remain profitable and environmentally friendly while producing nutritious foods of high economical value. Thus, it is pertinent to improve the nutritive value of grasses and other forage plants in order to enhance animal production to obtain quality food. It is also vital to develop new forages which are efficiently utilised and wasted less by involving efficient animals. A combination of forage legumes, fresh or conserved grasses, crop residues and other feeds could help develop an animal production system which is economically efficient, beneficial and viable. Also, it is crucial to use efficient animals, improved forage conservation methods, better manure handling, and minimum fertilisers to maximise animal production without damaging the environment. The sensible use of supplements and herbal additives as the desirable alternatives to the conventional growth promoters could also help optimise the ruminant production. This paper examines the opportunities and obstacles which may affect the development of more desirable and sustainable animal production systems for the future.

Highlights

  • Forage based animal production plays a crucial role in the affordable supply of nutrient rich foods for the humans

  • This paper examines the feasibility of such an approach in developing a desirable and sustainable animal production for the future

  • Sustainable Animal Production can be defined as the production that should meet the needs of the current generation without affecting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Oltjan & Becket, 1996; UN, 1987; Vavra 1996)

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Summary

Abdul Shakoor Chaudhry

ABSTRACT - Forages are essential for the successful operation of animal production systems. This is more relevant to ruminants which are heavily dependant upon forages for their health and production in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. While forages are an economical source of nutrients for animal production, they help conserve the soil integrity, water supply and air quality. A combination of forage legumes, fresh or conserved grasses, crop residues and other feeds could help develop an animal production system which is economically efficient, beneficial and viable. It is crucial to use efficient animals, improved forage conservation methods, better manure handling, and minimum fertilisers to maximise animal production without damaging the environment.

Introduction
What is sustainable animal production?
Global Human Population and Animal Production
Agricultural Agricultural
Ruminant Livestock and Sustainability
Developing a Sustainable Animal Production System
Low v High Inputs
Silage intake
Improved Animal Breeding and Gene Technology
Conclusions
Findings
Fluid to Evaluate Supplements for In vitro Degradation of
Full Text
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