Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of three forage species at different regrowth intervals. A 3 x 4 randomized-block factorial design with three forage species (Andropogon, Buffel, and Massai) and four regrowth intervals (21, 35, 49, and 63 days) was used. There was no interaction (p > 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on any of the chemical components evaluated. The crude protein content decreased but the contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose increased with increasing regrowth interval (p > 0.05). Only the contents of crude protein and ether extract were similar (p > 0.05) among grasses. A significant interaction was observed (p < 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on forage mass. Andropogon grass had the highest forage mass at 63 days (3,270.1 kg ha-1 DM cut-1) and the highest productivity regardless of the regrowth interval (19.1 t ha-1 DM year-1). Therefore, Andropogon grass was the most productive forage among the tested species. Pastures should be managed with shorter growth intervals due to the highest crude protein level and the lowest contents of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber.
Highlights
Evaluating the production and quality of cultivated grasses is of great importance for pasture-based production systems
Forage forms the base of the diet of ruminants during the year and it is one of the pillars for more sustainable animal production
Luna et al (2014) reported that different grasses have been used in ruminant systems, but few of them have been studied with focus on management methods that can effectively increase animal production in the semiarid region
Summary
Evaluating the production and quality of cultivated grasses is of great importance for pasture-based production systems. Forage forms the base of the diet of ruminants during the year and it is one of the pillars for more sustainable animal production. Luna et al (2014) reported that different grasses have been used in ruminant systems, but few of them have been studied with focus on management methods that can effectively increase animal production in the semiarid region. Another limiting factor for forage production is the lack of rainfall. The cultivation of irrigated pastures was recommended by Santos et al (2011) as an alternative to increase animal productivity and reduce pressure on native pastures. Massai and Andropogon grasses are native to Africa and well-adapted to cultivation in areas with prolonged periods of drought and low-fertility soils (Giongo, Cunha, Mendes, & Gava, 2011; Valentim, Carneiro, Moreira, Jank, & Sales, 2001; Thomas, Andrade, Couto, Rocha, & Moore, 1981)
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