Effects of Climate Change on Forage Growth
A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Agricultural Science and Technology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 July 2026 | Viewed by 290
Special Issue Editors
Interests: pasture and forage; animal production; greenhouse gas; evaluation of tropical forages
Interests: assessment of morphogenic and structural traits of tropical forage species; ecophysiology of forage plants; pasture management; soil–plant–animal interface in the productivity of ruminant production systems; predictive modeling applied to forage science and ruminant production
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural sectors worldwide, particularly in the production of forages essential for livestock. Altered precipitation patterns, increased temperatures, and heightened frequency of extreme weather events disrupt the delicate balance required for optimal forage growth. These changes can lead to reduced biomass production, changes in species composition and diminished nutritional quality of forage crops.
Rising temperatures may accelerate the maturation process of forage plants, resulting in decreased digestibility and nutrient density. Moreover, shifts in rainfall patterns can exacerbate drought conditions or induce excessive moisture, both of which negatively impact forage yield and quality. Such fluctuations threaten not only animal health but also the economic viability of livestock operations reliant on consistent forage availability.
Given the urgency of addressing these impacts, there is a pressing need for research and publication in this field. Scholars and practitioners are encouraged to contribute articles that explore adaptive strategies, innovative management practices and the development of climate-resilient forage varieties. Through collaborative efforts, we can enhance our understanding of the intersection between climate change and forage systems, ultimately ensuring sustainable livestock production in an evolving environmental landscape.
I look forward to receiving your contributions.
Dr. João Virgínio Emerenciano Neto
Prof. Dr. Antonio Gurgel
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- animal production
- adaptation
- food production
- grassland science
- greenhouse gas
- heat stress
- mitigation
- sustainability
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