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Keywords = tropical forage grasses

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21 pages, 3288 KiB  
Article
Narasin Supplementation Enhances Growth Performance in Grazing Cattle
by Daniel M. Polizel, Rodrigo S. Marques, Arnaldo C. Limede, Fernando A. A. Cidrini, José Renato S. Gonçalves, Pedro H. V. Carvalho and Alexandre V. Pires
Animals 2025, 15(13), 1939; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15131939 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of narasin inclusion on the growth performance of grazing beef cattle under similar forage availability and quality. All three experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design according to the initial BW. Exp 1: [...] Read more.
Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of narasin inclusion on the growth performance of grazing beef cattle under similar forage availability and quality. All three experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design according to the initial BW. Exp 1: 200 Nellore calves (initial BW = 177 ± 15 kg) were randomly allocated in three treatments for 84 d during the rainy season: (1) CONT: mineral supplement; (2) 1400 N: 1400 mg of narasin/kg of supplement; and (3) 2100 N: 2100 mg of narasin/kg of supplement. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.01) ADG by 0.077 kg/d and final BW by 6.7 kg, with no differences (p ≥ 0.50) between narasin doses. Exp 2: 240 Nellore calves (initial BW = 195 ± 19 kg) were allocated to CONT or N1400 for 112 d during the rainy season. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.01) ADG by 0.082 kg/d and final BW by 9.1 kg. Exp 3: 150 Nellore yearlings (initial BW = 332 ± 22 kg) were allocated for 112 d during the dry season: (1) PROT: protein supplement and (2) PROT250: inclusion of 250 mg of narasin/kg of supplement. Narasin inclusion increased (p ≤ 0.04) ADG by 0.048 kg and final BW by 5.3 kg. For all experiments, narasin inclusion did not impact (p ≥ 0.25) supplement intake. Hence, inclusion of narasin in mineral and protein supplements consistently enhances growth performance of grazing beef cattle across different seasons and production stages, without impacting supplement intake, providing an effective nutritional strategy to enhance productivity on tropical pastures. Full article
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13 pages, 829 KiB  
Article
Feasibility of Organic Fertilization for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions Compared to Mineral Fertilization
by Sirio Douglas da Silva dos Reis, Marco Antonio Previdelli Orrico Junior, Michely Tomazi, Ana Carolina Amorim Orrico, Stéfane de Sousa Cunha and Isabele Paola de Oliveira Amaral
Grasses 2025, 4(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses4020026 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different nitrogen sources (urea, compost, and digestate) on N2O and CH4 emissions and the forage production of Piatã grass in tropical pastures, with the aim of identifying the fertilization [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different nitrogen sources (urea, compost, and digestate) on N2O and CH4 emissions and the forage production of Piatã grass in tropical pastures, with the aim of identifying the fertilization practices that can balance productivity with environmental mitigation. The experiment included 10 forage cuts over a period of 14 months, from January 2017 to February 2018. The CH4 and N2O emissions were monitored using closed chambers and analyzed by gas chromatography. The forage production was assessed by weighing and drying the material. The emission intensity was calculated based on the global warming potential of the gases. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and compared by Tukey’s test (p ≤ 0.05). Fertilizer application increased the N2O emissions, with the highest flux (79.56 mg N-N2O/m2/day) observed for the digestate treatment (p < 0.01). The N2O consumption was the most significant for the control treatment (−5.90 mg N-N2O/m2/day) in July. The CH4 oxidation was prevalent across all the treatments, with the highest oxidation for the urea treatment (−49.80 µg C-CH4/m2/day) two days after fertilization. The dry matter production (DMP) was the highest with urea during the summer (16.9 t/ha; p < 0.01). The emission intensity values were 243.41 kg CO2eq/t DM for urea, 103.44 kg CO2eq/t DM for digestate, and 27.35 kg CO2eq/t DM for compost (p < 0.01). The compost application stimulated CH4 oxidation. In conclusion, compost can be considered an important alternative for fertilizing pasture areas, both from a productive and environmental perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Grasses)
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17 pages, 3113 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Nitrogen Management to Enhance Growth and Minimize Pollution Risk in Pennisetum hydridum Cultivation
by Farhan Nabi, Zicheng Yi, Rakhwe Kama, Sumbal Sajid and Huashou Li
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1452; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061452 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 479
Abstract
Nitrogen fertilization plays a crucial role in optimizing plant growth, but excessive application can lead to nutrient leaching, environmental pollution, and soil degradation. This study investigates the impact of nitrogen application rates (0–400 kg·ha−1) on the growth, biomass allocation, and carbon [...] Read more.
Nitrogen fertilization plays a crucial role in optimizing plant growth, but excessive application can lead to nutrient leaching, environmental pollution, and soil degradation. This study investigates the impact of nitrogen application rates (0–400 kg·ha−1) on the growth, biomass allocation, and carbon sequestration capacity of Pennisetum hydridum (Imperial Bamboo, PHY), a fast-growing tropical grass increasingly used for forage and bioenergy production in subtropical regions. Despite its agronomic potential, nutrient management strategies for P. hydridum remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that moderate nitrogen application (100–200 kg·ha−1) would enhance growth and nutrient use efficiency, while maintaining environmental sustainability. Results show that moderate nitrogen levels (100–200 kg·ha−1) significantly enhanced biomass production, with the highest aboveground biomass observed at 180 days under T2 (100 kg·ha−1) and T3 (200 kg·ha−1), reaching 166.5 g/plant and 140.6 g/plant, respectively. In contrast, excessive nitrogen application (400 kg·ha−1) led to a decline in biomass (T4, 76.8 g/plant) and impaired carbon sequestration efficiency. In addition, it was found that nitrogen uptake increased with moderate fertilization, with T2 and T3 showing optimal nitrogen use efficiency. Soil analysis revealed that soil organic matter and total nitrogen content were positively correlated with root biomass, with significant linear relationships between soil nitrogen, carbon/nitrogen ratios, and PHY biomass. Specifically, the total nitrogen content in rhizomes and fibrous roots showed coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.65 and 0.67, indicating a strong correlation with soil nitrogen levels. Furthermore, nitrogen application increased soil nitrate (NO3-N) and ammonium (NH4+-N) concentrations, with T4 showing the highest levels at 90 days (41.35 mg/kg for NO3-N and 15.6 mg/kg for NH4+-N), signaling potential nutrient loss to the environment. These findings underscore the importance of sustainable nitrogen management for maximizing the growth potential of P. hydridum, while minimizing environmental risks in subtropical agricultural systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Pollution: Toxicology and Remediation Strategies)
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11 pages, 988 KiB  
Article
Do Foliar Fertilizers Promote Increased Productivity of Tropical Grasses?
by Anna B. O. Moura, Gustavo B. A. Silva, Anna C. C. Paimel, Eildson S. O. Silva, Lucas G. Mota, Camila F. D. Duarte, Carla H. A. Cabral and Carlos E. A. Cabral
Agrochemicals 2025, 4(2), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/agrochemicals4020009 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 392
Abstract
Foliar fertilizers are low-cost agrochemicals used in pastures, and further research is needed regarding their impact on tropical grasses. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of foliar fertilization on the development of tropical grasses. Two experiments, consisting of [...] Read more.
Foliar fertilizers are low-cost agrochemicals used in pastures, and further research is needed regarding their impact on tropical grasses. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of foliar fertilization on the development of tropical grasses. Two experiments, consisting of five treatments and four replicates, were carried out. Each experiment was carried out using the following grasses: Zuri grass (Megathyrsus maximus Jacq. cv. Zuri) and ipypora grass (hybrid of Urochloa brizantha × Urochloa zizizensis). In each experiment, ten treatments were evaluated using a 2 × 5 factorial design with four replications. Treatments combined two soil fertilization strategies (with and without nitrogen) and five foliar fertilization strategies, which consisted of a control treatment without foliar fertilization and four application times: immediately after defoliation (0 leaves) and with 1, 2, and 3 expanded leaves. The grass height, tiller population density (TPD), leaf number (LN), forage dry mass (FDM), individual leaf mass (ILM) were evaluated. In the absence of soil fertilization, foliar fertilizer application had no effect on the development of the grasses (p > 0.05). Foliar fertilization did not affect the FDM of Ipyporã and Zuri grass under any of the conditions evaluated (p > 0.05). When applied in the soil fertilize with nitrogen, foliar fertilizer increased LN by 24% for two grasses (p < 0.05). For Zuri grass, foliar fertilization reduced individual leaf mass by 19% (p < 0.05). Thus, foliar fertilizer does not increase the productivity of tropical grasses, with small effects on the leaf’s appearance in Ipyporã and Zuri grass, without altering the forage mass, which necessitates new studies with agrochemicals, new doses, and concentrations of nitrogen. Full article
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13 pages, 883 KiB  
Review
Mixing Tropical Perennial Forage Grasses in Pastures—An Opportunity for Sustainable Intensification
by Alex Marciano dos Santos Silva, Emanoella Karol Saraiva Otaviano, Caio Macret Gomes, Alexandre Fameli Mammana, Larissa Fernanda Garcia Carvalho and Sila Carneiro da Silva
Grasses 2025, 4(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses4020022 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 686
Abstract
Botanical richness and diversity play crucial roles in regulating ecosystem functions and contribute to the sustainable intensification of perennial grasslands. This approach can be achieved through simultaneous or partial production of grasses in the same field, leading to enhanced productivity, reduced dependence on [...] Read more.
Botanical richness and diversity play crucial roles in regulating ecosystem functions and contribute to the sustainable intensification of perennial grasslands. This approach can be achieved through simultaneous or partial production of grasses in the same field, leading to enhanced productivity, reduced dependence on inorganic fertilizers and pesticides, and mitigating effects of edaphoclimatic variations. However, the existing literature predominantly focuses on associations between forage grasses and legumes or annual species. Furthermore, the subject should be explored under tropical conditions and environments, particularly considering the associations among well-managed perennial forage grasses. The interaction among perennial tropical forage grasses presents an alternative for exploration in the tropics, given the vast diversity of species and genotypes available. This review discusses the existing literature on multispecific pastures, elucidating the potential benefits for pastoral ecosystems. The association of perennial tropical forage grasses represents an emerging research area offering strategic opportunities for the sustainable intensification of animal production systems. Mixed pastures may be an economical and ecological alternative and enhance the production and sustainability of forage systems in the tropics. However, challenges persist in selecting plant species to achieve multifunctionality and understanding the underlying mechanisms shaping botanical diversity and productive performance within an association. This review emphasizes that understanding the morphological and agronomic characteristics of species and genotypes intended for cultivation in association is key to grasping the dynamics of competition for aboveground and belowground resources and creating combinations that deliver specific ecosystem services. Full article
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16 pages, 1903 KiB  
Article
Species and Harvest Time of Fresh Tropical Grasses Affect Rumen Fermentation as Determined by In Sacco and In Vitro Incubations
by Huyen Thi Duong Nguyen, Jill Derix, Wouter Hendrikus Hendriks, Jan Thomas Schonewille, Trach Xuan Nguyen and Wilbert Frans Pellikaan
Fermentation 2025, 11(5), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11050276 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 564
Abstract
The consumption of forages high in slow-degradable carbohydrates by dairy cattle leads to greater ruminal acetate production, which benefits milk fat content. Although tropical grasses are typically rich in fibrous materials, the milk fat content of dairy cows in Southeast Asia is low. [...] Read more.
The consumption of forages high in slow-degradable carbohydrates by dairy cattle leads to greater ruminal acetate production, which benefits milk fat content. Although tropical grasses are typically rich in fibrous materials, the milk fat content of dairy cows in Southeast Asia is low. Here, we investigate the effects of the species and harvest time of three common tropical grasses (Guinea, King, and Mulato II) harvested at three instances (early, normal, late) on in sacco degradation kinetics and in vitro gas production (IVGP) characteristics. Grass samples were subjected to (1) chemical analysis, (2) a fully automated in vitro gas recording system using rumen fluid to measure fermentation characteristics over 72 h, and (3) in sacco degradation using the nylon bag technique, employing seven incubation times up to 336 h. Forage quality decreased with maturity, as reflected in changes to digestibility and fiber content. Overall, early harvested grasses yielded the highest total gas production (311 ± 12.5 mL/g OM) followed by normal (300 ± 45.7 mL/g OM) and late (273 ± 19.5 mL/g OM) harvested grasses. The in vitro fermentable fraction (A1 + A2) was the highest for early harvested grasses, with the A2 parameter, relevant for milk fat content, being the highest for Guinea (81.6% A2/(A1 + A2)) and the lowest for King grass (71.0% A2/(A1 + A2)). Consequently, early harvested Guinea had the longest incubation times (10.5 h) and lowest fermentation rates (Rmax2 = 12.8 mL/g OM/h). Regression analysis showed relationships between NDF content and degradability. Harvesting tropical grass earlier than customarily practiced enhanced forage quality and ruminal degradability. Of the three grasses studied, each at three levels of maturity, early harvested Guinea grass was the most promising candidate for improving milk fat content in Southeast Asian dairy cows. This grass showed a high fermentable OM content, with a large proportion of slow-degradable carbohydrates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation)
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18 pages, 5172 KiB  
Article
Can Ammonium Nitrate Be a Strategic Tool by Replacing Urea as a Nitrogen Supplementation Source to Beef Cattle in Intensified Grazing Systems?
by Willian Rufino Andrade, Analisa Vasques Bertoloni, Flavio Perna Junior, Althieres José Furtado, Ana Laura Januário Lelis, Murilo Trettel, Alexandre Berndt, Patricia Perondi Anchão Oliveira, Angélica Simone Cravo Pereira and Paulo Henrique Mazza Rodrigues
Fermentation 2025, 11(5), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11050261 - 6 May 2025
Viewed by 561
Abstract
For cattle raised on tropical grass pastures, it is essential to explore strategies that circumvent climatic seasonality that affect forage availability and quality. We hypothesize that the intensification of grazing systems, with rotational and deferred methods, combined with ammonium nitrate or urea supplementation, [...] Read more.
For cattle raised on tropical grass pastures, it is essential to explore strategies that circumvent climatic seasonality that affect forage availability and quality. We hypothesize that the intensification of grazing systems, with rotational and deferred methods, combined with ammonium nitrate or urea supplementation, are excellent strategies to increase ruminal efficiency and animal productivity. For this purpose, 8 cattle with cannulas were distributed in rotational and deferred grazing systems, supplemented with urea or ammonium nitrate, and evaluated throughout the four seasons of the year over a period of two years. Dry matter intake and digestibility were measured using indigestible neutral detergent fiber, titanium dioxide and chromium oxide markers. Ruminal kinetics and degradability of DM and nutrients were measured using the nylon bag technique. Urine parameters were used to estimate microbial nitrogen compounds synthesis and efficiency of microbial protein synthesis. The rotational grazing improves NPN intake, NDF and ADF digestibility, and gross energy. Ammonium nitrate supplementation showed improved efficiency in microbial protein synthesis without negatively affecting feed intake, positioning it as a valuable nitrogen source for grazing cattle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation)
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22 pages, 4137 KiB  
Article
Sandy Soil Quality and Soybean Productivity in Medium-Duration Agricultural Production Systems
by Leonardo de Lima Froio, Eduardo Augusto Pontes Pechoto, Moisés Vinícius Garcia Garruti, Deyvison de Asevedo Soares, Bianca Midori Souza Sekiya, Viviane Cristina Modesto, Nelson Câmara de Souza Júnior, Vitória Almeida Moreira Girardi, Naiane Antunes Alves Ribeiro, Aline Marchetti Silva Matos, Gelci Carlos Lupatini and Marcelo Andreotti
Agriculture 2025, 15(6), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15060589 - 10 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 956
Abstract
The adoption of integrated production systems may be an alternative for improving soil health and increasing production. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in soil fertility and microbial metabolism, as well as the impact on soybean productivity, in different conservation [...] Read more.
The adoption of integrated production systems may be an alternative for improving soil health and increasing production. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in soil fertility and microbial metabolism, as well as the impact on soybean productivity, in different conservation systems in contrast to the conventional system, after four years of adopting integrated systems. The experimental design used was a randomized block design with seven treatments and three replications. The treatments included different species of forage grasses, the no-tillage soybean–maize system in succession, and conventional planting. It was found that after four years of using integrated systems, the changes in soil health were small, indicating that these effects are seen over the long term. Soil chemistry showed that the use of forage grasses is essential for improving fertility, with a focus on phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, base sum, and cation exchange capacity, which is reflected in the high soybean productivity in treatments with forage grasses, especially the use of Paiaguás and Piatã grasses. Even with slow changes in soil health, adopting integrated systems is an important practice for tropical sandy soils, as visible improvements in fertility were observed, which are reflected in productivity gains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Crop Management on Yields)
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13 pages, 1591 KiB  
Article
Root Penetration Is Associated with Root Diameter and Root Growth Rate in Tropical Forage Grasses
by Chanthy Huot, Joshua N. M. Philp, Yi Zhou and Matthew D. Denton
Grasses 2025, 4(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses4010004 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1460
Abstract
Soil compaction impedes root exploration by plants, which limits access to nutrients and water, ultimately compromising survival. The capability of roots to penetrate hard soils is therefore advantageous. While root penetration has been studied in various annual crops, the relationships between root growth [...] Read more.
Soil compaction impedes root exploration by plants, which limits access to nutrients and water, ultimately compromising survival. The capability of roots to penetrate hard soils is therefore advantageous. While root penetration has been studied in various annual crops, the relationships between root growth and root penetration are poorly understood in tropical perennial grasses. This study aimed to compare root penetration capability in 10 tropical perennial forage grasses and identify relationships between root penetration, root diameter and vertical root growth. Root penetration of each species, namely Urochloa (syn. Brachiaria) brizantha cv. Mekong Briz, U. decumbens cv. Basilisk, U. humidicola cv. Tully, U. hybrid cv. Mulato II, U. mosambicensis cv. Nixon, U. ruziziensis cv Kennedy, Panicum coloratum cv. Makarikariense, Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum) cv. Tanzânia, Paspalum scrobiculatum (syn. Paspalum coloratum) cv. BA96 10 and Setaria sphacelata cv Solendar, was evaluated using wax layers of varying resistances, created from a mixture of 40% (1.39 MPa) and 60% (2.12 MPa) paraffin wax, combined with petroleum jelly. Reference root sizes were determined for the grass species by measuring root diameter and root lengths of seedlings grown in growth pouches. Vertical root growth rate for each species was measured in grasses grown in 120 cm deep rhizotrons. Species with greater root penetration at both resistances had significantly higher shoot growth rates (r = 0.65 at 40% wax and 0.66 at 60% wax) and greater root diameters (r = 0.67 at 40% wax and 0.68 at 60% wax). Root penetration was significantly higher in species with greater vertical root growth rate only in the 60% wax treatment (r = 0.82). Root penetration at higher resistance was correlated with the root diameter and rapid vertical root growth of the species. This may indicate a contribution of these traits to root penetration ability. The combination of greater root diameter and root vertical growth rate, as observed in M. maximus, may assist in the identification of perennial forage grasses suitable for agroecosystems challenged by soil compaction and rapidly drying soil surface. Full article
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17 pages, 3917 KiB  
Article
Efficiency of Desiccation, Biomass Production, and Nutrient Accumulation in Zuri and Quênia Guinea Grasses in Integrated Crop–Livestock Systems and Second-Crop Maize
by Bruno de Souza Marques, Kátia Aparecida de Pinho Costa, Hemython Luís Bandeira do Nascimento, Ubirajara Oliveira Bilego, Eduardo Hara, Rose Luiza Moraes Tavares, Juliana Silva Rodrigues Cabral, Luciana Maria da Silva, José Carlos Bento, Breno Furquim de Morais, Adriano Carvalho Costa and Tiago do Prado Paim
Plants 2024, 13(22), 3250; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13223250 - 20 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1356
Abstract
Modern agriculture faces the challenge of increasing production without expanding cultivated areas, promoting sustainable practices that ensure food security and environmental preservation. Integrated crop–livestock systems (ICLSs) stand out as an effective strategy, diversifying and intensifying agricultural production in a sustainable manner, ensuring adequate [...] Read more.
Modern agriculture faces the challenge of increasing production without expanding cultivated areas, promoting sustainable practices that ensure food security and environmental preservation. Integrated crop–livestock systems (ICLSs) stand out as an effective strategy, diversifying and intensifying agricultural production in a sustainable manner, ensuring adequate soil cover, and improving nutrient cycling efficiency. Thus, this study aimed to explore and compare integrated crop–livestock systems with Zuri guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri) and Quênia guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Quênia) against the conventional soybean/maize succession method in a tropical region, and how these systems affect biomass decomposition, C:N ratio, nutrient cycling, and fertilizer equivalents. A field experiment was conducted in two phases: the first in the second-crop season and the second in the main season, using a randomized block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of two ICLS systems, one with Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses established after soybean, and a succession system with maize established after soybean. The results indicated that Quênia guinea grass showed greater desiccation efficiency, with an injury rate of 86.5% at 21 days, 8.5% higher compared to Zuri guinea grass. In terms of biomass, Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses had average productions of 7021.1 kg ha−1, which was 43.25% higher compared to maize biomass. The biomass decomposition of the grasses was faster due to their lower C:N ratio, resulting in greater nutrient release into the soil. Both forage grasses (Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses) are suitable for integrated crop–livestock systems, as they showed similar biomass production and nutrient accumulation. Soybean yield was not influenced by the different cropping systems, showing similar results between the biomass of Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses and maize. However, grass biomass enriches the soil more through the return of fertilizer equivalents, which in future studies could be considered for the reduction of mineral fertilizers, ensuring greater sustainability of agricultural systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecophysiology and Quality of Crops)
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14 pages, 481 KiB  
Article
Qualitative Production of Mixture Silage within a Sustainable Concept
by Karina Batista and F.P. Campos
Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6398; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156398 - 26 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1321
Abstract
Climate change and seasonality in forage production have caused alterations in animal feed. Thus, this study evaluated the composition of silages from soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) mixed with tropical grasses. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications. Treatments were [...] Read more.
Climate change and seasonality in forage production have caused alterations in animal feed. Thus, this study evaluated the composition of silages from soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) mixed with tropical grasses. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications. Treatments were silage from soybeans, silage from soybeans with Aruana Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana), and silage from soybeans with Congo grass (Urochloa ruziziensis cv. Comum). Silos were stored for 60 days in the laboratory at room temperature. The silage from soybeans with Aruana Guinea grass showed the highest contents of dry matter, crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber, insoluble nitrogen in neutral detergent fiber, and insoluble nitrogen in acid detergent fiber but the lowest levels of crude protein and ether extract. The highest content of mineral material and hemicellulose was observed in the silage from soybeans with Congo grass. The silages from soybeans and soybeans with Congo grass showed no significant differences for acid detergent fiber and lignin. In conclusion, the use of tropical grasses as a component to improve the quality of silage from soybeans is an alternative for forage conservation in ruminant production systems, especially at the dry season. Full article
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18 pages, 1594 KiB  
Review
Ruminant Grazing Lands in the Tropics: Silvopastoral Systems and Tithonia diversifolia as Tools with Potential to Promote Sustainability
by Ana Maria Krüger, Paulo de Mello Tavares Lima, Vagner Ovani, Simón Pérez-Marquéz, Helder Louvandini and Adibe Luiz Abdalla
Agronomy 2024, 14(7), 1386; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14071386 - 27 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2936
Abstract
Food security, sustainability of food production, and greenhouse gas (GHG) production of ruminant livestock are topics that generate scrutiny and debates worldwide. In a scenario of increasing human population and concerns with climate change, it is necessary to increase animal-derived food in sustainable [...] Read more.
Food security, sustainability of food production, and greenhouse gas (GHG) production of ruminant livestock are topics that generate scrutiny and debates worldwide. In a scenario of increasing human population and concerns with climate change, it is necessary to increase animal-derived food in sustainable operations. Grazing systems are crucial for ruminant production worldwide, and in the tropics, well-managed grasslands can provide sustainable intensification of this activity. In these regions, production often relies on grass monoculture managed extensively, a practice that commonly has led to the occurrence of degraded soils, limited animal productivity, and increased intensity of GHG emissions. Silvopastoralism is a practice that promotes several ecosystem services, showing potential to maintain soil quality while reducing the environmental impacts of ruminant production. These systems also have the potential to improve animal productive performance and reduce GHG emissions. The review was guided by a search in the Web of Science database using population terms and refined by document type (Article) and language (English OR Portuguese) following PRISMA protocol. Infographics were created using the Bibliometrix package in R software (version 4.3.2), and a specific topic on Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray was explored to demonstrate the importance of this forage resource for tropical silvopastoral systems and its potential contribution to food security. The T. diversifolia shrub is widely distributed in Latin America and tropical regions and presents several characteristics that make it a good option for silvopastoral systems. Focusing on the tropics, our objectives were to present one literature review addressing the role of grazing ruminant production towards the current climate change and food security challenges. Additionally, we aimed to explore the state of knowledge on silvopastoral systems and the use of T. diversifolia, presenting their potential to cope with this scenario of increased concerns with the sustainability of human activities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Forage Production in Crop–Livestock Systems)
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13 pages, 277 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Gas Production of Common Southeast Asian Grasses in Response to Variable Regrowth Periods in Vietnam
by Huyen Thi Duong Nguyen, Jan Thomas Schonewille, Wilbert Frans Pellikaan, Trach Xuan Nguyen and Wouter Hendrikus Hendriks
Fermentation 2024, 10(6), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation10060280 - 25 May 2024
Viewed by 1392
Abstract
The relationship between DM yield/cutting and the fermentable organic matter (FOM) content of tropical grasses was appropriately investigated to re-assess optimal grass maturity to feed dairy cattle. Nine different grass species belonging to the genera Brachiaria spp. (Mulato II, Ruzi), Panicum spp. (Guinea, [...] Read more.
The relationship between DM yield/cutting and the fermentable organic matter (FOM) content of tropical grasses was appropriately investigated to re-assess optimal grass maturity to feed dairy cattle. Nine different grass species belonging to the genera Brachiaria spp. (Mulato II, Ruzi), Panicum spp. (Guinea, Hamil, Mombasa, TD58), and Pennisetum spp. (King, Napier, VA06) were chemically analysed and subjected to an in vitro gas production (IVGP) test. For 72 h, gas production (GP) was continuously recorded with fully automated equipment. A triphasic, nonlinear, regression procedure was applied to analyse GP profiles. Across all the grasses, it was found that the neutral detergent fibre (NDF) contents increased with increasing maturity of the grass while the CP contents decreased with increasing NDF contents. In all nine grasses, digestible organic matter (dOM) was significantly affected by the week of cutting but IVGP was similar between the weeks of cutting in Ruzi, Hamil, Mombasa, and Napier grasses. Except for Guinea grass, the lowest dOM values were found when the grasses were cut after ≥5 weeks of regrowth. Harvesting grass one or two weeks earlier than the normal cutting time is a practically relevant intervention in increasing forage quality and productivity of dOM and fermentation potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue In Vitro Digestibility and Ruminal Fermentation Profile, 2nd Edition)
13 pages, 308 KiB  
Article
Strategic Ensilage of Signal Grass Pastures in Two Seasons in a Tropical Region
by Tâmara Chagas da Silveira, Karina Guimarães Ribeiro, João Paulo Santos Roseira, Wagner Sousa Alves, Danielle Nascimento Coutinho, Albert José dos Anjos and Odilon Gomes Pereira
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040822 - 15 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1233
Abstract
In tropical regions, grass silage can be produced from the pasture in the rainy season to feed animals during the dry season. We evaluated the chemical composition and fermentation characteristics of ensiled signal grass (Urochloa decumbens Stapf. Basilisk) fertilized with nitrogen (N) [...] Read more.
In tropical regions, grass silage can be produced from the pasture in the rainy season to feed animals during the dry season. We evaluated the chemical composition and fermentation characteristics of ensiled signal grass (Urochloa decumbens Stapf. Basilisk) fertilized with nitrogen (N) or intercropped with calopo (Calopogonium mucunoides Desv.) with and without microbial inoculant. We used a 4 × 2 factorial scheme in a randomized block design, with two blocks and two treatments per block, considering p > 0.05. We studied signal grass fertilized with 0 kg ha−1 of N (0 N), 50 kg ha−1 of N (50 N), or 100 kg ha−1 of N (100 N), or intercropped with calopo legume (LEG), with (I) or without (WI) inoculant, in two seasons. During the dry–water transition, lower concentrations of butyric acid were observed in 50 N and LEG silages (2.77 and 2.55 g kg−1 dry matter, DM) (inoculated) compared to control (7.77 g kg−1 DM). During the water–dry transition, higher concentrations of crude protein were observed in 100 N and LEG silages (71.90 and 54.6 g kg−1 DM) than in 0 N (46.3 g kg−1 DM). The signal grass–calopo intercropping is an alternative to nitrogen fertilization, as it provides forage with a higher protein content and silage with satisfactory fermentative characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects for the Development of Silage and Green Fodder)
15 pages, 313 KiB  
Article
Chemical Properties, Ruminal Fermentation, Gas Production and Digestibility of Silages Composed of Spineless Cactus and Tropical Forage Plants for Sheep Feeding
by Paulo Fernando Andrade Godoi, André Luiz Rodrigues Magalhães, Gherman Garcia Leal de Araújo, Airon Aparecido Silva de Melo, Tiago Santos Silva, Glayciane Costa Gois, Kelly Cristina dos Santos, Daniel Bezerra do Nascimento, Priscila Barreto da Silva, Juliana Silva de Oliveira, Edson Mauro Santos, Thieres George Freire da Silva, Anderson de Moura Zanine, Daniele de Jesus Ferreira, Tadeu Vinhas Voltolini and Fleming Sena Campos
Animals 2024, 14(4), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14040552 - 7 Feb 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1838
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate the chemical composition, carbohydrates, protein fractionation and in vitro gas production of silages composed of spineless cactus and tropical forages and their effect on sheep performance. Treatments consisted of silages: corn silage (CS), spineless cactus silage (SCS), spineless [...] Read more.
The aim was to evaluate the chemical composition, carbohydrates, protein fractionation and in vitro gas production of silages composed of spineless cactus and tropical forages and their effect on sheep performance. Treatments consisted of silages: corn silage (CS), spineless cactus silage (SCS), spineless cactus + gliricidia (SCG), spineless cactus + buffel grass silage (SCBG) and spineless cactus + pornunça (SCP). Silos were opened 60 days after ensiling, and analyses were carried out. The digestibility test lasted for 36 days, with eight animals per treatment. A completely randomized design was adopted. Considering carbohydrate fractionation, CS, SCS and SCBG silages had higher total carbohydrate content (p = 0.001). The SCS silage presented a higher A + B1 fraction (p = 0.001). The SCBG and SCG silages showed a higher B2 fraction (p < 0.0001) compared to the CS and SCS silages. The SCBG and SCP silages presented a higher C fraction (p = 0.001). For protein fractionation, the SCP and SCG silages showed higher crude protein contents (p = 0.001). The CS and SCS silages showed a higher A fraction (p = 0.001). The SCBG silage presented a higher B1 + B2 fraction (p = 0.001). The SCG silage showed a higher B3 fraction (p = 0.006) compared to SCBG silage. The SCS and SCP silages showed a higher C fraction (p = 0.001). Exclusive SCS silage showed higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (p = 0.001), dry matter degradability (p = 0.001) and total gas production (p = 0.001). The use of the SCBG, SCP and SCG silages to feed sheep increased the dry matter intake (p < 0.001). Sheep fed the SCG silage showed greater dry matter and crude protein digestibility compared to the sheep fed the CS, SCS and SCP silages (p = 0.002). There was a higher water intake (p < 0.001) with the use of the SCS and SCG silages to feed the sheep. The SCP and SCG silages provided a greater intake (p < 0.001) and excretion (p < 0.001) of nitrogen by the animals. Although there were no differences between the treatments for daily gains, lambs that received the spineless cactus-based silage associated with tropical forages showed higher gains (160–190 g/day) than lambs that received CS silage (130 g/day). Thus, the use of spineless cactus associated with buffelgrass, pornunça and gliricidia to prepare mixed silages (60:40) to feed sheep has potential use to feed sheep, with positive effects on nutrient degradation and increases in dry matter intake. Under experimental conditions, we recommend the exclusive use of spineless cactus silage associated with buffel grass, pornunça and gliricidia in feeding sheep in semi-arid regions, as it provides nutrients, water and greater daily gains compared to corn silage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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