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Festulolium and annual ryegrass pastures associated with white clover for small-scale dairy systems in high valleys of Mexico.
- Source :
- Agro Productividad; abr2023, Vol. 16 Issue 4, p31-42, 12p
- Publication Year :
- 2023
-
Abstract
- Background: The implementation of polyphytic pastures composed of grasses and legumes is an important component of agricultural systems in temperate zones, since grazing pastures which can reduce feed costs--are a viable option for small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). Objective: To evaluate the continuous grazing of dairy cows in Festulolium pastures associated with annual and perennial ryegrass and with clover in two farmrs. Methodology: Two experiments were carried out. The first experiment was established in the municipality of Almoloya of Juárez using eight cows that were divided into two groups of four; the cows grazed on two pastures with Festulolium associated with annual ryegrass and they were fed with 3.6 kg DM/cow/day of commercial concentrate, for 16 weeks. The second experiment was carried out in the Northwest of State of Mexico; six multiparous cows grazed on two pastures, under a cross over design arrangement; one pasture features Festulolium cv Spring Green and the other, annual ryegrass. Milk and body condition ere measured every 3 and 12 d, respectively. Variables from both experiments were analyzed using a split-plot experimental design. Results: Neither experiment recorded significant differences for the net accumulation of forage, the height of the pastures, and their chemical composition (P=0.05). No significant differences between treatments (P=0.05) were recorded regarding the yields and chemical composition of the milk. Study Limitations/Implications: The study of mixed pastures can be an alternative for feeding grazing cows, helping to reduce costs in SSDS. Findings/Conclusions: Festulolium/annual ryegrass pastures with white clover are a viable forage alternative for small-scale dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 24487546
- Volume :
- 16
- Issue :
- 4
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Agro Productividad
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 164715041
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.32854/agrop.v16i3.2385