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Saline–alkali (SA) stress is an abiotic stress that exists widely in the natural environment, seriously affecting the growth and development of crops. Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.), a perennial herb of Cyperus in Cyperaceae, is considered a pioneer crop for growing and improving SA land due to its excellent adaptability and SA tolerance. This study is the first to evaluate the SA tolerance of tiger nut and the alleviative effects of nanomaterials (nano-selenium and multi-walled carbon nanotubes) and Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AMs) on SA stress. The results showed that the seedling fresh weight of tiger nut was the most suitable parameter to describe the dose–response effect of plant growth with increased SA concentration. Based on the log-logistic dose–response curve, the GR50 values of NaCl and NaHCO3 (the concentrations causing a 50% reduction in seedling fresh weight) were determined to be 163 mmol L−1 and 63 mmol L−1, respectively. Under these stresses, the exogenous application of MWCNTs at 100 mg L−1 or Nano-Se at 10 mg L−1 showed that the effect of SA on tiger nut was alleviated. Field evaluation further showed that the exogenous application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs could effectively alleviate SA stress on tiger nut. Compared to the untreated control, the application of these substances significantly improved the plant photosynthesis-related parameter, antioxidant enzyme activity, plant height (height: 66.0–69.9 cm), tuber yield (yield: 23.4–27.4 g plant−1), and oil quality of tiger nut under SA stress. The results of this study indicate that the application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs, to tiger nut can alleviate SA stress and maintain seed yield, providing the possibility of using these nanoparticles to improve the SA tolerance of tiger nut in agricultural practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing drought caused by climate change makes it difficult for rural areas reliant on pasture-based livestock farming to sustain their agricultural practices. Blackberries, a spreading species, have been selected as the material for this study due to their perennial shrub nature and their tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. Türkiye, the gene center for blackberries, is part of the Mediterranean belt and is located at the intersection of three flora regions—Mediterranean, Euro-Siberian, and Irano-Turanian. This study aims to determine the forage value of the Rubus species and other shrub/tree species (Quercus, Pistacia, and Rosa) collected and identified from these flora regions. Furthermore, a linear regression analysis established a relationship between the forage values and the SPEI, a drought index, considering the combined effects of rainfall and temperature in the collection regions. Among the Rubus species, the highest organic matter content (887.8 g kg−1) was obtained from R. pruinosus. In comparison, the highest protein content (240.1 g kg−1) was found in cultivated blackberries in the Euro-Siberian flora region. P. lentiscus had the highest Ca content (14.4 g kg−1) and offered feed at the "Prime" level with 154 of RFV. The SPEI explained 87% of the variation in fructan, 89% in Mg, and 92% in ADF. Due to the perennial nature of the species studied, a strong relationship was found between their growth and forage values over a 48-month time scale using the SPEI. Consequently, the equations related to ADF, Mg, and fructan content obtained in this study can be recommended for woody species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline–alkali (SA) stress is an abiotic stress that exists widely in the natural environment, seriously affecting the growth and development of crops. Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.), a perennial herb of Cyperus in Cyperaceae, is considered a pioneer crop for growing and improving SA land due to its excellent adaptability and SA tolerance. This study is the first to evaluate the SA tolerance of tiger nut and the alleviative effects of nanomaterials (nano-selenium and multi-walled carbon nanotubes) and Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AMs) on SA stress. The results showed that the seedling fresh weight of tiger nut was the most suitable parameter to describe the dose–response effect of plant growth with increased SA concentration. Based on the log-logistic dose–response curve, the GR50 values of NaCl and NaHCO3 (the concentrations causing a 50% reduction in seedling fresh weight) were determined to be 163 mmol L−1 and 63 mmol L−1, respectively. Under these stresses, the exogenous application of MWCNTs at 100 mg L−1 or Nano-Se at 10 mg L−1 showed that the effect of SA on tiger nut was alleviated. Field evaluation further showed that the exogenous application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs could effectively alleviate SA stress on tiger nut. Compared to the untreated control, the application of these substances significantly improved the plant photosynthesis-related parameter, antioxidant enzyme activity, plant height (height: 66.0–69.9 cm), tuber yield (yield: 23.4–27.4 g plant−1), and oil quality of tiger nut under SA stress. The results of this study indicate that the application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs, to tiger nut can alleviate SA stress and maintain seed yield, providing the possibility of using these nanoparticles to improve the SA tolerance of tiger nut in agricultural practice.

To fully exploit the economic value of the Chinese endemic species Pteroceltis tatarinowii and provide new resources for forage production, the forage nutritional value of P. tatarinowii leaves from different populations was analyzed and evaluated. The results were as follows: 1) There were significant differences in the forage nutrient indices of leaves from different populations. The crude protein content was 10.77%-18.65%, with an average of 14.58%, and the SDJN population had the highest crude protein content. The average crude fat, crude fiber content was 7.62%; the average neutral detergent fiber content was 25.33%; and the average acid detergent fiber contents were 6.79%, 7.62%, 25.33%, and 17.52%, respectively. The average phosphorus and calcium content in the leaves was 0.785 g·kg-1 and 58.01 g·kg-1, respectively. The tannin content was much lower than the antifeedant standard, at an average of 4.97 g·kg-1. The average total amounts of hydrolyzed and free amino acids in the leaves were 108.20 mg·g-1 and 47.87 mg·g-1, respectively. Thus, P. tatarinowii leaves have high crude protein, crude fat, and calcium contents, and low fiber, tannin contents, and are protein-rich. These results provide evidence that this species can be developed into an excellent woody forage tree. 2) There were significant differences in the forage quality evaluation indices among the populations. The forage indices of NDP, ADP, DMI, DDM, and RFV of 21 populations all met the super standard of the American Grass and Grassland Association (AFGC) for hay, two crude protein indices met the grade 1 standard, and 12 crude protein indices met the grade 2 standard. Four high-protein and high-RFV forage populations (SDJN, SDZZ, SXLQ, and AHXX) were selected. 3) The results of the correlation analysis showed that there was no significant correlation between the forage characteristics of P. tatarinowii leaves and latitude and longitude, indicating no significant geographical variation. However, the forage characteristics were strongly correlated with elevation, average annual temperature, and annual precipitation. Thus, high elevation, low temperatures, and rainy weather can improve the forage value of the leaves. P. tatarinowii can be planted to provide leaf forage in cold and wet areas at a specific elevation. Moreover, the forage value of P. tatarinowii leaves can be further improved by increasing nitrogen fertilizer and reducing K and Ca fertilizers during cultivation. 4) Cluster analysis revealed obvious regionalism. Taking the Yangtze River Basin as the limit, cluster analysis divided the species into four population groups: the Yangtze River Basin and northern, southwestern, and eastern coastal populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined forage, soil and cattle serum mineral status, and their relationships in severely (SD) and less severely (LSD) degraded rangelands, South Africa. Such evidence is essential to inform rangeland policies and interventions. In each rangeland, three villages were identified, and sites near, at intermediate and far distance from homesteads were selected. Soil from LSD had generally greater macro and microelement levels than soil from SD rangelands. Soil elements (i.e. N, P, Mg and Cu) displayed variations at local scale (between villages or distance points from homestead) depending on degradation condition. Degradation level significantly influenced the local distribution of grasses between the distance points from the homestead (Themeda triandra Forssk., Aristida congesta Roem. & Schult.) and between villages [Digitaria eriantha Steud., Eragrostis curvula (Schrad.) Nees, T. triandra]. Forage biomass was low (range: 45–223 kg ha−1) in both degraded conditions. During the dry periods, cattle grazing SD rangelands had most serum minerals below a critical level, but pastures showed Cu and N deficiencies only. We conclude that the low forage yield may limit animal mineral intake. On the other hand, the great abundance of grasses with high forage values (60–76%) indicates that degraded areas may be regenerated. In SD rangelands, complete mineral supplementation is recommended during the dry period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the research was to assess the effect of slurry and soil conditioners on Phleum pratense yield and its selected parameters and on soil nutrients. The second aspect of the experiment was to obtain information whether slurry and soil conditioners applied together will increase the accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the soil compared to slurry applied on its own or together with NPK fertilizers. The research was carried out on the basis of a three-year (2015–2017) field experiment. The interaction of soil conditioners or mineral fertilizers with slurry was tested on forage grass of the Meadow timothy species of the Secesja variety, sown in autumn 2014. Grass total protein, crude fiber and crude ash content and net energy concentration (NE) were determined; additionally, at the end of the experiment, total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the soil was measured. The results of plant material analyses were statistically developed using a three-factor analysis of variance, while the results of soil content determination were developed with a one-factor analysis. The interaction of slurry with Humus Active or Rosahumus significantly increased the amount of meadow timothy biomass in relation to plants fertilized with slurry on its own (by 22% and 26%, respectively) or supplemented with NPK fertilizers (by 9% and 7%). The interaction of slurry with the Rosahumus soil conditioner resulted in a significant increase in meadow timothy crude fiber content compared to the effect of slurry applied on its own or with NPK fertilizers (by 5% and 6.5%). The interaction of slurry with soil conditioners did not result in a significant increase in total protein and crude ash content or in the net energy concentration compared to slurry applied on its own or with NPK fertilizers. Soil nutrient content determined after the experiment proved a significant impact of the interaction of soil conditioners and slurry on the accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the growth of two forage rice cultivars (Oryza sativa L.), Mogwoo and Mogyang, in Midwest reclaimed land (Seongmun Tide Embankment, Korea) for two years to find the most adaptable cultivars and the appropriate harvest time. In the case of high salinity soil, it was confirmed that the influence of precipitation was relatively high on soil condition and crop growth. In Mogyang, plant height and culm length tended to decrease slightly as the precipitation increased. As for the tiller number, Mogyang was higher than Mogwoo, but the leaf area was about 1.5 to 2 times higher in Mogwoo than in Mogyang. In addition, in both cultivars, dry weight increased rapidly during the dough stage, and Mogyang was 1538 and 1815 g/m2, respectively, while Mogwoo was 2090 and 2752 g/m2, which was significantly higher. Mogyang had a CP of 4.8%, a TDN and RFV of 59.4%, 94.0, respectively, and Mogwoo had a CP of 9.7%, a TDN and RFV of 60.1%, 103.8, respectively, resulting in Mogwoo having higher values, and in particular Mogwoo was found to have better forage quality in the milk stage than in the dough stage. In addition, in terms of soil and climate conditions in Midwest reclaimed land, it was confirmed that the Mogwoo variety was the most suitable compared to Mogyang, and dry weight was higher in the dough stage than in the milk stage, but it was concluded that high forage quality could be obtained by harvesting during the milk stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agriculture & Nature / Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım & Doğa Dergisi is the property of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The objective of the present study was to assess the impacts in time of the ski-resort infrastructure and transhumance livestock grazing on floristic composition, diversity, and rangeland health indices related to ecosystem stability and function. The study was carried out at a site under the pressure of ski resorts and livestock grazing (Ano Trikala) and a site only under the pressure of livestock grazing (Sarantapicho), both located at Mt Zireia, Southern Greece. The plant cover was measured at each site, and the floristic composition was calculated and classified into four functional groups: grasses, legumes, forbs, and woody species. Species richness, ecosystem function and stability landscape indices, diversity indices, and forage value were calculated. According to the results, the development of the ski resort in Ano Trikala had a neglectable negative impact on plant cover (reduced by 5%), while it had a minor impact on species richness and floristic diversity. Livestock grazing had a positive impact on maintaining plant cover in high values. These results suggest that livestock grazing can counterbalance the effects of ski resorts and related activities on plant cover and floristic diversity. Besides the relatively limited effects on the vegetation community, the ski resort significantly negatively impacted landscape composition, function, and stability. Forage value was 25% lower close to the ski resort, mainly due to the significantly lower percentage of legumes. Transhumance livestock grazing should be used as a management tool in ski-resort areas, as it benefits floristic diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences is the property of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The goal of this research was to evaluate the quality of phytomass of the non-native species pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum, cultivated in the experimental plot of the National Botanical Garden (Institute), Chişinău, Republic of Moldova. It has been found that the green mass contained 116 g/kg CP, 361 g/kg CF, 370 g/kg ADF, 606 g/kg NDF, 33 g/kg ADL, 166 g/kg TSS, 236 g/kg HC, 337 g/kg Cel, with 9.75 MJ/kg ME and 5.58 MJ/kg NEl, the prepared silage was characterized by pleasant smell, pH = 3.78, 18.0 g/kg DM lactic acid and 1.8 g/kg DM acetic acid. The pearl millet grain contained 132.8 g/kg CP, 58.5 g/kg EE, 21 g/kg CF, 764.1 g/kg NFE, 304.6 g/kg starch, 10.9 g/kg ash, 0.6 g/kg Ca, 0.7 g/kg P, 1.09 nutritive units and 11.78 MJ/kg ME, but pearl millet straw 57 g/kg CP, 487 g/kg CF, 530 g/kg ADF, 823 g/kg NDF, 74 g/kg ADL, 293 g/kg HC, 456 g/kg Cel, with 7.92 MJ/kg ME and 3.95 MJ/kg NEl. The pearl millet substrates for anaerobic digestion have C/N = 26-54 with biochemical methane potential 282-375 l/kg. The theoretical ethanol potential from structural carbohydrates of the pearl millet straw averaged 544.4l/t, Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum, can be used in many ways: as multi-purpose feed for livestock and as feedstock in the production of renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perennial forages seeded as straight grasses and legumes or in mixtures make a valuable contribution as feed for the beef cattle industry in Alberta. With new varieties constantly being released, there is need to quickly screen these for their forage value. Principal component analysis (PCA) is a multivariate analysis which can simplify a large dataset by identifying and representing patterns in fewer dimensions or factors. In total, 23 and 20 perennial straight grass and legume varieties respectively, and 15 commercial mixes were seeded as a complete randomized block design on small plots with 4 replicates on May 31, 2021 at Debolt, Alberta. Plots were harvested on July 12 and September 15, 2022 as first and second cut, respectively. The harvested biomass was weighed, and a sub-sample was air-dried to determine forage dry matter (DM). Dried forage samples were submitted for various forage quality analyses. A PCA was conducted on the correlation matrix of the data set of forage DM yield and quality. The KaiserMeyer-Olkin (KMO) measure and Bartlett’s test of sphericity verified the sampling adequacy (KMO = 0.71 and P > 0.001 respectively) for the analysis. The first three principal components (PC) had eigenvalues over Kaiser’s criterion of 1 and in combination explained 81 % of the variance (Table 1). Most of the legumes were greater in crude protein, yielded greater in forage DM, macro minerals (Ca, Mg and P) and micro minerals (Zn, Fe and Cu) compared with grasses and mixtures (Figure 1). Among the legumes, the following alfalfa varieties exhibited high forage value (i.e. combined both forage yield and quality): Peace Alfalfa, PV Ultima Alfalfa, Alfalfa Dalton, Algonquin, AC Yellow Head, Trueman Alfalfa. Noteworthy are the 3 non-alfalfa species (birdsfoot trefoil, sainfoin and cicer milkvetch) which loaded on the opposite quadrant to most of the alfalfa varieties. The grass varieties were more dispersed on the multivariate space of the first two PC thus exhibiting the inherent variability in forage value of the grass collection. A few grass species nonetheless distinguished themselves in terms of greater forage yield and quality and include AC Saltlander, Richard Timothy, Rocky Mountain Fescue and Hybrid Bromegrass. Most of the grasses were high in fiber and loaded primarily opposite to the positive forage value attributes. The mixtures loaded similarly to the grasses with a couple loading close to the legumes but most close to the grasses, revealing their high fiber content. The mixtures which loaded close to the legumes were legume-dominated mixtures such as Alfalfa/Sainfoin Mix, All LegumeMix, HayMix and LegumeMaster Mix which had between 90 to 100% legumes. PCA proved to be a useful tool in distinguishing treatments with high forage value as these corresponded with widely used varieties in Alberta. Tables and Figures 2.pdf [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sanguisorba dodecandra Moretti is an endemic plant of the Alps of the Lombardy region (Northern Italy). Differently from most endemic species, this plant grows in diverse environments, and it is often very abundant and a distinctive element of some mountain and sub-alpine agro-ecosystems. The ecological features and the role of this species in some mountain agricultural activities are poorly investigated. This article shows the results of a synecological analysis of S. dodecandra and the evaluation of its functional strategy. Furthermore, its forage value was investigated and melissopalynological analysis was used to characterize the honey produced in an area where this species grows. The ecological analysis defined this plant as euriecious and ruderal/competitive-ruderal strategist. Bromatological analysis showed a good forage value, confirming the ethnobotanical knowledge concerning this species. In fact, it has good protein content (12.92 ± 1.89%) and non-fiber carbohydrates (47.12 ± 3.62%) in pre-flowering. S. dodecandra pollen was identified as a "frequent pollen" in the honey, showing that this plant is attractive to honeybees. This research allowed a deeper knowledge of S. dodecandra ecology and showed that this species is a resource for traditional and sustainable agricultural activities of the Lombardy Alps such as pastoralism and beekeeping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to select the most suitable winter forage crop varieties for silage in reclaimed land located in the Midwest of Korea by investigating the soil environment, crop growth characteristics, dry weight, and forage value according to growth stage. The slightly alkalescent soil was characterized by a pH of 7.41–7.84, by an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1–2.5 dS/m, and by 440–934 mg/kg of available phosphate. Barley showed the highest chlorophyll content in the heading stage and milk stages, while oats and triticale reached the highest content in the milk and dough stage. In both years, triticale achieved the highest leaf area index (LAI), reaching 4.3–4.8. In addition, triticale showed the highest percentage of dry matter and the highest dry weight in the milk stage. Forage value was the best in the heading stage for all cereal crops; however, its quality decreased as the growth stage proceeded. This study suggests cultivating triticale, which showed high adaptability to reclaimed soil and climatic conditions, as well as good growth and dry weight when harvested between the milk and dough stages. These results indicate that triticale can be cultivated all year round in salty soil and these data can be useful to increase forage production in reclaimed soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa is a perennial herb with high yield and high quality. It is a common feed for livestock and poultry. In the paper, the evaluation methods of forage value of alfalfa hay were reviewed by physical evaluation, wet analysis, near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and cornell net carbohydrate and protein system (CNCPS), and the problems existing in the application and evaluation of alfalfa hay in ruminant production are summarized, to provide a reference for the rational application of alfalfa hay in ruminant production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cenchrus ciliaris, a potential fodder for livestock in the hot saline deserts. • Anatomical modifications for water conservation is a major strategy of salt tolerant plants. • Sclerification in Cenchrus ciliaris is an important defense mechanism from saline Desert environments. • Cenchrus ciliaris tolerate moderate to high salt stress by maintaining its forage parameters and nutrient composition. Cenchrus ciliaris is a potential forage grass that is widely distributed in saline desert condition across Africa, Australia and Asia. To examine anatomical characteristics relating to ionic and nutritional contents in response to salinity, Cenchrus ciliaris populations from the naturally salt-affected region of the Cholistan Desert, Pakistan were collected. The experiment was planned in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications and four treatment levels (0, 100, 200, and 300 mM NaCl) in a hydroponic system. After six months of growth in nutrient solution anatomical characteristics relating to ionic and nutritional traits were studied. It was hypothesized that C. ciliaris at higher salt stress must have developed some specific structural adaptations, which are responsible for better survival under high salt stress. At root level, C. ciliaris showed decreased root thickness with greater proportion of parenchyma cells in cortical region and increased sclerification in cortex and pith regions at high salinity levels, which are vital for water conservation under osmotic stress. At stem level increased stem area, cortical and vascular bundle cell area were recorded with increase in salinity level of external growth medium. Salt tolerance in C. ciliaris mainly associated with restricted uptake of toxic Na+ and Cl− ions at roots, accompanied by increased concentration of K + and Ca++ in shoot. Under high salinities, C. ciliaris showed increased epidermis thickness, well developed bulliform cells, and increased trichome density at leaf level. All these structural modification in this species may contribute towards water conservations under physiological stress that is caused by high level of soil salinity. Various nutritional traits such as crude protein, ash content, relative feed value, and net energy of lactation slightly improved with salinity. Present study revealed nutritional potential, ionic contents and anatomical adaptations of C. ciliaris to cope with salinity. As such this species can be used to produce valuable fodder under saline desert environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to study the effect of cutting time and stubble height on nutritional value and feeding value of sand shrubs and grasses. In the experiment, seven shrub species (Caragana korshinskii, Salix psammophila, Hedysarum scoparium, Haloxylon ammodendron, Hedysarum laeve, Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. and Ceratoides arborescens) in the Kubuqi Desert were used as research objects to determine the feed indexes such as acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), crude protein (CP) and crude lipid content (EE). The results showed that the content of ADF, NDF, CP and EE were 32.33%~61.57%, 55.12%~76.17%, 5.17%~15.63% and 5.47%~12.7%, respectively. The relative forage value of different plants at different stages of growing season was different. With the increase of time, the ADF and NDF content of all plants except Caragana korshinskii and Hedysarum scoparium gradually increased, and reached the maximum in September. The crude fat content also gradually increased, while the crude protein content gradually decreased. Different stubble heights have few effect on plant nutrient. The experiment indicates that Caragana korshinskii, Hedysarum scoparium, Haloxylon ammodendron and Hedysarum laeve should be stubble in July, Salix psammophila should be stubble in July or September, and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. and Ceratoides arborescens should be flat in May, to ensure the maximum forage value of shrubs and grasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the growth of two forage rice cultivars (Oryza sativa L.), Mogwoo and Mogyang, in Midwest reclaimed land (Seongmun Tide Embankment, Korea) for two years to find the most adaptable cultivars and the appropriate harvest time. In the case of high salinity soil, it was confirmed that the influence of precipitation was relatively high on soil condition and crop growth. In Mogyang, plant height and culm length tended to decrease slightly as the precipitation increased. As for the tiller number, Mogyang was higher than Mogwoo, but the leaf area was about 1.5 to 2 times higher in Mogwoo than in Mogyang. In addition, in both cultivars, dry weight increased rapidly during the dough stage, and Mogyang was 1538 and 1815 g/m2, respectively, while Mogwoo was 2090 and 2752 g/m2, which was significantly higher. Mogyang had a CP of 4.8%, a TDN and RFV of 59.4%, 94.0, respectively, and Mogwoo had a CP of 9.7%, a TDN and RFV of 60.1%, 103.8, respectively, resulting in Mogwoo having higher values, and in particular Mogwoo was found to have better forage quality in the milk stage than in the dough stage. In addition, in terms of soil and climate conditions in Midwest reclaimed land, it was confirmed that the Mogwoo variety was the most suitable compared to Mogyang, and dry weight was higher in the dough stage than in the milk stage, but it was concluded that high forage quality could be obtained by harvesting during the milk stage.

The objective of the present study was to assess the impacts in time of the ski-resort infrastructure and transhumance livestock grazing on floristic composition, diversity, and rangeland health indices related to ecosystem stability and function. The study was carried out at a site under the pressure of ski resorts and livestock grazing (Ano Trikala) and a site only under the pressure of livestock grazing (Sarantapicho), both located at Mt Zireia, Southern Greece. The plant cover was measured at each site, and the floristic composition was calculated and classified into four functional groups: grasses, legumes, forbs, and woody species. Species richness, ecosystem function and stability landscape indices, diversity indices, and forage value were calculated. According to the results, the development of the ski resort in Ano Trikala had a neglectable negative impact on plant cover (reduced by 5%), while it had a minor impact on species richness and floristic diversity. Livestock grazing had a positive impact on maintaining plant cover in high values. These results suggest that livestock grazing can counterbalance the effects of ski resorts and related activities on plant cover and floristic diversity. Besides the relatively limited effects on the vegetation community, the ski resort significantly negatively impacted landscape composition, function, and stability. Forage value was 25% lower close to the ski resort, mainly due to the significantly lower percentage of legumes. Transhumance livestock grazing should be used as a management tool in ski-resort areas, as it benefits floristic diversity.

This research was conducted to select the most suitable winter forage crop varieties for silage in reclaimed land located in the Midwest of Korea by investigating the soil environment, crop growth characteristics, dry weight, and forage value according to growth stage. The slightly alkalescent soil was characterized by a pH of 7.41–7.84, by an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1–2.5 dS/m, and by 440–934 mg/kg of available phosphate. Barley showed the highest chlorophyll content in the heading stage and milk stages, while oats and triticale reached the highest content in the milk and dough stage. In both years, triticale achieved the highest leaf area index (LAI), reaching 4.3–4.8. In addition, triticale showed the highest percentage of dry matter and the highest dry weight in the milk stage. Forage value was the best in the heading stage for all cereal crops; however, its quality decreased as the growth stage proceeded. This study suggests cultivating triticale, which showed high adaptability to reclaimed soil and climatic conditions, as well as good growth and dry weight when harvested between the milk and dough stages. These results indicate that triticale can be cultivated all year round in salty soil and these data can be useful to increase forage production in reclaimed soil.

Perennial ryegrass is one of the most common grass species in the world and in Bulgaria. This overview includes a characteristic of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) grown in mountain and plain conditions. The paper includes studies by local and foreign authors, characterizing the significance and productivity of grass species. The research provides information about the adaptive ability and suitability of perennial ryegrass in pure and mixed crops. The application and selection directions in the creation of new cultivars are considered. The question concerning the potential of Lolium perenne L. and its cultivation as a forage crop is well founded and allows a detailed review of the results of its economic evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the agronomic studies carried out in the world and in our country have been carried out on seed production since quinoa is generally preferred in human nutrition. Therefore, there is no research about especially fertilization in ecological conditions of Turkey for the purpose of forage production. In this study, different nitrogen (N0, N5, N10 ve N15 kg da-1) and phosphorus (P0, P3, P6 ve P9 kg da-1) fertilizer levels were applied as a combination, and plant height (PH), dry hay yield (DHY), dry hay ratio (DHR), crude protein ratio (CPR), crude protein yield (CPY) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) were examined. The research was established in randomized blocks according to factorial design with 3 replications in Igdir irrigated conditions in 2015. The highest PH, DHY, DHR, CPR and CPY were determined at the dose of N15 and the NDF ratio was determined as N0. In terms of phosphorus dose, the highest DHY and CPY were measured at P9 dose, NDF ratio at P0 dose, plant height and DHR at P6 and P9 doses, and crude protein ratio at P3, P6 and P9 doses. In terms of N x P interaction, the highest DHY and CPY were obtained from the combination of N15-P9 while the highest DHR was obtained from the combination of N10-P9. In addition, regression analysis showed that there was a significant positive linear relationship between DHY, CPR and CPY, and a negative linear relationship between NDF content with increasing nitrogen and phosphorus doses. According to these results, in order to obtain optimum yield and quality values in quinoa, it has been decided that higher doses of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer experiments should be carried out in subsequent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the important goals of current research is to find a balance between the diversity of grass covers and their economically sustainable use for farming purposes. The aim of this study was to find relationships between the number of species (N), the Shannon-Wiener index (H), the forage value of vegetation (FV) and the proportion of grasses (G), legumes (L) and other forbs (F). Eleven extensively grazed pasture vegetations, located at the foothills of Šumava and Nové Hrady mountain ranges in South Bohemia, were selected with permanent plots marked out for phytosociological monitoring. The results proved a statistically confirmed positive correlation between the N and H factors and a negative correlation between these two diversity indicators and the forage value of vegetation. Pasture vegetations are significantly influenced by the proportion of grasses, legumes and other forbs. The average number of species and the Shannon-Wiener index increases with the growing proportion of other forbs while the forage value decreases. The observed pasture vegetations were predominantly evaluated as “good/valuable” and “very good/most valuable”.

Fabaceae species play a key role in ecosystem functioning through their capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen and mobilize phosphorus, produce food rich in nitrogenous compounds, improve forage quality and performance in animal production, besides, they have valuable medicinal properties and can be used for multiple purposes in biorefineries. The local ecotype of fine-leaf vetch, Vicia tenuifolia, maintained in monoculture, served as object of study. The 3-year-old Vicia tenuifolia started vegetating in the second half of March; the plants had high growth and development rates. In the middle of May, fine-leaf vetch plants bloomed and the shoots were up to 100 cm long, the fresh mass yield reached 4.18 kg/m2, with higher proportion of leaves (58%) in comparison with alfalfa, Medicago sativa. The results of the study on the biochemical composition of the dry matter in the harvested fresh mass and hay prepared from Vicia tenuifolia: 23.50% and 21.94% raw protein, 3.65% and 1.49% raw fats, 29.08% and 31.78% raw cellulose, 37.56% and 36.71% nitrogen-free extract, 8.10% and 8.08% ash. The nutritional and energy value of Vicia tenuifolia forage: 100 kg fresh mass reached 17.93 nutritive units, 3.45 kg digestible protein and 189.51 MJ metabolizable energy, but 100 kg of hay had 75.9 nutritive units, 14.32 kg digestible protein and 827 MJ metabolizable energy, respectively. The gas-producing potential of fermentable organic matter of Vicia tenuifolia reached 503 L/kg or 284 L/kg methane yields in green mass substrate and 422 L/kg or 235 L/kg methane yields in hay substrate, exceeding Medicago sativa substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabaceae species play a crucial role in protein production for human and animal diet, soil structure and environmentally friendly substitution for industrial N-fertilizers, valuable medicinal properties and multi-purpose use in various industries. The local ecotype of liquorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra, maintained in monoculture, served as object of study. The 3-year-old Glycyrrhiza glabra started vegetating 23 days later, the plants had moderate growth and development rates that allowed mowing them at the end of June, the green mass yield reached 4.38 kg/m2, with moderate foliage (55 %), but reduced content of dry matter, protein (13.80 %), cellulose (29.40 %), minerals (5.40 %) and high amount of fats (3.65 %), nitrogen free extractive substances (47.75 %), essential amino acids (lysine, leucine, valine), in comparison with Onobrychis viciifolia. The liquorice forage had cell wall content 485 g/kg NDF and 323 g/kg ADF can be classified as good quality with relative feed value 122, dry matter digestibility 65.40 % and organic matter digestibility 56.70 %. The gas forming potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra (first mowing) reached 567 L/kg with 52.5 % methane, but biogas yields based on the concentration of acid detergent lignin and hemicellulose - 535 L/kg with 51.2 % methane, the potential methane production ranged from 3014 to 3278 m3/ha, exceeding Onobrychis viciifolia. The briquettes of Glycyrrhiza glabra were distinguished by moderate specific density (873 kg/m3), gross calorific value (18.7 MJ/kg) and ash content (1.7 %). The theoretical ethanol potential from structural carbohydrates dry biomass averaged 511 L/t for Glycyrrhiza glabra, compared to 485 L/t corn stalks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey bees play a vital role in the pollination of flowers in many agricultural systems, while providing honey through well managed beekeeping activities. Managed honey bees rely on the provision of pollen and nectar for their survival and productivity. Using data from field plot inventories in natural mistbelt forests, we (1) assessed the diversity and relative importance of honey bee plants, (2) explored the temporal availability of honey bee forage (nectar and pollen resources), and (3) elucidated how plant diversity (bee plant richness and overall plant richness) influenced the amount of forage available (production). A forage value index was defined on the basis of species-specific nectar and pollen values, and expected flowering period. Up to 50% of the overall woody plant richness were found to be honey bee plant species, with varying flowering period. As expected, bee plant richness increased with overall plant richness. Interestingly, bee plants’ flowering period was spread widely over a year, although the highest potential of forage supply was observed during the last quarter. We also found that only few honey bee plant species contributed 90 percent of the available forage. Surprisingly, overall plant richness did not significantly influence the bee forage value. Rather, bee plant species richness showed significant and greater effect. The results of this study suggest that mistbelt forests can contribute to increase the spatial and temporal availability of diverse floral resources for managed honey bees. Conservation efforts must be specifically oriented towards honey bee plant species in mistbelt forests to preserve and enhance their potential to help maintain honey bee colonies. The implications for forest management, beekeeping activities and pollination-based agriculture were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atriplexspecies are tolerant to salinity and water stress and thus they are suitable for restoration of many degraded ecosystems. In addition, manyAtriplexspecies offer good value as forages. We compared growth and leaf chemistry ofAtriplex canescens, a well-known halophyte, andA. acanthocarpa, a poorly-studied species, as affected by salinity in a greenhouse study. Seeds and soil were collected in northern Mexico, the native range of these species. Plants were grown in pots containing native soil and irrigated with NaCl solutions of 0, 50, and 100 mM. Shoot growth ofA. canescensdeclined 37% as NaCl treatments increased from 0 to 100 mM while shoot growth ofA acanthocarpawas not significantly affected by salinity. The high salt tolerance ofA. acanthocarpawas linked to a high accumulation of leaf sodium (Na) (7- to 13-fold higher thanA. canescens).A. acanthocarpahad also higher growth rate thanA. canescenes, making the former species a good candidate for cultivation, especially under saline conditions. Tissue concentration of potassium (K) in both species was minimally affected by the salinity treatments. Leaf nitrogen (N) concentration increased as plants faced higher salinity treatments, especially inA. canescens. The high salt tolerance and higher Na accumulation ofA. acanthocarpamake this species an attractive choice for reclamation of saline areas. We suggestA. acanthocarpashould be explored as viable forage for cultivation and for reclamation of degraded areas just asA. canescenshas been throughout the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fully exploit the economic value of the Chinese endemic species Pteroceltis tatarinowii and provide new resources for forage production, the forage nutritional value of P. tatarinowii leaves from different populations was analyzed and evaluated. The results were as follows: 1) There were significant differences in the forage nutrient indices of leaves from different populations. The crude protein content was 10.77%-18.65%, with an average of 14.58%, and the SDJN population had the highest crude protein content. The average crude fat, crude fiber content was 7.62%; the average neutral detergent fiber content was 25.33%; and the average acid detergent fiber contents were 6.79%, 7.62%, 25.33%, and 17.52%, respectively. The average phosphorus and calcium content in the leaves was 0.785 g·kg -1 and 58.01 g·kg -1 , respectively. The tannin content was much lower than the antifeedant standard, at an average of 4.97 g·kg -1 . The average total amounts of hydrolyzed and free amino acids in the leaves were 108.20 mg·g -1 and 47.87 mg·g -1 , respectively. Thus, P. tatarinowii leaves have high crude protein, crude fat, and calcium contents, and low fiber, tannin contents, and are protein-rich. These results provide evidence that this species can be developed into an excellent woody forage tree. 2) There were significant differences in the forage quality evaluation indices among the populations. The forage indices of NDP, ADP, DMI, DDM, and RFV of 21 populations all met the super standard of the American Grass and Grassland Association (AFGC) for hay, two crude protein indices met the grade 1 standard, and 12 crude protein indices met the grade 2 standard. Four high-protein and high-RFV forage populations (SDJN, SDZZ, SXLQ, and AHXX) were selected. 3) The results of the correlation analysis showed that there was no significant correlation between the forage characteristics of P. tatarinowii leaves and latitude and longitude, indicating no significant geographical variation. However, the forage characteristics were strongly correlated with elevation, average annual temperature, and annual precipitation. Thus, high elevation, low temperatures, and rainy weather can improve the forage value of the leaves. P. tatarinowii can be planted to provide leaf forage in cold and wet areas at a specific elevation. Moreover, the forage value of P. tatarinowii leaves can be further improved by increasing nitrogen fertilizer and reducing K and Ca fertilizers during cultivation. 4) Cluster analysis revealed obvious regionalism. Taking the Yangtze River Basin as the limit, cluster analysis divided the species into four population groups: the Yangtze River Basin and northern, southwestern, and eastern coastal populations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Gao, Cheng, Zhang, Yan, Zhang, Liu, Liu and Qiao.)

Forage legumes are an essential component of agricultural systems in temperate regions of the world, providing high quality animal feed, suitable ground cover, and a valuable source of nitrogen. The crown vetch, Coronilla varia, maintained in monoculture, on non irrigated experimental land in the Botanical Garden (I) of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, served as object of study, the traditional forage legumes: alfalfa, Medicago sativa and common sainfoin, Onobrychis viciifolia were used as control variants. It has been established that Coronilla varia germinates very slowly, in the first year, grows and develops slower than common sainfoin and alfalfa, but in the following years, it starts vegetating 2-3 days earlier. The 3-year-old Coronilla varia plants have moderate growth and development rates that allow mowing them at the end of May the green mass yield reaches 3.92 kg/m2, at the same level as sainfoin and by 25% more than alfalfa, but the forage is characterised by a high content of leaves (63-68%) and a low content of dry matter, in comparison with the traditional crops. The chemical composition of Coronilla varia dry matter: 14.72% raw protein, 2.81% raw fat, 35.46% raw cellulose, 39.74% nitrogen-free extractive substances and 7.27% minerals. Coronilla varia green mass is characterized by high level of potassium and iron, but lower - of magnesium and sodium. The forage value of 1 kg natural forage accounts 0.20 nutritive units, 2.22 Mj metabolizable energy and digestible protein content - 132.10 g/nutritive unit. The calculated methane yield Coronilla varia green mass at the first mowing may reach 2311 m3/ha, exceeding Medicago sativa. The local ecotype of species Coronilla varia could be used for restoring degraded, polluted and eroded land, and also for reseeding and increasing economic value of grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica (SiO ) in forage grasses has been found in reducing cell-wall digestibility. This study investigates whether: (i) the seasonal variability affects the silica and minerals accumulation and forage values of leaves of R. cochinchinensis and (ii) silica concentration is correlated with minerals and fodder value. In an itchgrass population selected in the W Biosphere Reserve, leaves were collected on 90 marked plants from May to October 2003 and 2004, at 15 days intervals except May, June and October. Some 300 g of fresh blades from the 3 most recently expanded leaves were oven dried and analyzed for dry mass, SiO , ash, N, Na, Ca, P, K, and Mg. Digestible Nitrogen Matter (DNM) and Fodder Energetic Value (FEV) were calculated using the Demarquilly formula. Apart from SiO , ash and forage value, data were log-transformed to restore homoscedasticity before statistical analyses. SiO ranges from 5.69 % to 9.95 %, i.e. varying 1.4 fold between May and October, reaching 1.75 fold at mid-September. SiO is positively related to Ca but negatively to K, P, N, DNM and FEV. The negative correlations suggest that SiO concentration in R. cochinchinensis could be reduced with a significant increase in energy and accumulation of important nutrients such as N, P and K. Therefore, leaf silicification and nutritive value relationship should be conclusive in the case of itchgrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf nutrients play an important role for the growth and development of trees and are sources of nutrients for ruminants in forest. The present study was under taken to estimate six nutrients in the leaves, three macronutrients (K, Mg, P) and three micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Zn) of twenty five woody species in Linares, Northeastern of Mexico. Macronutrients and micronutrient contents (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Ca, K, Mg, P, C and N) of ten native exhibit large variations among species in the contents of the nutrients. K values ranged from round about 6.80 to 75.62 mg g-1; Mg content ranges 0.22 to 5.29 mg g-1. P 0.09 to 2.43 mg g-1. Cu from 0.09 to 2.8 to 30.71 μg gps-1, Fe 66.32 to 276 μg gps-1, Zn 10.23 to 144.86 μg gps-1. Croton suaveolensi acquired highest level of P (2.43 mg g-1) and K (75.62 mg g-1), whereas Parkinsonia aculeata for Mg (5.29 mg g-1). Cordia boissieri for both Cu (30.71 μg gps-1) and Fe (280.55 μg gps-1), on the other hand, Salix lasiolepis for Zn (144.86 μg gps-1). These species could serve as excellent sources for ruminants and could adapt and grow well for high nutrient contents. The values of mineral contents were much higher than required by the grazing ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of the research on biological features, productivity, chemical composition and forage value Galega orientalis, variety Speranţa are presented in this paper. It has been established that Galega orientalis, in the 3rd-4th years of vegetation has an accelerated growth and development rate. In May the yield reaches 45.0-58.5 t/ha of natural forage with a high degree of foliage (54-56%). During the growing season, Galega orientalis was harvested three times. Its productivity reached 79.8 t/ha green mass, 15.1 t/ha nutritive units provided with 2176 kg/ha digestible protein. The green mass of Galega orientalis used for preparation of hay, leaves remain on the stem, which helps ensure higher forage value. 100 kg of hay contain 71-74 nutritive units, 750-793 MJ/kg metabolizable energy for cattle and 9.16-12.2 kg digestible protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Coenological relevés were already prepared in 1997 on the sandy pastures of Hungary, which we repeated in 2005 and 2012. The examinations primarily examined that whether any changes happened in vegetation during test period or not. Our aim was to determinate that if any changes happened what kind of direction were these modified the face of the original vegetation. How influence it the combination of species and how they changed the dominance relations in the associations. Considerable deterioration between the examinations on the areas cannot be experienced under the examined time. Nevertheless choosing the appropriate treatment and the correct size of grazing livestock preserve the natural condition is possible in both of the sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to decades of loss of grassland diversity across Europe, there is a need to identify factors affecting species composition and diversity in managed meadows. The aim of the current study was to assess how ecological, landscape and management factors may affect plant species composition, biodiversity and forage value in Alpine hay meadows. Species composition, Shannon index and forage value were obtained from phytosociological relevés. Twenty explanatory variables were selected from a set of ecological, landscape and management factors. Their effects on plant species composition, Shannon index and forage value were analysed by applying the variation partitioning approach. Plant species composition was related to sixteen factors, explaining 35·6% of the variability. Shannon index and forage value were related to eleven factors, explaining 47·8 and 40·8% of their total variation respectively. Ecological factors were the main set explaining species composition and diversity, whereas none of the three individual groups of factors (ecological, landscape, management) significantly explained variability within forage value. Overall, the effects of the three groups of factors accounted for 70% of the total variability in plant species composition, but less than half that of Shannon index and of forage value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fire hazard in planted Mediterranean forests can be reduced by appropriate grazing of the combustible under-storey but there is little detailed information available on the forage value of the under-storey vegetation and the stocking rate necessary to utilize the vegetation efficiently. Planted forests are often monitored, mainly to determine the rate of tree growth and sometimes include data on the under-storey vegetation. An algorithm based on the data of such a survey was constructed to calculate a normative carrying capacity of each forest stand for grazing sheep and cattle and browsing goats. Carrying capacity calculated in this way was found to be a fair reflection of actual observed stocking rates. The over-riding factor that determined the forage value of the forest was the relative cover of herbaceous and woody vegetation in the under-storey vegetation. The estimated potential carrying capacity of a representative forest was found to be considerably greater than the number of livestock available for grazing the combustible shrubs and dwarf-shrubs in the forest. This is a common situation in the northern Mediterranean region. Measures are suggested to encourage an increase in the number of livestock needed to effectively reduce the fire hazard in planted forests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Semi-natural grasslands often serve as important reserves of biodiversity. In Europe extensive grazing by livestock is considered an appropriate management to conserve biodiversity value and to limit shrub encroachment. However, little is known about the influence of shrubs on agronomic values. A gradient analysis of shrub-invaded temperate grasslands (from shrub-free to pioneer forest) in Germany was carried out to test the hypothesis that herbage mass and variables describing nutritive value of herbage decrease with increasing shrub encroachment. The herbage mass of dry matter (DM), variables describing the nutritive value of herbage, composition of the vegetation and mean of Ellenberg’s indicator values were analysed with respect to the extent of shrubs. There was a reduction of herbage mass of DM from 3570 to 210 kg ha−1 with increasing shrub encroachment. Metabolizable energy concentration of herbage ranged from 8·9 to 10·2 MJ kg−1 DM and crude protein concentration from 72 to 171 g kg−1 DM, both measures being positively correlated with shrub occurrence. Increasing shrub occurrence was associated with a decrease in water-soluble carbohydrates concentration (from 151 to 31 g kg−1) and a reduction in the indicator ‘forage value’. The results indicate a potentially large agronomic value for shrub-encroached temperate grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]