Kikuyu-based pasture for dairy production: a review

摘要: The amount of pasture grown and converted to animal product is closely linked with the profitability pasture-based systems. Kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum Hochst. ex Chiov.) predominant C4 grass in coastal Australian beef dairy These kikuyu-based production systems face several key challenges achieving high levels productivity. In this review, we bring together literature highlight opportunities for closing gap between current potential utilisation increasing from pastures. More specifically, significant gains that can be made on commercial farms based a conceptual model show where main losses originate, namely input grazing management. physical limitations associated kikuyu are also presented, such as relatively higher content cell wall lower water-soluble carbohydrates, nutrient imbalances relative other species. Together, these clearly indicate need supplying cows supplements (particularly grain-based concentrates) achieve moderate milk yield per cow. To without compromising utilisation, producers farming pastures use greater stocking rates generate enough demand feed used align rate intake growth, creating deficit cow justify addition supplementary impinging utilisation. variability exists dry matter neutral detergent fibre highlighted opening up new avenues research may allow productivity future.