Review: Quality Characteristics of Eastern Gamagrass Forages

摘要: Abstract Eastern gamagrass [Tripsacum dactyloides L.] is a native, warm-season, perennial, bunch-type grass adapted generally to moist sites throughout much of the eastern United States. Nitrogen concentrations will normally exceed 20 g/kg at growth stages (boot and anthesis) that produce reasonable yields. With moderate N fertilization, approaching 32 are realistic in whole-plant tissue harvested boot stage upper Midwest. Recent studies suggest high proportions (>50%) this insoluble neutral detergent (NDIN), thereby implying association with cell wall. In situ Kansas have shown potential extent ruminal degradation for comparable quality legumes, but occurs slower rates; generally, similar trends been observed disappearance DM fibrous components. Increasing plant maturity appears limit primarily, not rate, these Concentrations NDF (>600 g/kg), even immature stages; observation consistent findings other warm-season grasses. conducted mid South, researchers report ADG ranged between 0.5 1.0 kg/d steers continuously grazing pastures. Daily gains likely be reduced as days on pasture increase. Mounting evidence suggests grown Midwest demonstrates better characteristics than Southeast.