Inclusion of Lotus tenuis in beef cattle systems in the Argentinian flooding pampa as an enteric methane mitigation strategy

• DOI: 10.1080/00288233.2024.2333841
• Publication Date: 2024-04-01T23:12:01Z
• Authors: Franco Alexis Gon...; Vanina Rosa Noemí...; Cecilia Loza; María Esperanza C...; Karen Evelin Will...; Ricardo Bualó; Alejandro Costantini; José Ignacio Gere
• Keywords: Beef Cattle; Methane Emissions

While concerns about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and animal welfare persist, livestock farming offers unique ecosystem services. In Argentina, where significantly contributes to GHG emissions, particularly enteric methane (CH4), urgent action is required develop effective mitigation strategies while maintaining performance. This study assesses the potential of inclusion Lotus tenuis in natural grasslands mitigate CH4 improve forage quality Salado River basin, Argentina. Twenty-four beef heifers (361 ± 19 kg LW) were assigned two treatments with contrasting botanical composition (LOT: > 80% NG: 60% grasses). LOT showed better reduced (−17% gCH4/day, p < 0.01; Ym: - 7 −30%, 0.05) compared NG. However, condensed tannin content was insufficient conclusively attribute any impact on emissions. underscores promoted pastures basin enhance free-ranging cattle systems, albeit additional research necessary fully comprehend how this practice interacts within optimise its benefits.