Performance of sheep grazing <i>Panicum maximum</i> cv. Massai and supplemented with protein sources during the dry season

• DOI: 10.4314/sajas.v50i1.1
• Publication Date: 2020-06-11T09:22:28Z
• Authors: L.S. Fernandes; G.S. Difante; J.V. Emerenciano ...; I.M.M. Araújo; E.L.L. Veras; M.G. Costa
• Keywords: Leucaena; Panicum; Gliricidia; Dry season; Neutral Detergent Fiber; Fodder

The low quality of tropical grasses in the dry season justifies use dietary supplements to meet nutritional needs sheep. objective this study was evaluate effect supplementation with high-protein feed on mutton sheep performance and yield Massai grass pastures during season. treatments corresponded four supplements, namely Leucaena leucocephala leaf hay, Gliricidia sepium soybean meal, a treatment that received only multiple mixture (protein salt) ad libitum. pasture evaluated for canopy height, forage supply, chemical composition blade, stem dead material. Average daily gain, weight gain per area, stocking rate were also evaluated. There grazing cycles because method rotational seven days occupation 35 rest. interaction between not significant, no effects found any variables. highest blade offerings observed first cycle. levels crude protein lower neutral detergent fibre lignin components 3 4. average gains animal area 1 2. Protein promotes satisfactory season, hays can be used as sources instead meal.&#x0D; Keywords: sepium, leguminous, leucocephala,