<b>Nutritive value of tanzania grass (<em>Panicum maximum</em> Jacq cv. Tanzania-1) handled in different pasture heights</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v25i2.205

Abstract

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of different pasture heights (24cm and 26cm; 43cm and 45cm; 52cm and 62cm; 73cm and 78cm) and sampling periods (28, 56, 84 and 112 days) in Tanzania grass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzânia - 1) on content of crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVMD), Ca, P, K and Mg on leaf blade and stem part. Nelore steers were used (in continuous grazing) with variable stocking rates, using put and take technique. The experimental design was completely randomized, with two replications. The increments on the pasture height decreased CP content and increased ADF and NDF contents, both to the leaf blade and to the stems. The leaf blade quality was also influenced by different sampling times. The best pasture management height according to forage quality were between 40cm to 60cm.