Evaluation of native and exotic forage species in the Brazilian Pantanal

Abstract

The work had the objective of determining dry matter production and chemical composition of seven forage species, in the Paiaguás subregion of the Brazilian Pantanal. Five exotic grasses and two native grasses were compared in a completely randomized block design, with three replications. The experiment started in October/1980 and was finished in April/1983. Cuttings were performed when plants were at the heading stage, after removal of a 0.5 m edge. Average DMP varied from 4.4 to 1.2 t/ha/cut, for B. humidicola and D. decumbens, respectively. P. laxum was the species with the greatest CP value (6.5% in DM). Concentration of CP in Brachiaria species was small and would not satisfy lactating beef cow requirements. Concentrations of Ca ranged from 0.25% in DM (Paspalum oteroi) to 0,13% (C. nlemfuensis). Concentrations of P found in this trial were small and would be inadequate to meet requirements of lactating beef cows. Concentrations of Mg and K would be within limits of beef cattle requirements.