Rangeland pastures are characterised by considerable variability in forage quality and supply. Grasses have poor nutritive value in summer and autumn, with insufficient energy and protein to maintain animals, while the high fibre content lowers feed intake. Shrubs such as saltbush and bluebush generally contain insufficient energy for maintenance, and the high mineral content of the leaf material carries a risk of toxicity. Annual broadleaf plants are nutritious when growing, but any stubble is deficient in both energy and protein. Sub-optimal nutrition leads to poor lambing success, retarding the infusion of improved genetics.
Renmark, South Australia
ISSN 1323 660
Full-text publications from the Australian Rangelands Society (ARS) Biennial Conference Proceedings (1997-), Rangeland Journal (ARS/CSIRO; 1976-), plus videos and other resources about the rangelands of Australia.