Aspects of the utilization and palatability (acceptability) of the drought fodder, Kochia brevifolia, were investigated, using Merino and Dorper wethers.
The plant is not readily eaten by sheep, but wets approximately 90% utilizable. An average ingestion rate of 3,6 kg fresh material per sheep per day was obtained, and a grazing capacity of 2 970 sheep grazing days (24 hours) per hectare, with a plant es pacement of 90 cm x 150 cm. After grazing the plants recovered under dry conditions to approximately 60% of their erstwhile bulk within 9 months. An unvaried diet of the plant had no ill effects on the sheep, wool production and quality, or live?weight.
Among the conspicuous differences between the grazing habits of Merinos and Dorpers, were the partial debarking of thick stems and the severe grazing of the crown bases by the Merinos. Water intake per sheep per day varied from 1,5 to 9,4 litres. Grazing resulted in fewer established seedlings.
K. brevifolia is recommended for planting in plantation form as a drought fodder and reserve in low rainfall areas in South Africa.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.