Canopeo and GreenSeeker applications as tools to support tropical pasture management / Aplicativos Canopeo e GreenSeeker como ferramentas de apoio ao manejo de pastagens tropicais

ABSTRACT: This study determined whether Canopeo and GreenSeeker measurements in Megathyrsus maximus can estimate plant height, dry matter mass, morphological components, and content of crude protein and neutral detergent fiber at different days of growth. Five plots of 5 × 25m M. maximus grass were defined: subplots of 1×1m were evaluated every three days, in which the pasture shows 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, and 30 days of regrowth. The subplot was evaluated for canopy height and mass accumulation. The canopeo index (CI) obtained at a higher height was lower than those obtained at a smaller height. Higher measurement height increased the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) relative to 0.10 m. The highest indexes were observed since 18 d of regrowth. Except for the CI evaluated at 0.10 m of height, the indexes were not correlated to the chemical composition of the forage. The CI and NDVI were positively correlated to plant height, dry matter mass, and leaf index, whereas both were negatively correlated with stalk index. Thus, lower evaluation heights for CI and NDVI can be a good predictor of forage height. Values of 0.83 and 85.8 for NDVI and CI, respectively, indicated an appropriate time to start the grazing of M. maximus.

RESUMO: O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar se os índices obtidos com Canopeo e GreenSeeker (NDVI) em Megathyrsus maximum são capazes de estimar altura de plantas, massa de matéria seca, componentes morfológicos e teor de proteína bruta e fibra em detergente neutro em diferentes dias de crescimento. Cinco parcelas de 5 × 25 m de capim M.maximum foram definidas: sub parcelas de 1 × 1 m foram avaliadas a cada três dias, nas quais a pastagem apresenta 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27 e 30 dias de rebrota. A sub parcela foi avaliada quanto à altura do dossel e acúmulo de massa. O índice do Canopeo (IC) obtido em maior altura foi menor do que o obtido em menor altura. A maior altura de medição aumentou o NDVI em relação a 0,10 m. Os maiores índices foram observados desde 18 dias de rebrota. Exceto para o IC avaliado a 0,10 m de altura, os índices não foram correlacionados com a composição química da forragem. IC e NDVI correlacionaram-se positivamente com a altura da planta, massa de MS e índice foliar, e negativamente com o índice de colmos. Assim, menores alturas de avaliação para IC e NDVI podem ser um bom preditor da altura da forragem. Valores de 0,83 e 85,8 para NDVI e IC, respectivamente, indicam um momento adequado para o início do pastejo de Megathyrsus maximum.

Canopeo and GreenSeeker applications as tools to support tropical pasture management / Aplicativos Canopeo e GreenSeeker como ferramentas de apoio ao manejo de pastagens tropicais

This study determined whether Canopeo and GreenSeeker measurements in Megathyrsus maximus can estimate plant height, dry matter mass, morphological components, and content of crude protein and neutral detergent fiber at different days of growth. Five plots of 5 × 25m M. maximus grass were defined: subplots of 1×1m were evaluated every three days, in which the pasture shows 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, and 30 days of regrowth. The subplot was evaluated for canopy height and mass accumulation. The canopeo index (CI) obtained at a higher height was lower than those obtained at a smaller height. Higher measurement height increased the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) relative to 0.10 m. The highest indexes were observed since 18 d of regrowth. Except for the CI evaluated at 0.10 m of height, the indexes were not correlated to the chemical composition of the forage. The CI and NDVI were positively correlated to plant height, dry matter mass, and leaf index, whereas both were negatively correlated with stalk index. Thus, lower evaluation heights for CI and NDVI can be a good predictor of forage height. Values of 0.83 and 85.8 for NDVI and CI, respectively, indicated an appropriate time to start the grazing of M. maximus.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar se os índices obtidos com Canopeo e GreenSeeker (NDVI) em Megathyrsus maximum são capazes de estimar altura de plantas, massa de matéria seca, componentes morfológicos e teor de proteína bruta e fibra em detergente neutro em diferentes dias de crescimento. Cinco parcelas de 5 × 25 m de capim M.maximum foram definidas: sub parcelas de 1 × 1 m foram avaliadas a cada três dias, nas quais a pastagem apresenta 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27 e 30 dias de rebrota. A sub parcela foi avaliada quanto à altura do dossel e acúmulo de massa. O índice do Canopeo (IC) obtido em maior altura foi menor do que o obtido em menor altura. A maior altura de medição aumentou o NDVI em relação a 0,10 m. Os maiores índices foram observados desde 18 dias de rebrota. Exceto para o IC avaliado a 0,10 m de altura, os índices não foram correlacionados com a composição química da forragem. IC e NDVI correlacionaram-se positivamente com a altura da planta, massa de MS e índice foliar, e negativamente com o índice de colmos. Assim, menores alturas de avaliação para IC e NDVI podem ser um bom preditor da altura da forragem. Valores de 0,83 e 85,8 para NDVI e IC, respectivamente, indicam um momento adequado para o início do pastejo de Megathyrsus maximum.

Growth and functional leaf traits of coppice regrowth of Bertholletia excelsa during an El Niño event in the central Amazon / Crescimento e características funcionais foliares de rebrotas de Bertholletia excelsa durante um evento de El Niño na Amazônia Central

The most severe drought of this century in the Amazon rainforest, which was caused by El Niño, occurred from 2015 to 2016. With a focus on the ecophysiology of the regrowth of the Brazil nut tree, Bertholletia excelsa, it was investigated how the progression of the drought of 2015-2016 affected the physiological traits of the coppice regrowth of B. excelsa. The experiment was carried out in a ten-year-old plantation of Brazil nut trees, which had been subjected to thinning and coppice regrowth two years earlier. In the sprouts grown on the stumps of cut trees, the following treatments were applied: (T1) thinning to one sprout per stump; (T2) thinning to two sprouts per stump, and (T3) maintenance of three sprouts per stump. Thinning treatments did not alter the growth and ecophysiological traits of the Brazil nut tree sprouts, though the phosphorus content of the leaves was higher in T1. However, the progression of the drought in 2015-2016 negatively affected the growth (height) and gas exchange of sprouts of all treatments. In addition, an increase of around 37% was observed in the intrinsic wateruse efficiency. Concerning photochemical performance, no alterations were observed. Therefore, drought stress promoted a negative effect on sprout growth and affected traits related to the photosynthesis of the B. excelsa sprouts independently of the number of sprouts per stump.(AU)

A seca mais severa deste século na floresta amazônica, causada por El Niño, ocorreu de 2015 a 2016. Com foco na ecofisiologia da rebrota da castanheira da Amazônia, foi investigado como a progressão da seca de 2015-2016 afetou as características fisiológicas das rebrotas de uma talhadia de B. excelsa. O experimento foi realizado em uma plantação de castanheiras com dez anos, a qual havia sido submetida a um desbaste e rebrota de talhadia dois anos antes. Nas rebrotas crescidas sobre os tocos das árvores cortadas foram aplicados os seguintes tratamentos: (T1) desbrota para manter um broto por cepa; (T2) desbrota para manter dois brotos por cepa; e (T3) manutenção de três brotos por cepa. Os tratamentos de desbrota não alteraram o crescimento e as características ecofisiológicas dos brotos da castanheira, exceto para o teor foliar de fósforo, que foi maior em T1. Porém, a progressão da seca em 2015-2016 afetou negativamente o crescimento em altura e as trocas gasosas dos brotos de todos os tratamentos. Além disso, foi observado um aumento de cerca de 37% na eficiência intrínseca do uso da água. Quanto ao desempenho fotoquímico, não foram observadas alterações. Portanto, o estresse hídrico promoveu efeito negativo no crescimento da brotação e afetou características relacionadas à fotossíntese das brotações de B. excelsa, independentemente do número de brotações por cepa.(AU)

Phyllochron variability and cutting management practices on the agronomic potential of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L. ) Moench) / Variabilidade do filocrono e práticas de manejo de corte no potencial agronômico de sorgo (Sorghum bicolor (L. ) Moench)

The phyllochronis an indispensable parameter associated with the potential production of sorghum. Accordingly, management practices applied directly in the sorghum(Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench)crop, such as the cuttingtechnique, provide the ability of plants to regrowth and reestablish the performance of vegetative and reproductive development based on the stimulation of growth in the photosynthetically active area. Appropriately, the aim of this study wasto evaluate the alterations in phyllochron and leaf emission rate expressed by the implementation of cutting managementpracticesin sorghum plants from high and low-quality seeds. The study was performed in the experimental and didactic area of the Federal Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS) ­Ibirubá, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized and the treatments were plants from higher (HQS) and lower (LQS) quality seeds and two season crops (2015/16 and 2016/17) with eight replications. The mean phyllochron (°C day leaf-1), height (cm), main stem diameter (cm), number of nodes, dry mass (kgha-1), and number of tillers were evaluated as a strategyto verify the performance of each treatment. Furthermore, meteorologicaldata obtained from an automatic station was required to calculate phyllochron and the evapotranspiration (ETc). Finally, this study indicatedthat the diameter of the stem and tillers is directly associatedto the accumulation of a dry mass of the crop, based on the results of biomass productivity. Moreover, it was demonstratedthat forage sorghum plants derived from HQSindicateda higher capacity to accumulate photoassimilates, stimulating the production of dry mass.(AU)

O filocrono é um parâmetro indispensável associado ao potencial de produção do sorgo. Nesse sentido, práticas de manejo aplicadas diretamente na cultura do sorgo(Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench), como a técnica de cortes, proporcionam a capacidade das plantas de rebrotar e restabelecer o desempenho do desenvolvimento vegetativo e reprodutivo das plantas a partir do estímulo do crescimento da área fotossinteticamente ativa. Apropriadamente, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações no filocrono e na taxa de emissão foliar expressas pela implementação do manejo de corte em plantas de sorgo a partir de sementes de alta e de baixa qualidade. O estudo foi realizado na área experimental e didática do Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS) ­Ibirubá, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos foram plantas provenientes de sementes de qualidade superior (SQS) e inferior (SQI) e duas safras (2015/16 e 2016/17) com oito repetições. O filocrono médio (°C dia folha-1), altura (cm), diâmetro do caule principal (cm), número de nós, massa seca (kg ha-1) e número de perfilhos foram avaliados como estratégia para verificar o desempenho de cada tratamento. Além disso, dados meteorológicos obtidos de uma estação automática foram necessários para calcular o filocrono e a evapotranspiração (ETc). Finalmente, este estudo indicou que o diâmetro do caule e perfilhos está diretamente associado ao acúmulo de massa seca da cultura, com base nos resultados de produtividade de biomassa. Além disso, foi demonstrado que plantas de sorgo forrageiro derivadas de SQS apresentaram maior capacidade de acumular fotoassimilados, estimulando a produção de massa seca.(AU)

Interference of weeds in ruziziensis grass pastures

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of increasing periods of coexistence of weed plants with Urochloa ruziziensis on the canopy structure and productivity of a pasture already established with this forage species. The experiment was a randomized blocks design with four replications, and treatments consisted of seven increasing periods of coexistence of forage grass with weed plants: 0 (control), 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 days after regrowth (DAR). The main morpho-structural and productive characteristics of the forage plants were determined at the end of the experimental period (90 DAR). The ratio of the first green leaf height to the tiller height increases, while the leaf to stem ratio diminishes as the period of interaction with the infesting community increases. The number of green leaves per tiller and the tiller height diminishes as the period of coexistence with weed plants increases. The presence of weed plants interferes negatively with all parameters of the grass canopy structure and productivity of a grazing land already established with Urochloa ruziziensis, suggesting that measures of control of the infesting community should be adopted up to 17 days of regrowth of the forage plant.(AU)

Chemical composition and fatty acid profile of a seed-propagated elephant grass genotype, ensiled at different regrowth ages / Composição química e perfil de ácidos graxos de um genótipo de capim-elefante propagado por sementes, ensilado em diferentes idades de rebrota

This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and fatty acid (FA) profile of forage and silage of a seed-propagated elephant grass genotype called "PCEA" harvested at 75, 90, 105 and 120 days of regrowth. A randomized block design with five replications was used. The results were analyzed by mixed models (P < 0.05) that included treatment (regrowth age) as a fixed effect and block as a random effect. Linear and quadratic effects of the treatments were analyzed using orthogonal contrasts. There was linear increase on total dry matter (DM) forage production and linear decrease on leaf:stem ratio as a function of the increase in regrowth age (P < 0.05). In response to the advance of regrowth age, "PCEA" forage and silage showed linear decreases on crude protein (CP) content (g kg-1 DM) and in vitro DM digestibility (g kg-1); and linear increases on DM (g kg-1), lignin (g kg-1 DM), and acid detergent insoluble protein (%CP) contents (P < 0.05). All "PCEA" silages had DM content < 200 g kg-1, pH > 4.0, and ammonia N content > 10% total N. In response to the advance of regrowth age, linear decreases (P < 0.05) were observed on forage and silage linoleic, α-linolenic, and total FA contents (g kg-1 DM). From 75 to 120 days of regrowth, the seed-propagated elephant grass genotype "PCEA" presents forage and silage with low nutritional quality for feeding dairy cattle, moderate to high linoleic acid contents, and moderate to low α-linolenic acid contents. The "PCEA" forage and silage obtained from 75 to 120 days of regrowth presents low potential for production of milk naturally enriched with bioactive FAs beneficial to human health.(AU)

Objetivou-se por meio deste estudo avaliar a composição química e o perfil de ácidos graxos (AG) da forragem e da silagem de um genótipo de capim-elefante propagado por sementes denominado "PCEA", colhido aos 75, 90, 105 e 120 dias de rebrota. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados com cinco repetições, sendo os resultados analisados por modelos mistos (P<0,05), que incluíram tratamento (idade de rebrota) como efeito fixo, e bloco como efeito aleatório. Os efeitos lineares e quadráticos dos tratamentos foram analisados por contrastes ortogonais. Houve aumento linear na produção total de matéria seca (MS) de forragem e decréscimo linear na relação folha:colmo, em função do aumento na idade de rebrota do capim (P < 0,05). Em resposta ao avanço na idade de rebrota, houve redução linear no teor de proteína bruta (PB) (g kg-1 MS) e na digestibilidade in vitro da MS (g kg-1); e aumento linear nos teores de MS (g kg-1), lignina (g kg-1 MS) e proteína insolúvel em detergente ácido (% da PB) da forragem e da silagem de "PCEA" (P < 0,05). Todas as silagens produzidas apresentaram teor de MS < 200 g kg-1, pH > 4,0 e teor de N amoniacal > 10% do N total. Em resposta ao avanço da idade de rebrota, decréscimos lineares (P < 0,05) foram observados nos teores (g kg-1 MS) dos ácidos linoleico, α-linolênico e AG totais. De 75 a 120 dias de rebrota, o genótipo de capim-elefante propagado por sementes "PCEA" apresenta forragem e silagem com baixa qualidade nutricional para alimentação do gado leiteiro, com moderado a alto teor de ácido linoleico, e moderado a baixo teor de ácido α-linolênico. A forragem e a silagem do "PCEA" obtidas de 75 a 120 dias de rebrota apresentam baixo potencial para produção de leite naturalmente enriquecido com AG bioativos benéficos à saúde humana.(AU)

Strategic grazing management decreases nitrogen excretion intensity of dairy cows

ABSTRACT: There is limited information regarding both nitrogen (N) and energy partitioning of dairy cows grazing wellmanaged tropical pastures. The objective of this study was to investigate the N and energy partitioning of midlactation dairy cows on rotationally grazed elephant grass using two pregrazing targets: 95 % or maximum canopy light interception (LI95% or LIMax) during regrowth. The study used 26 Holstein × Jersey dairy cows arranged in a randomized complete block design with three 40day periods of sampling. Grazing at LI95% increased organic matter and crude protein intake by 20 % (p 0.05) which resulted in a 9 % increase in fat corrected milk yield (p 0.05) relative to LIMax. Cows grazing at LI95% had greater concentration of total volatile fatty acids, butyrate and valerate (p 0.05), and smaller acetate (p 0.05) than those grazing at LIMax. Intake of net energy for lactation (NEL) and NEL secreted in milk were greater (p 0.05), while partitioning of NEL towards maintenance tended to be greater (p = 0.07) for cows grazing at LI95% than those grazing at LIMax. Milk urea nitrogen and both urine and fecal N excretion were greater for cows grazing at LI95% (p 0.05), but N excretion intensity was lower than in cows grazing at LIMax (p 0.05). Strategic grazing management using the LI95% pregrazing target increases N losses through both urine and feces; however, it reduces N excretion intensity of dairy cows by 9 %.

Strategic grazing management decreases nitrogen excretion intensity of dairy cows

There is limited information regarding both nitrogen (N) and energy partitioning of dairy cows grazing well–managed tropical pastures. The objective of this study was to investigate the N and energy partitioning of mid–lactation dairy cows on rotationally grazed elephant grass using two pre–grazing targets: 95 % or maximum canopy light interception (LI95% or LIMax) during regrowth. The study used 26 Holstein × Jersey dairy cows arranged in a randomized complete block design with three 40–day periods of sampling. Grazing at LI95% increased organic matter and crude protein intake by 20 % (p ≤ 0.05) which resulted in a 9 % increase in fat corrected milk yield (p ≤ 0.05) relative to LIMax. Cows grazing at LI95% had greater concentration of total volatile fatty acids, butyrate and valerate (p ≤ 0.05), and smaller acetate (p ≤ 0.05) than those grazing at LIMax. Intake of net energy for lactation (NEL) and NEL secreted in milk were greater (p ≤ 0.05), while partitioning of NEL towards maintenance tended to be greater (p = 0.07) for cows grazing at LI95% than those grazing at LIMax. Milk urea nitrogen and both urine and fecal N excretion were greater for cows grazing at LI95% (p ≤ 0.05), but N excretion intensity was lower than in cows grazing at LIMax (p ≤ 0.05). Strategic grazing management using the LI95% pre–grazing target increases N losses through both urine and feces; however, it reduces N excretion intensity of dairy cows by 9 %.

Use of biostimulants in elephant grass cv. Napier / Uso de bioestimulantes em capim-elefante cultivar Napier

This study was developed to examine the growth, yield, chemical composition and in situ degradability of elephant grass cv. Napier (Pennisetum purpureum). Five spraying protocols with biostimulants were tested, namely, Control - no application; 1BR - bioregulator at seven days; 2BR - bioregulator at seven days + bioregulator and foliar fertilization at 20 days; 2BR2 - bioregulator at seven days + bioregulator and foliar fertilization at 20 days + ethylene inhibitor at 30 days; and 3BR - bioregulator at seven days + bioregulator and foliar fertilization at 20 days + ethylene inhibitor and bioregulator at 30 days. The grass was cut evenly at a height of 15 cm and harvested at 70 days of regrowth. The experimental area was divided into two blocks according to the slope. Ninety plots were used, totaling an area of 4,608 m2. Each plot was composed of four 4-m rows spaced 80 cm apart. Chemical composition, morphological traits and forage digestibility data were evaluated. The 3BR protocol, with more bioregulator-based applications, resulted in higher canopy (9.78%) and stem (9.58%) compared with control group. The 2BR and 2BR2 treatments provided a 6.5% higher stem than control treatment. The improvement in the nutritional value of Pennisetum purpureum cv. Napier was due to the 17.55% increase in crude protein (CP) content provided by protocol 3BR relative to control group. Treatments 2BR2 and 3BR improved the effective degradability of dry matter (DM). The application of biostimulant protocols increased the potential degradability of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (+4.1%), with the greatest response seen in treatment 2BR2 in comparison with control treatment. Biostimulant protocols increase the canopy and stem heights and CP content. The application of a bioregulator associated with foliar fertilization and ethylene inhibitor improves the effective degradability of DM and NDF and the potential degradability of NDF in Pennisetum purpureum cv. Napier harvested at 70 days of regrowth.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento, a produtividade, a composição bromatológica e a degradabilidade in situ do capim-elefante cv. Napier (Pennisetum purpureum). Foram efetuados cinco diferentes protocolos de pulverização com bioestimulantes: Controle - nenhuma aplicação, 1BR - biorregulador aos 7 dias; 2BR - biorregulador aos 7 dias, biorregulador e adubação foliar aos 20 dias; 2BR2 - biorregulador aos 7 dias, biorregulador e adubação foliar aos 20 dias, inibidor de etileno aos 30 dias; 3BR - biorregulador aos 7 dias, biorregulador e adubação foliar aos 20 dias, inibidor de etileno e biorregulador aos 30 dias. Foi realizado o corte de uniformização do capim a 15 centímetros de altura, sendo a colheita efetuada aos 70 dias de rebrota. A área experimental foi dividida em dois blocos de acordo com a declividade. Foram utilizadas 90 parcelas, totalizando 4.608 m2 de área. Cada parcela foi composta por quatro linhas de quatro metros cada, com espaço entrelinhas de 80 centímetros. Os dados foram avaliados quanto à composição química, características morfológicas e digestibilidade da forragem. O protocolo 3BR, com mais aplicações à base de biorreguladores, resultou em dossel maior (9,78%) e maior altura de caule (9,58%) em relação ao grupo controle, bem como os tratamentos 2BR e 2BR2 promoveram aumento da altura de caule em 6,5% se comparado com tratamento controle. A melhoria no valor nutricional do Pennisetum purpureum cv. Napier se deu em função da elevação no teor de proteína bruta (PB) de 17,55% em relação ao grupo controle com o protocolo 3BR. Houve aumento da degradabilidade efetiva da matéria seca (MS) para os tratamentos 2BR2 e 3BR. A aplicação dos protocolos de bioestimulantes aumentou a degradabilidade potencial da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) (+4,1%), com maior resposta para o tratamento 2BR2 em relação ao tratamento controle. Os protocolos de bioestimulantes elevam a altura do dossel e do caule e incrementam o teor de PB. A aplicação de biorregulador, associado à adubação foliar e inibidor de etileno melhora a degradabilidade efetiva da MS e FDN e a degradabilidade potencial da FDN do Pennisetum purpureum cv. Napier cortado aos 70 dias de rebrota.(AU)

Strategic grazing management decreases nitrogen excretion intensity of dairy cows

There is limited information regarding both nitrogen (N) and energy partitioning of dairy cows grazing well­managed tropical pastures. The objective of this study was to investigate the N and energy partitioning of mid­lactation dairy cows on rotationally grazed elephant grass using two pre­grazing targets: 95 % or maximum canopy light interception (LI95% or LIMax) during regrowth. The study used 26 Holstein × Jersey dairy cows arranged in a randomized complete block design with three 40­day periods of sampling. Grazing at LI95% increased organic matter and crude protein intake by 20 % (p ≤ 0.05) which resulted in a 9 % increase in fat corrected milk yield (p ≤ 0.05) relative to LIMax. Cows grazing at LI95% had greater concentration of total volatile fatty acids, butyrate and valerate (p ≤ 0.05), and smaller acetate (p ≤ 0.05) than those grazing at LIMax. Intake of net energy for lactation (NEL) and NEL secreted in milk were greater (p ≤ 0.05), while partitioning of NEL towards maintenance tended to be greater (p = 0.07) for cows grazing at LI95% than those grazing at LIMax. Milk urea nitrogen and both urine and fecal N excretion were greater for cows grazing at LI95% (p ≤ 0.05), but N excretion intensity was lower than in cows grazing at LIMax (p ≤ 0.05). Strategic grazing management using the LI95% pre­grazing target increases N losses through both urine and feces; however, it reduces N excretion intensity of dairy cows by 9 %.

Ethological behavior of Bos taurus, Bos indicus,and Caqueteño Creole cattle in three tree cover systems of Brachiaria decumbenspaddocks at the Amazon foothills in Colombia / Comportamento etológico do gado Bos taurus, Bos indicuse crioulo Caqueteño em três sistemas de cobertura de árvores de Brachiaria decumbenspaddocks no sopé da Amazônia na Colômbia

The study was conducted at the Amazon Research Center CIMAZ -MACAGUAL of the University of Amazonia, Colombia, with a tropical rain forest climate (Af). The behavior of Bos taurus, Bos indicus, and Caqueteño Creole cattle, the animals were observed in paddocks with three levels of scattered tree cover density. The pasture was composed of Braquiaria decumbenswith 35 days of regrowth. Direct observations were made from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with 10-minute intervals between the recording of the activities. The activity performed most often during the day by all of the animals was grazing under the sun, and those who pasture the most arethe Caqueteño Creole, followed by the Bos indicusand, finally, the Bos taurus. Ruminating was the second most important activity performed by the cattle, having presented the same tendency. In the paddocks with a low level of tree cover, the animals pasture more in the shade; this trend is more relevant among B. taurus cattle.Caqueteño Creole cattle dedicate less time to water consumption and rest, spending more time grazing, in the high and medium cover levels, they interrupt the grazing at noon for a shorter time compared to B. indicusand B. taurus; after 2 p.m., the creoles vertiginously increase grazing. At the high cover level, the peak of grazing of the Caqueteño Creoles is at 9 a.m. and from 1-1:30 p.m., while at the medium tree cover level, the peak of pasturing was at noon, 1:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m., at the high tree level of cover, the peak for the three breeds was at 11 a.m. Only at the average tree level of cover did the Caquetaño creoles and B. indicuspresent a similar peak. In 9-9:30 a.m. and 4-5 p.m., the breeds substantially reduce rumination.(AU)

O estudo foi realizado no Centro de Pesquisa Amazônica CIMAZ -MACAGUAL da Universidade da Amazônia, Colômbia, com um clima de floresta tropical úmida (Af). O comportamento do gado Bos taurus, Bos indicuse Caqueteño crioulo, os animais foram observados em cercados com três níveis de densidade de cobertura arbórea dispersa. A pastagem era composta de Braquiaria decumbenscom 35 dias de recrescimento. Observações diretas foram feitas das 9h às 17h com intervalos de 10 minutos entre o registro das atividades.A atividade mais executada durante o dia por todos os animais era o pasto sob o sol, e aqueles que mais pastam são os Caqueteñocrioulo, seguido pelo Bos indicuse, finalmente, o Bos taurus. A ruminação foi a segunda atividade mais importante desempenhada pelo gado, tendo apresentado a mesma tendência. Nos cercados com um baixo nível de cobertura arbórea, os animais pastam mais à sombra; esta tendência é mais relevante entre o gado B. taurus.O gado crioulo Caqueteñodedica menos tempo ao consumo de água e descanso, passando mais tempo pastando, nos níveis de cobertura alta e média, interrompem o pastoreio ao meio-dia por um tempo mais curto em comparação com o B. indicuse B. taurus; depois das 14 horas, os crioulos aumentam vertiginosamente o pastoreio. No nível de cobertura alta, o pico de pastagem dos Caqueteñocrioulosé às 9h e das 13h30, enquanto no nível médio de cobertura de árvores, o pico de pastagem era ao meio-dia, 13h30 e 16h30, no nível alto de cobertura de árvores, o pico para as três raças era às 11h. Nas 9-9h30 e16-17h, as raças reduzem substancialmente a ruminação.(AU)

ACCase inhibitor fractionation and glyphosate addition improve perennial sourgrass control / O fracionamento de inibidores da ACCase e a adição de glyphosate melhoram o controle de capim-amargoso perenizado

Glyphosate-resistant sourgrass is difficult to control, particularly when perennial, and strategies that improve the control efficiency against this grass and preserve the useful life of graminicides are warranted. Therefore, the present study aimed to answer the following questions: (i) Does fractionating the doses of ACCase inhibitors improve the control of perennial sourgrass? (ii) Does alternating the chemical groups cyclohexanediones (DIMs) and aryloxyphenoxypropanoates (FOPs) improve the control of perennial sourgrass, and does the order of their application affect sourgrass control efficiency? (iii) Does the addition of glyphosate to ACCase inhibitors improve to the control of perennial sourgrass resistant to 5-enol-pyruvyl-shiquime-3-phosphate synthase inhibitors? Two field experiments (I and II) were performed in 2018 and repeated in 2019. In experiment I, the treatments included a single or fractional application clethodim + quizalofop-P-ethyl (216 + 108 g a.i. ha-1), clethodim (216 g a.i. ha-1), and quizalofop-P-tefuryl (108 g a.i. ha-1), applied in the order of clethodim followed by quizalofop-P-tefuryl and vice versa, as well as a control treatment. In experiment II, the treatments included a single or fractional application of clethodim + quizalofop-P-ethyl (216 + 108 g a.i. ha-1) and clethodim (108 g a.i. ha-1), isolated or associated with glyphosate, as well as a control treatment. In both experiments, the interval between the fractional applications was 7 days. Percentage of control, number of tillers per plant, and height of sourgrass plants were determined. Compared with the unfractionated application, the fractionation of clethodim + quizalofop-P-ethyl and clethodim increased control by respectively 20-24 and 25-30%. Fractionated clethodim has greater control, and less regrowth and height of the sourgrass plants. The order of application of the chemical groups FOPs and DIMs affected control efficiency, and better results were obtained with the application of quizalofop-P-tefuryl followed by clethodim. The addition of glyphosate potentiates the action of graminicides, particularly when fractionated, even on resistant sourgrass, with a 26% increase in efficiency and resulting in satisfactory control (>80%).(AU)

O capim-amargoso resistente ao glyphosate é difícil de controlar, principalmente quando perenizado, e estratégias que aumentem a eficiência de controle dessas plantas e preservem a vida útil dos graminicidas são necessárias. Portanto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo responder as seguintes perguntas: (i) O fracionamento de doses de inibidores da ACCase melhora o controle de capim-amargoso perenizado? (ii) Alternar os grupos químicos ciclohexanodionas (DIMs) e ariloxifenoxipropanoatos (FOPs) melhora o controle de capim-amargoso perenizado, e a ordem de sua aplicação afeta a eficiência do controle de capimamargoso? (iii) A adição de glyphosate a inibidores da ACCase melhora o controle de capim-amargoso perenizado resistente aos inibidores da 5-enol-piruvil-shiquimato-3-fosfato-sintase? Foram realizados dois experimentos de campo (I e II) em 2018 e repetidos em 2019. No experimento I, os tratamentos incluíram aplicação única ou fracionada de clethodim + quizalofop-P-etílico (216 + 108 g i.a. ha-1), clethodim (216 g i.a. ha-1), e quizalofop-P-tefuril (108 g i.a. ha-1), aplicação de clethodim seguida de quizalofop-P-tefuril e viceversa, além de um tratamento controle. No experimento II, os tratamentos incluíram à aplicação única ou fracionada de clethodim + quizalofop-P-etílico (216 + 108 g i.a. ha-1) e clethodim (108 g i.a. ha-1), isolados ou associados ao glyphosate, além de um tratamento controle. Em ambos os experimentos o intervalo entre as aplicações fracionadas foi de 7 dias. Determinou-se à porcentagem de controle, o número de perfilhos por planta, e à altura das plantas de capim-amargoso. Em comparação com a aplicação não fracionada, o fracionamento de clethodim + quizalofop-P-etílico e clethodim aumentou o controle em 20- 24 and 25-30%, respectivamente. O clethodim fracionado apresentou maior controle, e menor rebrote e altura das plantas de capim-amargoso. A ordem de aplicação dos grupos químicos FOPs e DIMs afetou a eficiência do controle, e melhores resultados foram obtidos com a aplicação de quizalofop-P-tefuril seguido de clethodim. A adição de glyphosate potencializa a ação dos graminicidas, principalmente quando fracionados, mesmo sobre capim-amargoso resistente, com acréscimo de 26% na eficiência e resultando em controle satisfatório (>80%).(AU)

Color dilution alopecia in a Yorkshire

Clinical History: A 1-year-old female Yorkshire terrier was presented to the clinic for a second opinion regarding its poor hair coat condition. According to the owner, the dog has been showing that appearance since the moment it was adopted, at 8 months of age. The owner also mentioned that the dog's father had a similar fur appearance. External deworming was regularly administered to this dog, and oral fluralaner (Bravecto™) was given at the time of its presentation. No other clinical signs were reported. A complete physical examination was performed, with emphasis on skin and fur assessment. The main findings were the presence of extensive areas of hypotrichosis and alopecia, affecting only dark-haired regions, mainly in the dorsal region, neck and on the outer surface of both pinnae. The presence of seborrhea and small papules compatible with superficial folliculitis were also identified. No other abnormalities were detected during the remaining examination. The complete blood count and serum biochemistry, including total circulating thyroxine (tT4) were unremarkable. Deep skin scraping and dermatophyte culture were also performed, but both tests were negative for the presence of ectoparasites and fungi, respectively. Finally, the hair follicles from the lesion areas were pulled out and evaluated under a microscope using the trichogram technique. Baths with an anti-seborrheic and anti-microbial shampoo were prescribed, but although seborrhea and folliculitis were quickly controlled with this topical treatment, the alopecic areas remained and no signs of hair regrowth was observed in the following dermatological reassessments. Follow-up questions: According only to the macroscopic images, without knowledge of the results of the complementary exams, what would be the main differential diagnoses for these extensive lesions of hypotrichosis and alopecia? What changes do you observe in the microscopic images captured in the trichogram of this animal? Based on the anamnesis, the clinical presentation and the complementary exams (particularly the trichogram), what is your clinical diagnosis? What clinical evolution do you expect for this animal concerning these hair coat abnormalities and what more diagnostic tests could be performed?(AU)

Production and quality of tropical grasses at different regrowth intervals in the Brazilian semiarid

The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of three forage species at different regrowth intervals. A 3 x 4 randomized-block factorial design with three forage species (Andropogon, Buffel, and Massai) and four regrowth intervals (21, 35, 49, and 63 days) was used. There was no interaction (p > 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on any of the chemical components evaluated. The crude protein content decreased but the contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose increased with increasing regrowth interval (p > 0.05). Only the contents of crude protein and ether extract were similar (p > 0.05) among grasses. A significant interaction was observed (p < 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on forage mass. Andropogon grass had the highest forage mass at 63 days (3,270.1 kg ha-1 DM cut-1) and the highest productivity regardless of the regrowth interval (19.1 t ha-1 DM year-1). Therefore, Andropogon grass was the most productive forage among the tested species. Pastures should be managed with shorter growth intervals due to the highest crude protein level and the lowest contents of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber.(AU)

Production and quality of tropical grasses at different regrowth intervals in the Brazilian semiarid

The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of three forage species at different regrowth intervals. A 3 x 4 randomized-block factorial design with three forage species (Andropogon, Buffel, and Massai) and four regrowth intervals (21, 35, 49, and 63 days) was used. There was no interaction (p > 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on any of the chemical components evaluated. The crude protein content decreased but the contents of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose increased with increasing regrowth interval (p > 0.05). Only the contents of crude protein and ether extract were similar (p > 0.05) among grasses. A significant interaction was observed (p < 0.05) between forage species and regrowth interval on forage mass. Andropogon grass had the highest forage mass at 63 days (3,270.1 kg ha-1 DM cut-1) and the highest productivity regardless of the regrowth interval (19.1 t ha-1 DM year-1). Therefore, Andropogon grass was the most productive forage among the tested species. Pastures should be managed with shorter growth intervals due to the highest crude protein level and the lowest contents of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber.

Chemical composition and fatty acid profile of BRS Capiaçu ensiled at different regrowth ages / Composição química e perfil de ácidos graxos do BRS Capiaçu ensilado em diferentes idades de rebrota

This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and fatty acid (FA) profile of chopped forage and silage of BRS Capiaçu elephant grass at four regrowth ages: 50, 70, 90 and 110 days. A randomized block design with five replications was used. The ensiling was carried out manually in experimental silos without wilting using no additives or bacterial inoculants. The results were analyzed using mixed models (P < 0.05). The model included treatment (regrowth age) as a fixed effect and block as a random effect. Linear and quadratic effects of the treatments were analyzed using orthogonal contrasts. There were linear increases in the dry matter (DM, g kg-¹) and lignin (g kg-¹ DM) contents and linear reductions in the in vitro DM digestibility (g kg-¹) of chopped grass and silage as a function of regrowth age (P < 0.001). Quadratic effects (P ≤ 0.01) were observed for the chopped grass contents (g kg-1 DM) of crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) as a function of regrowth age. There were linear decreases (P < 0.0001) in the CP content (g kg-¹ DM) and pH and linear increases (P < 0.001) in the EE and NDF contents (g kg-¹ DM) in the silage as a function of regrowth age. There were linear decreases (P < 0.01) in the chopped grass contents and linear increases (P < 0.05) in the silage contents of total FAs, linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM) as a function of regrowth age. BRS Capiaçu elephant grass must be harvested at up to 70 days of regrowth to obtain forage with good nutritional value and the highest levels of linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM). To produce silages with adequate pH values and the highest levels of linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM), BRS Capiaçu must be harvested between 90 and 110 days of regrowth.

O estudo objetivou avaliar a composição química e o perfil de ácidos graxos (AG) da forragem e da silagem do capim-elefante BRS Capiaçu em quatro idades de rebrota (50, 70, 90 e 110 dias), sob delineamento em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. A ensilagem foi realizada manualmente em silos experimentais, sem pré-murchamento, aditivos ou inoculantes bacterianos. Os resultados foram analisados usando modelos mistos (P < 0,05), que incluíram o efeito fixo de tratamento (idade de rebrota) e efeito aleatório de bloco. Os efeitos lineares e quadráticos foram analisados por meio de contrastes ortogonais. Houve aumento linear nos teores de matéria seca – MS (g kg-¹) e lignina (g kg-¹ de MS), e reduções lineares na digestibilidade in vitro da MS (g kg-1) da forragem e da silagem em função da idade de rebrota (P < 0,001). Efeitos quadráticos (P ≤ 0,01) foram observados na forragem para os teores (g kg-¹ de MS) de proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE) e fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) em função da idade de rebrota. Houve reduções lineares (P < 0,0001) no teor de PB (g kg-¹ de MS) e no pH, e aumentos lineares (P < 0,001) nos teores de EE e FDN (g kg-¹ de MS) da silagem em função de idade de rebrota. Para os teores dos AG totais e dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS), houve reduções lineares (P < 0,01) na forragem e aumentos lineares (P < 0,05) na silagem em função da idade de rebrota. O BRS Capiaçu deve ser colhido até 70 dias de rebrota para obter forragem com bom valor nutricional e maiores teores dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS). Para silagem com adequado pH e maiores teores dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS), o BRS Capiaçu deve ser colhido entre 90 e 110 dias de rebrota.

Chemical composition and fatty acid profile of BRS Capiaçu ensiled at different regrowth ages / Composição química e perfil de ácidos graxos do BRS Capiaçu ensilado em diferentes idades de rebrota

This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and fatty acid (FA) profile of chopped forage and silage of BRS Capiaçu elephant grass at four regrowth ages: 50, 70, 90 and 110 days. A randomized block design with five replications was used. The ensiling was carried out manually in experimental silos without wilting using no additives or bacterial inoculants. The results were analyzed using mixed models (P < 0.05). The model included treatment (regrowth age) as a fixed effect and block as a random effect. Linear and quadratic effects of the treatments were analyzed using orthogonal contrasts. There were linear increases in the dry matter (DM, g kg-¹) and lignin (g kg-¹ DM) contents and linear reductions in the in vitro DM digestibility (g kg-¹) of chopped grass and silage as a function of regrowth age (P < 0.001). Quadratic effects (P ≤ 0.01) were observed for the chopped grass contents (g kg-1 DM) of crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) as a function of regrowth age. There were linear decreases (P < 0.0001) in the CP content (g kg-¹ DM) and pH and linear increases (P < 0.001) in the EE and NDF contents (g kg-¹ DM) in the silage as a function of regrowth age. There were linear decreases (P < 0.01) in the chopped grass contents and linear increases (P < 0.05) in the silage contents of total FAs, linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM) as a function of regrowth age. BRS Capiaçu elephant grass must be harvested at up to 70 days of regrowth to obtain forage with good nutritional value and the highest levels of linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM). To produce silages with adequate pH values and the highest levels of linoleic and α-linolenic acids (g kg-¹ DM), BRS Capiaçu must be harvested between 90 and 110 days of regrowth.(AU)

O estudo objetivou avaliar a composição química e o perfil de ácidos graxos (AG) da forragem e da silagem do capim-elefante BRS Capiaçu em quatro idades de rebrota (50, 70, 90 e 110 dias), sob delineamento em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. A ensilagem foi realizada manualmente em silos experimentais, sem pré-murchamento, aditivos ou inoculantes bacterianos. Os resultados foram analisados usando modelos mistos (P < 0,05), que incluíram o efeito fixo de tratamento (idade de rebrota) e efeito aleatório de bloco. Os efeitos lineares e quadráticos foram analisados por meio de contrastes ortogonais. Houve aumento linear nos teores de matéria seca MS (g kg-¹) e lignina (g kg-¹ de MS), e reduções lineares na digestibilidade in vitro da MS (g kg-1) da forragem e da silagem em função da idade de rebrota (P < 0,001). Efeitos quadráticos (P ≤ 0,01) foram observados na forragem para os teores (g kg-¹ de MS) de proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE) e fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) em função da idade de rebrota. Houve reduções lineares (P < 0,0001) no teor de PB (g kg-¹ de MS) e no pH, e aumentos lineares (P < 0,001) nos teores de EE e FDN (g kg-¹ de MS) da silagem em função de idade de rebrota. Para os teores dos AG totais e dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS), houve reduções lineares (P < 0,01) na forragem e aumentos lineares (P < 0,05) na silagem em função da idade de rebrota. O BRS Capiaçu deve ser colhido até 70 dias de rebrota para obter forragem com bom valor nutricional e maiores teores dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS). Para silagem com adequado pH e maiores teores dos ácidos linoleico e α-linolênico (g kg-¹ de MS), o BRS Capiaçu deve ser colhido entre 90 e 110 dias de rebrota.(AU)

Production and water-use efficiency of Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça "Guinea grass" under nitrogen and boron doses / Produção e eficiência do uso da água de Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça "Guinea grass" sob doses de nitrogênio e boro

Brazilian cattle production is mainly conducted with the use of cultivated or native forages, which is considered one of the most efficient ways of production. In this sense, this study aimed to evaluate the production and water-use efficiency of Guinea grass under different associations between nitrogen and boron doses, as well as different regrowth cycles. The experiment field (22°42'14.6'' S, 47°37'24.1'' W, and 569-m altitude) has a regional climate classified as Cwa, which stands for a humid subtropical climate. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with a 4×4×11 factorial arrangement consisting of boron (0, 0.181, and 0.363 kg ha−1 cycle−1) and nitrogen (22.7, 45.5, 68.2, and 90.9 kg ha−1 cycle−1) fertilizations, plus 11 regrowth cycles and 4 replications. The pasture of Mombaça "Guinea grass" (Megathyrsus Maximus Syn. Panicum Maximum) was irrigated by a sprinkler system. Unlike boron, nitrogen positively influenced forage production. The cycles had a strong influence on production, with winter cycles being the least productive compared to the others.(AU)

A produção bovina brasileira é feita principalmente com o uso de forragens cultivadas ou nativas, que é considerada umas das maneiras mais eficiente de produção. Nesse sentindo, teve-se por objetivo avaliar a produtividade e produtividade da água do capim Mombaça com diferentes combinações de nitrogênio e boro em diferentes ciclos de rebrota. O campo experimental (22°42'14,6'' S e 47°37'24,1'' O, com altitude de 569 m) possui um clima regional classificado como tipo Cwa - Subtropical ou tropical de altitude. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi um fatorial 4×4×11, sendo 2 formas de adubação: boratada foram adotados os níveis de 0; 0,181 e 0,363 kg ha−1 ciclo−1 e a adubação nitrogenada com níveis 22,7, 45,5, 68,2 e 90,9 kg ha−1 ciclo−1 com 11 ciclos de rebrota, e 4 repetições. A pastagem utilizada foi o capim Mombaça "Guinea grass" (Megathyrsus Maximus syn. Panicum Maximum) em sistema irrigado por aspersão. Durante o período avaliado observou-se que o nitrogênio influenciou positivamente a produção forrageira, enquanto o boro não influenciou a produção forrageira. Os ciclos tiveram forte influência na produção, sendo que os ciclos de inverno foram os menos produtivos comparados aos demais.(AU)

Defoliation intensity and leaf area index recovery in defoliated swards: implications for forage accumulation

This study evaluated the leaf area index (LAI) recovery mechanisms and forage accumulation rates on the regrowth of different grass species subjected to different defoliation intensities. For that purpose, plots of Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyugrass), Lolium multiflorum (annual ryegrass), and Avena strigosa (black oats) were defoliated from 20 to 80 % of their initial heights (25, 20, and 25 cm, respectively). At different increments in height, forage samples were collected to ground level and used to estimate tiller population density (TPD), leaf area per tiller (LA), and forage mass. From these data, we calculated the leaf area index (LAI), average leaf area index (aLAI), and average and instantaneous forage accumulation rate (FAR and IFAR, respectively). Data were plotted over time (days) to describe LAI recovery and forage accumulation rates. As the defoliation intensity increased, greater canopy heights were needed for pastures to achieve their maximum forage accumulation rates, which required longer regrowth intervals. The need for high tiller recruitment after defoliation, which delayed canopy LAI recovery, seemed to be one of the main cause. Thus, grazing management strategies that involve costly tiller recruitment could decrease both overall forage production and sward persistence over time. However, the plant ability to recover LAI after successive intense defoliations seems to be species-dependent and related to their phenotypic plasticity.

Defoliation intensity and leaf area index recovery in defoliated swards: implications for forage accumulation

This study evaluated the leaf area index (LAI) recovery mechanisms and forage accumulation rates on the regrowth of different grass species subjected to different defoliation intensities. For that purpose, plots of Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyugrass), Lolium multiflorum (annual ryegrass), and Avena strigosa (black oats) were defoliated from 20 to 80 % of their initial heights (25, 20, and 25 cm, respectively). At different increments in height, forage samples were collected to ground level and used to estimate tiller population density (TPD), leaf area per tiller (LA), and forage mass. From these data, we calculated the leaf area index (LAI), average leaf area index (aLAI), and average and instantaneous forage accumulation rate (FAR and IFAR, respectively). Data were plotted over time (days) to describe LAI recovery and forage accumulation rates. As the defoliation intensity increased, greater canopy heights were needed for pastures to achieve their maximum forage accumulation rates, which required longer regrowth intervals. The need for high tiller recruitment after defoliation, which delayed canopy LAI recovery, seemed to be one of the main cause. Thus, grazing management strategies that involve costly tiller recruitment could decrease both overall forage production and sward persistence over time. However, the plant ability to recover LAI after successive intense defoliations seems to be species-dependent and related to their phenotypic plasticity.(AU)