Legume inclusion or nitrogen fertilization on Aruana grass overseeded with temperate grasses: Performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid profile of the meat of beef steers

The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of the use of legume (Arachis pintoi) or nitrogen fertilization on animal performance, characteristics of carcass and meat, and fatty acids profile of crossbred steers on Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana pasture, overseeded with temperate grasses. The experimental design was completely randomized, with three treatments and three replicates. The experiment was carried out from June to October (127 d). The treatments were: Low-N: 100 kg of N/ha; Medium-N: 200 kg of N/ha; and Legume: Arachis pintoi + 100 kg of N/ha. The pasture with higher nitrogen fertilization (N200) showed a more significant forage mass yield. The mixed grass with legumes presented a higher concentration of saturated fatty acids and saturated:unsaturated ratio in the meat. However, the grass pastures resulted in a higher content of unsaturated fatty acids in the meat. The other pasture variables, and characteristics of carcass and meat were not influenced by the treatments. The increase in nitrogen fertilization, from 100 to 200 kg/ha, and Arachis pintoi mixed with Aruana grass pasture overseeded with black oat and ryegrass does not affect the daily weight gain and the carcass and meat characteristics of the steers. The grass-legume mixture decreases the total concentration of unsaturated fatty acids in meat without influencing the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids.(AU)

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

ABSTRACT: Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Warm-climate, legume-grass forage mixtures versus grass-only swards: An ecosystem services comparison

Integrating warm-climate forage legumes into grass monocultures has received significant research attention during the past 70 years, but widespread adoption by end users has been elusive. The objectives of this review are to provide historical context regarding legume use in warm-climate grasslands; synthesize the current literature addressing contributions to grassland ecosystem services of warm-climate, grass-only vs. legume-grass mixed swards; and consider how to achieve more widespread adoption of legume technology in warm climates. For this review, warm-climate grasslands are considered those in areas between latitudes 30° N and 30° S, where C4 perennial grasses dominate. The literature suggests measurable advantages in animal performance, soil carbon accumulation, and nutrient cycling of legume-grass mixtures are most likely when grass-only swards receive little or no N fertilizer. Advantages are less or may disappear when mixtures are compared with grasses receiving high N fertilizer rates. In contrast, amelioration of greenhouse gas emissions is often most pronounced for mixtures when compared with grass-only swards receiving high rates of N, because of the magnitude of N fertilizer effects on emissions. Going forward, there is need to focus on selecting for, and thoroughly documenting legume persistence, achieving low-risk and affordable legume establishment methods, assessing compatibility of legumes in mixture with grasses prior to legume cultivar release, emphasizing adoption of both legume species and optimal management practices, and recognizing scientists must assume a larger and more intentional role in encouraging adoption by end-users of research innovations, in addition to our traditional role in technology and product development.(AU)

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Chemical composition of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage or storage length

This study aimed to assess the chemical responses of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stages or storage lengths, performing two experimental tests. In the first test, four maturity stages were assessed: 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after anthesis, with four replicates. In the second test, fruits were maintained under three storage lengths: T1D (harvest day), T3M (3 months after harvest), and T6M (6 months after harvest), with eight replicates. Experimental design was completely randomized in both experimental tests. Fruit maturity stage did not affect crude protein, total carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), pulp firmness, soluble solids content and total pectin content, but increased acid detergent fiber content from 45 days after anthesis. Storage length up to six months after harvest increased ash, crude protein and IVDMD, and reduced the content of soluble solids. Forage watermelon fruit can be harvested from 30 to 75 days after anthesis equivalent to 75 - 120 days after planting, and they can be stored under tree shade up to 6 months after harvest.(AU)

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Root system architecture and seed weight relations in forage pea (Pisum sativum ssp arvense L Poir) / Arquitetura do sistema radicular e relações de peso de sementes em ervilha forrageira (Pisum sativum ssp arvense L Poir)

Forage pea (Pisum sativum ssp. arvense (L.) Poir.) is an important legume crop for fresh and dry herbage production with high input costs as irrigation and fertilization. Selection and breeding of accessions for improved drought tolerance, water, and mineral uptake efficiency become a necessity, rather than a choice. This study evaluated a set of forage pea accessions for the seedling root system architecture diversity and seed reserve utilization, under controlled conditions. Eight cultivars and an elite breeding line were evaluated for the first time in a plexiglass system. The number and lengths of the roots in each depth zone (0, 5, 10, 15+ cm) were evaluated and significant diversity was identified. The cultivar Livioletta had the highest number of roots and total root length. There was a significant correlation between seed weight, seed reserve utilization ratio, and root system vigor. Accessions with the highest seed reserve utilization had the highest total root length and numbers. Seedling root system vigor seems to be effective in predicting the fate of the accessions through maturity. The results suggested a possibility of "seedling root selection" for forage crop breeding.

A ervilha forrageira (Pisum sativum ssp. arvense (L.) Poir.) é uma cultura leguminosa importante para a produção de forragem fresca e seca com alto custo de insumos como irrigação e fertilização. A seleção e reprodução de acessos para melhor tolerância à seca, eficiência de absorção de água e minerais tornam-se uma necessidade, ao invés de uma escolha. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar um conjunto de acessos de ervilha forrageira quanto à diversidade da arquitetura do sistema radicular de mudas e utilização de reservas de sementes, em condições controladas. Oito cultivares e uma linha de melhoramento de elite foram avaliados pela primeira vez em um sistema de plexiglass. O número e o comprimento das raízes em cada zona de profundidade (0, 5, 10, 15+ cm) foram avaliados e uma diversidade significativa foi identificada. A cultivar Livioletta apresentou o maior número de raízes e comprimento total de raízes. Houve uma correlação significativa entre o peso da semente, a taxa de utilização de reserva de semente e o vigor do sistema radicular. Os acessos com a maior utilização de reserva de sementes tiveram o maior comprimento e número total de raízes. O vigor do sistema radicular de mudas parece ser eficaz em predizer o destino dos acessos até a maturidade. Os resultados sugerem a possibilidade de "seleção de raízes de mudas" para o melhoramento da cultura forrageira.

Fermentation dynamics, nutritional quality, and heating capacity of mixed silages of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) and Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) / Dinâmica fermentativa, qualidade nutricional e capacidade de aquecimento de silagens mistas de capim elefante (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) e leucena (Leucaena leucocephala)

Leucaena has been used to make mixed silages to obtain nutritional enrichment of the silages. Thus, the inclusion of Leucaena as an additive in mixed elephant grass silages can reduce fermentation losses, and increase the nutritional value and aerobic stability of the mixed silage without changing the fermentation profile. This study evaluated the fermentation profile, nutritional composition, and aerobic stability of elephant grass silages combined with different levels of Leucaena. A total of five inclusion levels of Leucaena (0, 20, 40, 60, and 80% on a dry matter basis) were added to elephant grass silages. A completely randomized design was adopted, with 5 treatments and 3 repetitions, totaling 15 experimental silos that were opened after 30 days of sealing. Fermentation profile, chemical composition, and aerobic stability were analyzed. A descriptive analysis of temperature and pH peaks during aerobic stability was performed. The increase in the inclusion of Leucaena in the composition of silages reduced gas and effluent losses, neutral and acid detergent fiber, cellulose, lignin, total and fiber carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrients, and resulted in increased dry matter, ether extract, and crude protein. A quadratic effect of treatments was found for the temperature to reach the maximum pH (P=0.009). Aerobic stability remained constant after 40% Leucaena inclusion in the composition of elephant grass silages. The inclusion of Leucaena up to 80% in the composition of elephant grass silages reduces fermentation losses, promotes a nutritional increase, and increases the aerobic stability of the silages.(AU)

A leucena tem sido utilizada para a confecção de silagens mistas para o enriquecimento nutricional das silagens. Assim, a inclusão da leucena como aditivo em silagens mistas de capim-elefante pode reduzir as perdas fermentativas e aumentar o valor nutricional e a estabilidade aeróbia das silagens, sem alterar o seu perfil fermentativo. Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil fermentativo, composição nutricional e estabilidade aeróbia de silagens de capim elefante associadas com níveis crescentes de leucena. Um total de cinco níveis de leucena (0, 20, 40, 60 e 80% em base da matéria seca) foram incluídos em silagens de capim elefante. Adotou-se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com 5 tratamentos e 3 repetições, totalizando 15 silos experimentais, os quais foram abertos após 30 dias de ensilagem. Foram analisados o perfil fermentativo, a composição química e a estabilidade aeróbica. Foi realizada uma análise descritiva dos picos de temperatura e pH durante a estabilidade aeróbia. O aumento da inclusão da leucena na composição das silagens reduziu as perdas por gases, perdas por efluentes, fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido, celulose, lignina, carboidratos totais, carboidratos fibrosos e nutrientes digestíveis totais e aumentou os de teores de matéria seca, extrato etéreo e proteína bruta. Foi observado efeito quadrático dos tratamentos sobre a temperatura para atingir o pH máximo (P=0.009). A estabilidade aeróbia permaneceu constante a partir de 40% de inclusão de leucena na composição das silagens de capim elefante. A inclusão da leucena em até 80% na composição de silagens de capim elefante reduz as perdas fermentativas, promove incremento nutricional e aumento da estabilidade aeróbia das silagens.(AU)

Performance and milk quality of cows fed triticale silage or intercropped with oats or legumes

The use of intercropped grass legumes provides a source of sustainable animal production as these vegetables contribute to an increase in forage yield by area, and substitute inorganic nitrogen and other components. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional characteristics of silages and the yield and milk quality of Holstein cows fed triticale silages in monoculture or intercropped with either oats or legumes. The crops for silage production were triticale (TS), triticale in consortium with forage pea (TSP), and triticale in consortium with oats, forage peas and vetches (TSOPV). The silages showed no differences in dry matter content. The highest crude protein (13.06 %) and ethereal extract content was observed in TSOPV, but in the case of the latter, there was little difference when compared with TS (2.35 and 2.16 %, respectively) although the ash contents of the TSOPV and TSP silages did present a difference compared to TS silage. The neutral and acid detergent fibers (NDF and ADF) and cellulose fractions of TS silage were higher (68.60, 41.46 and 38.19 %, respectively) than those in TSOPV and TSP silages, which also had higher levels of soluble nitrogen, ethanol and acetic acid. Dry matter intake was higher in both TSOPV and TSP, which also provided a higher milk yield (21.19 and 20.45 L cow d−1) compared to that of TS silage (18.74 L cow d−1). Cows fed TS also produced milk with a lower N-ureic content (15.15 mg dL−1). The inclusion of legumes with triticale provided good fermentative quality for silage and increased milk production of cows without altering their concentrations of fat and protein.

Performance and milk quality of cows fed triticale silage or intercropped with oats or legumes

The use of intercropped grass legumes provides a source of sustainable animal production as these vegetables contribute to an increase in forage yield by area, and substitute inorganic nitrogen and other components. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional characteristics of silages and the yield and milk quality of Holstein cows fed triticale silages in monoculture or intercropped with either oats or legumes. The crops for silage production were triticale (TS), triticale in consortium with forage pea (TSP), and triticale in consortium with oats, forage peas and vetches (TSOPV). The silages showed no differences in dry matter content. The highest crude protein (13.06 %) and ethereal extract content was observed in TSOPV, but in the case of the latter, there was little difference when compared with TS (2.35 and 2.16 %, respectively) although the ash contents of the TSOPV and TSP silages did present a difference compared to TS silage. The neutral and acid detergent fibers (NDF and ADF) and cellulose fractions of TS silage were higher (68.60, 41.46 and 38.19 %, respectively) than those in TSOPV and TSP silages, which also had higher levels of soluble nitrogen, ethanol and acetic acid. Dry matter intake was higher in both TSOPV and TSP, which also provided a higher milk yield (21.19 and 20.45 L cow d−1) compared to that of TS silage (18.74 L cow d−1). Cows fed TS also produced milk with a lower N-ureic content (15.15 mg dL−1). The inclusion of legumes with triticale provided good fermentative quality for silage and increased milk production of cows without altering their concentrations of fat and protein.(AU)

Management of defoliation in Trifolium vesiculosum S. for the production of seeds / [Manejo da desfolha em Trifolium vesiculosum Savi para a produção de sementes]

The present study aims to determine the appropriate defoliation management for the production of seeds and forage in arrowleaf clover via trail analysis. The results obtained demonstrated that defoliation practices have a great influence on the composition of seed yield and germination power. In addition, when the goal is the maximum balance between dry matter production and seed yield, this can be achieved in up to two defoliation practices. These results are confirmed by analyzing the positive association between the weight of a thousand seeds and the seed yield. When the third defoliation practice is performed, it negatively correlates with the weight of a thousand seeds, suggesting that, with the increase in defoliation frequency, there is a lower weight of a thousand seeds, and, therefore, lower seed yield. Therefore, management planning in Trifolium vesiculosum Savi that aims at natural reseeding, maximum yield and seed germination must prioritize one to two defoliation practices, aiming to promote favorable conditions for the perennialization of the species. In this context, the trail analysis proved to be a useful tool as a criterion for obtaining the ideal management aiming at the production of seeds and forage in vesicular clover.(AU)

O presente estudo visa determinar o manejo de desfolha adequado para a produção de sementes e de forragem em trevo-vesiculoso via análise de trilha. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que as práticas de desfolha possuem grande influência na composição do rendimento de sementes e no poder germinativo. Além disso, quando o objetivo for o máximo equilíbrio entre a produção de matéria seca e o rendimento de sementes, esse pode ser alcançado em até duas práticas de desfolha. Esses resultados são confirmados ao se analisar a associação positiva entre o peso de mil sementes e o rendimento de sementes. Quando realizada a terceira prática de desfolha, esta se correlaciona negativamente com o peso de mil sementes, sugerindo que, com o aumento da frequência de desfolha, ocorre menor peso de mil sementes e, por conseguinte, menor rendimento de sementes. Portanto, o planejamento do manejo em T. vesiculosum Savi que objetive a ressemeadura natural, o máximo rendimento e a germinação de sementes deve priorizar até duas práticas de desfolha, visando promover condições favoráveis para a perenização da espécie. Nesse contexto, a análise de trilha demonstrou ser uma ferramenta útil como critério para obtenção do manejo ideal visando à produção de sementes e de forragem em trevo-vesiculoso.(AU)

Introduction of forage legumes into Aruana Guineagrass pasture / Introdução de leguminosas em pastagem de capim-Aruana pastejada por ovinos sob lotação intermitente

The experiment was developed at the Instituto de Zootecnia in Nova Odessa-SP. It was designed to evaluate forage mass, forage legumes ratio in the available forage mass and the transfer potential of the nitrogen fixed by the forage legumes to Aruana Guineagrass pasture grazed by lambs under intermittent grazing. The treatments consisted of the introduction of four accessions of forage legumes in the pasture of Megathyrsus maximum cv. Aruana and a treatment of Aruana Guineagrass pasture (without legumes), totalling five treatments. The Aruana Guineagrass pasture was established five years ago. The forage legumes treatments were: Neonotonia wightii NO 253 (Perennial soy NO 253), Neonotonia wightii NO 2348 (Perennial soy NO 2348), Macrotyloma axillare NO 279 (Macrotyloma legume) and Calopogonium mucunoides NO 1194 (Calapo legume). The experimental design was made up of random blocks with three replicates. The Calapo legume showed the lowest mean forage mass in the three seasons (400 kg/ha). The mean forage mass of the Perennial soy NO 253, Perennial soy NO 2348 and Macrotyloma legume did not show significant differences in the three seasons. Furthermore, the Calapo legume ratio in the pasture was the lowest in the total forage mass (13%) among the intercropped forage legumes (31.9% at 43.2%). Perennial soy NO 253, Perennial soy NO 2348 and Macrotylomalegume showed suitable ratio in the forage mass when intercropped with Aruana Guineagrass. These forage legumes also promoted the highest crude protein content in the Aruana Guineagrass. Thus, it is possible to advise the introduction of Perennial soy NO253, Perennial soy NO2548 or Macrotyloma legume in established Aruana grass pasture.

O experimento foi desenvolvido no Instituto de Zootecnia, em Nova Odessa-SP. Foi projetado para avaliar a massa de forragem, a proporção de leguminosas forrageiras na massa de forragem disponível e o potencial de transferência do nitrogênio fixado pelas leguminosas forrageiras para o pasto de capim Aruana, pastejados por cordeiros sob pastejo intermitente. Os tratamentos consistiram na introdução de quatro acessos de leguminosas forrageiras no pasto de Megathyrsus maximum cv. Aruanã e um tratamento de pasto de capim-aruana (sem leguminosas), totalizando cinco tratamentos. O pasto de capim Aruana foi estabelecido há cinco anos. Os tratamentos com leguminosas forrageiras foram: Neonotonia wightii NO 253 (Soja perene NO 253), Neonotonia wightii NO 2348 (Soja perene NO 2348), Macrotyloma axillare NO 279 (Macrotyloma legume) e Calopogonium mucunoides NO 1194 (Calopogônio). O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados com três repetições. A leguminosa Calopogônio apresentou a menor massamédia de forragem nas três estações (400 kg / ha). A massa média de forragem da soja perene NO 253, soja perene NO 2348 e leguminosa Macrotyloma não apresentou diferenças significativas nas três estações do ano (Tabela 1). Além disso, a proporção de Calopogônio no pasto foi a mais baixa na massa total de forragem (13%) entre as leguminosas forrageiras consorciadas (31,9% a43,2%). A soja perene NO 253, a soja perene NO 2348 e a leguminosa Macrotyloma apresentaram relação adequada na massa de forragem quando consorciadas com capim Aruana. Essas leguminosas forrageiras também promoveram o maior teor de proteína bruta no capim Aruana. Assim, é possível recomendar a introdução da soja perene NO253, soja perene NO2548 ou leguminosa Macrotyloma em pastagens estabelecidas de capim Aruana.

Introduction of forage legumes into Aruana Guineagrass pasture / Introdução de leguminosas em pastagem de capim-Aruana pastejada por ovinos sob lotação intermitente

The experiment was developed at the Instituto de Zootecnia in Nova Odessa-SP. It was designed to evaluate forage mass, forage legumes ratio in the available forage mass and the transfer potential of the nitrogen fixed by the forage legumes to Aruana Guineagrass pasture grazed by lambs under intermittent grazing. The treatments consisted of the introduction of four accessions of forage legumes in the pasture of Megathyrsus maximum cv. Aruana and a treatment of Aruana Guineagrass pasture (without legumes), totalling five treatments. The Aruana Guineagrass pasture was established five years ago. The forage legumes treatments were: Neonotonia wightii NO 253 (Perennial soy NO 253), Neonotonia wightii NO 2348 (Perennial soy NO 2348), Macrotyloma axillare NO 279 (Macrotyloma legume) and Calopogonium mucunoides NO 1194 (Calapo legume). The experimental design was made up of random blocks with three replicates. The Calapo legume showed the lowest mean forage mass in the three seasons (400 kg/ha). The mean forage mass of the Perennial soy NO 253, Perennial soy NO 2348 and Macrotyloma legume did not show significant differences in the three seasons. Furthermore, the Calapo legume ratio in the pasture was the lowest in the total forage mass (13%) among the intercropped forage legumes (31.9% at 43.2%). Perennial soy NO 253, Perennial soy NO 2348 and Macrotylomalegume showed suitable ratio in the forage mass when intercropped with Aruana Guineagrass. These forage legumes also promoted the highest crude protein content in the Aruana Guineagrass. Thus, it is possible to advise the introduction of Perennial soy NO253, Perennial soy NO2548 or Macrotyloma legume in established Aruana grass pasture.(AU)

O experimento foi desenvolvido no Instituto de Zootecnia, em Nova Odessa-SP. Foi projetado para avaliar a massa de forragem, a proporção de leguminosas forrageiras na massa de forragem disponível e o potencial de transferência do nitrogênio fixado pelas leguminosas forrageiras para o pasto de capim Aruana, pastejados por cordeiros sob pastejo intermitente. Os tratamentos consistiram na introdução de quatro acessos de leguminosas forrageiras no pasto de Megathyrsus maximum cv. Aruanã e um tratamento de pasto de capim-aruana (sem leguminosas), totalizando cinco tratamentos. O pasto de capim Aruana foi estabelecido há cinco anos. Os tratamentos com leguminosas forrageiras foram: Neonotonia wightii NO 253 (Soja perene NO 253), Neonotonia wightii NO 2348 (Soja perene NO 2348), Macrotyloma axillare NO 279 (Macrotyloma legume) e Calopogonium mucunoides NO 1194 (Calopogônio). O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos casualizados com três repetições. A leguminosa Calopogônio apresentou a menor massamédia de forragem nas três estações (400 kg / ha). A massa média de forragem da soja perene NO 253, soja perene NO 2348 e leguminosa Macrotyloma não apresentou diferenças significativas nas três estações do ano (Tabela 1). Além disso, a proporção de Calopogônio no pasto foi a mais baixa na massa total de forragem (13%) entre as leguminosas forrageiras consorciadas (31,9% a43,2%). A soja perene NO 253, a soja perene NO 2348 e a leguminosa Macrotyloma apresentaram relação adequada na massa de forragem quando consorciadas com capim Aruana. Essas leguminosas forrageiras também promoveram o maior teor de proteína bruta no capim Aruana. Assim, é possível recomendar a introdução da soja perene NO253, soja perene NO2548 ou leguminosa Macrotyloma em pastagens estabelecidas de capim Aruana.(AU)

Bees biodiversity, forage behavior and fruit production in gherkin crop (Cucumis anguria L)

The objectives were to evaluate the biodiversity of bees, forage behavior and their effect on fruit production in the gherkin crop (Cucumis anguria L.) in the campus of the University Center Moura Lacerda in two years. The frequency and type of collection of the insects in the flowers was observed by counting from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in the first 10 minutes of each time, for three distinct days in each year. The percentage of fruiting was quantified in 25 female flowers covered with nylon compared to the 25 female flowers uncovered in the two years. The flowers were visited by the Africanized honey bees Apis mellifera and the native bees Plebeia sp., Exomalopsis sp. and Melissodes sp., and the Africanized honey bees presented higher frequency and constancy with a higher number of visits in the male flowers compared to the female ones and these visits occurred between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Without the visitation of the bees there was no fruit production, and both the Africanized honey bee and the native ones when collecting nectar and pollen, visited both female and male flowers, carrying pollen in their body, being considered important pollinators of this culture.(AU)

Bees biodiversity, forage behavior and fruit production in gherkin crop (Cucumis anguria L)

The objectives were to evaluate the biodiversity of bees, forage behavior and their effect on fruit production in the gherkin crop (Cucumis anguria L.) in the campus of the University Center Moura Lacerda in two years. The frequency and type of collection of the insects in the flowers was observed by counting from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in the first 10 minutes of each time, for three distinct days in each year. The percentage of fruiting was quantified in 25 female flowers covered with nylon compared to the 25 female flowers uncovered in the two years. The flowers were visited by the Africanized honey bees Apis mellifera and the native bees Plebeia sp., Exomalopsis sp. and Melissodes sp., and the Africanized honey bees presented higher frequency and constancy with a higher number of visits in the male flowers compared to the female ones and these visits occurred between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Without the visitation of the bees there was no fruit production, and both the Africanized honey bee and the native ones when collecting nectar and pollen, visited both female and male flowers, carrying pollen in their body, being considered important pollinators of this culture.

Potential and restrictions of Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L. P. Queiroz as native forage in the Brazilian semi-arid region

Poincianella pyramidalis (catingueira) is a endemic plant of the Caatinga, selected by animals grazing on native pasture. With the aim of evaluating characteristics indicative of its nutritional quality, 10 plants were selected and identified, sampled at five different ages, were used to determine dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), mineral matter (MM), DM degradability (Deg DM), NDF degradability (Deg NDF) and in situ and in vitro leaf-tissue degradability. Phytochemical prospection was performed, and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance applied to detect the presence of secondary compounds. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukeys test at 5%, and correlation analysis was carried out on the variables for leaf maturity in days. The levels of CP, NDF and Deg NDF showed a negative correlation with the increases in leaf age. Leaf-tissue degradation was restricted due to a physical barrier developed in the leaf fragments, which can be attributed to plant defence mechanisms. The in situ degradability of the cell wall components decreased with the increase in leaf age. The high levels of tannins and lignin, and the strong presence of flavonoids, should be considered for their anti-nutritional and pharmacological potential.(AU)

Potential and restrictions of Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L. P. Queiroz as native forage in the Brazilian semi-arid region

Poincianella pyramidalis (catingueira) is a endemic plant of the Caatinga, selected by animals grazing on native pasture. With the aim of evaluating characteristics indicative of its nutritional quality, 10 plants were selected and identified, sampled at five different ages, were used to determine dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), mineral matter (MM), DM degradability (Deg DM), NDF degradability (Deg NDF) and in situ and in vitro leaf-tissue degradability. Phytochemical prospection was performed, and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance applied to detect the presence of secondary compounds. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey’s test at 5%, and correlation analysis was carried out on the variables for leaf maturity in days. The levels of CP, NDF and Deg NDF showed a negative correlation with the increases in leaf age. Leaf-tissue degradation was restricted due to a physical barrier developed in the leaf fragments, which can be attributed to plant defence mechanisms. The in situ degradability of the cell wall components decreased with the increase in leaf age. The high levels of tannins and lignin, and the strong presence of flavonoids, should be considered for their anti-nutritional and pharmacological potential.

Diagnostic fingerprints ISSR/SSR for tropical leguminous species Stylosanthes capitata and Stylosanthes macrocephala

Stylosanthes capitata Vogel and Stylosanthes macrocephala M.B.Ferreira & Sousa Costa are two forage leguminous species of agronomic importance for animal husbandry in tropical environments. The physical mixture of both species (80 % S. capitata and 20 % S. macrocephala) comprises the commercial cultivar Estilosantes Campo Grande. However, proximity of fields for seed production may contaminate seed lots, compromising seeds quality. The combined use of dominant and co-dominant molecular markers is an appropriate strategy to certificate genetic purity and perform diversity studies of cultivars. In this research, a set of ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat polymorphic DNA) and SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat polymorphic DNA) molecular markers were standardized to characterize S. capitata and S. macrocephala species and evaluate the genetic purity of commercial samples. Four ISSR markers (UBC 2, 864, 885, 886) and SSR marker SC18-01 G4B showed precise species-specific electrophoretic fingerprints for both species. Electrophoretic patterns of ISSR molecular markers should be displayed first to confirm the sample identification. The structure analysis showed that the less contaminated sample was S. capitata with 97 % of its genetic composition assigned to a single genetic cluster vs. 95 % for S. macrocephala. S. capitata has greater genetic diversity (ISSRHe:0.292; SSRHe:0.57) than S. macrocephala (ISSRHe:0.285; SSRHe:0.16); however, this difference was only significant with SSR molecular markers. As these genetic resources have considerable ecological, agronomic and economic importance, tools for accurate species identification and genetic studies are essential for further seed multiplication, as well as for improvement and conservation of cultivars.

Diagnostic fingerprints ISSR/SSR for tropical leguminous species Stylosanthes capitata and Stylosanthes macrocephala

Stylosanthes capitata Vogel and Stylosanthes macrocephala M.B.Ferreira & Sousa Costa are two forage leguminous species of agronomic importance for animal husbandry in tropical environments. The physical mixture of both species (80 % S. capitata and 20 % S. macrocephala) comprises the commercial cultivar Estilosantes Campo Grande. However, proximity of fields for seed production may contaminate seed lots, compromising seeds quality. The combined use of dominant and co-dominant molecular markers is an appropriate strategy to certificate genetic purity and perform diversity studies of cultivars. In this research, a set of ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat polymorphic DNA) and SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat polymorphic DNA) molecular markers were standardized to characterize S. capitata and S. macrocephala species and evaluate the genetic purity of commercial samples. Four ISSR markers (UBC 2, 864, 885, 886) and SSR marker SC18-01 G4B showed precise species-specific electrophoretic fingerprints for both species. Electrophoretic patterns of ISSR molecular markers should be displayed first to confirm the sample identification. The structure analysis showed that the less contaminated sample was S. capitata with 97 % of its genetic composition assigned to a single genetic cluster vs. 95 % for S. macrocephala. S. capitata has greater genetic diversity (ISSRHe:0.292; SSRHe:0.57) than S. macrocephala (ISSRHe:0.285; SSRHe:0.16); however, this difference was only significant with SSR molecular markers. As these genetic resources have considerable ecological, agronomic and economic importance, tools for accurate species identification and genetic studies are essential for further seed multiplication, as well as for improvement and conservation of cultivars.(AU)

Vigor of red clover seeds under salinity stress / Vigor de sementes de trevo vermelho submetidas a estresse salino

The accelerated aging test is a considerably important method for measuring the physiological potential of seeds. This study sought to apply the accelerated aging test to determine the vigor of red clover seeds of the Quiniquelli and Estanzuela 116 cultivars under water and salinity stress conditions. Accordingly, the seeds were aged for 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours at 42 °C in water and a saturated salt solution (40% NaCl) and then assessed by the accelerated aging test. The lengths of 15 normal seedlings from each of the four replicates for both cultivars were measured, and the seedlings dry mass (48 h/60 °C) was determined. After aging 12, 24, and 36 hours in a saturated salt solution, vigor was above the average of 84.5% for both cultivars. In the test conducted with water, 36 hours were enough to stress the seeds. The accelerated aging time that best represented the vigor of the seeds of the Quiniquelli and Estanzuela 116 cultivars was 48 hours at 42 °C in the saturated NaCl solution, thus being the most suitable for red clover seeds.

O teste de envelhecimento acelerado é de grande importância para expressar o potencial fisiológico das sementes. O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar o vigor de sementes de trevo vermelho das cultivares Quiniquelli e Estanzuela 116 pelo teste do envelhecimento acelerado sob estresse hídrico e salino.  Para tal, as sementes foram expostas a solução hídrica e salina com NaCl (40%) nos tempos de 12, 24, 36, 48 e 72 h a 42 °C e, em seguida, avaliadas pelo teste de envelhecimento acelerado. Foram medidos os comprimentos de 15 plântulas normais de cada uma das quatro repetições de ambas as cultivares e determinada a massa seca das plântulas (48 h /60 °C). Após 12, 24 e 36 h de envelhecimento em solução salina o vigor foi superior à média de 84,5% para ambas cultivares. No teste conduzido com água, o tempo de 36 h foi suficiente para estressar as sementes. O tempo de envelhecimento acelerado que melhor caracterizou o vigor de sementes das cultivares Quiniquelli e Estanzuela 116 foi o de 48 h sob temperatura de 42 °C com o uso de solução saturada de NaCl, sendo o mais indicado para as sementes de trevo vermelho.