Problems and prospects for milk and beef production in the intermediate savannahs of Guyana
1982
Holder, N.L. | Smith, J.W. | Surujbally, R.S. (Livestock Development Company, Georgetown (Guyana))
The two main forages of the Savannahs are Trachypogon plumorus and Andropogon leucostachysus. They are characterized by a low crude protein content and deficiencies in phosphorus, calcium and zinc. In one experiment four pasture programmes were evaluated: (i) all improved pasture grazed on a year round basis; (ii) nature range supplemented with minerals; (iii) range supplemented with minerals and protein; (iv) a combination of improved pasture and range. In programme (i) the animals gained weight considerably under good management, programme (ii) was very responsive to seasonal changes in weather and similarly, but to a lesser extent, in programme (iii). Animals on programme (iv) showed satisfactory calving percentages. In another trial, Pangola grass was supplemented with various levels of copra meal, molasses/urea mixture and rice bran. There were significant differences (P0.05) in animal performances between treatments. With the exception of molasses/urea, animals showed significantly greater liveweight gains. In this area, traditional dairy farms are characterized by small herds, lack of improved pastures, little or no on-farm investment and fluctuating production pattern influenced by rice cultivation. Observation made at the Ebini and Mohlina dairies show natural calving peaks between September to November, seasonal fluctuations in milk production, high calf mortality and pasture development policies. Lack of infrastructure is a very major problem in the Savannahs.
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