The performance of cross-bred holstein heifer calves grazing tanner grass (Brachiaria radicans) pastures at two stocking rates and nitrogen levels.
1988
Thomas J.S. | Davis F.E. | Archibald K.A.E.
The experiment was a 2 x 2 factorial design comparing 2 levels of nitrogen fertilization: 400 kg N per hectare/yr (N1) and 800 kg N per hectare/yr (N2) at stocking rates of 8 animals per hectare (S1) and 12 animals per hectare (S2). Liveweight changes were recorded fortnightly. It was found that calves' performance in reaching breeding weight was poor and was partly attributed to the crude protein content which was below the level required for optimum growth. With respect to the herbage allowance per animal, it was observed that the animals of the lower stocking rate treatment had more forage available than those of the higher stocking rate treatment, however, there was similar quality herbage at both stocking rates. Thus the difference in performance of the animals at the two stocking rates was attributed to the herbage allowance per animal.
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