Forages for ruminants
1993
Halim, R.A.
The majority of ruminants in the country rely on unimproved native grasses on uncropped land or in association with rice cultivation and tree crops. Over 90 percent of animals are reared by 150,000 small holder farmers who own between 0.3 to 2 ha of land where livestock production is usually a subsidiary activity to crops. Efforts at commercialization of the ruminant industry involved the introduction of exotic forage species and the opening up of large farms by the public sector. Over the last two decades much knowledge on the use of improved pasture species has been gained through research and experience. While animal productivity has increased with the greater input, the economic viability of livestock production based on sown pastures is doubtful. Use of native vegetation under tree crops offers a better prospect at increasing ruminant production. Feeding systems should be devised that make optimal use of native vegetation, sown forages and crop byproducts
显示更多 [+] 显示较少 [-]