Abstract:

The project aims to provide a sound scientific basis for using novel grasses, bred for high sugar content, using conventional breeding methods, in grassland-based agriculture. At certain times of the year, these grasses contain up to 400 g sugar kg-€. We propose to use these grasses, both grazed and ensiled, on their own, and in combination with protein-rich legumes, to improve the efficiency of ruminant production in sustainable livestock systems. The regional focus in northern Europe is the less-favoured rural, upland and alpine districts where high-energy forages such as forage maize cannot be grown. Preliminary work has shown that, throughout the year, grasses bred for elevated sugar content contain more sugar than the conventional varieties currently used in ruminant agriculture and that when used as feed, significant production responses and environmental benefits are achievable.

Contacts

Coordinator

• Michael K THEODOROU / Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research UNITED KINGDOM

Participant

• Padraig O'KIELY / Grange Research Centre, TEAGASC IRELAND
• Christian PAUL / Institute of Crop and Grassland Science Federal Agricultural Research Centre / GERMANY
• Lars NESHEIM / Norwegian Crop Research Institute NORWAY
• Jan BERTILSSON / Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) SWEDEN