Questions and Answers
What are the key characteristics of the vegetative stage of grass growth?
In the vegetative stage, tillers grow, stems remain compact, and older leaves die off.
How does the elongation stage of grass growth differ from the vegetative stage?
In the elongation stage, the stem develops and lengthens between the upper nodes, finishing when the seed head is about to form.
Explain the significance of Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD) in assessing grass quality.
DMD indicates the percentage of dry matter that can be digested by an animal, reflecting the nutritional value of the grass.
What role does palatability play in the effectiveness of grazing systems?
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Differentiate between biennial and perennial grass types in terms of growth patterns.
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What key factor differentiates permanent grassland from rough mountain grazing in terms of land treatment?
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How can the productivity levels of rough mountain grazing be improved?
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What is the primary agricultural use of leys in grazing systems?
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Explain the significance of nitrogen fixation in legumes within grazing systems.
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What differentiates biennial plants from perennial plants in grazing systems?
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Identify two characteristics of leys that affect their grazing management.
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Describe the botanical composition variability in rough mountain grazing and its impact on production levels.
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How does the fertilization and liming of permanent grassland affect its management?
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What role do hairy leaves and stems play in distinguishing clover types?
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What is the significance of nitrogen fixation in legumes like clover?
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What are the advantages of using paddock grazing as a grazing technique?
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Contrast biennial and perennial plants in terms of their longevity and growth cycles.
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Why is white clover considered less persistent compared to other types of clover?
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Explain how clover's high protein content benefits livestock.
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In what way do clover's growth habits assist in reducing the need for chemical fertilizers?
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Study Notes
Plant Characteristics
- High protein content makes it suitable for animal nutrition.
- Hairy leaves and stems differentiate it from smooth white clover.
- Roots and stolons help mat soil, reducing weeds and poaching.
- Less persistent compared to white clover but better for nitrogen fixation.
Managing a Multispecies Sward
- Stocking rate: Refers to livestock units per hectare (LU/ha).
Paddock Grazing
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Advantages:
- Most efficient use of grass resources.
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Disadvantages:
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Rough Mountain/Hill Grazing:
- Poor quality growth with peat soil complicating cultivation.
- Liming and reseeding can improve conditions.
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Permanent Grassland:
- Land is never ploughed; requires fertilization and liming for maintenance.
- Variable botanical composition affects quality.
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Leys:
- Temporarily sown for grazing; frequently reseeded.
- Limited variability in botanical composition but allows for high stocking rates.
- High production levels are achievable.
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Grass Growth Stages
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Vegetative:
- Tillers grow, stems remain compact, and older leaves die off.
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Elongation:
- Stems lengthen; occurs until the seed head is about to form.
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Reproduction:
- Seed head development occurs; glucose converts to fiber, strengthening the stem.
- Wind pollination aids in seed development.
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Best quality grass is during the vegetative stage due to maximum sugar content.
Key Definitions
- Palatability: Measure of grass tastiness.
- Productivity: Quantity of plant material produced.
- Digestibility: Ratio of assimilated food to total food consumed.
- Dry Matter (DM): Matter remaining after water removal from food.
- Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD): Percentage of dry matter that can be digested by animals.
- Dry Matter Intake (DMI): Quantity of feed consumed by animals, excluding water.
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Description
Test your knowledge on plant biology, including characteristics and benefits of various plants. This quiz focuses on the importance of plants in reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and their protein content. Explore the differences in physical traits such as hairiness and growth patterns.