Agronomics Characteristics, Forage Mass and Nutritional Value of Brachiaria decumbens in a Silvopastoral System

Abstract

The agronomic traits and nutritive value of Brachiaria decumbens pasture were evaluated under three shade percentages (0.29% and 45%), provided by leguminous trees (Acacia angustissima, A. mangium, A. auriculiformis, Albizia lebbek e Gliricidia sepium), during winter, spring and summer seasons. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with three replications. The forage mass was positively influenced by shading, in spring and summer seasons. In winter, the higher forage mass was observed in full sunlight condition. The values of crude protein increased in spring with shading, but did not vary with shade percentage in winter and summer seasons. The crude protein quantity per area, obtained by product between forage mass and crude protein concentration, was higher under more intensive shading, in spring and summer seasons. Fiber detergent neutral content and in vitro dry matter digestibility did not present consistent variation with shading, in function of the strong interaction between this variable and season of the year.