The aim of the study was to evaluate the productive and reproductive performance of dual-purpose (DP) cows with a restricted concentrate allowance and access to a forage association of Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) and Stargrass (Cynodon nlemfuensis). Twenty-four multiparous Holstein × Zebu cows were used during the first 98 days postpartum. .97 ± 0.6, TL = 11.9 0.6) with a similar composition (P > 0.05). There were no differences (P > 0.05) between treatments for changes in live weight (CT −29.6 kg, LT −33.3 kg) and body condition (CT −1.3, LT −1.4, in a 1-9 scale). Population of ovarian follicles per cow was similar between treatments throughout the experiment. Pregnancy rate was 33% for CT and 25% for LT, with no significant differences (P > 0.05). Grazing an association of Leucaena and Stargrass can replace part of the concentrate without detrimental effects on production and reproduction in DP cows.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.