Effect of different periods of irrigation on growth and yield of Cenchrus ciliaris at semi-arid zone of North Darfur State, Sudan

Abstract

Buffel grass Cenchrus ciliaris L. (Poaceae) is recognized as one of Australia's most serious environmental weeds. This introduced grass has been associated with loss of native species and alteration of fire regimes. However, it is also highly valued as a pasture species for arid and semi-arid zones and its weed status is highly controversial. This study was conducted at the private farm, Southern part of Alfashir Airport, North Darfur State, Sudan. The objective was to evaluate the effect of different periods of irrigation (DPI) on growth and forage yield of Cenchrus ciliaris during years of 2018 and 2019. The experiment was laid-out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates, the plot size was 8x5 m. Data collected included plant density, plant ground cover, plant height and dry matter yield. DPI showed significant effect on plant density, plant ground cover, Plant height and dry matter yield. The study showed that irrigation every 7 days (Ir1) was suitable for buffel grass at semi-arid zone in Sudan. Quantitative studies are needed to determine its ecological effects.

Grazing intensity and its impact on plant performance at semi-arid zone of Sudan

“…Table (1) show the higher number of plants subjected to grazing was at level (III) with the percentage of 52.9% at the late of first season, this result may be due to shortage of rain fall and this lead to increase in grazing intensity and decrease in vegetation cover. This agreed with [12] they stated that palatable species has been subjected to selective grazing by the huge number of animals in addition to erratic rainfall reduces the number and densities of the palatable species. Also this result is consistent with those of Tatian et al; (2014) they stated that an increase in grazing intensity is correlated with a decrease of crown percentage, a change in plant composition, and a cut in vegetation coverage [13].…”