Range Management and Agroforestry is the official journal of the Range Management Society of India. It is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal that publishes original research, reviews, and case studies in the fields of forages, rangeland and agroforestry systems. The journal aims to promote scientific innovations and practical solutions for enhancing the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of forages, rangelands and agroforestry practices.
Inheritance studies of Pyrenophora leaf spot resistance genes in oat (Avena sativa L.) crop
Oat is a hexaploid cultivated crop known for its usage as a fodder crop mainly, though being a dual purpose crop. Oats are affected by several abiotic and biotic stresses. Among them, foliar diseases like rust, leaf spot, smut, etc, are important and have threatened oat production. Pyrenophora leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that accounts for 40 to 50% yield losses in India. Keeping this in view, a study was conducted to identify the inheritance pattern of Pyrenophora leaf spot resistance genes by the previously developed F2 population involving resistant and susceptible parents. The population showed a minimum of 22% DSI and a maximum of 83% DSI. The result showed that populations derived from parents were separated into 114 resistant individuals and 26 susceptible individuals, fitting into a gene ratio of (13 resistant: 3 susceptible) which is less than a table value with non-significant deviation observed for the trait studied, indicating observed and expected distributions were not same. Further ratio indicated that inhibitory gene action was involved in governing it.
DSI, Gene postulation, Inheritance, Inhibitory action, Oat
Influence of bio-priming on seed quality and yield in berseem
An experiment was conducted in berseem with nine treatments and three replications viz., T1 (Control), T2 (Hydro-priming), T3 (Rhizobium), T4 (Phosphate solubilising bacteria), T5 (Endophyte), T6 (Azotobacter), T7 (Enterobacter), T8 (Rhizobium + Phosphate solubilising bacteria), T9 (Phosphate solubilising bacteria + Azotobacter) to record its seedling vigour and crop establishment in combination with microbial inoculants. Seeds were soaked in water (hydro-priming) and microbial solution (bio-priming) for 12 hours. The results revealed that bio-priming of berseem seeds significantly impacted seed yield and quality. Seed bio-priming with Azotobacter at 2 g/kg of seeds for 12 hours recorded significantly higher values for germination percentage (97.00%), shoot length (6.02 cm) and seedling vigour index (987) when tested for initial seed quality parameters before sowing. Whereas seed bio-priming with phosphate solubilising bacteria at 2 g/kg of seeds for 12 hours (T4) had significantly increased plant growth traits such as plant height (87.23 cm), branches per plant (52.33), leaf-to-stem ratio (0.74 g), green biomass at 60 DAS (232.62 g) and same treatment (T4) also recorded maximum values for seed yield contributing traits like number of heads (4.70), number of seeds (50.20), 1000-seed weight (3.05 g), seed yield per plant (0.67 g), net plot yield (0.15 kg) and seed yield per ha (193.11 kg). The change in seed yield/ plot over control was 66.67% during Rabi season at Dharwad.
Berseem clover, Bio-priming, Phosphate solubilising bacteria, Pseudomonas, Seed quality, Seed yield
Studies on correlation, path analysis and principal component analysis for yield, quality and seed parameters in forage sorghum
Character association studies are very important for developing improved cultivars in any crop. An experiment was planned to study the correlations and path coefficients between various green and dry fodder yields affecting morphological and quality traits in forage sorghum germplasm lines. The correlation and path analysis studies were carried out on 50 germplasm lines of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. Green fodder yield was found to be positively and significantly associated with plant height, leaf breadth, dry fodder yield, green fodder yield/plant/day, dry fodder yield/plant/day, crude protein yield, seedling length and seedling vigor index I. This indicated that selection based on these characters would undoubtedly enhance the fodder yield performance of forage sorghum genotypes. Path coefficient analysis showed that seed germination, green fodder yield, plant height and crude protein percent were important characteristics for the improvement of dry fodder yield in forage sorghum. The first six principal components (PCs) explained 76.28% of the total variability.
Correlation, Forage sorghum, Path analysis, Seed yield, Variability
Precision silviculture: optimization of water and nutrient scheduling for high-density tree plantation of Dalbergia sissoo
The study was conducted by applying the principles of precision silviculture to standardize optimal water and nutrient requirements. It also evaluated effects of balanced fertilization on tree physiology and analyzed distribution of nutrients in soil sub-surface using GIS technology, specifically SURFER 7 software in high density Dalbergia sissoo tree plantation. The plantation was given spacing of 3 x 2 meters in split plot design with three levels of irrigation viz., 100% pan evaporation (PE), 125% PE and 150% PE in main plots and three levels of fertigation regimes in subplots which consisted humic acid @ 62.5 l ha-1, 150:100:100 kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1 and humic acid @ 62.5 l ha-1 + 75:50:50 kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1. The study revealed that higher height (5.28 m), basal diameter (51.19 mm) and volume index were found in the treatment that received irrigation @ 125% PE and fertigation with the fertilizer dose of 150:100:100 kg N, P2O5, K2O ha-1 (I2F2). I2F2 Recorded improved photosynthetic rate (7.73 m mol.m-2 s-1), transpiration rate (8.83 m mol.m-2 s-1) and stomatal conductance (0.16 m mol.m-2 s-1). Maximum available nitrogen (190 kg ha-1), phosphorus (19.2 kg ha-1) and potassium (346 kg ha-1) were recorded at 30 cm lateral distance and the corresponding values were 188, 12.80, 362 kg ha-1 at 0 to 30 cm sub-surface soil at 7 months after plantation (MAP). The SURFER maps showed that the mobility of nutrient concentration in the sub-soil surface decreased as the distance from the plant increased. A significant increase in N P and K in soil was recorded in I2F2 as compared to fertigation with humic acid 62.5 l ha-1 and irrigation level @150% PE (I1F1).
Biometric parameters, Drip fertigation, Nutrient distribution, Physiological traits, Precision silviculture
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Sustainable forage cropping systems for round the year green fodder supply in irrigated subtropics of Jammu
Field experiments were conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 to evaluate various forage-based cropping systems for irrigated conditions of Jammu. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design and replicated thrice. Results showed that multicut sorghum + maize with root slips of napier planted on field boundaries in July recorded significantly highest green forage yield which was though statistically at par with multicut sorghum + maize with root slips of Setaria planted on field boundaries in July followed by multicut sorghum + maize with stem cuttings of napier planted on field boundaries in January and multicut sorghum + maize with stem cuttings of Setaria planted on the field boundaries in January during kharif season. In rabi season, berseem + oat with root slips of napier planted on field boundaries in July was found to be significantly superior than other treatments. Multicut bajra + maize - berseem + barley with stem cuttings of napier planted on field boundaries in January recorded higher system productivity which was at par with the treatment multicut bajra + cowpea - berseem + oat with stem cuttings of napier planted on field boundaries in January.
Annual fodder, Cropping system, Legumes, Perennial grasses, System productivity
Agroforestry area mapping using medium resolution satellite data and object-based image analysis
Agroforestry is gaining increased attention within global policy processes and has been promoted as a strategy for working towards better food security, climate change adaptation and mitigation and livelihood resilience. With this gaining importance of agroforestry, site-specific studies are required to delineate different agroforestry systems and estimate the exact area under agroforestry. In this study remote sensing and GIS techniques were used for the estimation of area under agroforestry using medium-resolution satellite (sentinel 2A and 2B) data. Agroforestry area classification and estimation were done in e-Cognition developer software (10.0 version) through multiresolution segmentation and object-based image analysis (OBIA). The agroforestry area estimated in the erstwhile Warangal district was 3753 ha with an overall accuracy of 86% and a kappa coefficient of 0.84. The major agroforestry systems observed in the erstwhile Warangal district were eucalyptus, subabul, malabar neem, teak, sandalwood and red sanders.
Copyright (c) 2024 Range Management and Agroforestry
Nutritional evaluation and comparison of extraction processes of parota [Enterolobium cyclocarpum (Jacq.) Griseb. Mimosaceae] almonds
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different forms of mechanical extraction and treatment on the composition and nutritional value of parota almonds. The composition of raw, cooked, roasted and sprouted almonds was analyzed. The yield of recovered seeds was evaluated by comparing it with a hammer mill or manually. Three treatments were reevaluated with the dryer designed with processing times of 15, 30 and 60 minutes at 40°C. The germinated parota had a higher protein content (39.17%) followed by crude parota almond (34.9%). Thus it was feasible to take advantage of mechanical processing of parota almond for use as a potential protein resource for animal feeding.
Genetic diversity and response to selection for yield and component traits in selected F4 and F5 progenies of oat
The present study was planned to record the response to selection and extent of genetic diversity in selected F4 and F5 generation progenies, which were derived from seven crosses of oats. The F4 and F5 progenies were evaluated in randomized block design over three replications during Rabi, 2019-20 and Rabi, 2020-21, respectively at the Experimental Farm of Fodder Section, CSKHPKV, Palampur. The utmost response to selection was depicted by grain yield per plant, fresh fodder yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index, leaves per plant and plant height in most of the crosses. Hence, improvement through selection could be based on these traits. PCA studies revealed that the first five components accounted for more than 80% of the total variance among the progenies. Four PC in F4 and five PC in F5 generation possess eigen values > 1. The first principal component, i.e., PC1 accounted for the maximum proportion of total variability in the set of all variables, i.e., 36.97% and 30.29% in both F4 and F5 generations, respectively. The dendrogram showed that 34 genotypes of oat were grouped into three clusters in F4 generation and 33 genotypes from F5 into eight clusters. On the basis of divergence and cluster mean studies, it was suggested that maximum heterosis and good recombinants could be obtained in crosses between progenies of clusters II and III from F4 generation and clusters I, V, VII from F5 generation.
Cluster, Oat, Principal component analysis, Quality, Selection response
Enhancing fodder biomass and mitigating climate change in Central India’s semi-arid zones through silvipastures
Fodder production, biomass carbon storage and the oxygen release potentials of the silvipasture system consisting of Acacia nilotica, Ficus infectoria, Morus alba and Leucaena leucocephala integrated with grass species Megathyrsus maximus and Chrysopogon fulvus along with fodder legume Stylosanthes seabrana were evaluated. Among trees/shrubs, at the age of 12 years, F. infectoria yielded (Mg ha-1) highest green fodder (5.72) followed by L. leucocephala (5.01), A. nilotica (3.93) and M. alba (2.87). Among pasture species, M. maximus yielded (Mg ha-1) the highest green fodder (31.13), followed by C. fulvus (22.10) and legume S. seabrana (4.75). The system stored 7.51 to 20.80 Mg C ha-1 in its biomass, amounting to 27.56 to 76.34 Mg ha-1of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) and besides this, the system also released 20.05 to 55.54 Mg ha-1 of oxygen under various tree/shrub+ grass/legume combinations. Thus, silvipasture systems with F. infectoria + M. maximus (fodder: 36.85 Mg/ha; carbon stock: 13.61 Mg C ha-1; oxygen released: 36.34 Mg ha-1); A. nilotica + M. maximus (fodder: 35.06 Mg ha-1; carbon stock: 18.66 Mg C ha-1; oxygen released:49.82 Mg ha-1); F. infectoria + C. fulvus (fodder: 27.82 Mg ha-1; carbon stock: 13.78 Mg C ha-1; oxygen released:36.79 Mg ha-1) and A. nilotica + C. fulvus (fodder: 26.03 Mg ha-1; carbon stock: 20.80 Mg C ha-1; oxygen released: 55.54 Mg ha-1) are ideal system for fodder as well as environmental security in degraded lands of semi-arid India.
Silvipasture, fodder security, Carbon sequestration, oxygen released, degraded landscapes, semiarid India
Effect of intercropping and zinc management on weed density and fodder yield in oats
A study was conducted to investigate the effect of intercropping and zinc application on weed density and forage yield in the Bundelkhand region during the Rabi season of 2020-2021 at the Research Farm of Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi. The experiment comprised eight treatments with sole cropping of oat (CS1) and intercropping of oat with berseem (CS2)] in the main plot and four nutrient management practices [control (NM1), recommended dose of fertilizers RDF (NM2), recommended dose of fertilizers with zinc sulfate (NM3) and recommended dose of fertilizers with nano zinc (NM4)] in sub-plots in split plot design. The results showed that the weed density (150 m-2) and weed biomass (26.1 g m-2) in CS2 was found significantly lower than CS1 (186 m-2 and 34.5 g m-2, respectively). NM4 treatment had significantly lower weed density (158 m-2) and weed biomass (25.6 g m-2) than NM3 (215 m-2 and 45.13 g m-2) and NM2 (175 m-2 and 25.6 g m-2) among nutrient management practices. Also, intercropping + RDFnZn treatment produced significantly the highest green fodder yield (57.3 t ha-1) when compared to the rest of the treatments
Diverse nitrogen fertilization effects on fodder yield and quality of oat
A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2020-21, to assess the effect of diverse nitrogen fertilization on growth, yield and quality of fodder oat. The experiment consisted of seven treatments viz., control (no N); a recommended dose of N (RDN); 50% N through fertilizer + 50% N through FYM; 50% N through fertilizer + 50% N through vermicompost; 50% N through fertilizer + two sprays of nano-urea; two sprays of nano-urea; site-specific nitrogen management (SSNM). Results showed that diverse nitrogen fertilization brought considerable improvement in the growth, productivity and fodder quality of oats. Application of 50% RDN through fertilizer + 50% N through vermicompost produced significantly the highest green (61.1 t/ha) and dry fodder yields (10.19 t/ha), which were at par with all other treatments except two sprays of nano urea and control. The increase in green and dry fodder yield was 92.8 and 87.2% over control. Furthermore, the highest CP content (12.1%) and CP yield (1212 kg/ha) were obtained under SSNM, which was at par with all other treatments except control and two sprays of nano-urea. However, a reverse trend was observed in acid detergent fiber. The study suggested that integrated use of fertilizer and organic manure could be applied in oats to get higher fodder yield and quality.
Floral diversity and nutritional value of forages in Pulikulam cattle breeding tract
Documenting the floral diversity in the Pulikulam cattle breeding tract (Sivaganga, Madurai and Virudhunagar districts in Tamil Nadu) and the nutrient content of predominant forages were important for maintaining Pulikulam cattle under zero input grazing system of management. Hence, a study was carried out to document the forage biomass, botanical composition, and nutritional profile of the forages present in the Pulikulam cattle breeding tract. The number of edible forage species other than shrubs and trees documented in the grazing tract at Sivaganga, Madurai and Virudhunagar districts was 10, 8 and 9, respectively. Pennisetum clandestinum recorded significantly (p <0.05) highest biomass (133.25, 148.25 and 115 g/m2) and botanical composition (31.32, 34.99, and 26.31%) in all the districts. Variability was observed in proximate principles, fiber fractions and mineral contents between forages. Zinc was not detectable in Aristida setacea and both zinc and copper were not in detectable levels in Echinochloa colona.
Understanding mode of gene action governing green forage yield and its component traits in pearl millet
Understanding the genetic control of forage yield and related traits can decide breeding strategies for high-biomass cultivars. In this study, generation mean analysis was used to evaluate gene effects and non-allelic interactions for forage yield and its component traits in pearl millet using two experimental crosses developed by using two high-yielding inbreds IP 18168 and IP 22419 and their six generations (P1, P2, F1, BC1, BC2 and F2) were independently evaluated during Kharif season 2022. Significant variability and the inadequacy of an additive-dominance model highlighted the role of epistasis, with additive × dominance interactions prominent for forage yield and plant height. Dominance and epistatic effects were also crucial for traits like leaf and internode number, leaf length and leaf width. These findings indicated one or two generations of selfing followed by recurrent selection in advanced generations will be useful in enhancing the frequency of genes with increasing effects on green forage yield. Our findings could be helpful in designing the forage pearl millet breeding programs in India.
Epistasis, Forage pearl millet, Gene effects, Generation mean analysis, Green forage yield
Seasonal incidence, biology and management of fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda, J.E. Smith) on fodder maize
Seasonal incidence of fall army worm in maize at Dharwad indicated its occurrence both in kharif and rabi seasons. The incidence was more during the kharif season. Highest incidence of 50% was noticed during last week of August and second peak incidence of 30% was noticed during last week of December. Correlation between seasonal incidence of fall army worm and weather parameters indicated that there was a significant negative correlation with the rainfall (-0.60**) and morning humidity (-0.50*). Biology of fall army worm indicated that it completed its total life cycle in 31-44 days on maize comprising of six larval instar stages. Among the entomo-pathogens tested against the fall army worm, Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi (2 x 108 cfu/g) was found to be superior and it was at par with neem formulation (azadirachtin 3000 ppm) @ 5ml/l.
Novel multiple gynoecium genotype in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.)
A novel fodder sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) genotype (EC484238) with multiple gynoecium has been identified at ICAR-IGFRI, Jhansi for the first time in India. The floral microscopic study of this novel genotype revealed that female mega-gametophyte produced multiple gynoecium ranging from two to six, instead of one as in normal sorghum genotypes with bi-feathery stigma on each ovary. These multiple ovaries succeeded to produce viable twin or triplet seeds per spikelet per panicle. The twin and triple seed ratio ranged from 97-99% and 1-3%, respectively per panicle. This unique sorghum genotype might be a homeobox mutant which could shed light on the genetic regulation and control mechanisms governing the development of floral structure in sorghum as well as in other grasses of the Poaceae family. Multi-ovary sorghum has the obvious advantage of the increased number of seeds per panicle, thereby potentially increasing the seed yield. The novel genotype might be used in future fodder sorghum breeding programmes and will have more significance for the development of dual purpose fodder sorghum.
Impact of different silvipastoral systems on understorey vegetation and soil properties
The present investigation was carried out in seven different silvipastoral systems viz. T1 -Cedrus deodara, T2 - Robinia pseudoacacia, T3 - Cupressus torulosa, T4 - Prunus armeniaca, T5 - Ailanthus altissima, T6 - mixed plantations and T7 - grassland (control) of Sindh range, Ganderbal Forest Division, Kashmir Province. It aimed 7 to assess floristic composition of different plantations and their impact on understorey vegetation and soil nutrients. The results revealed that 12 shrub and 43 herb species were found in all these systems. Cyanodon dactylon was the dominating species under grassland (control), Ailanthus altissima and Cupressus torulosa plantations. Oxalis acetosella was dominating under Cedrus deodara plantations. Lolium perenne was dominating species under mixed stand, Robinia pseudoacacia and Prunus armeniaca plantations. Maximum available nitrogen was recorded in T2 Robinia pseudoacacia plantation (363.76 kg ha-1 ), whereas the highest values for phosphorus and potassium (23.44 kg ha-1 and 312 kg ha-1 respectively) were recorded in T - 5 Ailanthus altissima plantation. Maximum soil organic carbon and electrical conductivity (2.14% and 0.51 dSm-1, respectively) was recorded in T - plantation. pH in different plantation types followed the 5 Ailanthus altissima trend of T7 >T5 >T4 >T6 >T2 >T1 >T3 plantations.
Fodder and fruit production for livelihood security in agri-horticultural system: an on-farm study
On-farm field trial was conducted under rainfed conditions of Jammu region for three consecutive years with fodder crops taken as intercrops in agri-horticultural systems. Fodder crops (maize and bajra) were integrated with Eureka lemon (Lemon) or Kinnow mandarin (Kinnow). Multipurpose trees (MPTs) were also planted on the borders of the field. The study indicated enhanced growth of citrus along with maize and bajra as intercrops. Maize and bajra crops provided both green and dry fodder along with grain for human consumption, thus providing extra income to the farmer from same land unit. Net returns as well as B:C ratio were higher when bajra was intercropped either with Eureka lemon (Lemon) or Kinnow mandarin (Kinnow) as compared to maize iintercropping. Intercropping of maize and bajra also showed remarkable effect on fruit size (length and diameter) and fruit quality (total soluble solids, reducing sugar, total sugar and ascorbic acid). The weight and size of K. mandarin and E. lemon fruits were more when intercropped with bajra and maize in comparison to sole fruit trees. The multipurpose trees on the border areas of the farm helped to save land and increase cropping area.
Role of traditional feeding practices in solving forage inadequacy issue in sub-mountainous Punjab, India
An on-farm study was conducted to record the role of traditional livestock feeding practices, particularly the role of tree leaves in fulfilling the fodder requirement of dairy animals in 'low-input and low-output' systems of sub mountainous zone of Indian Punjab. Findings of the study were based on primary data of mixed farms equally spread over different farm size groups of randomly selected district Hoshiarpur from sub-mountainous zone of Punjab state. The study highlighted that the supplementation of tree leaves in addition to cultivated fodder helped the small and medium farmers to attain the adequacy of green fodder. During the summer season, tree leaves, on an average, improved the green forage DM availability at small farms by 128.0% (1.89 to 4.31 kg/d/ACU) and at medium farms by 70.6% (2.69 to 4.59 kg/d/ACU). In the winter season, the corresponding percentage for small and medium farms stood at 112.8 and 76.0%, respectively. The study further enunciated that fodder utilization/ACU on fresh basis was statistically higher in large farms, while in terms of dry matter (DM), fodder utilization was statistically at par for all selected landholding categories. Following the traditional practice of supplementing tree leaves with cultivated fodder (scenario 2), the proportion of farms (irrespective of size) with adequate fodder was recorded at 62.2% in summer season and 88.9% in winter season in comparison to 26.7 and 40.0% in hypothetical case of relying only on cultivated fodders (scenario 1).
Effect of feeding Moringa oleifera dried leaves on growth performance, blood biochemical status and economy of production in Barbari goats
A three-months feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of feeding Moringa oleifera leaves as replacement to concentrate in the ration of growing goat. Eighteen female Barbari goats of uniform age and conformation (16.65 ± 1.20 kg; 11 to 13 months) were divided randomly into three groups. The animals in control group (T1 ) were fed basal diet consisting of roughage and concentrate in equal proportion, whereas in treatment groups T2 and T3 the concentrate mixture was partially replaced with dried Moringa oleifera leaves at 05% and 10% levels, respectively. Significantly (P<0.01) higher average daily feed intake was recorded in T3 group compared to T and T groups. Mean daily body weight gain was significantly (P<0.01) higher in T3 group, than T2 and T1 . The biochemical parameters showed significant (P<0.01) lowering in blood cholesterol in T3 and a significant (P<0.05) elevation in total protein and globulin at the end of experiment. The cost-benefit analysis of dietary treatment showed that it was 0.79, 0.83 and 1.02 for T1 , T2 and T3 , respectively. It was concluded that dried Moringa oleifera leaves could replace up to 10% of concentrate in growing goats without impairing their performance and health status, while reducing the cost of feed.
Yield and nutritive value of local races of grasses and legumes to rejuvenate pastures for sustaining livestock productivity in sub-Himalayan region of India
Improved local races of 8 grasses and 5 legumes were evaluated for forage yield and nutritional characteristics for introduction in sub-Himalayan pastures. Forage yield was higher for Phalaris aquatic-PA in grasses and Onobrychis viciifolia-OV in legumes. Grasses had low (P<0.05) CP and more NDF, ADF and cellulose than legumes. Grasses had higher (P<0.05) tCHO except Trifolium pretense-TP, while legumes had higher non structural carbohydrates-NSC. Lignin bound carbohydrate fraction (Cc ) was higher in legumes except Phleum pretense-PP and Festuca rubra-FR. Protein fraction P (NPN) was lower (P<0.05) in grasses. Grasses and A legumes had lowest contents of rapidly degradable protein fraction (PB1 ). Grasses and legumes differed (P<0.05) in gross energy and digestible energy and legumes had higher total digestible nutrients (TDN) except Bromus unioloides-BU. Truly digestible non fibrous carbohydrates (tdNFC) and tdCP of legumes were higher (P<0.05) than grasses. Legumes TR, Medicago sativa-MS and Coronilla varia-CV had higher (P<0.05) digestible DM (DDM) except Festuca arundinacea-FA (59.38) and BU (60.78%). Dry matter intake (DMI) and relative feed value (RFV) were higher (P<0.05) for legumes. Neutral detergent fiber and cellulose were negatively correlated (P<0.01) with TDN, energy and DDM, RFV, DMI, tdNFC and tdCP. PB1 and moderately degradable protein fraction (PB2 ) were positively correlated (P<0.01) with RDP, while lignin bound protein fraction (Pc ) was negatively associated with TDN, energy and DDM. The NSC was positively associated with TDN, energy, DDM, RFV, DMI and tdCP. Variability in nutritional characteristics of grasses and legumes signify their potential to rejuvenate pastures to improve livestock production.
Evaluation of maize hybrids and composites for fodder yield and ensiling quality
There are number of hybrids and composites in maize which are used for silage making by farmers. The objective of the present study was to find out the promising high yielding and better-quality silage cultivar. A study was undertaken during, Rabi 2019-20 and Kharif 2020 in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications consisting of 13 maize hybrids and three composites. The African Tall recorded significantly higher plant height (333.39 cm), number of leaves/plant (13.83) and green fodder yield (51.92 t/ha) compared to all other hybrids and composites. While dry matter yield was higher in maize hybrids, P 3401(16.85 t/ha) followed by DMRH 1410 (15.45 t/ha). Crude protein yield (1.09 t/ha) was also higher in P 3401 followed by PMC 6 and P 3396 (1.01 t/ha). The pH of silage in all maize genotypes was in acceptable range. NDF content varied from 49.48 to 55.11% and 53.19 to 59.39% in green fodder and silage stage, respectively. ADF content varied between 24.45 to 28.55% in green fodder and 28.74 to 33.34% in silage. But difference was found nonsignificant for both NDF and ADF in silage and green fodder. Based on this study, African Tall, P 3401 and DMRH 1410 were identified as promising maize genotypes for higher biomass yield and quality silage preparation for ruminant animals.
Development of tractor operated front mounted grass seed harvester
In order to increase the productivity of grasslands and rangelands, grass seed collection from large fields is required. Manual grass seed collection is a labor and time consuming operation. A tractor operated grass seed harvester was developed keeping in view the requirements of common grasses used as feed material in Indian context. This grass seed harvester was made using nylon brushes arranged in specific fashion on a rotating cylinder and a winding reel in front of rotating cylinder to collect seed from the grasses standing in the fields where tractor can operate. The specific features of this machine were variable speed of rotating cylinder brush, special arrangement of brushes on the cylinder to carry the detached seed into the seed box, variable height of operation and front mounting of the machine on tractor. This machine was tested for seed collection in Pennisetum pedicellatum (Dinanath grass) and Cenchrus cilliaris (Anjan grass). Seed collection capacity of the machine was 4.24 to 7.12 kg/h in Dinanath grass during 2nd operation and 2.10 to 3.56 kg/h in Anjan grass at the full maturity in two passes of the machine in to and fro direction. The field capacity of seed collection operations ranged from 0.21 to 0.47 ha/h.
Evaluating growth attributes and soil heath under long term implementation of organic farming in fodder cowpea
A study was conducted to evaluate the impact of organic and conventional production system on fodder cowpea growth and soil health. This study was conducted in a farmers field of Erode, Tamil Nadu in a randomized block design with three replications. For the study, six farmers' fields involving organic (ORG) practices and one conventional (CON) production system were selected. Soil and plant samples were collected at the time of harvest and analyzed for growth, and soil health parameters. The results revealed that significant differences were found in the growth parameters of fodder cowpea among the organic and conventional production system. The analyzed chemical properties viz., soil reaction, electrical conductivity (EC), macro nutrients, and biological indicators viz., soil organic carbon (SOC), organic matter (SOM), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), culturable microbes, and yield were found to be higher in organically managed soils than the conventional farming method.
Seed yield response of fodder oat varieties to row spacing and seed rate in north-west parts of India
Oat (Avena sativa L.) is an important rabi cereal fodder crop of north-west India. Recently, a number of fodder oat varieties have been released in country-wide adaptability. However, limited information on optimal row spacing and seed rate for these fodder oat varieties in seed production system is available especially in the north-western parts of the country, where it is primarily grown for fodder purpose. Hence, field experiments were conducted during winter season from 2016-17 to 2019-20 to evaluate the effects of row spacing and seed rate on growth, yield attributes and seed yield of two fodder oat varieties. When averaged across years, there was 10.4% increase in oat seed yield with 30 cm row spacing over 20 cm row spacing. Higher oat seed yield in wide rows during all the years of the study was mainly attributed to more number of effective tillers, seed per panicle and panicle length. The 1000-seed weight, however, remained unaffected by the row spacing. An increase in seed rate from 37.5 to 62.5 kg/ha resulted in a decrease in seed yield and various yield attributes. However, there was no significant interaction between row spacing and seed rate for seed yields. In conclusion, for reaping maximum oat seed yield, the fodder oat varieties should be planted at 30 cm row spacing and with 37.5 kg/ha seed rate.
Influence of detopping practices on green fodder availability, seed yield and economics of fodder maize (Zea mays L.) in central and southern plateau regions of India
The unavailability of adequate quality seeds and green fodder during the lean period together affects livestock productivity in the country. Hence, it is necessary to assure the availability of quality seeds for sowing and green fodder to feed the livestock. To study this, field experiments were conducted on fodder maize at two locations in the country. Treatments included four detopping (DT) practices viz., T1 : no DT, T2 : DT at 10 days after (DA) 50% silking, T3 : DT at 20 DA 50% silking and T4 : DT at 30 DA 50% silking. Results demonstrated that DT at 10, and 20 DA 50% silking is not advisable in fodder maize for seed production as it considerably reduced the biomass accumulation (252.4-254.5 g/plant) and leaf relative water content (44.79-63.95%). However, no DT produced the highest growth attributes and green fodder yield followed by DT at 30 DA 50% silking which was at par with no DT regarding 100 seed weight (23.01 g) and seed yield (2725 kg/ha) with an additional green fodder yield (3245 kg/ha). Thus, no DT followed by DT at 30 DA 50% silking favored the economics of fodder maize seed production (gross return, net return, and benefit-cost ratio). Regarding locations, Dharwad (Karnataka) outperformed Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh) regarding growth, seed yield attributes, and the economics of fodder maize. Therefore, DT at 30 DA 50% silking could supply additional green fodder (3245 kg/ha) with a 14% compromise in the seed yield of fodder maize.
Non-chemical management of stem rot disease of Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.)
Stem rot of Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) is considered as one of the major constraints for green fodder and seed yield. Berseem stem rot is incited by a soil borne pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Botanical extracts of Aegle marmelos, Melia azedarach, Murraya koenigii, neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and organic products like panchagavya, compost tea and poultry manure were evaluated for the management of stem rot disease. Botanical extracts were applied as foliar spray and seed treatment as well and organic inputs were applied as soil application and foliar spray. Among botanicals, application of A. marmelos showed a significant reduction in stem rot by 54.50% with 24.20% increase in green fodder yield. Among organic inputs, application of panchagavya significantly controlled the stem rot disease by 46.15% and enhanced the green fodder yield by 21.30% than untreated control. Application of panchagavya followed by A. marmelos leaf extracts along with significant disease control also enhanced green fodder yield during both seasons. Average disease control attained by application of panchagavya and A. marmelos was 54.50 and 46.15% and enhanced green fodder yield was 24.20 and 21.30%, respectively. The current study showed that plant extracts and organic inputs have potential for the management of stem rot of berseem.
Effect of date of sowing and weather factors on infestation of Atherigona soccata (Rondani) and yield parameters of forage sorghum
Ecofriendly strategies for the management of sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata helps in addressing the issues related to insecticides load on forage crop. The present study was carried out to know the suitable date of sowing on damage indices of sorghum shoot fly and green fodder yield in sorghum. The staggered sowing technique at a different time intervals was used, starting from 2nd fortnight of March (12th SMW) to 1st fortnight of July (27th SMW). Oviposition in terms of eggs per 10 plants and dead heart percentage was recorded to be low in 18th SMW (1st fortnight of May) sown crop (eggs: 6.66 and dead heart: 25.46%), but it was found to be highest in 1st fortnight of July (27th SMW) sown crop (eggs: 21.95 and dead heart: 65.45%). The correlation of shoot fly infestation in relation to weather parameters revealed that egg load and dead hearts were negatively correlated with maximum temperature and positively correlated with minimum temperature, relative humidity and rain fall. Green fodder yield was recorded to be highest and lowest for the crop sown on 18th SMW (409 q/ha) and 27th SMW (302 q/ha), respectively. The study indicated that 1st fortnight of May was the best time to escape from the sorghum shoot fly attack.
Variability, character association and genetic divergence studies in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (l.) Walp] genotypes
The present experiment comprised of 46 cowpea genotypes to estimate genetic variability, interrelation among 13 quantitative characters and genetic divergence during Kharif 2020. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for the characters viz., seed yield per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, plant height, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and high genetic advance as per cent of mean (GAM) were observed in seed yield per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant and plant height. Seed yield per plant was found positively and significantly correlated with pods per plant, seeds per pod, pods per cluster, pod length and 100 seed weight. Path analysis revealed that number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant and 100 seed weight would be selected as important characters towards seed yield as they showed a high positive direct effect on seed yield. D2 analysis revealed that all the genotypes were grouped into seven distinct clusters. Cluster V had the maximum intra-cluster distance. The crossing among the genotypes of clusters V and VII, II and V, III and VI would result in novel recombinants as they showed high inter-cluster distance. Increased contribution to the divergence was found for the characters like plant height, seed yield per plant, number of clusters per plant and days to 50% flowering. Cluster V was found to be best performing for agronomic characters, followed by Cluster VI and Cluster III. Cluster II was best performing for nutritional value and earliness.
Elucidation of molecular variability among Pyricularia grisea isolates causing blast disease in forage pearl millet
Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is an important nutri-cereal for humans and a forage crop for livestock. It is the only cereal crop that is proficient in adopting punitive climate conditions and peripheral soil. The blast disease caused by Pyricularia grisea is a major problem in pearl millet, causing significant losses in high-yield hybrids/varieties grown for fodder. Blast disease is a major biotic threat in the cultivation of pearl millet in northern Madhya Pradesh, especially Gwalior, Morena, Bhind and Sheopur. In this investigation, we studied eight isolates of P. grisea that cause pearl millet blast disease. We used RAPD and ISSR molecular markers to assess their morphology, pathogenicity and genetics. Mycelium growth was investigated maximum in isolate PGMP1, however, two isolates viz., PGMP1 and PGMP8 were found to be highly virulent. The pearl millet blast fungus population in northern Madhya Pradesh is genetically diverse. RAPD and ISSR markers reliably explained the relationships among the different isolates. Our results on the characterization of blast pathogen might be advantageous in devising location-specific disease management strategies in pearl millet against blast disease.
Genetic divergence studies of fodder yield and quality attributing characteristics in promising maize (Zea mays L.) composites
The objective of the current study was to assess the extent of genetic variation among twenty-seven maize varieties using morpho-agronomic data based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and to measure the genetic distance among these genotypes using hierarchical cluster analysis. Twenty-seven composites were grown in a randomised complete block design with three replications for two years. The experimental material was assessed for 15 morpho-agronomic traits. Green fodder yield depends on various other traits such as plant height, number of leaves, leaf length and fodder quality traits such as crude protein, acid detergent fibre and neutral detergent fibre. This study showed a positive correlation of green fodder yield with various such traits. A very high positive correlation was noticed between number of leaves and ear height (0.723) and between crude protein and in vitro dry matter digestibility (0.823). However, crude protein showed a significant negative correlation with acid detergent fibre (-0.739) and neutral detergent fibre (-0.678). Five principal components had more than one eigen value, contributing 75% variability among genotypes. PC1 contributes 25.1% followed by PC2 with 19.9%, PC3 with 12.5%, PC4 with 9.7% and PC5 with 7.8%. The scree plot revealed that the experimental material could be divided into five clusters. The genotypes under cluster five could be used to improve green fodder yield. The minimum intra-cluster distance observed for cluster 1 was 48.008, and the maximum inter-cluster distance observed between clusters 2 and 5 was 259.45. The different groups obtained could be useful for deriving the inbred lines with diverse features, which could be used in various maize breeding programmes.