Dry matter production and nutritive value of forage of Digitaria eriantha cv. Irene in two locations of the central semi-arid region of Argentina

Abstract

The aim of this experiment was to compare dry matter (DM) production rates and nutritive value of a warm-season grass, Digitaria eriantha cv. Irene, in two locations of Central Argentina, Santa Rosa (SR) and Villa Mercedes (VM). The plants were established in two identical groups of plots, within a randomised block design. DM rates were calculated from serial, out of phase clippings, and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and crude protein (CP) content analysed on subsamples. The study lasted for three consecutive growing seasons. Results showed that DM production rates were generally higher (P0.05) in SR than in VM, but IVDMD and CP content showed no clear trends between both locations. DM production tended to lower from year 1 to 3, related to processes of N depletion from soils (VM) and diminishing rainfall (SR). It is concluded that D. eriantha is a very promising warm-season grass to Central Argentina. Data of nutritive value obtained in one location can be used in others, but results of DM production rates should be taken under the conditions where they will be used.