Abstract

PAULA, Cássia Cristina Lemes de et al. Herbage accumulation, morphogenetic and structural characteristics in marandu palisadegrass under grazing heights. Cienc. Rural [online]. 2012, vol.42, n.11, pp. 2059-2065.  Epub Sep 04, 2012. ISSN 0103-8478.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-84782012005000084.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the morphological and structural characteristics and the herbage accumulation, in (Brachiaria brizantha cv. 'Marandu') marandu palisadegrass pastures subjected to three grazing heights under continuous stocking. It was used a randomized block design, with two replicates and three sward heights 15, 30 and 45cm. The biggest leaf appearance and the smallest basal tiller densities decreased were found in 15cm pasture The herbage accumulation was similar among the pastures managed with different grazing intensities. The marandu palisadegrass presents high management flexibility, and may be utilized between 15 and 45cm sward height.

Keywords : Brachiaria brizantha; light interception; savanna; sward height.