Leaf area index (LAI), light interception and herbage accumulation were evaluated for three Cynodon spp. cultivars (Tifton-85, Florakirk and Coastcross) submitted to four grazing intensities (5, 10, 15 and 20 cm) established by sheep under a continuous stocking management. A complete randomised block design was used with four replications, with treatements in a split-plot arrangement. Grass cultivars were allocated to plots and grazing intensities to sub-plots. The largest values of LAI were observed for Tifton-85. Rates of dry matter accumulation were similar for all treatments. Tifton-85 presented a narrower optimal range for pasture conditions (5 to 15 cm) as compared to Florakirk (5-20 cm) and Coastcross (5-20+ cm). Different grass cultivars presented different grazing management requirements in situations where the efficient use of light and high levels of herbage utilisation were targeted.
Tifton-85; Florakirk; Coastcross; grazing management; continuous stocking