Supplementing endophyte-infected tall fescue or reed canarygrass with alfalfa or birdsfoot trefoil increases forage intake and digestibility by sheep

Summary

This controlled feeding trial demonstrates that pre-feeding lambs with alfalfa or birdsfoot trefoil prior to endophyte-infected tall fescue or reed canarygrass significantly increases total dry matter, nitrogen, and energy intake compared to unsupplemented grass alone. The complementary secondary metabolite profiles (alkaloids, saponins, tannins) of legumes and grasses appear to enhance palatability and nutrient intake; birdsfoot trefoil was particularly effective at stimulating intake of tall fescue despite lower absolute consumption of the legume itself.

Regional applicability

Endophyte-infected tall fescue is a significant pastoral forage in the United Kingdom and temperate regions globally. These findings on legume supplementation strategies are directly applicable to UK sheep farming systems, particularly for improving animal performance on poor-quality or toxin-producing forage. The results support integrated grazing management practices relevant to British pastoral systems.

Key measures

Dry matter intake (g/d), apparent digestibility of dry matter, digestible energy (MJ/d and Kcal/d), nitrogen intake (g/d), neutral detergent fibre digestibility, fecal and urine composition

Outcomes reported

The study measured dry matter intake, apparent digestibility of dry matter, energy, nitrogen, and neutral detergent fibre in lambs fed endophyte-infected tall fescue or reed canarygrass with or without legume supplementation (alfalfa or birdsfoot trefoil). Supplementation effects on total nutrient intake and forage palatability were quantified.

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