Summary
This two-year field study characterised the nutritional and mineral composition of Badara Plateau, a high-altitude rangeland in northeastern Turkey, using systematic plant sampling and NIRS analysis. The forage demonstrated high crude protein content (16.14%) with moderate fibre digestibility and balanced macro mineral ratios, suggesting adequate carrying capacity for grazing systems. Findings provide baseline data for sustainable grazing management in comparable alpine rangelands of the region.
UK applicability
Whilst the study focuses on a specific Turkish alpine ecosystem, the methodological approach to characterising high-altitude pasture quality and mineral balance is transferable to UK upland and hill farming systems. However, differences in climate, vegetation composition, and baseline soil fertility mean direct application of findings would require contextualisation to British mountain pastures.
Key measures
Crude protein (16.14%), ADF (31.99%), NDF (66.08%), macro minerals (P, K, Ca, Mg), Ca/P ratio (5.21), K/(Ca+Mg) ratio (0.91), dry matter yield (92.04 kg da⁻¹), digestible dry matter, dry matter intake, relative feed value, digestible energy, and metabolizable energy
Outcomes reported
The study measured forage nutritional composition and mineral content of Badara Plateau pasture using systematic sampling and Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy. Results quantified crude protein, fibre fractions, macro minerals, and derived energy and digestibility parameters to assess rangeland carrying capacity and forage quality.
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