Effect of feeding fresh forage plantain (Plantago lanceolata) or ryegrass-based pasture on methane emissions, total-tract digestibility, and rumen fermentation of nonlactating dairy cows

Summary

This controlled feeding trial compared enteric methane emissions and rumen fermentation in nonlactating dairy cows consuming either plantain (Plantago lanceolata) or perennial ryegrass, tested at both vegetative and reproductive growth stages. Although plantain is promoted for reducing urinary nitrogen excretion, the abstract indicates that forage yield was substantially lower for plantain-fed cows, largely attributable to reduced dry matter digestibility. The study provides empirical evidence on plantain's broader environmental trade-offs beyond nitrogen cycling.

UK applicability

Plantain is increasingly promoted in UK grazing systems as a novel forage to extend summer production and reduce environmental impact. These findings on reduced digestibility and yield are directly relevant to UK dairy farmers evaluating plantain adoption, though UK climatic and soil conditions may differ from the trial location.

Key measures

Enteric CH₄ emissions, rumen fermentation parameters, total-tract dry matter digestibility, forage yield, nitrogen excretion patterns

Outcomes reported

The study measured enteric methane emissions, rumen fermentation characteristics, and total-tract digestibility in nonlactating dairy cows fed either plantain or perennial ryegrass across two growth stages. Forage yield and digestibility were compared between dietary treatments to assess plantain's environmental and nutritional performance.

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