Robust animals for grass based production systems
Résumé
A characterisation of dairy, beef and sheep best suited to profitable/sustainable production within the context of European [semi] intensive pasture-based systems will be conducted. To deliver optimal performance, pasture must be managed effectively, but pasture-based systems are less energy intensive and are climate sensitive. This induces challenges and constraints not normally posed to animals in intensive feeding environments and emphasises the importance of animal traits associated with robustness and adaptive abilities. A survey of French dairy farmers concluded that a robust cow is a ‘transparent’ cow with a long lifetime. The traits required under grazing include: efficient converters of feed to product, such as high milk yield or milk solids (dairy) or meat yield/weaning weight (beef/sheep), good functionality, healthy, reproductively fit and finally, exhibiting longevity. Unique to successful grazing, is a capability to achieve large intakes of forage to meet productive potential and an ability to adapt to fluctuating feed supply. In seasonal systems, grazing ruminants will be expected to conceive and give birth at the appropriate time each year, usually within 365 days. The optimum breed or strain will differ, based on local management constraints and objectives. However, general principles do apply and recommendations will be made based on this review with regard to the traits of interest for pasture-based production.
Fichier principal
Delaby 2018 EGF.pdf (582.95 Ko)
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Delaby 2018 EGF presentation.pdf (3.04 Mo)
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Format : Poster
Format : Présentation