A method for advanced stage evaluation of pasture species: a case study with bred lines of Macroptilium atropurpureum

Abstract

A method is described for evaluating persistence and productivity of pasture species in the advanced stage of testing. Six bred lines of Macroptilium atropurpureum were compared with cv. Siratro at Samford, south-east Queensland, under stocking rates equivalent to 2.0 and 3.0 steers-ha-1. Each plot was grazed separately for 4 days every 6 weeks, without any mowing being imposed. Attributes measured over a 5-year period included presentation yield, legume density, weed invasion and soil seed reserves. One line of M. atropurpureum was superior to Siratro in yield and plant density, although it produced lower reserves of soil seed. These results were similar to those from a previous experiment under cutting. The advantages and limitations of the method are discussed.