The aim of this work was to determine ways of using Sorghastrum setosum
ranges for beef cattle production, based on dry matter
production (MS), nutritional compounds, in vitro organic matter
digestibility (DIVMO), energy and mineral element contents in forage
harvested in different seasons of the year. The experiment was carried
out in representative plots, located in the eastern region of Formosa
Province (25°10'-28°00' S lat, 58°15'-59°20' W
long, 65 m.o.s.l.), Argentina, where natural pastures represent 70% of
the cattle area and 70% of the provincial bovine population is
concentrated. The area has a rainy temperate climate. The geomorphology
has low hills and marshlands, with temporary and frequent flooding.
Flora composition, utility grade and interspecific forage species input
of the main species were determined. Average biomass production was
4.080 kg MS ha-1 yr-1. Average values of main compounds were: crude
protein (PC) 5.22%; crude fiber (FC) 38.04%; acid detergent fiber (FDA)
46.87%; DIVMO 29.16%; total digestible nutrients (TND) 55.17%;
digestible energy (ED) 4.90 MJ kg-1; P 0.11%; Na 0.02%; Ca 0.18%; Mg
0.08%; Zn 22.55 mg kg-1 and Cu 10 mg kg-1