Nutritive value of Tanzaniagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzania-1) grazed at different heights

Crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) contents were assessed in the leaf blade and stem + leaf sheath fractions of Tanzaniagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzania-1) managed at four sward heights (20,40, 50 and 65 cm). The grazing method was the continuous stocking and variable stocking rate, and used Nelore steers with an average weight of 340 kg. The completely randomized experimental design was used with two replications, and five evaluations were performed during a period of 112 days. The CP, IVDMD, Ca, P and Mg contents decreased while NDF, ADF and K concentrations increased in the leaf blade and stem + leaf sheath fraction in response to grazing height as well as period of evaluation. Leaf blades exibited higher quality than stem + leaf sheath regardless of grazing height and evaluation time. Tanzaniagrass grazed to 40 and 50 cm presents good chemical composition and IVDMD.