ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1343: X International Congress on Cactus Pear and Cochineal: Cactus - the New Green Revolution in Drylands
Forage cactus as the basis of livestock systems in drylands |
| Authors: | M.A. Ferreira, A.J. Netto, M.C.B. Siqueira, J.C.B. Dubeux |
| Keywords: | Cactaceae, energy, Nopalea, Opuntia, semi-arid, water |
| DOI: | 10.17660/ActaHortic.2022.1343.7 |
| Abstract:
Global semi-arid lands are characterized by a large number of small and medium-sized family-owned establishments. Although family farming might be economical in these areas, landowners in semi-arid regions are the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The combination of an adverse environment and economic activity that is dependent on nature leads to extreme vulnerability of the production systems, represented by virtual collapses under climatic conditions that are unfavorable to production, resulting in economic fragility. In dry areas around the world, periodic droughts have a major impact on rural properties, leading to serious socio-economic losses. In these regions, biomass production is typically <5 t of DM ha‑1 year‑1, with low forage potential (<1 t of DM ha‑1 year‑1), leading to a low carrying capacity (e.g., 12-15 ha to sustain one adult cow). However, producers should make efforts to identify and implement strategies to deal with these adversities, which can reward them with long-term resilience. For this reason, researchers have been suggesting corn and sorghum crops for silage production, introduction of exotic grasses such as buffelgrass, legumes, among others. However, many of these options are water demanding and have low productivity in dry environments. The use of cactus, notably cactus cladodes (Opuntia and Nopalea), for ruminant feeding in dry areas has been increasing. Cactus is known for its high efficiency of water use, rapid dissemination, high water and energy content, and high biomass productivity. Advantages of using cactus include the economy of bulky and concentrated feed and less dependence on environmental conditions in the semi-arid region. All ruminants can receive cactus in their diet and its use on a larger scale can mitigate desertification of dry environments. | |
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