Inclusion of Lotus tenuis in beef cattle systems in the Argentinian flooding pampa as an enteric methane mitigation strategy

GONZÁLEZ, F.A.; COSENTINO, V. R. N.; LOZA, C. ; CERÓN-CUCCHI, M. E.; WILLIAMS, K.; BUALÓ, R.; COSTANTINI A.O.; GERE, J

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

RSNZ PUBLISHING

Lugar: Auckland; Año: 2024

0028-8233

While concerns about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and animalwelfare persist, livestock farming offers unique ecosystem services.In Argentina, where livestock significantly contributes to GHGemissions, particularly enteric methane (CH4), urgent action isrequired to develop effective mitigation strategies whilemaintaining animal performance. This study assesses thepotential of the inclusion of Lotus tenuis in natural grasslands tomitigate CH4 emissions and improve forage quality in the SaladoRiver basin, Argentina. Twenty-four beef heifers (361 ± 19 kg LW)were assigned to two treatments with contrasting botanicalcomposition (LOT: > 80% Lotus tenuis and NG: > 60% grasses). LOTshowed better forage quality and reduced CH4 emissions (−17%gCH4/day, p < 0.01; Ym: - 7 to −30%, p < 0.05) compared to NG.However, the condensed tannin content in LOT was insufficientto conclusively attribute any impact on CH4 emissions. This studyunderscores the potential of promoted Lotus tenuis pastures inthe Salado River basin to enhance forage quality and mitigateenteric CH4 emissions in free-ranging cattle systems, albeitadditional research is necessary to fully comprehend how thispractice interacts within the ecosystem and optimise its benefits.