Publication Date
1985
Location
Kyoto Japan
Description
Annual nitrogen fixation in New Zealand pastures is well below its potential. The research reported is part of a programme directed towards identifying limitations to nitrogen fixation by the Trifolium repens-Rhizobium trifolii symbiosis. Sixteen field trials were conducted with tretments designed to provide selective control of various invertebrate pests of Trifolium repens. Measurements included herbage production, botanical composition, nitrogen fixation and root dissections. Application of pesticides significantly increased legume production, the number of nodules/g of Trifolium repens root and nitrogen fixation. Total N uptake in pasture herbage was increased by up to 118 kg N/ha/yr. The increase in nitrogen fixation may be expected to have considerable long term effects on pasture productivity. There is an urgent need to select Trifolium repens cultivars which are tolerant or resistant to pests.
Citation
Steele, K W.; Watson, R N.; Bonish, P M.; Littler, R A.; and Yeates, G W., "Effect of Invertebrates on Nitrogen Fixation in Temperate Pastures" (1985). IGC Proceedings (1985-2023). 4.
(URL: https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1985/ses6/4)
Included in
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Effect of Invertebrates on Nitrogen Fixation in Temperate Pastures
Kyoto Japan
Annual nitrogen fixation in New Zealand pastures is well below its potential. The research reported is part of a programme directed towards identifying limitations to nitrogen fixation by the Trifolium repens-Rhizobium trifolii symbiosis. Sixteen field trials were conducted with tretments designed to provide selective control of various invertebrate pests of Trifolium repens. Measurements included herbage production, botanical composition, nitrogen fixation and root dissections. Application of pesticides significantly increased legume production, the number of nodules/g of Trifolium repens root and nitrogen fixation. Total N uptake in pasture herbage was increased by up to 118 kg N/ha/yr. The increase in nitrogen fixation may be expected to have considerable long term effects on pasture productivity. There is an urgent need to select Trifolium repens cultivars which are tolerant or resistant to pests.
