Publication Date
1989
Description
Low productivity of traditionally managed herds is largely attributed to the low quality and quantity in semi-arid grasslands. This is also aggravated due to high bovine population (416 m. heads) in the country, which has resulted in extreme deterioration of these resources. The grassland productivity can be improved through fertilizer application. But the escalating price of this commodity also restricts its use in the natural grasslands. Legumes are also known for their Nfixation ability through the bacteria, hibernating in their root nodules, which release nitrogen in the soil on their death and decay (Rogas and Hokare, 1970). This can therefore serve as an alternative to fertilisers, since in an earlier study 10-20 percent crude protein content was estimated in different types of tropical legumes and in different seasons (Kanodia, 1984). This nitrogen could well be utilized in turn by the accompanying grass component, thereby improving not only the quality and quantity of grasslands, but also the fertility status of soil of the ecosystem. Besides, legumes also provide forage during lean period when grasses go dry.
Citation
Kanodia, K C., "Influence of Legume Introduction on the Quality and Productivity of Semi-Arid Grasslands of India" (2025). IGC Proceedings (1989-2023). 58.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1989/session13b/58
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
Influence of Legume Introduction on the Quality and Productivity of Semi-Arid Grasslands of India
Low productivity of traditionally managed herds is largely attributed to the low quality and quantity in semi-arid grasslands. This is also aggravated due to high bovine population (416 m. heads) in the country, which has resulted in extreme deterioration of these resources. The grassland productivity can be improved through fertilizer application. But the escalating price of this commodity also restricts its use in the natural grasslands. Legumes are also known for their Nfixation ability through the bacteria, hibernating in their root nodules, which release nitrogen in the soil on their death and decay (Rogas and Hokare, 1970). This can therefore serve as an alternative to fertilisers, since in an earlier study 10-20 percent crude protein content was estimated in different types of tropical legumes and in different seasons (Kanodia, 1984). This nitrogen could well be utilized in turn by the accompanying grass component, thereby improving not only the quality and quantity of grasslands, but also the fertility status of soil of the ecosystem. Besides, legumes also provide forage during lean period when grasses go dry.
