Description
Forages are well known as an important source of fiber in livestock diets. However, their carbohydrate contribution is more than fiber. Forage grasses and legumes supply sugars, fructans, and other water-soluble carbohydrates as well as soluble fiber that behave very differently than starch in the rumen. With a focus on ruminants, we will explore the forage supply, and ruminal and animal impacts.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.13023/6jqf-tk46
Citation
Hall, M. B., "More Than Fiber: Forage Carbohydrates Affecting Animal Performance" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1993-2023). 24.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/XXV_IGC_2023/Livestock/24
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
More Than Fiber: Forage Carbohydrates Affecting Animal Performance
Forages are well known as an important source of fiber in livestock diets. However, their carbohydrate contribution is more than fiber. Forage grasses and legumes supply sugars, fructans, and other water-soluble carbohydrates as well as soluble fiber that behave very differently than starch in the rumen. With a focus on ruminants, we will explore the forage supply, and ruminal and animal impacts.
