Ecophysiological Management Using Light Interception Technology with the AccuPar Equipment: Quality Versus Quantity of Forage

Ecophysiological Management Using Light Interception Technology with the AccuPar Equipment: Quality Versus Quantity of Forage

Background: Understanding canopy light interception is essential for optimizing forage production and improving the efficiency of grazing systems. Accurate quantification of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intercepted by the canopy allows for better estimation of crop coefficients and grow...

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Main Authors: Anderson de Moura Zanine, Tomaz Melo Neto, Daniele de Jesus Ferreira, Edson Mauro Santos, Henrique Nunes Parente, Michelle Oliveira Maia Parente, Francisco Naysson de Sousa Santos, Fleming Sena Campos, Francisca Claudia Silva Sousa, Sara Silva Reis, Dilier Olivera-Viciedo, Arlan Araújo Rodrigues
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:AgriEngineering
Subjects:
digestibility
canopy light interception
crude protein
grazing management
pasture growth
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2624-7402/7/7/224
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Summary:Background: Understanding canopy light interception is essential for optimizing forage production and improving the efficiency of grazing systems. Accurate quantification of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intercepted by the canopy allows for better estimation of crop coefficients and growth dynamics. This study aimed to assess the forage mass and nutritional value of Guinea grass pastures managed under two grazing frequencies, defined by 90% and 95% light interception (LI) measured using AccuPar equipment, and two post-grazing stubble heights (30 and 50 cm). Evaluations were conducted during both the rainy season and a dry year to capture seasonal variability in pasture performance. Methods: The experimental design was of completely randomized blocks with four replications. Results: The treatment whit 90% LI resulted in higher values of crude protein and digestible. However, 95% LI resulted in higher values of neutral detergent insoluble nitrogen and acid detergent insoluble nitrogen values in grass pastures Guinea. The highest value of forage mass in Guinea grass was reported with 95% LI in association with a post-grazing height of 30 cm. Conclusions: Management of light interception at 90% provided a reduced amount of forage with better nutritional value. Pasture management considering the light interception technology with the AccuPar equipment was efficient as a pattern for interrupting pasture regrowth in the vegetative phase.
ISSN:2624-7402

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