Conservation of Forages in the Tropics and Subtropics

Conservation of forage refers to the preservation of forage plant materials to provide feed for livestock at a time after the primary period of growth of these plants. Humphreys ¹ suggested that the purpose of forage conservation is to enhance the efficiency of animal production by using otherwise wasted pasture surpluses during peak growth periods to reduce declines in production, weight loss, and mortality during periods of pasture deficit. There are predictable periods of forage quantity and quality limitations in the tropics and subtropics as well as in other parts of the world. These differential periods are primarily the result of seasonal changes in temperature and rainfall. Because of the need for high quality and quantity of forages, several forage conservation methods have evolved. Three primary forms of conserved forage exist: conserved standing forage, hay, and silage.