Effect of Different Intensities of Grazing Stress on Production of a Cenchrus-Aristida Rangeland in the Arid Zone of India

Abstract

Studies concerning production of a rangeleand under Cenchrus Aristida cover with average annual rainfall of about 500 mm under different intensities of grazing, using yearling heifers, were conducted for a period of 3 years (1965-63). The results are as under: (1) Different intensities of grazing stress on rangelands with Cenchrus-Aristida cover had no influence on forage production over a period of three years, nor on production of high perennial grass species (Cenchrus Setigerus). (2) Higher and evenly distributed rainfall had a very favourable influence on production of high perennial species on the range (Cenchrus setigerus). (3) Growth of yearling heifers of Kankrej breed was highest when the animals were given concentrates from December to June. The growth rate per animal was double of that obtained under light intensity of grazing. (3.1) Between those treatments where concentrates were not given, growth per animal was highest under light intensity followed by that under moderate intensity and the least under heavy intensity of grazing stress. (3.2) Total growth of yearling heifers per unit area per year was highest on moderate intensity + concentrates feeding followed by heavy Intensity + concentrates feeding, moderate intensity, heavy intensity and light intensity, in descending order. (4) Available nutrients utilized on range were highest under heavy intensity followed by moderate intensity and least under light intensity. Animal utilised less nutrients treatment where in they were fed with concentrates from December to June. (5) The average cost per kg of growth was highest under moderate and heavy intensities of grazing with concentrates feeding. But the increased growth under these treatments would result in early maturity and greater lifetime production. It is least under light intensity. (6) During needy conditions a "Good" rangeland with Cenchrus- Aristida cover with annual rainfall of about 500 mm can be subjected to moderate to heavy intensity of grazing stress, for a short duration, without permanent injury to the range, provided stumps of perennial species are kept 10-12 em above the ground.