The effect of different genotype cattle grazing on the nutrient content of saline grasslands vegetation

Grazing by both extensive and intensive cattle breeds is effective for maintaining the nutrient content and diversity of saline grasslands, crucial for both nature conservation and agricultural sustainability. The study found that grazing significantly impacts crude protein and life-sustaining net energy content in vegetation, with higher values observed under medium-density grazing over two years. While no significant differences were noted between Hungarian grey (extensive) and intensive beef cattle breeds on most parameters, intensive grazing slightly increased life-sustaining net energy content. Conducted across 16 sample areas in Hortobágy National Park from 2016 to 2017, the research analyzed dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and net energy content along moisture gradients, demonstrating that cattle grazing is essential for preserving both wet and mesophilous saline habitats.

Kovácsné Koncz, N., Simon, Á., & Béri, B. (2018). The effect of different genotype cattle grazing on the nutrient content of saline grasslands vegetation. Acta Agraria Debreceniensis, (75), 46–50. https://doi.org/10.34101/actaagrar/75/1644