Brachiaria is a genus of tropical grasses from Africa, now globally recognized for agricultural use. With over 100 species, it is a foundation for livestock farming in tropical and subtropical regions. Its adaptability to challenging environments makes it a widespread pasture option. Decades of research, particularly in South America, have produced improved hybrid varieties used worldwide.
Common Varieties and Characteristics
Among the Brachiaria species used in agriculture, Brachiaria brizantha (palisade grass) is prominent. It has an upright, tufted growth suitable for cut-and-carry feed systems. It thrives in various soils and tolerates low nutrient levels, although productivity increases with better fertility. This variety’s high nutritive value contributes to animal performance.
Another widely cultivated species is Brachiaria decumbens, or signal grass, which has a creeping growth habit that forms a dense mat effective for grazing and soil cover. It is hardy and withstands heavy grazing pressure. Research has led to hybrids like Mulato and Mulato II, selected for high palatability and digestibility. Their late flowering makes them a reliable food source for cattle during dry seasons.
Agricultural Applications
Brachiaria’s high productivity and nutritional content, with some varieties containing up to 20% crude protein, make it an ideal feed for cattle, sheep, and goats. Farmers use it in grazing systems for animals to feed directly or in cut-and-carry systems where the grass is harvested. This versatility allows for different management strategies depending on the farm.
Beyond animal feed, Brachiaria aids in soil management and conservation. The deep root systems of many varieties prevent soil erosion by holding soil together and enhancing water absorption. As a cover crop, its thick growth suppresses weeds and improves soil structure, contributing to sustainable land use.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The adoption of Brachiaria grass offers economic benefits to farmers. Improved nutrition from this forage increases livestock weight gain and milk production, with reports of milk yield increases of 15-40%. This boosts farm profitability and can reduce the need for costly supplementary feeds. Selling planting materials and conserved feed like hay also provides an additional source of income.
Environmentally, Brachiaria enhances soil health. Its extensive root system sequesters atmospheric carbon in the soil. Certain species also reduce nitrous oxide emissions from the soil through biological nitrification inhibition, a process that improves nitrogen use efficiency.
Despite its benefits, there are potential downsides. Some varieties cause hepatogenous photosensitization in livestock, a condition that leads to liver damage and skin sensitivity to sunlight, particularly affecting sheep. Proper management is also required, as its hardiness can make it an invasive species in non-native ecosystems, where it may outcompete local vegetation.