Abstract
The scanning electron microscope has been used to observe the digestion of alfalfa hay and warm- and cool-season grasses. Photomicrographs show that leaves of all species are digested by bacteria and protozoa attacking either the upper part of the leaf or exposed edges; lower leaf surfaces are never attacked. Intake of a forage depends on how rapidly rumen bacteria and protozoa can enter the upper leaf surface and digest underlying material (mesophyll) leaving most of the highly lignified nutrient-carrying vessels (vascular tissue) undigested.
Keywords: Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station), 291, Cattlemen's Day, 1977, Beef, Intake, Alfalfa hay, Forage
How to Cite:
Harbers, L., Brazle, F. & Owensby, C. E., (1977) “A new tool for evaluating forages”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports 1(1), 37-39. doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.2695
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