Evaluation of the productivity and feed value of Wondergraze and Redlands leucaena cultivars under grazing

Context Leucaena leucocephala (leucaena) is a leguminous shrub used for beef grazing in low-rainfall regions (<600–700 mm). Newer cultivars have the potential to extend adoption of species higher rainfall (>600–700 mm), frost-free areas Australia. Aim We compared productivity, nutritional value and animal performance two leucaena cultivars, new psyllid-resistant Redlands 2010-released Wondergraze, under continuous management environment. Methods Growing steers were allocated replicated established stands Wondergraze or with inter-row mixed grass–legume pasture from January July 2021. Pasture characterised biomass nutritive characteristics. Botanical composition was measured. Liveweight gain, rumen fermentation, mimosine breakdown products measured steers. Key results At beginning study, edible similar both (P > 0.05), but at subsequent samplings, lower than < 0.01). Biomass declined rapidly over period. increased between February significantly paddocks 0.05). Animal not different cultivar treatments, averaging 0.8 kg/day, time. Patterns conversion DHP isomers their conjugation suggesting that effectiveness detoxification did differ them. Conclusion The demonstrate can sustain high levels when included tropical grass pastures environment if present sufficient quantity (>2 t dry matter/ha leucaena). Implications Grazing leucaena–grass an effective means increasing productivity parts subtropical However, managing and/or growth match requirements be challenging.