Plant biomass and seed production of the legumes Aeschynomeme histrix and Stylosanthes hamata and the potential of endozoochory by cattle and sheep in semi-arid native pastures

Endozoochory is a substantial vector for seed dispersal and plays an important role in vegetation dynamics, mainly colonisation processes through input to the soil bank. We investigated endozoochorous by cattle sheep on pasture located western region of Burkina Faso. Through germination experiments, we assessed viable content dung these grazing animals estimate their suitability efficiency fodder legumes. Cattle were daily fed seeds Sthylosanthes hamata Aeschynomene histrix, mixed with cotton cake. Faeces containing both legumes collected 24 h after feeding. One part faeces samples was spread buckets direct greenhouse evaluate germinating content. To improve pastures, randomized completed design 6 replications conducted phosphorus fertilization (0 100 kg/ha P2O5) year as experimental factors. Recovery A. histrix better than that S. (18 9%, respectively) compared sheep. Seed recovered from had higher cattle. Thus, germinated well (12 45% sheep, respectively, fresh used control. However, histrix's less control (P < 0.001). The findings confirmed ruminants could be targeted legume natural pastures. have high potential plant biomass production when applied. ingestion should undertaken improving pastures semi-arid zones lower cost practice.