Variation in Fatty Acids Concentration in Grasses, Legumes, and Forbs in the Allegheny Plateau

This study was conducted to determine the fatty acid (FA) content in pasture grasses, legumes, and non-leguminous forbs northeast West Virginia. Grass, legume, forb plant material were collected from rotationally stocked pastures analyzed for crude protein (CP), linoleic (C18:2), α-linolenic (C18:3), total FA content. Species within botanical classes varied Forbs had highest (C18:2) followed by legume grass species. Grasses (C18:3) These field data combined with research literature evaluate correlation of CP concentration concentration. Likewise, after accounting CP, summer months caused a decrease while an increase Vegetative growth leafiness are major determinants forage. Grazing management benefit vegetative presence desirable tune seasonal changes valuable tools profiles milk meat products that may be human health.