PF 30. Silvopastoral system development in Cuba

Abstract

Using grass-associated leguminous trees, mainly Leucaena leucocephala and Albizia lebbeck, either in the proteic bank or in the whole grazing area and in hedges, is one of the main research topics as feeding systems working technologies, starting from pastures and fodders. Gains between 400 and 600 g/animal/day and females reaching the mating (incorporation) weight when 25 months have been obtained in fattening systems with zebu livestock. Milk production depends on the race, the grass type and population, as wel as on the edaphoclimatic conditions and fertilizers availability. Nevertheless, 6 L/cow/day can be obtained without supplementation or chemical fertilizers and the stocking rates studied under these conditions are close to 2 SAU/ha. When systematically trained and adviced, producers are greatly impressed, besides the results obtained, with the extension of this technology.