A PROPOSAL FOR REPLACING RELATIVE FEED VALUE WITH AN ALTERNATIVE: RELATIVE FORAGE QUALITY

摘要

Relative Feed Value (RFV) is an index of forage quality based on a sound concept: voluntary intake of digestible dry matter (DDM). The equations used to predict DM intake (DMI) and DDM concentration from laboratory analyses often, however, provide unacceptable estimates of RFV. In order to provide the opportunity to use new prediction equations that are more accurate and forage-specific, we propose a new index called Relative Forage Quality (RFQ). The basis of RFQ is voluntary intake of total digestible nutrients (TDN). Based on animal data, RFQ and RFV values are equal, and the reference values are the same, i.e., 100 = full-bloom alfalfa. When predicted RFQ and RFV values differ, however, RFQ should be related more closely to actual forage quality. A nation-wide communication network is needed to foster the development of new equations, help laboratories choose appropriate equations, and educate clients about the new program.